Defoe, Daniel: Robinson Crusoe (Nab Audio CD 2-disc set)  

Jonathan Keeble
Robinson Crusoe Abridged.

Exceptionally popular since its publication in 1719, Robinson Crusoe is widely regarded as the first English novel. Our eponymous hero finds himself shipwrecked on an African desert island after a tumultuous storm, and following the realisation that he is the only survivor, is faced with the prospect of years of isolation. However, he throws his energy into familiarising himself with his new habit: he hunts, learns how to make pottery and even adopts a parrot. After encountering a group of cannibals, Robinson Crusoe finally finds a companion. A thrilling adventure for younger listeners, made thoroughly accessible through Roy McMillan’s retelling, which uses Defoe’s words in the main, simplifying and clarifying them at certain points.

• This is the second in a series of classics retold for younger listeners. Oliver Twist retold (ISBN: 978-184-379-587-2) was released in January and Gulliver’s Travels retold (ISBN: 978-184-379-559-9), will be released later this year

• We also stock an abridged version of Robinson Crusoe (ISBN: 978-962-634-065-3), read by Nigel Anthony

• Robinson Crusoe retold and Gulliver’s Travels retold make an interesting pair. These two novels are similar in theme, yet Defoe and Swift vary greatly in style and interpretation, making for engaging discussions!

• Our Junior Classics range continues to expand, and we are addressing the need to keep releasing classic fiction recordings in addition to new writing for children