The daily commute can often feel like lost time, but a great book has the power to transform it into something exciting and enriching. Whether you’re stuck in traffic, crammed into a subway car, or enjoying a quiet train ride, the right story can brighten your day and make those minutes fly by. Better yet, many books come in audiobook formats, giving you the option to “read” hands-free while on the go.
To help you upgrade your commute, we’ve rounded up some fantastic reads across genres that are perfectly suited to the rhythm of modern travel. These books feature engaging stories, manageable chapters, or gripping audio narrations that will keep you hooked no matter how long (or short) your ride.
Daisy Jones & The Six by Taylor Jenkins Reid
Taylor Jenkins Reid’s Daisy Jones & The Six takes readers on a nostalgic trip through the turbulent rise and fall of a fictional 1970s rock band. Written in an oral history format, the novel feels like a documentary transcript, brimming with drama, ego clashes, and creative brilliance. It’s packed with characters who leap off the page, and it’s almost impossible not to find yourself fully immersed in their stories.
If you’re an audiobook fan, the cast-narrated version might be one of the best out there. Each character’s voice comes alive thanks to voice actors, making it feel like an audio movie. Perfect for the music lover in transit, this book will leave you humming a tune long after you’ve parked your car or stepped off the train.
The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho
Sometimes, a commute offers a chance not just to escape, but to reflect. Paulo Coelho’s The Alchemist is a timeless fable about following your dreams and discovering your purpose. It tells the story of Santiago, a young shepherd on a quest to find treasure, and along the way, it brims with spiritual insight and inspiration.
Short yet profound, its chapters are ideal for quick bursts of reading during your daily trips. The audiobook, narrated by Jeremy Irons, adds another layer of magic to the tale with its measured and mesmerizing delivery.
Murder on the Orient Express by Agatha Christie
For mystery lovers, Agatha Christie’s Murder on the Orient Express is a perfect commuting companion. This classic whodunit follows Hercule Poirot as he solves the mystery of a murder aboard a luxurious train. The confined setting and tightly woven plot lend themselves to an intimate, edge-of-your-seat experience.
With its logical pacing and compact structure, the story fits well into bite-sized reading chunks. And if you opt for the audiobook, you might just find yourself savoring the elegant narration while imagining yourself transported to snowy train tracks and decadent compartments.
The Midnight Library by Matt Haig
What if you could explore all the lives you didn’t choose? Matt Haig’s The Midnight Library is a heartfelt and imaginative tale about Nora, a woman who finds herself in a library between life and death, where every book represents an alternate version of her life.
This thought-provoking yet accessible novel resonates deeply with anyone looking for meaning and self-discovery. Thanks to its relatively short chapters and absorbing storyline, it’s a stellar option for commuting. The audiobook, read by Carey Mulligan, is equally evocative, bringing Nora’s many parallel lives to vivid life.
Atomic Habits by James Clear
For commuters looking to maximize their time in more ways than one, Atomic Habits by James Clear offers actionable wisdom. This bestseller focuses on the power of incremental change, breaking down how small habits can lead to transformational results.
Clear’s straightforward advice and relatable anecdotes make it a practical yet engaging read. Its structure of digestible chapters means you can absorb key takeaways even if your commute is on the shorter side. The audiobook, narrated by the author himself, adds extra clarity and authenticity.
The Rosie Project by Graeme Simsion
If you’re in need of a lighthearted comedic read, look no further than The Rosie Project. Graeme Simsion’s delightful novel follows Don Tillman, a socially awkward genetics professor, as he develops a systematic plan to find a wife—but ends up falling for someone who doesn’t match his “criteria” at all.
This quirky love story is full of humor and charm, perfectly balancing wit with heartwarming moments. It’s an ideal pick-me-up for morning or evening commutes, and the audiobook narration captures Don’s unique personality wonderfully.
The Power of Now by Eckhart Tolle
For those seeking a moment of peace amid the bustling crowds and noisy traffic, The Power of Now by Eckhart Tolle offers a mindful reprieve. This spiritual guide encourages readers to live fully in the present and leave behind the burdens of the past and future.
Though philosophical in nature, its conversational tone and clear message make it surprisingly easy to follow. It’s a great book to revisit time and again, even in small doses during a busy week. Audiobook listeners will appreciate the calming and reassuring tone of Tolle’s narration, making it the perfect antidote to a stressful commute.
The Martian by Andy Weir
Need a bit of adventure to shake up your ride? Andy Weir’s The Martian is an exhilarating tale of an astronaut stranded on Mars, intent on surviving against impossible odds. The protagonist, Mark Watney, navigates his predicament with equal parts genius, grit, and humor.
Weir’s snappy writing style and darkly funny tone make this a hard book to put down. The audiobook, narrated by R.C. Bray, brings Mark’s personality to life so vividly that you’ll find yourself cheering for his survival at every turn.
