Best 100 Classic Stories Podcasts

Just Old Time Radio takes you back to the early days of Radio and its wide varity of shows from the golden age of radio that will appeal to everyone young or old. more

Expand your horizons with this collection of hand-picked classic short stories and tales by writers like Jack London, Guy de Maupassant, Edith Wharton, Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, H.P. Lovecraft, Edgar Allan Poe, Ray Bradbury, Hans Christian Anderson, Ambrose Bierce, and many others. These fast-paced stories and captivating tales are chosen for their unique flavor, are suitable for all ages and tastes, and provide a window to a time when writers knew how to tell great stories using descriptive words and phrases.. We now offer new episodes twice weekly, Wednesdays at 5pm ET and Sundays at noon ET. Plus watch for 'Best Of' Fridays 1am. more

Every week, join award-winning narrator B.J. Harrison as he narrates the greatest stories the world has ever known. From the jungles of South America to the Mississippi Delta, from Victorian England to the sands of the Arabian desert, join us on a fantastic journey through the words of the world's greatest authors. Critically-acclaimed and highly recommended for anyone who loves a good story with plenty of substance. more

Hosted by Jon Hagadorn, 1001 Stories For The Road is bringing back adventure with stories like 'Treasure Island', 'The Secret Adversary' by Agatha Christie, 'The Hound of the Baskervilles', 'Tarzan of the Apes', 'King Solomon's Mines', 'The 39 Steps', 'The Call of the Wild'- and many more. These stories are classic for a reason- they are great! And they are family friendly. We appreciate reviews-thank you! more

This timeless novel highlights the abuse and neglect that the orphaned Jane Eyre faced while growing up.This story opens with Jane Eyre being shipped off to be cared for by her uncle Mr. Reed who lived at the Gateshead Hall. Her uncle was always kind to her but his wife, Sarah Reed was anything but. Sarah's son John and Sarah's two daughters also contributed to Jane's torment. Jane was excluded from all family activities and found solace only in her books and dolls.One day John knocked her down and she tried to defend herself. This earned her a traumatic lock up in the room where her uncle died. At one point, she thought that she could see his ghost and this so terrified the poor child that an apothecary had to be called in. The kind man advised Sarah Reed to send Jane off to boarding school and she was subsequently sent to Lowood.Seen through Jane's eyes, Lowood was only marginally better than Gateshead but at least she had friends there. The book will take you way back to the days of bumpy carriage rides and class discrimination. It is also a glimpse into some historical aspects of England centuries ago and the antiquated notions that were held at the time.Charlotte Bronte tells an amazing story about a woman who faces issues of respect in an era when women were not permitted to stand up to society. Eventually Jane finds an employer that supports her but the shadowy and ominous Mr. Rochester, hides a dreadful secret that threatens Jane's happiness. more

Four children: Henry, Jess Violet and Bennie. They are living alone in a stranded boxcar. They find items they need from the dump and a stray dog whom they name Watch. Henry earns money by working for a man named Dr. McAllister and his mother, Mrs. McAllister. But, while they are living their daily lives, little do they know that the McAllisters are watching their every move. (Summary by francesb) more

A precursor to gothic literature and science fiction genres, Frankenstein is a novel fuming with imagination as it depicts a well known horror story. Shelly's gothic fiction is written in epistolary form as a means of correspondence between the failed writer Robert Walton and his sister, while he is away on a dangerous expedition in search of fame. Some major themes explored in the gothic classic are the fallibility of ambition and knowledge, revenge, prejudice, isolation, and the imperfections of society.The novel begins with the introduction of Captain Robert Walton, who is on a ship bound for the North Pole in search of scientific progress and knowledge. During his voyage, he and his crew come across a man nearly frozen and in frail condition. Taking the man onboard and nurturing him back to health, Walton is finally acquainted with Victor Frankenstein. Frankenstein sees the same ambition within Walton that he too possessed and which is the reason for his current troubled state. Hence he decides to recount his life and share the miserable events leading him to his present isolated circumstance. Walton listens and records Frankenstein's account which begins with his childhood in his family home in Geneva. Even as a young child, Frankenstein was encouraged by his parents to seek out the truth about the world, and use science as his instrument. It is this passion for knowledge that prompts him to conduct experiments in order to recreate life from lifeless matter. However, the result is not the ideal being the scientist had initially expected, and instead produces an eight foot tall creature with yellow eyes and visible muscle tissue. Repulsed by his creation, Frankenstein tries to steer clear of the monster, but only ignites the monster's anger as it goes into a revenge spree taunting his creator. A chilling tale of murderous mayhem follows which is guaranteed to give goose bumps.Though many are familiar with Frankenstein through countless adaptations, most are unaware of the original depiction which can only be witnessed in the classic novel. Far from a simple horror story meant to scare and entertain, Frankenstein is a timeless classic which evokes vital questions about human nature and centers on important issues targeting human curiosity and the dangers of science. more

An acclaimed children's classic depicting the odd, but riveting journeys of the curious Alice as she explores the surreal world of Wonderland. Written by Charles Lutwidge Dodgson or better known under his pseudonym Lewis Caroll, this episodic novel is assembled in twelve chapters each containing a prominent adventure. The departure from logic and its embracement of pure imagination is what makes Alice's Adventures in Wonderland a model for fantasy novels and a timeless classic.The novel begins when the self-aware young Alice, who grows bored of sitting by the river with her sister, and spots a peculiar looking rabbit, dressed in a waistcoat. She hears the rabbit, which is seemingly in a hurry, mumbling whilst dangling its pocket watch. Impulsively, Alice inquisitively rushes after it making her way down a rabbit-hole which descends to the fantasy realm of Wonderland. Finding herself in an unknown corridor encircled by doors of all shapes and sizes, Alice is subject to her first of many bizarre encounters. In order to fit through a tiny door, which separates her from a beautiful garden, she drinks a shrinking potion. Unfortunately, she forgets the key to the door on the normal sized table and faces the beginning of her troubles. In her pursue of the White Rabbit throughout Wonderland, Alice goes through immense individual changes and revelations as her perception of reality is altered. After a sequence of events, Alice discovers the unsettling features of the strange world as she encounters zany characters including the White Rabbit, the Cheshire Cat, the Mad Hatter, the Hare and the intimidating Queen of Hearts. Caroll's use of wordplay is another interesting concept in the novel. Not only does he invent new words and expressions, but he also twists the meanings of the already existing. Illustrating the purity of childhood innocence, Alice's Adventures in Wonderland serves as a playful fairy tale for its youngest readers and a limitless playground for the imaginative minds of older enthusiasts. more

Bram Stoker did not invent the vampire story, but he popularized it with his classic 1897 novel. In form Dracula is an epistolary novel, told through a series of journal entries, letters, newspaper articles, and telegrams. It begins with lawyer Jonathan Harker's perilous journey to Castle Dracula in Transylvania, and chronicles the vampire's invasion of England, where he preys upon the lovely Lucy Westenra and Harker's fiancee, Mina. Harker and Mina join forces with lunatic asylum proprieter Dr. Seward, Lucy's fiance Arthur Holmwood, Texas man of action Quincey Morris, and Dutch vampire hunter Dr. Van Helsing to try and defeat their powerful adversary. (Summary by Elizabeth Klett)Cast:Jonathan Harker: mbMina Murray Harker: Elizabeth KlettLucy Westenra: Arielle LipshawDr. Seward: Denny SayersQuincey P. Morris: Eric ZetterlundArthur Holmwood: Brett W. DowneyCutting from The Dailygraph: Kara ShallenbergLog of the Demeter: Chuck BurkeSamuel F. Billington & Son: Katalina WattCarter, Patterson & Co: Robert B.Sister Agatha: AvailleAbraham Van Helsing: RismythThe Pall Mall Gazette: Lucy PerryPatrick Hennessey: Dee WyckoffThe Westminster Gazette: David LawrenceMitchell, Sons, & Candy: Robert B.Rufus Smith Telegrams: Nadine Eckert-BouletAudio edited by: Elizabeth Klett more

Great Expectations is written in the first person and is virtually a fictional autobiography of 'Pip' from his childhood, through often painful experiences, to adulthood. It charts his progress as he moves from the Kent marshes - his social status radically changed having gained an unknown benefactor - to busy commercial London. The book is richly populated with a variety of extraordinary characters many of whom, unbeknownst to them, have lives that are inextricably linked to the others. It is all there, love, hate, passion, humour, rejection, duplicity, betrayal, a whole gamut of emotions and human strengths and weaknesses . This is one of Dickens most fascinating, and disturbing novels. (Summary by Peter Keeble) more

Great stories from public domain: Legend of Sleepy Hollow, Christmas Carol, Kipling's Kim, Lorna Doone, A Room with a View, etc. more

Dès 1828 Hugo avait conçu Note Dame de Paris et se rend plusieurs fois à la cathédrale. Il ressuscite le Paris d'autrefois avec sa cathédrale. Notre-Dame de Paris retrace la destinée tragique au Moyen Âge d'une jeune bohémienne, Esméralda, victime du désir qu'elle inspire à trois hommes. Convoitée par l'archidiacre Frollo, elle est enlevée sur son ordre par le sonneur de cloches difforme de Notre-Dame, Quasimodo, puis est sauvée par le beau capitaine Phoebus dont elle s'éprend. Mais Frollo, jaloux, poignarde Phoebus, et n'intervient pas lorsque Esméralda est accusée de ce meurtre. Elle est emprisonnée, puis délivrée, cette fois, par Quasimodo, épris d'elle, qui l'entraîne au sein de l'inviolable cathédrale. Les truands de la cour des Miracles, inquiets de sa disparition, assaillent l'édifice, et livrent, sans s'en douter, Esméralda à son pire ennemi, Frollo. Arrêtée, la jeune fille sera pendue sous l'oeil cynique de ce dernier. Quasimodo, enfin édifié sur son «bienfaiteur» Frollo, le précipite du haut des tours de Notre-Dame, et se laisse ensuite mourir dans les bras d'Esméralda dans le charnier où elle repose. ( adapté de http://romantis.free.fr/Victor hugo/html/notdadep.html ) more

A sportsman who doesn't hunt; a poet who doesn't write; a lover with no one to love; all three are devoted to their cheerful and benevolent leader, Mr. Pickwick. Join him and his friends, Winkle, Snodgrass, and Tupman, as they tour the country in search of adventures, knowledge, and stories. Along the way, they have their share of mishaps, and meet plenty of interesting characters, both the good and the not so good. (Mr. Pickwick's dedicated manservant, Sam Weller, is a scene-stealer sure to delight just about everybody.)You may shed a few tears along the way, but usually of the pleasant sort. This is a mostly lighthearted and humorous tale, with a number of subplots woven in, in Dickens' incomparable style.(Introduction by Debra Lynn) more

Pride and Prejudice is a novel by Jane Austen, first published in 1813. The story follows the main character Elizabeth Bennet as she deals with issues of manners, upbringing, morality, education and marriage in the society of the landed gentry of early 19th-century England. Elizabeth is the second of five daughters of a country gentleman, living near the fictional town of Meryton in Hertfordshire, near London.In this reading, Librivox volunteers lend their voices to dramatize Jane Austen's classic and well-loved novel. (Summary by Wikipedia and wildemoose)Cast:Mrs. Bennet: Beth ThomasMr. Bennet: Andy MinterJane Bennet: Elizabeth KlettElizabeth Bennet: Arielle LipshawMary Bennet: Tina DanhCatherine 'Kitty' Bennet: GabrielleCLydia Bennet: BumbleVeeMr. Bingley: John FrickerMr. Darcy: Peter BishopCharlotte Lucas: Laurie Anne WaldenYoung Mr. Lucas: Beth ThomasSir William Lucas: Robert ScheidMiss Caroline Bingley: Liz BenningtonMrs. Hurst: Elizabeth BarrMr. Hurst: Barry EadsMr. Collins: mbMr. Wickham: Algy PugDenny: David RichardsonMrs. Gardiner: TriciaGMr. Gardiner: David LawrenceMaria Lucas: Maria ThereseLady Catherine de Bourgh: Mil NicholsColonel Fitzwilliam: Ric FMrs. Reynolds: EstherMrs. Hill: Nadine Eckert-BouletButler: Barry EadsMrs. Phillips: deboleeNarrator: Debra LynnAudio edited by: Arielle Lipshaw more

Eleven-year-old Jude Fawley, inspired by his teacher Mr. Phillotson, who leaves Marygreen for Christminster to take a university degree, decides to adopt the same course for himself. Raised by his great-aunt, he studies hard with the aid of some old Latin and Greek books sent to him by Phillotson.He trains as a stonemason in order to enable him to support himself when at the university. However when he finally arrives in Christminster he soon finds that a university education is not easily come by for one of his social standing.Meeting and falling in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead his future becomes a series of challenges to his moral, religious and social beliefs.The novel caused quite a stir in late Victorian England due in part to it's depiction of marriage and the role religion played in it. Savagely criticised on publication it led to Hardy turning from novel writing and concentrating for the rest of his career on poetry alone. It's now considered one of Hardy's finest works and is held up as an example of English novel writing at it's best.Summary by T.Hynes. more

The story involves a German professor (Otto Lidenbrock in the original French, Professor Von Hardwigg in the most common English translation) who believes there are volcanic tubes going toward the center of the Earth. He, his nephew Axel (Harry), and their guide Hans encounter many adventures, including prehistoric animals and natural hazards, eventually coming to the surface again in southern Italy.(Summary by Wikipedia) more

Christine Daae was brought up in the Paris Opera house. Her musician father suddenly dies, telling her he will send her an angel of music to look after her. She grows up and discovers that she is hearing a voice, telling her and teaching her to sing. She believes he is the angel of music but he is known in the Opera House simply as The Phantom. Although she is fascinated and drawn towards the phantom, she falls in love with her childhood sweetheart, The Vicomte de Chagny - or Raoul - but the Phantom won't take this lightly... (Summary by Ralph Snelson) more

Come and hear the strange tale of The Boss Hank Morgan, a modern day (at the time of publication) Connecticut Yankee who inexplicably finds himself transported to the court of the legendary King Arthur (as the title of the book implies). Hank, or simply, The Boss, as he comes to be most frequently known, quickly uses his modern day knowledge and education to pass himself off as a great magician, to get himself out of all sorts of surprising, (and frequently amusing) situations, as well as to advance the technological and cultural status of the nation in which he finds himself.In the rather un-subtle sub-text of the story, Twain uses The Boss to express a surprisingly pragmatic and frequently contradictory philosophy. The Boss explores the relative merits of Democracy, and Monarchy, he expresses his views on the 'Nature v. Nurture' debate, he frequently speaks forcefully against an established Church, but just as strongly advocates for religion and a variety of churches (just not a compulsory one) and he devotes at least one afternoon to introducing his companions to the concept of inflation. In a far more subtle, yet no less forceful manner, the Boss shares with the reader some views about taxation, slavery (both literal and wage slavery), trade unions, the origins of the German language, the nature of marriage, and probably most powerfully, death.It is a tall order for a relatively brief text, but Twain manages it all with surprising clarity. No one will agree fully with the Boss on all of these matters, and I would be surprised if Twain himself would. In fact the Boss's views are so pragmatic, and often contradictory, the reader is left to wonder if Twain himself is alternately speaking through the Boss, and setting him up as a straw man. Either way it is a delightful story and a great piece of American Literature, to say nothing of an excellent argument for education.(Review written by Steve Andersen) more

Mary Lennox is a spoiled, middle-class, self-centered child who has been recently orphaned. She is accepted into the quiet and remote country house of an uncle, who has almost completely withdrawn into himself after the death of his wife. Mary gradually becomes drawn into the hidden side of the house: why does she hear the crying of a unseen child? Why is there an overgrown, walled garden, its door long locked? (Summary by Peter) more

'Poor Miss Finch.' That is what everyone calls the courageous protagonist of this book. In other words, 'poor thing, she's blind, isn't it awful?' Ha! Lucilla Finch is the wisest of all the characters, in spite of, and perhaps because of, her blindness. This story is about her trials, tribulations and triumphs. She reminds me of myself. Not the falling recklessly in love and being pulled this way and that by foolish young men and mad old doctors. I mean that, like her, I'm blind and proud of it!(Introduction by Sandra G)Editing by TriciaG & Nadine Eckert-Boulet more

The Schlegels frequently encounter the Wilcoxes. The youngest, Helen, is rejected by the younger Wilcox brother, Paul. The eldest, Margaret, becomes friends with his mother Ruth Wilcox. Ruth's most prized personal possession is her family house at Howards End. She wishes that Margaret could live there, as she feels that it might be in good hands with her. Ruth's own husband and children do not value the house and its rich history, because such abstractions, while being very dear to Margaret, are lost to them. As she is terminally ill, and Margaret and her family are about to be evicted from their London home by a developer, Ruth bequeaths the cottage to Margaret in a handwritten note found among her effects when she dies, causing great consternation among the Wilcoxes. Mrs Wilcox's widowed husband Henry and his children burn the note without telling Margaret about her inheritance. However, over the course of several years, Margaret becomes friends with Henry Wilcox and eventually marries him. The more free-spirited Margaret tries to get Henry to open up more, to little effect. Henry's elder son Charles and his wife try to keep Margaret from taking possession of Howards End. (Summary from Wikipedia) more

The classic story of Sir Percy Blakeney and his alter ego, the Scarlet Pimpernel. A great adventure, set during the French Revolution. (Summary by Karen Savage)Series:1: The Scarlet Pimpernel2: I Will Repay2.5: The League of the Scarlet Pimpernel3: The Elusive Pimpernel4: El Dorado: Further Adventures of the Scarlet Pimpernel5: Lord Tony's Wife6: The Triumph of the Scarlet Pimpernel7: Sir Percy Hits BackPrequel: The Laughing Cavalier more

Louisa May Alcott's beloved 1868 novel is about the four March girls - Meg, Jo, Beth, and Amy - who are growing up in Massachusetts during the Civil War. As the novel opens, their father is away at war, and the girls are struggling to be good and to reconcile themselves to their relative poverty. Each has her trials to deal with, and they are encouraged by their loving mother, and by their friendship with their neighbor, Theodore 'Laurie' Laurence.Cast:Narrator/Jo: Elizabeth KlettMeg: Arielle LipshawBeth: KalyndaAmy/Parrot: Karen SavageMarmee: Kara ShallenbergMr. March: Bruce PirieHannah: MaryAnnMrs. Hummel/Hummel Children/Lotty: ElliGirl/Child/Tina/Daisy/Maid: LaviniaLaurie: mbAunt March: Amy GramourOld Man/Dr. Bangs: Phil ChenevertMr. Laurence: David LawrenceMr. Davis/Shopman/Young Man #2/Clerk: Tom CrawfordAnnie/May Chester: sherlock85Clara/Miss Lamb/Kitty: ESFJ GirlMr. Lamb/Mr. Dashwood: Denny SayersMrs. Moffat/Aunt Carrol/Old Lady/Mrs. Chester: Sally McMajor Lincoln/Tudor: Henry FrigonBelle/Second Girl/Minnie: BookAngel7Nan/Mrs. Kirke: SusannaSallie Gardiner Moffat: rashadaHortense/Esther: Nadine Eckert-BouletFred Vaughan: John CroudyJohn Brooke: Peter BishopKate Vaughan: BumbleVeeNed Moffat/Parker/Young Man #1: coolkid2219Frank Vaughan: John FrickerBoy/Demi: E. LeeProfessor Bhaer: RainerAudio edited by: Elizabeth Klett more

This is the extraordinary tale of a boy, Jim Hawkins, who comes into possession of Captain Flint's treasure map, after a buccaneer takes a room at his inn and later dies. The map spreads its ill luck to all who know of it.A local squire outfits a ship to voyage to the Treasure Island, unearth the treasure, and bring it home. Little does he suspect that the man he has hired aboard as cook was formerly Flint's quartermaster, who then connives to hire many of his old mates.Once ashore, pirates being pirates, what follows is a mutiny. Jim and a handful of honest men find themselves harried and hunted by the rest of the crew.The pirate treasure, amassed by so much blood and death, is about to reach out and claim more victims! (Summary by Mark Smith) more

Gulliver's Travels (1726, amended 1735), officially Travels into Several Remote Nations of the World, is a novel by Jonathan Swift that is both a satire on human nature and a parody of the 'travelers' tales' literary sub-genre. It is widely considered Swift's magnum opus and is his most celebrated work, as well as one of the indisputable classics of English literature. (Summary from Wikipedia) more

Shipwrecked and castaway, Daniel DeFoe's hard-luck character is still the standard for 'growing where you're planted.' Captured by pirates, he makes his break in a small boat and undergoes desperate adventures before winning his way back to civilization. But Crusoe proves willing to chance his luck a second time when, after sweating his way to prosperity as a planter in Brazil, he undertakes a voyage that isn't needful… and is marooned on a small island off South America.Crusoe shows the value of single-minded labor as he pursues ways to feed, shelter, and clothe himself. His ardent wish is to escape his island why is it that the only people who come there are cannibals? But he spends more than two decades in isolation before acquiring a sidekick the man Friday you've probably heard of. And who would guess his way to salvation would depend on leading a last-ditch fight against a shipful of mutineers?For other castaway stories inspired by 'Robinson Crusoe', listen to 'The Swiss Family Robinson' (http://snipurl.com/swiss_family) and 'The Mysterious Island' (http://snipurl.com/mysterious_island). (Summary by Mark F. Smith) more

A Tale of Two Cities (Nederlands: In Londen en Parijs of De Geschiedenis van Twee Steden) is een roman van Charles Dickens, die zich afspeelt in Londen en Parijs ten tijde van de Franse Revolutie. De roman verscheen in wekelijkse afleveringen in het tijdschrift All the Year Round, tussen april en november 1859. more

Step into a world of abridged classic literature with Compact Classics, an offering from the GSMC Audiobook Series that introduces timeless novels in dramatized, 12-minute audio episodes. Be it a gripping mystery or a thrilling adventure, Golden State Media Concepts presents these classic novels narrated by some of the most remarkable audiobook performers. Our collection houses a diverse range of unedited, classic novels. more

A villainous vicar insinuates himself into the life of a wealthy but foolish widow, ruining the fortunes and happiness of her three children, until they begin to fight back. Published in 1837 by the mother of the better-known Anthony Trollope, this highly readable romance portrays the evangelical movement of the Anglican church in a shocking light that may remind readers of some of the religious abuses of the present day. (Summary by Angela Rowland) more

This is the wonderful story of Pinocchio, the puppet who must learn many lessons before he can become a real boy. Carved by a woodcarver named Geppetto in a small Italian village, he dreamed of becoming a real boy but strays from the path of goodness many times and is very willing to listen to temptation. He has also been used as a character who is prone to telling lies and fabricating stories for various reasons. The story has appeared in many adaptations in other mediums. Pinocchio has been called an icon of modern culture, and one of most reimagined characters in the pantheon of children's literature. Listen to his many adventures, scrapes, misdeeds and pranks followed by bouts of sincere repentance and remorse. But these last only until the next enticing adventure or misdeed presents itself. Of course he does finally learn his lesson and does become a real boy when finally understanding that love and duty come first before pleasure and play. (summary from Wikipedia and the reader) more

In the year 1792, the French Revolution is in the midst of its bloodiest stage. Aristocrats are being executed left and right by the Republic when the guillotine begins to be repeatedly cheated of aristocratic victims due to a series of daring rescues carried out by a mysterious hero known only as 'The Scarlet Pimpernel.' Nothing is known about this person, save that he is a master of disguise, has saved dozens of lives, and has never been caught. He is the hero of the aristocrats, the bane of the Republic, and the talk of high society across the channel in England. As the inane and foppish Sir Percy Blakeney, the leader of English fashion, puts it, 'They seek him here, they seek him there, those Frenchies seek him everywhere! Is he in Heaven or is he in Hell, that demmed elusive Pimpernel?' And no one is more interested in uncovering the mystery surrounding this hero than Sir Percy's wife, the young French actress Marguerite St. Just, to whom the fate of the Scarlet Pimpernel may mean everything. (Summary by Eden Rea-Hedrick)Series:1: The Scarlet Pimpernel2: I Will Repay2.5: The League of the Scarlet Pimpernel3: https://librivox.org/search?q=elusive pimpernel&search_form=advanced4: El Dorado: Further Adventures of the Scarlet Pimpernel5: Lord Tony's Wife6: The Triumph of the Scarlet Pimpernel7: Sir Percy Hits BackPrequel: The Laughing Cavalier more

Mary Shelley's 1818 novel presents the Faustian story of a man who aspires to create life out of death, with disastrous results. The novel is constructed as a series of first-person narratives, delivered by Captain Robert Walton, Victor Frankenstein, and his Creature, which makes it perfect for a dramatic reading. (Summary by Elizabeth Klett)CastRobert Walton: Chuck WilliamsonVictor Frankenstein: Bob NeufeldLieutenant: KerrieRae ClarkeCaroline Frankenstein: Arielle LipshawAlphonse Frankenstein: ToddM. Krempe: AnthonyM. Waldman: Martin GeesonHenry Clerval: Grace GarrettElizabeth Lavenza/Master/Irishman: Elizabeth KlettErnest Frankenstein: Ernst PattynamaJustine Moritz: AvailleOfficer: Ken GarrettThe Creature: John TrevithickFelix: Tiffany Halla ColonnaDe Lacey: Steve W. ThompsonLandlord: April GonzalesWilliam Frankenstein: Miss AvariceOld Woman: Caprisha PageMr. Kirwan: EMStachMagistrate: Max KorlingeAudio edited by Elizabeth Klett more

The story begins when Pollyanna arrives in Beldingsville to live with her Aunt Polly, a strict and dutiful middle aged woman. Pollyanna immediately begins to brighten up everyone's life by the 'Glad Game.' Trying to find something to be glad about in every situation, Pollyanna is happy, joyful, lively, and soon transforms the whole town. One day something so terrible happens, even Pollyanna doesn't know how to be glad about it. (Summary by Abigail Rasmussen)Cast:Pollyanna: Lydia RasmussenMiss Polly: KHandNancy: Alexis CastroJohn Pendleton: Brett W. DowneyDr. Chilton: Robert HarderOld Tom: John TrevithickJimmy Bean: Jacob RasmussenMilly: Theresa L. DowneyMrs. Snow: Lani SmallHousemaid: Lyn SilvaNurse: Charlotte DuckettMr. Ford: David OlsonDr. Mead: balaMrs. Payson: Elizabeth KlettTimothy/Young Man: Zack RasmussenMrs. Ford/Mrs. Benton: Lynne ThompsonMurmuring Lady/Mrs. Tarbell: Susie RasmussenNarrator: Abigail RasmussenAudio edited by: Abigail RasmussenProoflistened by: Abigail Rasmussen and Piotr Nater more

Lucy Maud Montgomery's classic children's novel, Anne of Green Gables tells the story of a red headed orphan girl with a personality you can't help but love. Despite her 'tragical' past, Anne's optimism and imagination have helped her to always see the best in things. Anne's life changes considerably when she is accidentally adopted by the Cuthberts, a brother and sister who thought they were getting a boy to help out on the farm. The Cuthberts decide Anne will have to be sent back to the orphanage but before they know it, she has begun to work her way into their hearts. (Summary by Annie Coleman) more

Who is stealing all the magic in Oz? Dorothy and her friends set out to comb all of Oz, not only for magic stolen from Glinda and the Wizard, but also for the kidnapped princess, Ozma. Along the way, they explore regions never seen in other Oz books, meeting strange and interesting people and animals, and falling into peril more than once. It's a desperate mission for if the thefts are all linked, then it means that some magician unknown to them has acquired powers beyond any available to them now. How will they find him? And how will they conquer him? Not one of them knows but with continuing faith that goodness will triumph, they march forth to try. (Summary by Mark) more

Apart from 'Rip Van Winkle' and 'The Legend of Sleepy Hollow' - the pieces which made both Irving and The Sketch Book famous - other tales include 'Roscoe', 'The Broken Heart', 'The Art of Book-making', 'A Royal Poet', 'The Spectre Bridegroom', 'Westminster Abbey', 'Little Britain', and 'John Bull'. His stories were highly influenced by German folktales, with 'The Legend of Sleepy Hollow' being inspired by a folktale recorded by Karl Musäus. Stories range from the maudlin (such as 'The Wife' and 'The Widow and Her Son') to the picaresque ('Little Britain') and the comical ('The Mutability of Literature'), but the common thread running through The Sketch Book — and a key part of its attraction to readers — is the personality of Irving's pseudonymous narrator, Geoffrey Crayon. Erudite, charming, and never one to make himself more interesting than his tales, Crayon holds The Sketch Book together through the sheer power of his personality - and Irving would, for the rest of his life, seamlessly enmesh Crayon's persona with his own public reputation. (Introduction by Wikipedia) more

Don Quijote de la Mancha (ortografía y título original —1605—, El ingenioso hidalgo Don Quixote de la Mancha) es una de las obras cumbre de la literatura española y la literatura universal, el libro más traducido después de la Biblia, escrito por Miguel de Cervantes.La novela consta de dos partes: la primera, El ingenioso hidalgo don Quijote de la Mancha, fue publicada en 1605; la segunda, El ingenioso caballero don Quijote de la Mancha, en 1615.La primera parte se imprimió en Madrid, en casa de Juan de la Cuesta, a fines de 1604. Salió a la venta en enero de 1605 con numerosas erratas, a causa de la celeridad que imponía el contrato de edición. Esta edición se reimprimió en el mismo año y en el mismo taller, de forma que hay en realidad dos ediciones de 1605 ligeramente distintas. Se sospecha, sin embargo, que existió una novela más corta, que sería una de sus futuras Novelas ejemplares. (Resumen de Wikipedia) more

Henry James' classic ghost story comprises the written testimony of a young governess, charged with looking after two small children at an isolated country estate, who believes they are being haunted. As the story progresses, the governess' increasingly frenetic narration provokes the question: is she insane, or are the ghosts real? (Summary by Elizabeth Klett) more

Don Quijote de la Mancha (ortografía y título original —1605—, El ingenioso hidalgo Don Quixote de la Mancha) es una de las obras cumbre de la literatura española y la literatura universal, el libro más traducido después de la Biblia, escrito por Miguel de Cervantes. La novela consta de dos partes: la primera, El ingenioso hidalgo don Quijote de la Mancha, fue publicada en 1605; la segunda, El ingenioso caballero don Quijote de la Mancha, en 1615. La primera parte se imprimió en Madrid, en casa de Juan de la Cuesta, a fines de 1604. Salió a la venta en enero de 1605 con numerosas erratas, a causa de la celeridad que imponía el contrato de edición. Esta edición se reimprimió en el mismo año y en el mismo taller, de forma que hay en realidad dos ediciones de 1605 ligeramente distintas. Se sospecha, sin embargo, que existió una novela más corta, que sería una de sus futuras Novelas ejemplares. more

Traducción de Kinder- und Hausmärchen ('Cuentos para la infancia y el hogar') de Jacob y Wilhelm Grimm. (Introducción por Karen Savage) more

La Divina Commedia, originalmente Commedìa, è un poema di Dante Alighieri, capolavoro del poeta fiorentino, considerata la più importante testimonianza letteraria della civiltà medievale e una delle più grandi opere della letteratura universale.È diviso in tre parti chiamate cantiche: Inferno, Purgatorio, Paradiso; il poeta immagina di compiervi un viaggio ultraterrenoIl poema, pur continuando i modi caratteristici della letteratura e dello stile medievali (ispirazione religiosa, fine morale, linguaggio e stile basati sulla percezione visiva e immediata delle cose), tende a una rappresentazione ampia e drammatica della realtà, ben lontana dalla spiritualità tipica del Medioevo, tesa a cristallizzare la visione del reale. (Sommario di Wikipedia) more

The Portrait of a Lady is a novel by Henry James, first published as a serial in The Atlantic Monthly and Macmillan's Magazine in 1880-1881 and then as a book in 1881. It is the story of a spirited young American woman, Isabel Archer, who 'affronts her destiny' and finds it overwhelming. She inherits a large amount of money and subsequently becomes the victim of Machiavellian scheming by two American expatriates. Like many of James's novels, it is set mostly in Europe, notably England and Italy. Generally regarded as the masterpiece of his early phase of writing, this novel reflects James's absorbing interest in the differences between the New World and the Old. It also treats in a profound way the themes of personal freedom, responsibility, betrayal, and sexuality. (Summary from Wikipedia) more

In this collection of Sherlock Holmes stories, the great detective continues doing what he does best: averting political scandals, tracking down murderers, dragging Dr. Watson into unpleasant situations. As always, it's adventurous fun for the rest of us. This book was published in 1917, after The Return of Sherlock Holmes. (Summary by Laurie Anne Walden) more

Around the World in Eighty Days (French: Le tour du monde en quatre-vingts jours) is a classic adventure novel by the French writer Jules Verne, first published in 1873. In the story, Phileas Fogg of London and his newly-employed French valet Passepartout attempt to circumnavigate the world in 80 days on a £20,000 wager set by his friends at the Reform Club. (Summary from Wikipedia) more

The Picture of Dorian Gray is the only published novel by Oscar Wilde, appearing as the lead story in Lippincott's Monthly Magazine on 20 June 1890, printed as the July 1890 issue of this magazine. Wilde later revised this edition, making several alterations, and adding new chapters; the amended version was published by Ward, Lock, and Company in April 1891. The novel tells of a young man named Dorian Gray, the subject of a painting by artist Basil Hallward. Basil is impressed by Dorian's beauty and becomes infatuated with him, believing his beauty is responsible for a new mode in his art. Dorian meets Lord Henry Wotton, a friend of Basil's, and becomes enthralled by Lord Henry's world view. Espousing a new hedonism, Lord Henry suggests the only things worth pursuing in life are beauty and fulfillment of the senses. Realizing that one day his beauty will fade, Dorian (whimsically) expresses a desire to sell his soul to ensure the portrait Basil has painted would age rather than himself. Dorian's wish is fulfilled, plunging him into debauched acts. The portrait serves as a reminder of the effect each act has upon his soul, with each sin displayed as a disfigurement of his form, or through a sign of aging. The Picture of Dorian Gray is considered a work of classic gothic fiction with a strong Faustian theme. (Summary by Wikipedia) more

Arizona Nights is a collection of tales from the American West as told by those who took part in them. (Summary by Adam E. Maroney) more

This book is the second in Bennett's four books about life in the Five Towns (the real life Potteries in Staffordshire). It tells the story of Hilda before her marriage to Edwin Clayhanger (from the first book). Bennett explores Hilda's ambition to make a career for herself, her coming of age and her working experiences as a shorthand clerk and keeper of a lodging house in London and Brighton. He also shows her intensifying relationship with the enigmatic George Cannon that ends in her disastrous bigamous marriage and pregnancy, and finally her reconciliation with Edwin Clayhanger (Summary by Simon Evers) more

When a rough old seaman calling himself 'the Captain' appears at the inn owned by Jim Hawkins' father, young Jim little dreams what adventures will follow in the man's wake. Soon, the once-peaceful inn is threatened by pirates, Jim's father is laid in his grave, and Jim finds himself in possession of a map showing the location of treasure buried by the legendary and notorious Captain Flint. Along with a group of brave men: the sensible Dr. Livesey, the fearless and unflagging Captain Smollett, and the blustering but well-meaning Squire Trelawney, Jim sets out in quest of the treasure. Many perils, from wild animals to murderous villains to stormy seas will beset him on the way. And ever in the background, smiling and enigmatic, lurks the one-legged ship's cook, Long John Silver. One of the best-loved adventure stories of all time, Treasure Island is a pirate classic that delights readers today as much as when Stevenson first wrote it. (Summary by Eden Rea-Hedrick)Cast listing:Jim Hawkins, Dedication and Introductory Poem: Eden Rea-HedrickBilly Bones, 'the Captain', Dr. Livesey, Long John Silver: Barry EadsBlack Dog: Phillip J MatherMrs. Hawkins, Dick: Elizabeth KlettPew, George Merry: alanmapstoneMr. Dance: Algy PugPirate 1: ToddHWPirate 2: justinschwPirate 3: KristingjSquire Trelawney: Andy MinterTom Redruth: MarcyTTom Morgan: Robin KingCaptain Smollett: DublinGothicIsrael Hands: Mark F. SmithCaptain Flint (a parrot): TriciaGJob Anderson: Raphael PlattTom, Joyce: CaprishaPageBen Gunn: csjesi1Abraham Gray: David LawrenceHunter: GraceEdited by ToddHW. more

Pollyanna tells the story of Pollyanna Whittier, a young girl who goes to live with her wealthy Aunt Polly after her father's death. Pollyanna's philosophy of life centers around what she calls 'The Glad Game': she always tries to find something to be glad about in every situation, and to always do without delay whatever she thinks is right. With this philosophy, and her own sunny personality, she brings so much gladness to her aunt's dispirited New England town that she transforms it into a pleasant, healthy place to live. Eventually, however, even Pollyanna's robust optimism is put to the test when she loses the use of her legs in an accident. (written by Mary Anderson) more

J. Sheridan LeFanu's Gothic mystery novel is narrated by Richard Beckett, a young Englishman abroad in Napoleonic-era France. He falls instantly in love with a mysterious and imperiled Countess, whom he glimpses momentarily behind her black veil. In order to be near her, he takes a room in the Dragon Volant (the Flying Dragon), a haunted inn that has been the site of mysterious disappearances. (Summary by Elizabeth Klett) more

The Strange Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde is a novella by the Scottish author Robert Louis Stevenson, first published in 1886. London lawyer Utterson is driven to investigate Edward Hyde, the unlikely protégé of his friend Dr Henry Jekyll, suspecting the relationship to be founded on blackmail. The truth is worse than he could have imagined. Jekyll's 'full statement of the case', the final chapter of the book, explores the idea of dual personality that led him to his experiments, and his inexorable and finally fatal descent into evil.(Summary by David Barnes) more

Sara is brought to Miss Minchin's Select Seminary for Young Ladies by her father, Captain Crewe, because the climate in India doesn't agree with children. After several years as Miss Minchin's show pupil, news comes that Captain Crewe has died penniless, and left Sara destitute. Miss Minchin keeps her on as an unpaid drudge, until a mysterious benefactor comes to her aid. (Summary by Karen Savage) more

This is the sixth collection of our 'coffee break' series, involving public domain works that are between 3 and 15 minutes in length. These are great for work/study breaks, commutes, workouts, or any time you'd like to hear a whole story and only have a few minutes to devote to listening. The theme for Collection 006 is 'Food and Drink'! [Summary by Rosie] more

Dickson McCunn, a respectable, newly retired grocer, plans a walking holiday in the hills of south-west Scotland. He meets a young English poet and finds himself in the thick of a plot involving the kidnapping of a Russian princess, who is held prisoner in the rambling mansion, Huntingtower. This modern fairy-tale is also a gripping adventure story. (Summary by Simon Evers) more

Imagine a strange, tropical place that is almost inaccessible. Time appears to have stood still there. Species of animal and plant life not seen elsewhere on Earth, except in the fossil record, inhabit the place. The lakes heave with the shapes of huge grey bulks moving under the surface. The woods are places where chittering cries move about above your head, as powerful apes move swiftly in the canopy of leaves. Then, a tree splinters nearby, and a dinosaur steps out from his hiding place... and he's eyeing YOU.Jurassic Park? Not quite. The Lost World was an inspiration for Jurassic Park; in fact, a character in J.P. has the same name as one of the chief characters in The Lost World. It also inspired King Kong. But this is the original! Four adventurers go off to find the place shown in a dead man's sketch book - they find a war between apes and Indians, prowling dinosaurs, a sparkly treasure hidden in the blue clay - they find the Lost World. And because of the treachery of a native guide, their means of escape is destroyed! more

Edith Nesbit's classic story, in which three children, pulled suddenly from their comfortable suburban life, move to the country with their mother, where they come to know and love the ways of the railways. (Summary by Karen Savage) more

Round the Sofa (1859), is a book of stories by the lady that Charles Dickens called his 'dear Scheherazade' due to her skill as a story teller. That Lady was Mrs. Elizabeth Gaskell (North and South, Wives and Daughters, Cranford etc.). Mrs. Gaskell begins with Round the Sofa, a short story which she uses as a device to stitch together six previously published stories into a single work. It introduces us to a set of characters who take turns to recount stories to one another during their weekly soirée. My Lady Ludlow tells the story of the widowed, aristocratic Lady Ludlow and her fierce resistance to change. It is told through the eyes of one of her young charges. Incidentally, it was one of the books used to create the TV series Cranford. An Accursed Race is actually an essay about a persecuted minority group, the Cagots in Western France. The Doom of the Griffiths. A Gothic short story about a cursed family and set in Wales. Half a Life-Time Ago. A novella set in the Wiltshire Dales. The Poor Clare. A Ghostly short story! The Half Brothers. A sad short story about brotherly love and a sheep-dog dog named Lassie! (Summary by Noel Badrian) more

Frances Hodgson Burnett's classic children's novel is about orphaned Mary Lennox, who is sent to live with her uncle at Misslethwaite Manor in Yorkshire. Initially a sour, bad-tempered child, Mary begins to bloom under the influence of nature when she discovers a long-abandoned garden on the grounds of her uncle's estate. Burnett's novel is brought to life by LibriVox volunteers who lend their voices to her characters. (Summary by Elizabeth Klett)CastNarrator/Martha: Elizabeth KlettMary Lennox: Arielle LipshawMrs. Lennox: Caprisha PageColonel McGrew/Dr. Craven: Tyler HarmsBasil/Mrs. Sowerby: Victoria MartinMrs. Crawford: AvailleOfficer's Wife: Pamela KrantzArchibald Craven: Alex LauMrs. Medlock: Grace GarrettStation Master: Martin GeesonBen Weatherstaff: Andy MinterDickon: Charlotte DuckettColin Craven: Amanda FridayNurse: Kara ShallenbergMr. Roach: John TrevithickLilias Craven: Eden Rea-HedrickAudio edited by: Elizabeth Klett more

Dorothy and the Wizard in Oz was the fourth of 14 Oz books written by L. Frank Baum (1856-1919). Published in 1908, while Baum was resident in Coronado, California, it is considered one of the 'darker' of the Oz tales. However, it also is enlivened by Baum's considerable wit, penchant for puns, and dry social commentary. In this title, Dorothy, her kitten Eureka, Jim, a cab horse, and Zeb, a ranch hand, descend into the earth through a rift opened by an earthquake. There they encounter the 'humbug' wizard who once ruled Oz. In their journey back to the earth's surface, they meet a number of potentially dangerous magical peoples and creatures including the cold-blooded Mangaboos, invisible bears, the flying wooden Gargoyles, a den of dragonettes, and an eccentric inventor. With a little help from Ozma, the group end up in Oz where they are treated to feasts and celebrations. The animals end up humbled by a few of their experiences in Oz, where all animals can talk, and return home a little wiser. (Summary by Judy Bieber) more

From the Earth to the Moon (French: De la Terre à la Lune) is a humorous science fantasy story written in 1865 by Jules Verne and is one of the earliest entries in that genre. It tells the story of three well-to-do members of a post-American Civil War gun club who build an enormous sky-facing columbiad and ride a spaceship fired from it to the moon. (Summary from Wikipedia) more

Frankenstein oder Der moderne Prometheus ...erzählt die Geschichte des jungen Schweizers Viktor Frankenstein, der an der damals berühmten Universität Ingolstadt einen künstlichen Menschen erschafft, und später von seiner Kreatur verfolgt wird, welche aus Rache nach und nach seine Familienmitglieder ermorden möchte.Viktor Frankenstein erzählt dem Leiter einer Forschungsexpedition, zugleich Eigner des Schiffes, das ihn in der Arktis rettet, seine Geschichte während das Monster in der Nähe lautert ... Die Handlung wird durch eine Mischung aus Briefroman und klassischer Ich-Erzählsituation vermittelt. Die Figur des Viktor Frankenstein ähnelt damit sowohl dem 'literarischen' Faust als auch dem Prometheus aus der griechischen Mythologie. Der Roman wird so zu einem Lehrstück, gibt Frankenstein doch deutlich zu verstehen, dass seine Erzählung auch eine Warnung an den Zuhörer und damit auch die Leser sein soll: Er warnt vor einer entgrenzten menschlichen Vernunft, die sich selbst zu Gott macht und sich anmaßt, lebendige Materie zu schaffen. (Original: Frankenstein or The Modern Prometheus) ist ein Roman von Mary W. Shelley, der 1818 erstmals anonym veröffentlicht wurde. (Zusammenfassung von wiki und crowwings) more

In einer Nordseegemeinde taucht vor drohenden Sturmfluten und Deichbrüchen eine gespenstische Gestalt auf dem Deich auf. Der Geist reitet auf seinem Schimmel lautlos in die Fluten um dort unterzugehen. Das gesamte Dorf kennt dieses Zeichen seit über hundert Jahren. Der Erzähler aber nimmt die Gestalt während eines Sturmes wahr, ohne je davor von ihr gehört zu haben. Da der Sturm zunimmt, sucht er Zuflucht in dem Gasthaus des Dorfes. Dort berichtet ihm der Schulmeister das Schicksal Hauke Haiens, des einstigen Deichgrafen, den sein hartes Schicksal zum 'Schimmelreiter' machte. Immer wieder unterbrochen von den Geschehnissen in der Wirtsstube vermischt der Lehrer Fakten und Sage und zeigt so, wie die Legende entstand. (Zusammenfassung von Felix) more

Born in 1862 and died in 1910, O. Henry's birth name is William Sydney Porter; however, he adopted the pen name O. Henry while in prison. He published 10 collections and over 600 short stories during his lifetime.The Trimmed Lamp follows The Four Million and provides another series of short stories that take place in New York City in the early years of the 20th century and are representative of the surprise endings that popularized O. Henry's work. They also capture his use of coincidence or chance to create humor in the story. O Henry wrote about ordinary people in everyday circumstances. He is quoted as once saying, 'There are stories in everything. I've got some of my best yarns from park benches, lampposts and newspaper stands.'I hope you enjoy the following readings as much as I enjoyed recording them.(Summary by Marian Brown) more

Frankenstein begins in epistolary form, documenting the correspondence between Captain Robert Walton and his sister, Margaret Walton Saville. Walton sets out to explore the North Pole and expand his scientific knowledge in hopes of achieving fame and friendship. The ship becomes trapped in ice, and, one day, the crew sees a dog sled in the distance, on which there is the figure of a giant man. Hours later, the crew finds a frozen and emaciated man, Victor Frankenstein, in desperate need of sustenance. Frankenstein had been in pursuit of the gigantic man observed by Walton's crew when all but one of his dogs died. He had broken apart his dog sled to make oars and rowed an ice-raft toward the vessel. Frankenstein starts to recover from his exertion and recounts his story to Walton. Before beginning his story, Frankenstein warns Walton of the wretched effects of allowing ambition to push one to aim beyond what one is capable of achieving. In telling his story to the captain, Frankenstein finds peace within himself. (Introduction by Wikipedia) more

This is the classic story of Mowgli, the young boy raised by wolves in India: his escapades and adventures with his dear friends Bagheera the panther and Baloo the bear, his capture by the Monkey-People, his attempt at reintegration into human society, and his ultimate triumph over his avowed enemy the tiger Shere Khan. Included in the book is the story of the brave white seal, Kotick, and the tenacious young mongoose, Rikki-Tikki-Tavi who battled through the night to protect his human family from a pair of sly and viscous cobras. Packed with adventure and Jungle Law wisdom, this book has pervaded popular culture as the basis of many film and stage adaptations, including the popular Disney movie.Summary by Meredith Hughes and Phil Chenevert more

'The Sword of Antietam' tells a complete story, but it is one in the chain of Civil War romances, begun in 'The Guns of Bull Run' and continued through 'The Guns of Shiloh' and 'The Scouts of Stonewall.' The young Northern hero, Dick Mason, and his friends are in the forefront of the tale. (Summary from the Foreword) more

The recently widowed Adela Gereth, a lover of beauty and passionate collector of fine objects, strikes up a friendship with the young Fleda Vetch, when both of them find themselves guests in the tasteless house of Brigstock family. Mrs. Gereth fears that her son Owen, an honorable but somewhat unimaginative young man, may take up with one of the Brigstock girls, and indeed he presently announces his engagement to Mona, the eldest daughter. That means that Mrs. Gereth will have to leave Poynton, the beautiful house that she and her husband filled with the furniture, china, tapestries, and other objects that they lovingly collected over the years. It is not so much possessiveness that drives Mrs. Gereth to want to maintain control over them (or so she claims, at any rate), but rather the sense that she will have failed if Mona, understanding and appreciating nothing of what Poynton contains, should become Owen's wife and take charge. The story and its developing conflicts are seen largely from the point of view of Fleda Vetch, the young woman who, her moral and aesthetic sensibilities tuned perhaps as finely as any of James's protagonists, finds herself caught in the middle.(Summary by Nicholas Clifford) more

When a young lady approaches Sherlock Holmes looking for help in finding out what happened to her father when he disappeared 10 years earlier, both Holmes and Watson are sent on a mission involving stolen treasure, service in colonial India and a secret pact among four ex-convicts. (Summary by Robin Cotter) more

LibriVox's Short Story Collection 006: a collection of 20 short essays and fiction in the public domain read by a variety of LibriVox members. more

2012 was the 200th anniversary of Dickens' birth. This is the fourth volume; the first volume of short works - fiction, essays, poetry and speeches, previously unrecorded for LibriVox, was catalogued by Dickens' birthday on February 7th 2012. Further volumes were added during the anniversary year. (Summary by Ruth Golding) more

D'amants qu'ils étaient, le Vicomte de Valmont et la Marquise de Merteuil sont restés complices dans leurs projets de liaisons et confidents dans leur correspondance, chacun préservant sa réputation aux yeux du monde : d'homme irrésistible pour l'un, de femme respectable pour l'autre.Ils ont, cette fois-ci, jeté leur dévolu sur la Présidente de Tourvel, jeune femme vertueuse et dévote dont l'époux demeure au loin et Cécile Volanges, adolescente à peine sortie du couvent, promise au Comte de Gercourt, dont s'éprend le Chevalier Danceny.Si, à force de manipulations, leurs projets aboutissent, la première fera la gloire de son vainqueur, la seconde, le déshonneur de son mari lorsque la chose sera rendue publique.Suivons donc le courrier de ces protagonistes, de leurs parents, de leurs amis. Pourrons-nous « ne pas frémir en songeant au malheur que peut causer une seule liaison dangereuse » ? more

This personal anthology is my choice of speeches from Shakespeare that I enjoy reading (that I would like to have had by heart years ago!) and that seem to me to illustrate his unsurpassed use of language. He was a man who seemed to know everything about human nature and as Orson Welles said 'he speaks to everyone and we all claim him'. I know that it has been said that 'it is impossible to be a great Shakespearian actor without an idiosyncratic and extraordinary voice' and this may be so, but that does not preclude ordinary mortals from reading, hearing and enjoying Shakespeare. (Summary by Martin Clifton) more

Gustavo Adolfo Bécquer, aparte de su importante obra lírica, escribió narraciones del género leyenda, muchas de ellas pertenecientes al género del relato gótico o de terror, otras, auténticos esbozos de poesía en prosa, y otras, narraciones de aventuras. Se pueden distinguir en ellas siete temas principales: oriental y exótico; la muerte y la vida de ultratumba; el embrujamiento y la hechicería; el tema religioso; las inspiradas en el Romancero; las de tendencia animista. (Resumen de Wikipedia) more

Wharton's 1917 novella Summer, like her more famous work Ethan Frome, is set in a very small rural New England town. Charity Royall longs to escape the claustrophobic confines of North Dormer and the inappropriate advances of her guardian Mr. Royall, who adopted her as a child from the nearby Mountain community. Hope arrives in the form of city boy Lucius Harney, who has come to research the architecture of the region; but will his presence in Charity's life mean her salvation - or her undoing? (Introduction by Elizabeth Klett) more

This year is the 200th anniversary of Dickens' birth. This is the second volume; the first volume of short works - fiction, essays, poetry and speeches, previously unrecorded for LibriVox, was catalogued on Dickens' birthday, February 7th 2012, and further volumes followed during the anniversary year. (Summary by Ruth Golding) more

A group of stories-within-a-story, told in the classic Louisa May Alcott style.'I've a little cold,' said the old lady, 'and am too hoarse for talking, my dears; but Aunt Elinor has looked up a parcel of old tales that I've told her at different times and which she has written down. You will like to hear her reading better than my dull way of telling them, and I can help Minnie and Lotty with their work, for I see they are bent on learning to spin.'The young folk were well pleased with grandma's proposal; for Aunt Nell was a favorite with all, being lively and kind and fond of children, and the only maiden aunt in the family. Now, she smilingly produced a faded old portfolio, and, turning over a little pile of manuscripts, said in her pleasant way:'Here are all sorts, picked up in my travels at home and abroad; and in order to suit all of you, I have put the names on slips of paper into this basket, and each can draw one in turn. Does that please my distinguished audience?'(Summary by TriciaG and from the book) more

Daniel Defoe's The Life and Strange Surprizing Adventures of Robinson Crusoe of York, Mariner (1719) is considered by many the first English novel. Based on the real-life experiences of the castaway Alexander Selkirk, the book has had a perennial appeal among readers of all ages- especially the young adult reading public -who continue to find inspiration in the inventive resourcefulness of its hero, sole survivor of a shipwreck who is marooned on an uninhabited island. Especially poignant, after more than two decades of unbroken solitude, is the affection that Robinson develops for Friday, another survivor fleeing certain death at the hands of enemy tribesmen from the South American continent. (Summary by Denny Sayers) more

Short-stories/fairy tales by H. C. Anderson, includes The Ice-maiden -- The Butterfly -- The Psyche -- The Snail and the Rose-treeThe Ice-Maiden: Written toward the end of Hans Christian Andersen's career, 'The Ice-Maiden' is the story of Rudy, a boy who's mother died in the ice of the mountains while he survives, saved by the kiss of the Ice-Maiden. The Ice-Maiden, jealous that the boy she claimed has escaped her embrace, pursues him through the rest of his life.The Butterfly: A butterfly searches for the perfect flower to be his bride.The Psyche: An artist creates a sculpture of a beautiful woman, to whom he confesses his love and is scorned.The Snail and the Rose-Tree: A Snail and a Rose-Tree have a discussion about the meaning of their lives, and play them out.(Summary by ElleyKat) more

A collection of nine stories - or confessions - of the celebrated gentleman thief Arsene Lupin. (Summary by Cathy Barratt) more

In this sixth volume of 'The Little Colonel Series' for girls, Lloyd is surprised with a gift for her twelfth birthday, of a summer trip to Europe. In Geneva she becomes friends with an old Prussian major and his Red Cross dog, a St. Bernard named Hero. Through many adventures, in the end the Little Colonel learns the true meaning of selfless duty.Chapter 13 includes a full-cast play with singing!(Summary by Maria Therese) more

The Strange Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde is the original title of a novel written by the Scottish author Robert Louis Stevenson that was first published in 1886. It is about a London lawyer named Gabriel John Utterson who investigates strange occurrences between his old friend, Dr Henry Jekyll and the misanthropic Edward Hyde. The novella's impact is such that it has become a part of the language, with the phrase 'Jekyll and Hyde' coming to mean a person who is vastly different in moral character from one situation to the next. Strange Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde was an immediate success and is one of Stevenson's best-selling works. Stage adaptations began in Boston and London within a year of its publication and it has gone on to inspire scores of major film and stage performances. ( Summary by Wikipedia ) more

Librivox's Short Story Collection 009: a collection of 20 short essays and fiction in the public domain read by a variety of LibriVox members.Note: Section 4, In The Year 2889 was originally published under the name of Jules Verne, but is currently believed to be the work of his son, Michel Verne. more

Macbeth is a play written by William Shakespeare. It is considered one of his darkest and most powerful tragedies. Set in Scotland, the play dramatizes the corroding psychological and political effects produced when its protagonist, the Scottish lord Macbeth, chooses evil as the way to fulfill his ambition for power. He commits regicide to become king and then furthers his moral descent with a reign of murderous terror to stay in power, eventually plunging the country into civil war. In the end, he loses everything that gives meaning and purpose to his life before losing his life itself. (Summary by Wikipedia) CAST LISTFirst Witch: Charlotte DuckettSecond Witch; Servant: GraceThird Witch Gentlewoman: Libby GohnDuncan, King of Scotland; Old Man; Lords: Algy PugMalcolm, Son of Duncan: Cathy BarrattSergeant; Third Murderer; Soldier(s): ToddHWLennox, Nobleman of Scotland: Robin KingRoss, Nobleman of Scotland: Arielle LipshawMacbeth, General of the King's army: Phill BensonBanquo, General of the King's army: alanmapstoneAngus, Nobleman of Scotland; Second Murderer: Ernst PattynamaLady Macbeth: Bev. J. StevensMessenger; Attendant: CaprishaPageFleance, Son to Banquo; Young Siward, Siward's son: laurenburwellPorter: Jason MillsDonalbain, Son of Duncan; Caithness, Nobleman of Scotland: Frances BrownMacduff, Nobleman of Scotland: Alan WeymanFirst Murderer: Martin GeesonHecate: Eden Rea-HedrickDoctor: Beth ThomasApparititions: Elizabeth KlettLady Macduff: Meagon ArgoMacduff's Son: Emily JonesMenteith, Nobleman of Scotland; Seyton, An officer attending on MacbethToddHWSiward, Earl of Northumberland, general of English forces: alanmapstoneNarrator: Algy PugAudio Edited by Algy Pug more

Een hollandsche jonge man, Bertie, een liederlijke vagabond, die te Londen door eenen vriend in huis genomen een wereldsche fat wordt van de oneerlijkste soort, die in 't geheim alles doet om zijnen vriend (Frank) het leven te bederven, welke bij diens geliefde zijne eerlijkheid en goede trouw met alle intriganten-manieien ondermijnt, hem zijn geld aftrochelt, om hem te verraden, en dan de verantwoordelijkheid voor die daden van zich afschuift, op het Schicksal, op het Fatum, dat is de hoofdpersoon.Daar tegenover staat de vriend Frank, een recht onnoozele bloed, die het hart van een eerlijk meisje wegens zijne eerlijkheid heeft veroverd, doch weldra mistrouwd wordt, ten gevolge der inblazingen van Bertie. Frank leeft jaren lang met Bertie, zonder in 't minst te bemerken dat deze een verrader is. Ofschoon bedaard van karakter, stuift hij op in woede wanneer hij ten langen leste het verraad ontdekt, werpt zijnen vriend op den grond, wurgt hem half bewusteloos.... (de eenige recht mannelijke daad die hij verricht).Samenvatting door J.A. Alberdingk Thijm, 'Boekenkennis.' In: Dietsche Warande. Nieuwe reeks 2. Jaargang 5 (1892) more

'Der Großinquisitor' ist eine Erzählung aus dem Roman 'Die Brüder Karamasow'. Die Handlung spielt im 16. Jahrhundert, in Sevilla. Jesus, auf die Erde zurückgekehrt, wird von einem greisen Großinquisitor verhaftet und soll auf dem Scheiterhaufen verbrannt werden. (Introduction by Al-Kadi) more

William Shakespeare's most well-known play is more than most people realize. While it is the story of star-crossed lovers, Romeo and Juliet, it is also the story of two families in the middle of a bitter feud. Many people avoid the story because they believe it will be too difficult to read, but this is not true at all. Within a few paragraphs, the play captures your imagination and attention.Juliet is 13 years old and is love with the son of her father's enemy. Her father has promised that she will marry another boy when it is time, but she refuses to accept the suit. One night, Romeo sneaks into a ball in Juliet's home (in hopes of seeing a girl he is in love with) when he overhears Juliet speaking of her love for him. He steps out of the shadows and they decide to marry. They are married the next day in secret.It is discovered that Romeo snuck into the ball and Juliet's cousin is angry and challenges him to a duel. When Romeo refuses to fight, a man is killed and Romeo is banished from the country. Juliet is thrown into a depression and her father decides she needs to get married right away. However, the Friar who helped Juliet marry Romeo comes up with a plan to get Romeo back and to unite the families. The plan unravels quickly, though.The story of Romeo and Juliet has everything that a reader could want. Like many of Shakespeare's works, it has comedy and tragedy, but it also has love, family, duals, good and evil. Do not pick up the book assuming that knowing about the tragedy will ruin the story. The tale of how both families got to this point is one that will not soon be forgotten. The lessons of love and forgiveness are ones that are just as important more than 400 years after the play was written. more

Youth is the third in Tolstoy's trilogy of three autobiographical novels, including Childhood and Boyhood, published in a literary journal during the 1850s. (Introduction by Bill Boerst) more

The Just So Stories for Little Children, first published in 1902, were written by British author Rudyard Kipling. They are a collection of fantastic stories, typically about how various animals came to be the way they are today. (Summary by Reynard with help from Wikipedia) more

This collection of ten stories, first published in 1904, shows Edith Wharton dissecting some of the customs, habits and vagaries of courtship and marriage, particularly as practiced in the upper reaches of New York society at the turn of the twentieth century (two stories, however, are set in Italy). Fidelity is only one problem; others may arise from the machinations and emotions of the protagonists or outsiders. Wharton handles the questions with her usual gentle (and sometimes not so gentle) irony and curiosity about human behavior. (Summary by Nicholas Clifford) more

Librivox's Short Story Collection 016: a collection of 10 short works of fiction in the public domain read by a variety of Librivox members. more

Born on Christmas Day, little Carol Bird is a gentle soul who touches every life around her. Despite physical illness, Carol is loved by everyone who knows her. This year, she is going to make Christmas extra special for her family and the little Ruggles children who live nearby. (Introduction by Andrea Boltz) more

This is a recording of seven immortal and delightful fairy tales written by Hans Christian Andersen. The Little Match Girl is of course the first, followed by The Swineherd, The Real Princess, The Leap Frog, The Elderbush, The Bell and finally, The Old House. They cover a wide range of topics but all demonstrate the storytelling genius of the prolific Danish author who gave us so many memorable and cherished tales. more

William Shakespeare's The Merchant of Venice was probably written between 1596 and 1598, and was printed with the comedies in the First Folio of 1623. Bassanio, an impoverished gentleman, uses the credit of his friend, the merchant Antonio, to borrow money from a wealthy Jew, Shylock. Antonio pledges to pay Shylock a pound of flesh if he defaults on the loan, which Bassanio will use to woo a rich heiress, Portia. A subplot concerns the elopement of Shylock's daughter Jessica with a Christian, Bassanio's friend Lorenzo. In its focus on love and marriage, the play shares certain concerns with Shakespeare's other comedies. Yet its depiction of the tensions between Jews and Christians in early modern Venice - and its highly dramatic trial scene in Act 4 - create darker currents in the play. (Summary by Elizabeth Klett)Cast:Duke of Venice: Filippo GioachinPrince of Morocco: Mark F. SmithPrince of Arragon: David NicolAntonio: David O'ConnellBassanio: mbSalanio: Rosalind WillsSalarino: Laurie Anne WaldenGratiano: David LeesonLorenzo: Aaron ElliottShylock: etkTubal: Carolyn FrancesLauncelot Gobbo: L. Lambert LawsonOld Gobbo: David LawrenceLeonardo: Laurie Anne WaldenBalthasar: David LawrenceStephano: Lucy PerryPortia: Arielle LipshawNerissa: Megan KunkelJessica: Elizabeth KlettClerk in court: Ernst PattynamaPortia's servant: Joshua B. ChristensenNarrator: Dennis Sayers more

In diesem 'indischen Märchen' erzählt Manfred Kyber die Geschichte von Mantao, der als Sohn armer, einfacher Leute geboren wird, aber in Wahrheit ein Königssohn ist. Wir begleiten Mantao auf seinem Lebensweg, auf dem uns Wiedergeburt und Bestimmung, Versuchung und die Erfüllung einer göttlichen Aufgabe, die ewige Verkettung der Dinge und die Verantwortung für die Schöpfung begegnen. Mit einer poetischen Sprache schafft Kyber eine schöne, leicht mystische Atmosphäre.(Zusammenfassung von Karlsson) more

Romeo and Juliet is perhaps the most famous of Shakespeare's plays and is thought to be the most famous love story in Western history. It concerns the fate of two very young lovers who would do anything to be togetherThe Montagues and the Capulets of Verona, Italy, are in the midst of a long-standing feud when Romeo Montague drops in on a masquerade party at the Capulets'. While there he meets and woos the daughter of the house, Juliet. She likewise returns his passion, and their secret meeting later that night on her bedroom balcony begins a series of tragic events that no one could have foretold. (Summary by Becky Crackel) more

A Christmas Carol is a novella by English author Charles Dickens first published by Chapman & Hall on 17 December 1843. The story tells of sour and stingy Ebenezer Scrooge's ideological, ethical, and emotional transformation after the supernatural visits of Jacob Marley and the Ghosts of Christmas Past, Present, and Yet to Come. The novella met with instant success and critical acclaim. ( Summary by Wikipedia ) more

The Metamorphosis (in German, Die Verwandlung, 'The Transformation') is a novella by Franz Kafka, first published in 1915, and arguably the most famous of his works along with the longer works The Trial and The Castle. The story begins with a traveling salesman, Gregor Samsa, waking to find himself transformed into a giant 'monstrous vermin'. (Summary from Wikipedia) more

A small play in three acts. A kind of comic tragedy. The plot tells the story of the interaction between two very different families in rural England just after the end of the First World War. Squire Hillcrist lives in the manor house where his family has lived for generations. He has a daughter, Jill, who is in her late teens; and a wife, Amy, as well as servants and retainers. He is 'old money', although his finances are at a bit of low ebb. The other family is the 'nouveau riche' Hornblowers, headed by the single-minded and rich industrialist Hornblower, who throws old retainers the Jackmans out of their home (much to the Squire's disgust), and who plans to surround the Hillcrist's rural estate with factories. (Summary by catrose and Wikipedia) Cast:Hillcrist: AnthonyAmy, or Mrs H.: Amanda FridayJill: April GonzalesDawker: Charlotte DuckettHornblower: Delmar H. DolbierCharles: Chuck WilliamsonChloe: CaprishaPageRolf: Chris MarcellusFellows: Aidan BrackAnna; Auctioneer: MJ FranckMr. Jackman: TriciaGMrs. Jackman: Jeannie TiradoFirst Stranger: KristingjSecond Stranger: Elizabeth KlettNarrator: SallyMcEditors: Charlotte Duckett & CaprishaPage more

In the afterlife grizzled sea captain Eli Stormfield finds himself piloting a ship to heaven. Despite a detour and some navigation errors he arrives but finds the transition to heavenly bliss a little disconcerting. Although first drafted in the late 1870's this story did not see print until the December 1907 and January 1908 issues of 'Harper's Magazine'. The next year it was made available as a Christmas gift book and represents the last volume Mark Twain published in his lifetime. (Summary by Gregg Margarite) more

Sweethearts is a comic play billed as a 'dramatic contrast' in two acts by W. S. Gilbert. The play tells a sentimental and ironic story of the differing recollections of a man and a woman about their last meeting together before being separated and reunited after 30 years. (Summary by Wikipedia)CastHarry Spreadbrow: Algy PugJenny Northcott: Amanda FridayWilcox: Bellona TimesRuth: Elizabeth KlettNarrator: Chris CartwrightAudio edited by Elizabeth Klett more