Audiobook Sample
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- Title: Old Granny Fox
- Author: Thornton W. Burgess
- Narrator: LibriVox Volunteers
- Length: 0.114756944
- Version: Abridged
- Release Date: 01-Dec
- Publisher: LibriVox
- Genre: Kids, Action & Adventure, Classics
- ISBN13: SABLIB9787483
There’s something timeless about winter tales—the way they pull you into frosty landscapes filled with both hardship and determination. Thornton W. Burgess’s ‘Old Granny Fox,’ brought to life by the LibriVox Volunteers, offers just that: a heartwarming yet adventurous story of survival and cunning in the Green Meadow. Listening to this audiobook felt like stepping into a simpler time when stories were shared by the fire, each one imparting a subtle lesson wrapped in layers of charm.
Let me start by saying that the story itself is a delight. Burgess, known for his knack for blending ecology and storytelling, crafts a tale that is equal parts whimsical and educational. Granny Fox and her grandson Reddy Fox navigate the harsh realities of winter with courage and craftiness, reminding listeners of the importance of resourcefulness and adaptability. As they outwit predators, plot their next meals, and avoid Farmer Brown’s boy, the narrative unfolds like a series of fables, each with its own moral. It reminded me of evenings spent with a family in Oaxaca, where their abuela would recount tales of clever animals and human-like spirits. Her voice carried the same tone of gentle wisdom that Burgess’s story embodies.
Listening to this audiobook brought back memories of my first encounter with a narrated classic—a drive through the Atacama Desert, where I played García Márquez’s ‘One Hundred Years of Solitude’ on repeat. Just like the surreal landscapes of that desert, the world of Granny and Reddy Fox is filled with both danger and wonder. The LibriVox Volunteers do an admirable job of capturing the spirit of Burgess’s tale. While the narration varies in quality due to the group’s volunteer nature, the collective effort imbues the audiobook with a unique charm. It’s as though each narrator is a different storyteller in a cozy gathering, lending their voice to the magic of the tale. You can almost hear the warmth of their intentions, even if the technical polish isn’t always there.
The themes of the story—cunning, perseverance, and intergenerational wisdom—feel universal and enduring. Granny Fox’s patience and experience play off beautifully against Reddy’s youthful arrogance, much like the interactions between elder and younger generations worldwide. This dynamic reminded me of a conversation I once had with a grandmother in Portugal, who spoke of teaching her granddaughter how to bake bread in the old-fashioned way. There’s a quiet heroism in passing down lessons, whether it’s about baking bread or surviving a harsh winter, and Burgess captures this beautifully.
For listeners who appreciate classics, ‘Old Granny Fox’ is a gem. It’s tailored for children but enriches adults with its nostalgic simplicity and underlying wisdom. The audiobook format, despite its occasional unevenness, makes the story accessible in a way that feels intimate—like being read to by a loved one. However, if you’re someone who values consistent production quality, you might find the varying narration styles a bit distracting.
Comparing this audiobook to other classics in the genre, such as Beatrix Potter’s works or Kenneth Grahame’s ‘The Wind in the Willows,’ Burgess’s creation holds its own with its ecological undertones and moral lessons. While Potter’s tales have a more polished narrative and Grahame’s work leans toward whimsy, ‘Old Granny Fox’ sits comfortably in its niche—a blend of practical wisdom and charming adventure.
I’d recommend this audiobook to parents looking for wholesome entertainment for their kids, educators seeking engaging material for environmental lessons, or anyone who wants to relive the joy of childhood storytelling. And the cherry on top? This audiobook is free, making it accessible to all—a gesture that feels particularly meaningful in today’s world.
As I finished listening to ‘Old Granny Fox,’ I couldn’t help but think about the universal appeal of stories like this. They remind us of the importance of resilience, the value of learning from those who came before us, and the beauty of seeing the world through the eyes of both the wise and the young. If you’re ready for a cozy yet adventurous escape, this audiobook might just be the perfect companion.
Until the next story beckons, happy listening and warm adventures,
Marcus Rivera
Warmest regards,
