At the Earth's Core audiobook cover – Science Fiction Adventure by Edgar Rice Burroughs – Dream Audiobooks

At the Earth’s Core


At the Earth’s Core by Edgar Rice Burroughs is a thrilling early twentieth-century fantasy adventure that takes listeners deep beneath the planet’s surface into the mysterious inner world of Pellucidar. This audiobook invites you to discover a land filled with prehistoric creatures, lost civilizations and the dramatic struggle between humans and the tyrannical Mahars.

🎧 Listen to “At the Earth’s Core” – Full Audiobook

📚 About This Audiobook

First published in 1914, At the Earth’s Core is the opening novel of Burroughs’ celebrated Pellucidar series. The story begins when inventor Abner Perry and his financial partner David Innes test a colossal mechanical drilling machine known as the Iron Mole. During its maiden voyage, the Iron Mole unexpectedly pierces deep into the Earth, emerging into the vast, hidden inner world of Pellucidar.

There, Perry and Innes discover a realm inhabited by gigantic prehistoric creatures, primitive human tribes and the winged reptilian race known as the Mahars—cruel overlords who enslave humanity. The journey that follows blends adventure, discovery and rebellion in a vivid subterranean landscape.

🌍 Story Overview

David Innes, the son of a wealthy industrialist, funds Perry’s ambitious drilling invention with the hope of finding valuable minerals. However, the machine malfunctions during its test run and plunges uncontrollably through Earth’s crust. When they finally regain stability, they emerge into Pellucidar—a strange world of eternal daylight, immense landscapes and unfamiliar dangers.

Almost immediately, the pair is captured by the Sagoths, ape-like enforcers who serve the Mahars. Taken as prisoners, they are brought to the Mahar city of Phutra, where they meet other enslaved humans, including Ghak the Hairy One, Hooja the Sly One and Dian the Beautiful, a proud and courageous woman whom David grows to admire deeply.

The Arrival and Enslavement

In the Mahar capital, Innes and Perry witness the oppressive rule of these intelligent but merciless reptilian overlords. The Mahars’ control over humanity is absolute, enforced through fear, ritual sacrifice and superior intellect. David becomes determined to escape, protect Dian and free the oppressed tribes from Mahar domination.

Rebellion and Escape

With the help of fellow prisoners and allies, David sets into motion a daring plan to escape Phutra. Along the way, he discovers a sacred Mahar book containing their most guarded secret, giving the humans a potential advantage in their fight for freedom. Battles, treachery and narrow escapes follow as David and Perry ignite a rebellion that will reshape Pellucidar’s future.

🏞️ The World of Pellucidar

Pellucidar is one of Burroughs’ most imaginative creations: a hollow inner world lit by a perpetual central sun, where time behaves unpredictably and the horizon curves upward instead of outward. The environment is filled with dangers—towering reptiles, vast forests and savage tribes—yet it also holds beauty and promise. The sense of wonder that Burroughs builds makes Pellucidar feel alive, mysterious and boundless.

💡 Themes and Ideas

  • Freedom vs. Oppression: The struggle against the Mahars reflects the universal desire for liberty.
  • Exploration and Discovery: Burroughs celebrates the adventurous spirit and human curiosity.
  • Identity and Courage: David’s journey tests his character and his willingness to fight for others.
  • Imagination and World-Building: Pellucidar remains one of the most unique fantasy settings ever created.

🎧 Why Listen to This Audiobook

The audiobook format enhances the experience through expressive narration that captures the exotic landscapes, tense battles and emotional revelations of the story. Listening allows you to absorb the world of Pellucidar effortlessly, whether you’re commuting, exercising or unwinding at home.

👂 Who Is This Audiobook For?

  • Fans of classic adventure, science fiction and lost-world exploration.
  • Listeners who enjoy ancient beasts, underground worlds and imaginative fantasy.
  • Newcomers to Edgar Rice Burroughs seeking an accessible entry point.
  • Readers who learn best through immersive audio storytelling.

🌟 Final Thoughts

At the Earth’s Core remains a timeless work of imaginative literature—bold, thrilling and filled with wonder. The audiobook brings the subterranean world of Pellucidar to life, making every discovery, every danger and every triumph feel immediate and real. Dive beneath the Earth’s surface and experience one of fantasy’s most enduring adventures with Dream Audiobooks.