Audiobook Sample
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- Title: Land that Time Forgot
- Author: Edgar Rice Burroughs
- Narrator: Ralph Snelson
- Length: 0.160416667
- Version: Abridged
- Release Date: 01-Jan
- Publisher: LibriVox
- Genre: Science Fiction & Fantasy, Science Fiction
- ISBN13: SABFAB9780335
As a travel writer who has wandered through some of the most remote corners of the world, I’ve always been drawn to tales of uncharted territories and lost civilizations. Edgar Rice Burroughs’ *The Land That Time Forgot* is one such story that captivated me from the very first chapter. Narrated by Ralph Snelson, this audiobook takes you on a journey that feels as vast and mysterious as the landscapes I’ve explored in my own travels.
The story begins with a wartime sea adventure, a setting that immediately reminded me of my own experiences sailing along the rugged coasts of South America. The tension and urgency of Bowen J. Tyler’s plight as his ship is sunk by a German U-boat transported me back to moments when I’ve felt the raw power of the ocean—both beautiful and terrifying. Burroughs’ vivid descriptions of the sea and the subsequent discovery of the lost island of Caprona are masterfully brought to life by Snelson’s narration. His voice carries the weight of adventure and the curiosity of discovery, making it easy to lose yourself in this fantastical world.
Listening to this audiobook, I couldn’t help but recall a memory from my time in the Atacama Desert. The stark, otherworldly landscape there felt like a place where time itself had paused, much like the prehistoric world of Caprona. Snelson’s pacing and tone mirrored the awe I felt standing in that desert, surrounded by silence and ancient rock formations. His narration captures the wonder and danger of Burroughs’ world, making you feel as if you’re right there alongside the characters, navigating through dense jungles and encountering creatures long extinct.
The themes of survival and evolution in *The Land That Time Forgot* resonated deeply with me. As someone who has often found himself in unfamiliar cultures and environments, I’ve learned that survival is as much about adaptability as it is about resilience. Bowen’s journey is a testament to this, and Snelson’s portrayal of his character conveys both his determination and vulnerability. The romantic subplot, while somewhat dated in its execution, adds a layer of humanity to the story that keeps it grounded amidst the fantastical elements.
One of the strengths of this audiobook is Snelson’s ability to balance the action-packed sequences with moments of introspection. His voice shifts seamlessly from the adrenaline-fueled encounters with prehistoric creatures to the quieter, more reflective moments where the characters grapple with their circumstances. This dynamic range keeps the listener engaged and invested in the story.
That said, *The Land That Time Forgot* is not without its flaws. The novel’s portrayal of race and gender reflects the era in which it was written, and some elements may feel outdated to modern listeners. Additionally, the reliance on coincidences to drive the plot can sometimes strain credibility. However, these limitations are overshadowed by the sheer imagination and adventure that Burroughs brings to the story.
For those who enjoy classic science fiction and lost world narratives, this audiobook is a must-listen. It’s a perfect companion for long journeys or quiet evenings when you want to escape into a world where the boundaries of time and space are blurred. And the fact that it’s available as a free download makes it an even more enticing choice.
In closing, *The Land That Time Forgot* is a testament to the enduring power of storytelling. It reminds me why I fell in love with literature in the first place—the ability to transport us to places we could never imagine and to connect us with the timeless human spirit of exploration. Ralph Snelson’s narration enhances this experience, making it a journey worth taking. So, whether you’re a seasoned fan of Edgar Rice Burroughs or new to his work, I encourage you to give this audiobook a listen. It might just inspire your next adventure.
With wanderlust and a love for timeless tales, Marcus Rivera
