It's true. Today's technology makes it possible for publishers to deliver classic audio books for free. When publishers do not have to pay for media like compact discs (CDs) or paper and bindings to publish their books, they save a fortune on publishing expenses, and they pass a portion of their savings on to their listeners.

Once a publisher uploads a copy of a free classic book to its web site, it costs the publisher next to nothing to make that book available to the public. The audio book listener merely downloads a series of mp3 files on to their own hardware or listening device.

Free audio books are available only by download. If you get these books on CD, you should expect to pay a fee for hardware (the CD), shipping, and handling.

It's not only technology that makes it possible for publishers to give away free books. Old classic novels, literature, and non-fiction books are extremely affordable for publication, because the copyrights have expired, and the books are royalty free. Publishers provide a much needed public service by making these well-loved, best-selling classics available in free audio book format.

Examples of Free Classic Audio Books

Many classic books are such great stories that they have formed the basis for movies and TV shows in later years. That is why you might recognize some of the free classic audio book titles as feature films. Here are just a few of the free classic books you can find available for download on the Internet:

The Adventures of Tom Sawyer and Huckleberry Finn, by Mark Twain. The Adventures of Tom Sawyer is the classic story of a mischievous boy growing up in rural Mississippi in the 1800s. Huckleberry Finn is the sequel. These free classic audio books make great listening for children, adults, or the entire family together.

White Fang, by Jack London. The title character of this free classic audio book is half wolf, half sled dog. After his parents are killed and he suffers abuse at the hand of a cruel master, White Fang is a menace until eventually finding peace with a kind owner.

Pilgrim's Progress, by John Bunyan. The language in this old allegory can be tough for children, but the story line comes through loud and clear when it is read to you in an audio book.