Stephen Fry is a well-known British actor, comedian, presenter, director, broadcaster, and writer. He has had a broad career in the entertainment industry and is known for his informative approach to his roles. His classic, soothing voice has been used to narrate over 100 audiobooks, so this article will take you through 20 of the best Stephen Fry audiobooks.
Stephen Fry started his career in comedy during the 1980s, before moving on to drama and film, bringing famous figures such as Oscar Wilde to life and starring in classics such as V for Vendetta, Sherlock Holmes, Alice and Wonderland, The Borrowers, and The Hobbit.
He also famously worked with Shakespearean plays and frequently voiced documentaries. Fry is now known as one of the most iconic voices of British culture. In the UK, Fry is well-known for hosting a quiz show called QI, where he platformed his intelligence and created an informative yet comedic show enjoyed by millions nationwide.
Fry’s voice has become iconic, hence the opportunities given to narrate some of the most influential novels in literary history. Alongside his soothing, instructive British accent and tone, Fry’s background in acting allows him to immerse listeners in weird and wonderful settings and animate dramatic interactions between characters.
Stephen Fry has written his own books, most of which center around his passion for making education fun and accessible, and continues to narrate classics annually. Without further ado, here are the 20 best Stephen Fry audiobooks out there.
The Best Audiobooks Narrated by Stephen Fry
The Harry Potter Seriesby J.K. Rowling
You may be used to the Jim Dale audiobooks that bring to life this fantastic series, however, if you want to immerse yourself in Rowling’s ‘Britishness’, Stephen Fry’s narration is the way to do it.
One of the most iconic British voices now narrates one of the most iconic British stories. Harry Potter is an orphan who, at the age of 11, is immersed in a new world of magic, witches, wizards, and charms. Joining an enchanting school for the first time, Harry must adapt, learn, and make as many friends as he can, because his journey is destined to be a bumpy ride.
The Jim Dale versions of the Harry Potterbooks are equally as good and the Stephen Fry narrations are difficult to get in North America, but with the help of a VPN, you can access the authentic, British story that Rowling intended.
The Enormous Crocodile by Roald Dahl
This is an excellent children’s book that centers around (you guessed it) an enormous crocodile!
Roald Dahl’s classic storytelling abilities bring us yet another weird and wonderful story filled with funny names, intriguing characters, and extraordinary concepts. The Enormous Crocodileis perfect for bedtime laughs or long car journeys.
Mythos by Stephen Fry
This epic book has surged through the rankings of book charts since its release and remains an Amazon #1 Best Seller in Ancient Greek history.
Mythosis a brilliant example of how Stephen Fry can make education entertaining. The book goes into depth about the powers and figures of those sitting on Mount Olympus. Fry tells the intriguing stories of Zeus and the Olympians in such a way that will appeal to readers or listeners of any age.
Sherlock Holmes by Arthur Conan Doyle
Stephen Fry himself has claimed that Conan Doyle’s famous detective captivated his attention from a young age. Now a man and famous figure internationally, Stephen Fry narrates some of the most well-rated detective stories of all time.
This version of Sherlock Holmesis the ultimate collection, spanning all of Holmes’ and Watson’s adventures in great detail. Fry brings the interesting characters to life and has even written his own introductions to each story.
Tales From the Mausoleum Club by Ian Brown
Stephen Fry joins a collection of famous actors in this brilliant mystery.Tales From the Mausoleumtell 13 spine-tingling stories that merge mystery, violence, and comedy for an all-encompassing, entertaining listen.
The Picture of Dorian Gray by Oscar Wilde
Having brought the author to life in the 1997 film adaptation, Wilde, who better to narrate one of Wilde’s most famous works than Stephen Fry?
The Picture of Dorian Gray is an intriguing story that remains one of Fry’s favorites. It hones in on beauty and youth, following a man who makes a bargain with evil in order to prolong his looks and avoid aging. Dorian wishes that he could stay young forever, while his portrait ages in his place. Miraculously, this happens, but the aging portrait that is kept hidden in a loft will one day reveal Dorian’s true identity.
A Bear Called Paddington by Michael Bond
This endearing little bear has captivated the adoration of a whole nation. A Bear Called Paddingtonis the first book in Paddington’s adventures and it follows a cute bear who travels from the depths of Peru and is taken in by a family in London.
This was meant as a children’s book but is read by people of all ages. It’s heartwarming, adventurous, and guaranteed to put a smile on your face!
Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy by Douglas Adams
Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxyis the perfect blend of science-fiction and comedy. It follows Arthur Dent who is relocated just moments before the end of the world.
He and his friend/savior journey through the galaxy together, meeting eccentric and fantastical creatures along the way. This story asks the big philosophical questions but manages to stay light-hearted throughout. If you’re a science fan, you’ll love this book and Fry’s narration just makes it funnier!
The Ratline by Philippe Sands
Stephen Fry is just one of the wonderful narrators who bring this important story to life. The Ratlinetells the shocking story of Baron Otto von Wächter, an Austrian lawyer and family man, who worked for the Nazi’s SS and controlled the Krakow ghetto which homed and murdered over 100,000 Poles.
Sands uses intricate detail to piece together Wächter’s story after he escaped in 1945 and went on the run, hiding from the Soviets, the British, and the Americans until 1948.
The Four Horsemen by Christopher Hitchens
Stephen Fry is among many other narrators who tell the story of ‘the four horsemen’ who led the new atheist movement. The Four Horsemenis a fascinating discussion of religion, spirituality, humanity, morality, and cultural criticism. Regardless of your standpoint on religion or spirituality, it may be interesting to absorb other perspectives and ideas.
A Boy Called Christmas by Matt Haig
A Boy Called Christmasis a heartwarming must-read for any festive fan! It follows 11-year-old Nikolas, who has only received one gift throughout his life – a turnip doll.
One day, his beloved father goes missing and Nikolas ventures to the North Pole to find him. But on the journey, Nikolas finds the magical kingdom of Elfhelm.
Winnie the Pooh by A.A. Milne
This beloved children’s classic is now narrated by some of the most influential actors in history, including Stephen Fry.
Winnie the Poohis an endearing, simple bear who goes on various adventures with his friends. Perfect for children of all ages, this collection tells of friendship and love – there’s a reason this has been a favorite for decades.
Nineteen Ninety Four & Nineteen Ninety Eight by Richard Turner
Nineteen Ninety Four & Nineteen Ninety Eightis a parody of Orwell’s classic book 1984, which offers a dystopian insight into the potential authoritarian society that could take shape in the future.
Where Angels Fear to Tread by E.M. Forster
Where Angels Fear to Treadis a tragic comedy that tells Lilia Herriton’s story. To her husband’s disgrace, she begins an affair with a young man in their Italian town.
Breaking every convention in place, Lilia comes under scrutiny and Forster creates one of the most vivid and engrossing cultural criticisms.
The Hans Christian Andersen Treasury: Bedtime Fairytales by Hans Christian Andersen
The story tells of an outcast duckling that is mocked by its brothers and sisters but grows up to be the most beautiful swan of them all. These stories are widely read by children but remain classics among many adults too.
The Blandings Collection by P.G. Wodehouse
The Blandings Collectionis a collection of stories narrated by Stephen Fry. It is a long listen, but worth the wait. Wodehouse is known for comic fiction and this collection features 5 of his bestsellers that center around Blandings Castle.
They are Summer Lightning, Heavy Weather, Blandings Castle and Elsewhere, Lord Emsworth and Others, and Uncle Fred in the Spring Time.
George Cragge: In the Red & Other Mysteries by Mark Tavener
This is a collection of 4 different mysteries that all incorporate dark humor and crime. George Cragg: In the Red & Other Mysterieshones in on investigator, George Cragg, as he uncovers the truth about many murders across the UK.
Stephen Fry in America by Stephen Fry
This hilarious book is an excellent listen, but can be hard to find in the audiobook version if you’re in North America. Stephen Fry in Americafollows as he journeys through the 50 states and makes interesting, funny observations along the way.
It’s a genre-bending book, maintaining elements of humor, light-hearted travel, and informative history. Brilliant for any age.
The Ickabog by J.K. Rowling
The famous magical author strikes again but this time with a younger audience in mind. Stephen Fry narrates Rowling’s interesting story, The Ickabog, which follows two young protagonists as they navigate a new kingdom and attempt to outrun the mythical monster that turns out not to be mythical at all!
Heroes by Stephen Fry
This is the latest book in Fry’s Ancient Greece series that hones in on different figures that drive the famous myths and legends. Heroes concentrates on Perseus, Atalanta, Theseus, Heracles, and Jason and uncovers a new adventure with humor and thrill running throughout.
Heroes, along with the other two in the series, are super fun to read or listen to for people of all ages, and includes thought-provoking themes such as self-definition, confidence, love, courage, and intelligence. Listen as Fry narrates his own brilliantly funny and wonderfully adventurous stories.
Final Thoughts
Stephen Fry is one of the most versatile voices on the audiobook scene. His voice is perfect for bedtime stories, soothing your little one to sleep, his theatrical background makes him ideal for fast-paced drama, and his long-standing career in comedy allows him to deliver jokes in the perfect way.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Stephen Fry?
Stephen Fry is a British actor, presenter, comedian, and writer.
Is Stephen Fry LGBTQ+?
Yes – Stephen Fry has been openly gay for decades and has contributed to major books, series, and films that tackle LGBTQ+ issues and debates.
Why is Stephen Fry such a good narrator?
With such a wide background in acting and theatre, his voice is malleable to any role and can fit any genre of writing.
What are Stephen Fry’s books about?
He has written many different types of books but his most famous books include personal stories about trips away or experiences he’s had, or tell informative stories about history or science, making education fun for kids.
Is Stephen Fry the only person who has narrated Harry Potter?
No, in fact, American and Canadian listeners may prefer to listen to Jim Dale’s Harry Potter audiobooks because he uses his American accent and incorporates American dialect. For example, Stephen Fry narrates Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone, which, in America and Canada, is known as Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone.
Based in Ontario, Canada, Colton is an avid writer who enjoys learning while he writes. With years of writing experience, Colton has covered topics varying from books to business, travel, tourism, and video games. When he is not writing, you may find him hiking, reading, or on some road trip!
