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Book Reviews - Audio CD Books
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Dick Whittington (Vintage BBC Radio Panto)
Various
£6.10, BBC AudioGO Ltd


Anita Harris, Kenneth Connor, Frank Thornton, Bernie Winters and Michael Robbins star in this traditional pantomime, recorded in front of a live audience and first broadcast on BBC Radio 2 on Christmas Day 1982. Featuring rousing songs and terrible jokes, it's perfect seasonal entertainment for all the family. Oh, yes it is!
Mother Goose (Vintage BBC Radio Panto)
Various
£6.10, BBC AudioGO Ltd


Fun for all the family in this BBC Radio 2 pantomime starring Kenneth Connor, Mollie Sugden and Bernie Winters. Jack and Jill are in love and want to get married. But Jack is the son of Mother Goose - who’s desperately poor and in debt to Squire Bashem - and Jill just happens to be the Squire’s daughter. With the help of a Fairy Queen, Mother Goose’s wishes come true and she becomes rich thanks to a gigantic magical goose which lays golden eggs... Her debts cleared, will Mother Goose live happily ever after? And will Jack and Jill finally be able to marry with their parents’ blessings? Starring Kenneth Connor, Mollie Sugden and Bernie Winters, this classic panto was recorded in front of a live audience and first broadcast on BBC Radio 2 on Christmas Day 1981. Everyone loves a traditional Christmas pantomime - and with this classic BBC Radio production, you can enjoy the festive fun whenever you wish. Featuring rousing songs, jolly japes and corny jokes, it’s perfect seasonal entertainment for all the family. Oh, yes it is!
Puss in Boots (Vintage BBC Radio Panto)
Various
£6.10, BBC AudioGO Ltd


Fun for all the family in this BBC Radio 2 pantomime starring Arthur Askey, Anita Harris, Kenneth Connor and Alfred Marks. When young Tom falls in love with the most beautiful girl in the world, he dreams of winning her heart. But Tom is poverty-stricken, and his lady love is Princess Rose Petal. Then a magic sunbeam transforms his cat into clever, cunning Puss in Boots... Can Puss help Tom defeat Baron Skinflint and his greedy ogre and win the princess’s heart? Starring Arthur Askey, Anita Harris, Kenneth Connor and Alfred Marks, this classic panto was recorded in front of a live audience and first broadcast on BBC Radio 2 on Christmas Day 1979. Everyone loves a traditional Christmas pantomime - and with this classic BBC Radio production, you can enjoy the festive fun whenever you wish. Featuring rousing songs, jolly japes and corny jokes, it’s perfect seasonal entertainment for all the family. Oh, yes it is!
Sleeping Beauty (Vintage BBC Radio Panto)
Various
£6.10, BBC AudioGO Ltd


Fun for all the family in this BBC Radio 2 pantomime starring Terry Wogan, Kenneth Connor, Frank Thornton, June Whitfield, Nerys Hughes, Maureen Lipman and Jimmy Young. The King and Queen are delighted to have Rosebud as their baby daughter. But her christening ceremony is rudely interrupted by the Wicked Fairy Carabosse, who gives the baby a gift she won’t forget. If Rosebud pricks her finger and spills a drop of blood she will then fall into the deepest sleep of all. And only a seventh son of a seventh son can break the spell... Starring Terry Wogan, Kenneth Connor, Frank Thornton, June Whitfield, Nerys Hughes, Maureen Lipman - and guest starring Jimmy Young - this classic panto was recorded in front of a live audience and first broadcast on BBC Radio 2 on Christmas Day 1983. Everyone loves a traditional Christmas pantomime – and with this classic BBC Radio production, you can enjoy the festive fun whenever you wish. Featuring rousing songs, jolly japes and corny jokes, it’s perfect seasonal entertainment for all the family. Oh, yes it is!
Aladdin (Vintage BBC Radio Panto)
Various
£6.10, BBC AudioGO Ltd


Fun for all the family in this BBC Radio 2 pantomime starring Kenneth Connor as Widow Twankey, Alfred Marks as Abanazar, Clodagh Rodgers as Aladdin,and Billy Boyle as Wishee-Washee. Aladdin is a happy peasant boy from China. But the wicked Abanazar needs his help, as only Aladdin can enter the secret cave to find a very special lamp... Featuring Widow Twankey and Wishee-Washee, this traditional Christmas panto is full of magic and laughs. Starring Kenneth Connor, Alfred Marks, Clodagh Rogers, Billy Boyle, Liza Flanagan, Antony Hyde and John Webb, it was recorded in front of a live audience and first broadcast on BBC Radio 2 on Christmas Day 1980. Everyone loves a traditional Christmas pantomime - and with this classic BBC Radio production, you can enjoy the festive fun whenever you wish. Featuring rousing songs, jolly japes and corny jokes, it’s perfect seasonal entertainment for all the family. Oh, yes it is! it is!
Jane Austen: Classic BBC Radio (CD Boxset)
Jane Austen
£40.00, BBC Audio


Two BBC full-cast radio dramas and two solo readings of Jane Austen's classic novels, packaged together in this attractive boxset. The works of Jane Austen showcase her bright and biting opinions of the world in which she lived. Her romantic fiction, set among the elite classes of British society, was widely read in her own lifetime, and has become infinitely popular around the world since her death in 1817. Generations continue to discover Austen - both for the quality of her ork and for the window into life in Regency England that it provides. This collection features four of Austen's classic novels, performed by some of Britain's finest actors: Emma (full-cast radio drama starring Angharad Rees); Mansfield Park (full-cast radio drama starring Hannah Gordon); Northanger Abbey (abridged, performed by Juliet Stevenson); Sense and Sensibility (abridged, performed by Annette Crosbie). 14 CD set lasts 14 hours 30 minutes.
The Brave Tin Soldier and Other Fairy Tales (BBC Audiobooks)
Hans Christian Andersen
£5.99, AudioGo


Four classic fairy tales from Hans Christian Andersen specially adapted for young children and read by David Tennant, Anne Marie Duff, Sir Derek Jacobi and Penelope Wilton: "The Brave Tin Soldier" by David Tennant; "Thumbelina" by Anne Marie Duff; "The Nightingale" by Sir Derek Jacobi; and, "The Ugly Duckling" by Penelope Wilton. Each one hour long CD also contains printable PDFs of the story texts!
The Emperor's New Clothes (BBC Audio)
Hans Christian Andersen
£5.99, AudioGo


Four classic fairy tales from Hans Christian Andersen, read by Sir Derek Jacobi, Anne Marie Duff, David Tennant and Penelope Wilton. Some of Andersen's best-loved short stories, specially adapted for young children and read by some of Britain's most well-known actors. "The Emperor's New Clothes" by Sir Derek Jacobi; "The Little Mermaid" by Anne Marie Duff; "The Fir Tree" by David Tennant; and, "The Wild Swans" by Penelope Wilton. Each one hour long CD also contains printable PDFs of the story texts!
Mr Gum and the Goblins (BBC Audio)
Andy Stanton
£6.10, AudioGo


Shabba me whiskers! This is barking bonkers! Well, that old roo-de-lally Mr Gum and the hideous Billy William the Third are once more mucking things up for everyone. They're a-schemin' and a-hatchin' an' making their bad plans up on Goblin Mountain. Can the brave travellers (the wise old man Friday O'Leary and the small girl Polly) make it past the Three Impossible Challenges of Goblin Mountain and save the town from a fate worse than something very bad indeed? In an epic tale of courage, valour and plain idiocy only one thing is sure: the truth is a lemon meringue! Mr Gum is back in a third hilarious story, read by Andy Stanton and with music and sound effects.
The American Civil War: Extracts from BBC R4's 'Empire of Liberty' (BBC Radio 4 History)
David Reynolds
£13.25, AudioGo


This title includes ten episodes from David Reynolds' award-winning radio series, which trace the history of the American Civil War. This narrative tells the story of the American Civil War through the voices of those who lived it. Written and presented by acclaimed historian David Reynolds, these extracts come from the series "America: Empire of Liberty", which won the Voice of the Listener & Viewer Award for the Best New Radio Programme and was nominated for a Sony Radio Academy Award. The 10 episodes included are: "The Ninety-Day War", "The Killers Take Command", "Forever Free", "A New Nation", "War Behind the Battle Lines", "The Passing of the Dead", "Dead States, New Birth", "Reunion but not Reconstruction", "New South, Old Ways" and "War and Memory".
Doctor Who: Inferno (Classic Novel)
Terrance Dicks
£13.25, Audio Go


Caroline John reads this thrilling novelisation of a classic "Doctor Who" adventure. Inferno is the name of a top-secret drilling project to penetrate the Earth's crust and release a major new energy source. A crisis develops when a noxious green liquid leaks out as drilling progresses - the green poison has a grotesquely debilitating effect on human beings. As the Earth's plight worsens, the Doctor is trapped in a parallel world, unable to rescue the planet and its inhabitants from the destructive force of Inferno...Caroline John, who played Liz Shaw in the original "Doctor Who" TV serial, reads Terrance Dicks' complete and unabridged novelisation, first published by Target Books in 1984.
Fireman Sam: Hearts on Fire & Other Stories
Andrew Brenner
£9.70, BBC AudioGO Ltd


Six episodes from the hugely popular all-new animated series featuring Fireman Sam and his friends from Pontypandy - as seen on TV: 'Hearts on Fire', 'Pontypandy Extreme', 'Elvis Sings the Blues', 'Blow Me Down', 'Three Legged Race' and 'Norman's Ark'. Read by Sue Douglas - running time approximately 1 hour.
Pingu: Hide and Seek and Other Stories
Chris Allen
£9.70, BBC Audio


Ten wonderful adventures from the hugely popular TV series: 'Hide and Seek', 'School Time', 'Pingu and the Barrel Organ', 'Pingu's Ice Cave', 'Pingu Plays Fish Tennis', 'Pingu Runs Away', 'Pingu and Pinga Stay Up', 'Noise', 'Grandpa Is Ill', and 'Pingu and Pinga at Home'. These stories are specially adapted for audio and narrated by Sarah Greene. Recreated for audio by Chris Allen. This recording was previously released as The Adventures of Pingu 2 and running time is 1 hour 5 minutes.
Dick Barton and the Paris Adventure (BBC Audio)
Edward J Mason
£18.35, BBC Audio


Dick, Jock, Snowy and Jean join forces with the French police to thwart an international smuggling operation. Dick finds himself up against a crazed professor intent on killing him, a murderous man with a lisp, a bad tempered dwarf and a smuggler with a missing thumb called Spider Kennedy. The dynamic Dick Barton really keeps listeners enthralled throughout and the other cast members are captivating and yet humourous at the same time. This is a full cast dramatisation of a classic Dick Barton mystery recorded in 1946, rediscovered in the National Film and Sound Archive of Australia. "Dick Barton" rose to popularity in the 1940s in the first long running radio serial. Originally broadcast in 1946, it went out each weekday evening for the next 5 years. At its peak it had an audience of 15 million. This vintage recording with nostalgic appeal is guaranteed to have "Dick Barton" Fans, old and new, on the edge of their seats.
Russia: The Wild East 'From Rulers to Revolutions'
Martin Sixsmith
£25.50, BBC Audio


This title presents the first 25 episodes from the landmark BBC Radio series. Martin Sixsmith brings his first-hand experience of reporting from Russia to this fascinating narrative, witnessing the critical moment when the Soviet Union finally lost its grip on power. Power struggles have a constant presence in his story, from the Mongol hordes that invaded in the 13th century, through the iron autocratic fists of successive Tsars. Ivan the Terrible, Catherine the Great, Peter the Great - all left their mark on a nation that pursued expansion to the East, West and South. Many Tsars flirted with reform, but the gap between the rulers and the ruled widened until, in 1917, the doomed last Tsar, Nicholas II, abdicated. The first part of Sixsmith's history ends with Lenin and the Bolsheviks forcing through the final Revolution and paving the way for the Communist state. Eyewitness accounts and readings from Russian authors and historians, from Pushkin to Solzhenitsyn, enhance this fascinating account, as well as music taken from a wide range of Russian composers including Glinka, Tchaikovsky, Borodin and Shostakovich. Martin Sixsmith traces Russia's turbulent 1000-year history from its founding to the Revolution.
A History of the World in 100 Objects
Neil MacGregor
£35.00, BBC Audio


In 2010, the BBC and the British Museum embarked on an ambitious project: to tell the story of two million years of human history using one hundred objects selected from the Museum's vast and renowned collection. Presented by the British Museum's Director Neil MacGregor, each episode focuses on a single object - from a Stone Age tool to a solar-powered lamp - and explains its significance in human history. Music, interviews with specialists and quotations from written texts enrich the listener's experience. On each CD, objects from a similar period of history are grouped together to explore a common theme and make connections across the world. Seen in this way, history is a kaleidoscope: shifting, interlinked, constantly surprising and shaping our world in ways that most have never imagined. This box set also includes an illustrated booklet with additional background information and photographs, and each CD includes PDF images of the featured objects. The landmark series on BBC Radio 4 that tells the story of humanity through 100 man-made objects from the British Museum's unique collection. A fascinating collection that's the perfect gift for others - or oneself - a real treasure.
Doctor Who: The BBC Radio Episodes
Narrated by Tom Baker
£59.99, Audio Go


This is a special box set containing each of the Doctor's full-cast BBC Radio adventures - plus the 1975 made-for-LP audio adventure "Doctor Who and the Pescatons" and the 1994 spoof "Whatever Happened To...Susan?". "The Paradise of Death" (First broadcast 27 August 1993): When a horrific death occurs at Space World theme park, the Brigadier and UNIT are called in - accompanied by the Doctor and Sarah Jane. "The Ghosts of N-Space" (First broadcast 20 January 1996): The Brigadier's great-uncle Mario seems unsurprised by the spectres that haunt his ancient Sicilian castle. But when the Doctor comes to investigate, he finds himself in great danger..."Doctor Who and the Pescatons" (First broadcast 27 August 1993): The Tardis' arrival on a lonely beach at night marks the beginning of a terrifying adventure on present-day Earth for the Doctor and Sarah Jane. "Exploration Earth" (First broadcast 4 October 1976): The Doctor takes Sarah Jane back in time to witness the Earth's development: only to find that the existence of Mankind itself is in danger! "Whatever Happened To...Susan?" (First broadcast 11 July 1994): A tongue-in-cheek look at how Susan's life might have turned out after her adventures with the Doctor. "Slipback" (First broadcast 25 July 1985): The Tardis materialises in the service ducting of the Vipod Mor, a huge craft floating in deep space. The console has detected time spillage, and the past and future history of the entire Universe is at risk... This 9CD collectors box set of original full-cast dramas that all Doctor fans, big and small, will prize as an essential part of their collection.
Dick Barton and the Cabatolin Diamonds (BBC Audio)
Geoffrey Webb
£18.35, Audio Go


Douglas Kelly stars as 'Dick Barton - Special Agent' in another thrilling adventure for radio's greatest hero. Heralded by an instantly memorable signature tune, the adventures of special agent Dick Barton and his friends Jock and Snowey, were essential listening for an entire generation. Originally starring Noel Johnson, Duncan Carse and Gordon Davies, in an exciting world of criminal masterminds, espionage and adventure, it ran on the BBC Light Programme between 1946 and 1951. Sadly very few original recordings still survive. However, in 1949 a number of early Barton tales were re-recorded for transmission overseas. Starring Douglas Kelly, these re-stagings found new audiences in Australia, New Zealand and South Africa. These recordings were rediscovered in the National Film and Sound Archive of Australia in 2009 and allow listeners to finally relive the escapades of the great Dick Barton. In this recording from Spring 1949, Dick's plans for a Mediterranean cruise are cancelled, when the Home Office ask him to help them crack a gang of international diamond smugglers. Can Dick thwart the evil Henri De Flambeau, before it's too late? Find out in "Dick Barton - Special Agent!" (NB: As this contains archive material the sound quality may vary. The language reflects the era of the first broadcast). This 4CD set full cast radio drama by Geoffrey Webb brings to life for another generation the daring adventures of one of Britain's most loved spy characters from the 1940's. Its fast paced action can still reach the imaginations of children today, and appeal to parents and grandparents alike. Also available in this new series, is Dick Barton and the Paris Adventure - another 4CD set full of more daring escapades of the great Dick Barton!
More Bedtime Stories
Johnny Morris
£6.10, BBC Audio


What a treat! Written and read by Johnny Morris with 16 digitally-remastered bedtime stories, written and told by Johnny Morris on a special vinyl-look CD: Winkle, the Zoo Cat, is lost and found; Nibble, the Squirrel, has his revenge; The arrival of Otto, the German Giraffe; Coconut, the Orang-Utan, has fun with the lawn; Otto and Georgina, the Giraffes, give their tongues a rest; Bernard, the Baboon, and clever Little Titch; Side-splitter, the Kookaburra, gives the game away; Fanfare, the Peacock, sounds the alarm; Half-a-tick, the Mongoose, is 'egged' on; Dago, the Capybara, becomes established; Ever-so-teeny and Ever-so-weeny, the Harvest Mice; Hilda, the Ostrich, is annoyed; Private Eye, the Vulture, gives a consultation; "The Budgerigars' Record Book"; Small Change, the Guinea-pig, tries hard; and, Trit-Trot, the Pony, over-turns his cart Vintage Beeb: classic albums first available as BBC LPs, now reissued on CD. Running time @60 minutes.
I'm Sorry I'll Read That Again (Vintage Beeb)
Various
£6.10, BBC Audio


Tim Brooke-Taylor, John Cleese, Graeme Garden, David Hatch, Jo Kendall and Bill Oddie star in highlights from the groundbreaking BBC Radio series. Described by Barry Took as 'A kaleidoscope of funny voices, catch phrase and innuendo revolving at breakneck speed and with a complete disregard for logic', "I'm Sorry I'll Read That Again" pre-dated "I'm Sorry I Haven't a Clue" and showcased the comic talents of Tim Brooke-Taylor, John Cleese, Graeme Garden, David Hatch, Jo Kendall and Bill Oddie. This compilation of classic sketches, includes "Full Frontal Radio", "Prune Manifesto", "Buffers", "Critics", "News in Welsh", "Listening to Flowers", "Eddie Waring Impersonation" and "Taming of the Shrew" - all on a special vinyl-look CD. Vintage Beeb: classic albums first available as BBC LPs, now reissued on CD.
The Wheels on the Bus go Round the World
Sing along with music inspired from around the world
£5.10, BBC Audio


This is a new collection of bright, cheerful and upbeat rhymes, simple rhythmic clapping games and gentle lullabies set to an original score featuring musical influences and instruments from all over the world. Amongst the instruments included are guitars played Country and Western-style, West African Djembe, Middle Eastern finger cymbals, Indian sitar, Guatemalan marimba and French Folk played on an accordian. All-time favourite pre-school playgroup songs for everyone to enjoy ...and join in with! Songs include: "The Wheels on the Bus Go Round the World"; "One Potato"; "Hey Diddle Diddle"; "Eeenie Meenie Mackeracka"; "I'm a Little Teapot"; "Polly Put the Kettle On"; "Pussy Cat Pussy Cat"; "The Grand Old Duke of York"; "Here We Go Round the Mulberry Bush"; "Incy Wincy Spider"; "Heads, Shoulders, Knees and Toes"; "Twinkle Twinkle Little Star"; "Pat-A-Cake"; "Dance to Your Daddy"; and, "Waltzing Matilda". 40 minute CD.
Monty Python's Flying Circus (Vintage Beeb)
Monty Python
£6.10, BBC Audio


This title includes the very best sketches from the BBC TV series, digitally-remastered on a special vinyl-look CD, with original LP sleeve notes. Graham Chapman, John Cleese, Eric Idle, Michael Palin, Terry Gilliam and Terry Jones star in this innovative and groundbreaking series which includes 19 of their best sketches. From the memorable Nudge Nudge Wink Wink to the celebrated Dead Parrot Sketch, there's also the hairdresser with a fear of hair who really wanted to be a lumberjack in Barber Shop Sketch and the Lumberjack Song. Also featuring among many timeless classics are leading figures from the Third Reich, who fetch up in a B&B in the West Country, and the famous composer who only has one shed but did once think of getting a second..."Vintage Beeb": classic albums first available as BBC LPs, now reissued on CD. This album was previously released on CD as "Monty Python's Flying Circus". 55 minute CD, digitally remastered on a special vinyl-look CD with original LP sleeve notes.
Noddy Helps Out and other stories
Enid Blyton: 6 Episodes from the hit TV series
£6.10, BBC Audio


Join Noddy and friends in the magical world of Toyland in these six episodes from the hit TV series, complete with music and sound effects. Stories include: "Noddy Helps Out"; "Master Tubby's Opposite Day"; "Noddy Needs Some Medicine"; "Noddy and the Voice of Plod"; "Noddy Has a Difficult Day"; and, "Good Neighbour Noddy". One hour CD complete with music and sound effects.
White Fang
Jack London
£9.99, Puffin


Born in the wilds of the freezing cold Yukon, White Fang – half-dog, half-wolf – is the only animal in the litter to survive. He soon learns the harsh laws of nature, yet buried deep inside him are the distant memories of affection and love. Will this fiercely independent creature of the wild learn to trust man again? This 3CD set, lasting 3 hours, is read by William Hootkins, star of Star Wars, Batman and Raiders of the Lost Ark.
Triskellion: Audiobook
Will Peterson
£19.99, Walker Books


An audio CD of the first extraordinary novel in a new trilogy, combining nail-biting suspense, gripping mystery and archaeological adventure with a paranormal twist. Rachel and Adam are sent to stay with their grandmother, following their parents' divorce. But the quiet English village is a sinister, unsettling place. Is there a dark heart beating beneath the thatched roofs of Triskellion? It is a place protected by an ancient, three-bladed artefact; a village where crops never fail and where the war memorial is blank; a community with much to protect. With the help of the mysterious Gabriel, Rachel and Adam begin to unearth centuries-old secrets and make a shocking revelation about their family’s past – and their own future... 7 CD set read by Teresa Gallagher.
Scorpia: Audiobook
Anthony Horowitz
£19.99, Walker Books


Still reeling from the terrible discovery he has made about his father, teenage MI6 superspy, Alex Rider, is determined to find out more. Travelling to Italy, he manages to infiltrate the glamorous world of Claudia Rothman, beautiful society hostess and member of the international criminal organization, Scorpia. She reveals that Alex’s father was murdered by MI6, in an operation masterminded by Head of Special Operations, Mrs Jones. Shocked and angry, Alex faces a choice: to continue to work with the British security services, or to become an agent for Scorpia – and get revenge. Visit the Alex Rider website at www.alexrider.com 8CD set
Sarah Jane Adventures: The White Wolf
Gary Russell
£5.86, BBC Audio


Elisabeth Sladen, who stars as Sarah Jane in the CBBC TV series, reads this exclusive audio story which has been written by series script editor Gary Russell. When Sarah Jane receives a strange letter from Eddison Clough, her curiosity is aroused. For Eddison possesses a photograph proving he was once close friends with her Aunt Lavinia - but he has no memory of ever having met her. Intrigued, Sarah Jane and Luke go to visit him and, with Clyde and Rani, they explore the village of Wolfenden. The locals seem strange and secretive - especially the Hendricks, a deathly pale family with white hair and white eyes.
Sarah Jane Adventures: The Shadow People
Scott Handcock
£5.86, BBC Audio


Elisabeth Sladen, who stars as Sarah Jane in the CBBC TV series, reads this exclusive audio story by Scott Handcock. A camping trip spells trouble for Sarah Jane and friends when both the school bus and Sarah Jane's car break down in Snowdonia and the gang find themselves stranded in the middle of nowhere. Exploring by a lake, Rani sees a shadowy figure that looks exactly like her. Then Sarah Jane hears a voice asking for help, and sees a mysterious figure outside her tent. Who is watching them, and why? How can Rani be in two places at once? And what secret does a nearby cave hold?
Hetty Feather
Jacqueline Wilson
£11.73, BBC Audiobooks


London, 1876. Hetty Feather is just a tiny baby when her mother leaves her at the Foundling Hospital. The Hospital cares for abandoned children – but Hetty must live with a foster family until she is big enough to go to school. Life in the countryside is hard but she has ‘brothers’ Jem and Gideon to play with, and together they sneak off to visit the travelling circus. Hetty is mesmerised by the show, especially Madame Adeline and her performing horses. When she is returned to the Foundling Hospital, the new life of awful uniforms and terrible food is a struggle for Hetty. But now she has the chance to find her real mother. Could she really be the wonderful Madame Adeline? Or is the truth even more surprising? A delightful and utterly original take on a historical novel, this warm, funny and moving story, read by Jacqueline Wilson, will thrill her many fans. Running time 5 hours approx. on 4 CDs
Thomas & Friends: The Railway Stories, The Little Old Engine and other stories
BBC Audiobooks
£5.87, BBC Audiobooks


Three more original stories from the Reverend W. Awdry’s bestselling Railway Series, read by Michael Angelis, narrator of TV’s Thomas & Friends. Contains the episodes: Duck and the Diesel Engine The other engines are getting a little tired of Duck’s know-it-all attitude and are pleased when a smooth-talking engine called Diesel arrives to help out. But when Duck shows him up, Diesel vows revenge. The Little Old Engine Skarloey returns from being repaired to discover that there are two new engines on the railway. Rusty the diesel is friendly and helpful – but Duncan is boisterous, careless and rude. The Twin Engines The Fat Controller orders an extra engine to help out, but is surprised when two engines arrive instead. Will Duncan or Douglas get to stay? Includes music, sound effects and original Thomas songs. Running time approximately one hour long.
Fireman Sam: Paper Plane Down and other stories
BBC Audiobooks
£5.87, BBC Audiobooks


Seven episodes from the hugely popular all-new animated series featuring Fireman Sam and his friends from Pontypandy – as seen on TV. Featuring the following episodes: Paper Plane Down Hot and Cold Running Sniffer Dog Perilous Path The New Hero Next Door Santa Overboard Best Foot Forward Baa Baa Baby 1 hour 10 minutes on 1 CD
3rd & Bird: The Muffin Express and other stories
BBC Audiobooks
£5.87, BBC Audiobooks


Five episodes from the hugely popular animated series starring Samuel, Rudy and Muffin – as seen on CBeebies. 3rd & Bird is an irreverent, joyful series filled with humour, whistling, dancing and an eclectic cast of flying characters. The fresh new pre-school series is quickly becoming a firm favourite amongst young children, focusing around a vibrant community of birds that live, learn and play in the branches of a beautiful old tree. Featuring the episodes: A Chorus for Us Rolling Along To Play or Not to Play The Muffin Express Samuel’s Dance Running time approximately one hour long.
How to Cheat a Dragon's Curse by Haddock Horrendous Horrid III
Cressida Cowell
£9.78, Hodder Childrens


Fishlegs has been struck with deadly Vorpentitis. The only cure is rare and almost impossible to find … a potato. But where on Berk will Hiccup find such a thing? He’ll have to dodge Sharkworms, battle Doomfangs and outwit crazy Hooligans if he’s going to be a Hero ... again. Read by David Tennant, this 3 CD set won't let down fans of How to Train Your Dragon; How to be a Pirate; and How to speak Dragonese.
Stig of the Dump
Clive King
£9.78, Puffin Audiobooks


Barney has found a wonderful place to play - the chalk-pit or rubbish dump near his granny's home. One day the ground gives way and Barney finds himself in a cave in the middle of the dump, and that's where he meets Stig. Stig is living wild and hasa lot to learn from Barney, but equally he has a lot to teach him. They soon become friends, discover each other's ways and embark on a series of extraordinary adventures. 3 CD set read by Tony Robinson.
More Just So Stories
Rudyard Kipling - read by Johnny Morris
£5.99, BBC Audio


Recently uncovered in the BBC archive, this is a second 'Now on CD' release of a selection of tales from the much-loved Rudyard Kipling classic fables, read by Johnny Morris. Stories included in this title are: "The Beginning of the Armadilloes", "The Crab that Played with the Sea", "The Cat that Walked by Himself" and, "The Butterfly that Stamped".
Noddy Builds a Rocketship and other stories
Six episodes from the hit TV series
£5.99, BBC Audio


Join Noddy and friends in the magical world of Toyland in these six episodes from the hit television series, complete with music and sound effects.
Improve Your Confidence - for 10-15 year olds
Lynda Hudson
£12.95, First Way Forward


This is a self-help hypnotherapy recording for children of about 10-15 years. Aimed at building confidence and self esteem, this recording uses the idea of the mind as a computer, and encourages the child to change any unhelpful programs and outdated messages into more positive ones. Lynda uses the power of the child's imagination through the use of relaxation, metaphorical stories and fantasies where the child is encouraged to mentally act out positive solutions to a problem. The best time to listen is usually as the child relaxes before going to sleep. Listening to the recording should be additional to, and not in place of, any normal bedtime reading or listening. Lynda's gentle, well-modulated, English voice calms, re-assures and encourages as they listen. Running time: 22 minutes - suitable for 10-15 year olds.
Naughtiest Girl Saves the Day/Well Done, The Naughtiest Girl
Enid Blyton and Anne Digby
£7.82, Hodder Children's Audiobooks


The Naughtiest Girl Saves the Day: When some school strawberry plants are vandalised, a lost shoe buckle at the scene of the crime leads straight to the Naughtiest Girl. The next night, as she's dropping off to sleep, someone shouts 'Fire!' - so Elizabeth jumps up and rings the fire bell. But there is no fire and now Elizabeth is being blamed for a catalogue of silly tricks. If she can't prove her innocence, she's in line to lose her hard-won part in the school play. So when the same happens the next night, Elizabeth is reluctant to report a fire - except this time, there really is one... Well Done, the Naughtiest Girl: Elizabeth is desperate to play the piano in the end of school concert. But only one girl can be chosen and her rival Arabella is practising hard! So, ignoring her looming exams, Elizabeth spends every waking minute practising. When Arabella is still chosen over her, she realises that not only will she not have a place in the school concert, she might well also fail all her exams. Racing to get her revision done, she finds a quiet spot in an old oak tree in the school grounds. When Elizabeth realises the tree is marked as one to be chopped down, she's determined not to let it happen. But can she save the tree AND manage to pass all her exams? It's going to be a fight to the finish... 2 CD dramatised adventure - running time 120 minutes.
You're a Bad Man, Mr Gum!
Andy Stanton
£5.99, BBC Audio


Good evening. Mr Gum is a complete horror who hates children, animals, fun and corn on the cob. This book's all about him. And an angry fairy who lives in his bathtub. And Jake the dog (who must be saved from terrible, terrible evil), and a little girl called Polly and an evil stinky butcher who's all covered in guts. And there's heroes and sweets and adventures and a massive fat bloke called Jonathan Ripples and everything... Winner of the Red House Children's Book Award, "You're a Bad Man, Mr Gum" is a zany, riotously funny book that will make you laugh till your sides ache. Read by the author with music and sound effects. Running time: one hour
Lizzie Zipmouth
Jacqueline Wilson
£4.99, BBC Audio


Lizzie refuses to speak. She doesn't want to talk to Rory or Jake, her new stepbrothers, or Sam, their dad, or even her mum. She's totally fed up with having to join her step-family and nothing can coax her into talking to them. Not football, not pizza, not even a new bedroom. That is, until she meets a member of the family who is even more stubborn than her - and has had a lot more practice! A touching, funny story about a little girl who suddenly finds herself part of a whole new family, read by Sophie Aldred. Running time: 50 minutes
Little White Horse, The (filmed as The Secret of Moonacre)
Elizabeth Goudge - read by Juliet Stevenson
£8.81, BBC Audio


Juliet Stevenson, star of the major film version reads The Little White Horse by Elizabeth Goudge. Maria Merryweather the story’s spirited heroine has captured the imagination of generations of children and the book was awarded the Carnegie Medal in 1946. The story was first televised by the BBC in the 1994 series Moonacre and will be released as a major motion picture The Secret of Moonacre on 6th February 2009. When orphaned young Maria Merryweather arrives at Moonacre Manor she feels as if she’s entered paradise. Her new guardian, her uncle, is kind and funny; the Manor itself feels like home right away; and every person and animal. But there is something incredibly sad beneath all of this beauty and comfort. A past tragedy has left a shadow over Moonacre Manor and the town around it, but Maria is determined to learn about it, change it, and give her own life story a happy ending. 2 hours 30 minutes on 2 CDs Available from all good bookshops, online at www.bbcshop.com or to purchase as a download go to www.bbcaudiozone.com
SARAH JANE ADVENTURES: TIME CAPSULE/GHOST HOUSE
BBC AudioBooks
£5.99, BBC AudioBooks


Two new audio book adventures for Sarah Jane Smith and friends, following on from 'The Glittering Storm' and 'The Thirteenth Stone'. Sarah Jane is the most popular Dr Who companion, and Elizabeth Sladen, who stars as Sarah Jane in the CBBC TV series, reads these exclusive audio stories for ages eight years and over.
The Graveyard Book
Neil Gaiman
£11.03, Bloomsbury Publishing


A fantastic ghost adventure story for children, laced with menace and humour. When a baby escapes a murderer intent on killing the entire family, who would have thought it would find safety and security in the local graveyard? Brought up by the resident ghosts, ghouls and spectres, Bod has an eccentric childhood learning about life from the dead. But for Bod there is also the danger of the murderer still looking for him – after all, he is the last remaining member of the family. A stunningly original novel deftly constructed over eight chapters, featuring every second year of Bod’s life, from babyhood to adolescence. Will Bod survive to be a man?
In the Night Garden
Makka Pakka's Present
£5.99, BBC Audio


Makka Pakka lives in a little cave with his favourite stones. He has a soap and sponge to make sure all of the Garden stones and all of the faces of the other characters are clean and tidy. He travels around the Garden on his Og-Pog, which carries his sponge, his Uff-uff dryer and his special trumpet. In this new BBC Audio CD, Makka Pakka has seven stones. What lovely presents for Upsy Daisy, Igglepiggle, the Pontipines and the three Tombliboos! But who is the last one for? Running time 30 minutes, also featuring original songs from the BBC TV series. Filmed in a real woodland setting In The Night Garden is a magical programme on BBC television, for the under four's about the dreaming time between waking and sleeping.
Lion Book of Five-Minute Animal Stories
John Goodwin
£8.99, Lion Hudson


John Goodwin lends his amusing storytelling style to 10 animal stories which each have an important moral value to impart. Stories are drawn from a range of countries - China, India, Germany - as well as giving a passing nod to the fables of Aesop. Hardback picture book with story CD. Stories included are: The Musicians of Bremen; Party Time; The Nightingale; The Cheeky Monkey; The Lion and the Mouse; Princess Petunia and the Pig; The Hare and the Hedgehog; Fish Girl; The Talking Bear; and Chauntecleer the Cockerel.
Doctor Who: Wishing Well
Written by Trevor Baxendale/Read by Debbie Chazen
£9.99, BBC Audiobooks


The old village well is just a curiosity – something to attract tourists intrigued by stories of lost treasure, or a visitor just making a wish, except something alien and terrifying is lurking inside the well, something so utterly monstrous that it causes nothing but death and destruction… Who knows the truth about the well? Who wishes to unleash the hideous force it contains? What terrible consequences will follow the search for a legendary treasure hidden at the bottom? No one wants to believe the Doctor’s warnings about the deadly horror lying in wait – but soon they’ll wish they had… Featuring the Doctor and Martha as played by David Tennant and Freema Agyeman in the hit series from BBC Television, Wishing Well is read by Debbie Chazen, who played Foon Van Hoff in the TV episode Voyage of the Damned. Debbie Chazen reads this gripping story of a terrifying force that lurks in an ancient wishing well over two hours and 30 minutes, on 2 CD's.
Doctor Who: Peacemaker
Written by James Swallow/Read by Will Thorp
£9.99, BBC Audiobooks


The peace and quiet of a remote homestead in the 1880s American West is shattered by the arrival of two shadowy outriders searching for ‘the healer’. When the farmer refuses to help them, they raze the house to the ground using guns that shoot bolts of energy instead of bullets… In the town of Redwater, the Doctor and Martha learn of a snake-oil salesman whose patent medicines actually cure his patients. However, when the Doctor and Martha investigate they discover the truth is stranger, and far more dangerous. Caught between the law of the gun and the deadly plans of intergalactic mercenaries, the Doctor and Martha are about to discover just how wild the West can become... Featuring the Doctor and Martha as played by David Tennant and Freema Agyeman in the hit series from BBC Television, Peacemaker is read by Will Thorp, who played Toby Zed in the TV episodes The Impossible Planet and The Satan Pit. Will Thorp reads this thrilling Wild West tale of a mysterious medicine man and murderous outlaws over two hours and 30 minutes - on 2 CD's.
Doctor Who: The Pirate Loop
Written by Simon Guerrier/Read by Freema Agyeman
£9.99, BBC Audiobooks


The Doctor’s been everywhere and everywhen in the whole of the universe and seems to know all the answers. However, ask him what happened to the Starship Brilliant and he hasn’t the first idea. Did it fall into a sun or black hole? Was it shot down in the first moments of the galactic war? What’s this about a secret experimental drive? The Doctor is skittish, but if Martha is so keen to find out, he’ll land the TARDIS on the Brilliant, a few days before it vanishes. Then they can see for themselves... Soon the Doctor learns the awful truth. Moreover, Martha learns that you need to be careful what you wish for. She certainly wasn’t hoping for mayhem, death, and badger-faced space pirates. Freema Agyeman, who played Doctor’s companion Martha, reads this gripping story of a lost ship, a time loop and dangerous pirates over two hours and 30 minutes, on 2CD's.
Finn Family Moomintroll
Tove Jansson
£9.99, BBC Audiobooks


Hugh Laurie reads Tove Jansson’s wonderfully imaginative story Finn Family Moomintroll. Moomintroll lives in Moominhouse, nestled in Moomin Valley – a place where everyone does what they like and hardly ever worries about tomorrow. Together with Moominmamma and Moominpappa, Snufkin, Sniff and the others, Moomintroll has some marvellous adventures! When they find a tall black hat on top of a mountain, the Moomins don't realise that it will make some very strange things happen to them. Before long, however, they and their friends the Snork Maiden and the Hemulen are floating around on clouds, discovering strange islands, and meeting the very weird and wonderful Hattifatteners! Enchanting magical adventures with the Moomins that both adults and children will adore lasts three hours and 15 minutes on 3 CD's.
Secret Seven - Look Out, Secret Seven
Enid Blyton
£9.99, BBC Audiobooks


What would the Seven do without Scamper the spaniel? First he discovers an unwanted visitor – then he protects the Seven as they spy on a thief late at night in Bramley Woods! Can the Seven find out who has stolen General Blansome's medals, as well as guarding the birds' eggs in Bramley Woods from thieves? The Seven have two cases to solve in this fantastic mystery, read by Sarah Greene. Running time one hour and 55 minutes - read over 2 CD's. Enid Blyton is one of the best-known and best-loved authors of all time. In polls, she is consistently voted a children's favourite, and over a million of her books are borrowed from libraries each year. She wrote over 600 children's books, including the bestselling Famous Five and Secret Seven series.
Best of Paddington on CD
Michael Bond
£19.99, Harper Collins


Paddington – the beloved, classic bear from Darkest Peru – is back in these fantastically funny stories from master storyteller Michael Bond. Celebrating 50 years of the nations favourite bear. Enjoy Paddington in these three classic stories including ‘A Bear Called Paddington’, ‘More about Paddington’ and ‘Here and Now’. Young children are sure to enjoy these classic stories about Paddinton, the intrepid furry hero from Darkest Peru - beautifully read by Stephen Fry.
Chronicles of Narnia - Prince Caspian
C.S. Lewis
£9.99, BBC Audiobooks


Enter the magical world of Narnia once again as Prince Caspian is released in cinemas throughout the UK on Thursday 26th June. Following on from the success of The Lion, The Witch and the Wardrobe film in 2006, Prince Caspian is set to be one of the most highly anticipated films of the summer. All seven classic Chronicles of Narnia are available as full-cast dramas. C.S. Lewis' stories about the enchanting, magical land of Narnia have given generations of readers an unforgetttable escape into another world. This full-cast dramatisation stars Richard Puddifoot as Prince Caspian, Maurice Denham OBE (The Day of the Jackal) as the Professor, Tom Wilkinson (Batman Begins, Girl with a Pearl Earring) as Dr Cornelius and Richard Griffiths OBE (The History Boys, Harry Potter) as Trumpkin amongst a glittering cast. Prince Caspian is the fourth adventure in C. S. Lewis’s classic Narnia series all of which are available as dramatisations from BBC Audiobooks. Narnia has been at peace since Peter, Susan, Edmund and Lucy helped rid the kingdom of the evil White Witch. But now the children have returned to their own world, and in their absence a dark presence rules the once harmonious land. Wicked King Miraz has imposed a destructive new order of persecution and imprisonment, but the King's nephew and rightful heir, Prince Caspian, realising the evil of his uncle's regime, vows to revive Narnia's glorious past. Fearing for his life, he is forced to flee and calls on the four children, the help of the mighty lion Aslan and an army of fauns, dwarves and woodland spirits to help him in his seemingly impossible task. Follow Aslan and his human friends on yet another escapade, as they take up the challenge to win back freedom and happiness for the fabulous land of Narnia, with a fabulous rendition of the tale from a full Radio 4 cast BBC dramatisation.
Chronicles of Narnia - The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe
C.S. Lewis
£19.99, Harper Collins


“This is the land of Narnia,” said the Faun, “where we are now. And you – you have come from the wild woods of the west?” “I – I got in through the wardrobe in the spare room,” said Lucy. Lucy steps into the Professor’s wardrobe – but steps out again into a snowy forest. She’s stumbled upon the magical world of Narnia, land of unicorns, centaurs, fauns… and the wicked White Witch, who terrorises all. Lucy soon realises that Narnia, and in particular Aslan, the great Lion, needs her help if the country’s creatures are ever going to be free again… The second volume of The Chronicles of Narnia, now available as a book and 4 CD slipcase pack. Read along as you listen to Michael York’s superb recording of the most famous of the Narnia Chronicles.
Holes (Audio CD)
Louis Sachar
£14.99, Bloombury Publishing


Stanley Yelnats is unjustly accused of stealing a pair of trainers, and his punishment is to go to Camp Green Lake, to dig holes! This is all due to his no-good-dirty-rotten-pig-stealing-great-great-grandfather, who had supposedly brought a curse of bad luck on the family through his actions long, long ago. Holes is a modern adventure, which has the feel of a fairy tale. There are goodies and baddies, and a touch of magic. Trials need to be faced and problems overcome, before old wrongs can be righted, and good can triumph over evil. This is a really unusual tale, which will appeal to a wide range of children age 12 years plus (and adults). Available on audio CD and cassette tape.

 
     
 
     
 
 
 
 
 
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