Familiar Worlds is a collection of original bedtime stories for adults, inspired by classic literature. The stories are written and narrated specifically to help you fall asleep, with no suspense, no jump scares, and a soothing, slow-paced voice that fades into silence as you drift off.

The stories are gentle, predictable, and low-stimulation. Instead of gripping your attention, they give your mind something soft to rest on. Combined with slow narration and calming atmospheres, they help your nervous system shift from 'on alert' into 'ready to rest.'

No. Familiar Worlds never uses horror, suspense, or intense emotional drama. Every story is carefully written to feel safe, soothing, and emotionally low-stakes, so you’re not jolted awake or left hanging at a tense moment.

Most stories are read by Mr. E, a deep-voiced male narrator with a calm, steady tone. His narration style is specifically crafted for bedtime: slower pacing, softer consonants, and a warmth that feels like being read to, not performed at.

Yes — they’re inspired by classic literature in the public domain. You might recognize certain worlds, moods, or characters, but the stories themselves are new and written for sleep: simpler plots, gentle arcs, and no need to 'keep track' of the details.

Not at all. Familiar Worlds is built on the assumption that you’ll fall asleep before the story finishes. Each story is structured so you can drift off at any point without feeling like you missed anything important.

Start with a story that has rich sensory detail and a bit more descriptive language. Let your attention move between the story, the narrator’s voice, and the feeling of your body resting where you are. You’re not trying to force sleep — just giving your mind something kind and gentle to hold.

Look for stories tagged with 'grounding,' 'nature,' or 'soft ambient sound.' These use simple, repetitive imagery like waves, wind in the trees, or the flicker of candlelight to give your nervous system a sense of safety and familiarity.

Yes. These stories are designed to be part of a nightly ritual. Many listeners choose one or two favorite worlds — a harbor, a garden, a cabin — and return to them regularly so the brain associates that specific soundscape with going to bed.

Familiar Worlds is a supportive tool for relaxation and sleep, not a medical treatment. If you have chronic insomnia, sleep disorders, or mental health concerns, please consult a qualified healthcare provider. You can absolutely use Familiar Worlds alongside other care if it feels helpful.

You can listen on any device that can access the Familiar Worlds website or app: your phone, tablet, computer, or a smart speaker. For the best experience, use headphones or a bedside speaker at a low, steady volume.

Choose a story, dim the lights, and treat pressing 'play' as the last 'to-do' of your day. You might take one or two slow breaths as the story begins and gently let your attention soften. Over time, this simple ritual signals to your body: 'We’re done for the day. It’s time to rest.'