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  • Title: Canterville Ghost
  • Author: Oscar Wilde
  • Narrator: David Barnes
  • Length: 01:24:00
  • Version: Abridged
  • Release Date: 01/01/2012
  • Publisher: LibriVox
  • Genre: Horror, Fiction & Literature, Classics, Psychological
  • ISBN13: SABLIBX978010

Dear fellow book lovers,

Oh, I’m excited to share my thoughts on Canterville Ghost by Oscar Wilde, narrated by David Barnes! This delightful tale is a charming mix of humor and the supernatural, and Barnes’ narration really brings Wilde’s wit and whimsy to life.

From the moment I pressed play, I was drawn in by David Barnes’ warm and engaging voice. He has a wonderful way of delivering Wilde’s clever lines with just the right amount of flair. His pacing is spot on, allowing the humor to shine through without feeling rushed. You can tell he truly understands the playful nature of the story, which made for a delightful listening experience.

Wilde’s story revolves around an American family that moves into a haunted English mansion, only to find that the ghost, Sir Simon, is more of a comedic figure than a terrifying presence. Barnes captures the essence of Sir Simon beautifully, giving him a slightly mournful yet endearing quality. You can really feel the ghost’s frustration and longing for recognition, which adds depth to the humor. The way Barnes shifts his voice for different characters—especially the lively Otis family—adds a fun dynamic to the narrative.

The production quality is excellent, too. There are no distracting sounds or awkward pauses, which allowed me to fully immerse myself in the story. The overall atmosphere felt polished and professional, making it easy to get lost in Wilde’s world.

As for the content, Wilde’s sharp social commentary and playful satire on American and British cultures are as relevant today as they were when he wrote the story. The humor is clever and often laugh-out-loud funny, and I found myself chuckling at the interactions between the ghost and the Otis family. It’s a lighthearted take on the ghost story genre, and I think it would appeal to a wide range of listeners, from those who enjoy classic literature to anyone looking for a good laugh.

At just under 5 hours, the length is perfect for a cozy afternoon listen or a couple of commutes. It’s a quick yet satisfying experience that leaves you with a smile on your face.

Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed Canterville Ghost. David Barnes’ narration paired with Wilde’s brilliant writing creates a delightful listening experience that’s both entertaining and thought-provoking. If you’re in the mood for a charming ghost story filled with humor and heart, I highly recommend giving this audiobook a try. It’s a delightful escape that will leave you feeling uplifted!

Marcus Rivera