I need some suggestions

My family and I are going on a long car trip and are going to get a book on tape to survive the trip. The problem is that we all like different styles of books. One of us like crime novels a la John Grisham and Tom Clancy. One likes Comedy and Mystery. And one of us likes more fantasy stuff. Is there anything out there that covers at least a few of these bases? Something with some comedy is probably the best bet. We'll have kids in the car so it can't be too dirty. Any help or recommendations would be great! Even just really good books would work. Thanks!

I thought I had it with Janet Evanovitch but the language can be a little course.

Maybe Jasper Fforde?

could always try Artemis Fowl books a little mystery a little fantasy and humor, and written for YA.

This is not a book suggestion, but my family loves CDs of NPR Driveway Moments -- stories chosen by listeners that kept them in their cars to hear the rest. They are usually a mix of thought-provoking, poignant and humorous.

We also love The Odyssey -- there's a fantastic audio version by Odds Bodkin done in a genuine storytelling style: unscripted, and accompanied by instruments he plays himself. It can be scary and intense, so it's recommended for kids 10 and up.

You could try Terry Brooks' Magic Kingdom For Sale - Sold! series; I enjoy all of those categories and these books were a fun and easy read. Also Robert Asprin's Phule's Company books are witty and entertaining without too much questionable content :)

Depending on the ages of the kids - my husband and sons love Terry Pratchett's discworld series. I don't like it so much (I don't care for fantasy), but the guys think they are hilariously funny. Another one we like for the car are the Harry Potter series, read by Jim Dale. Another thing we've done is get some of the classics like Tom Sawyer or Treasure Island that have a broad appeal.

You might want to take along 2 or 3 choices in case one doesn't appeal to everyone.

Have a fun trip.

My first thought was Terry Pratchett - specifically some of the Guards based stories. Guards GUards is a good entry point if you don't know any of the background, and should be available on tape or CD.

I also think Terry Pratchett's books are great. (Feet of Clay) has an amazing crime/mystery/comedy twist.

Other than that, a golden Oldie like (The Children of Green Knowe) is great - spooky, endearing, and fun.

I think (Coraline) would be perfect. It's a kids book but its really creepy. The kids won't get scared as they will feel safe in the car. I think it is read by the author ((? Gaiman)) & he has a really soothing mesmerising voice. As an adult, I loved the audio version of this so much that I read the book.

eannie: try square brackets. You'll get your touchstones. Usually.

I'd also go with something by Neil Gaiman. What about Anansi Boys?

You might also try the new Peter Pan prequels done by Dave Barry and Ridley Pearson. The first is Peter and the Starcatchers. Depending on the age of the kids, Gary Paulson's books are good too.

We have a donated collection of audio books at work. One of them, which I have not yet heard, is The Mysterious Benedict Society by Trenton Lee Stewart. According to the Amazon blurb, "...Readers will challenge their own abilities as they work with the Society members to solve clues and put together the pieces of Mr. Curtain's plan...."

Have a fun trip!

#9 Thanks MerryMary...first time & all that.