Audiobook Sample
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- Title: Princess and the Goblin
- Author: George MacDonald
- Narrator: Lizzie Driver
- Length: 05:32:37
- Version: Abridged
- Release Date: 01/01/2016
- Publisher: LibriVox
- Genre: Science Fiction & Fantasy, Fantasy
- ISBN13: SABLIB9783157
As I embarked on the journey of listening to George MacDonald’s ‘The Princess and the Goblin,’ narrated by Lizzie Driver, I found myself transported to a world where the echoes of Victorian imagination intertwine with the timeless struggle between good and evil. It reminds me of a time when I was driving through the Atacama Desert in Chile, the surreal landscape outside my window perfectly matched by the magical realism of García Márquez’s ‘One Hundred Years of Solitude.’ The narrator’s voice, much like the wise elder around a campfire, brought MacDonald’s tale to life in a way that felt both intimate and expansive.
The story unfolds like a tapestry woven with threads of courage, faith, and innocence. Princess Irene, raised by her nurse Lootie in a house on a mountain, encounters her mysterious great-great-grandmother and the miner boy Curdie. Their adventures against the malevolent goblins living beneath the mountain are not just a thrilling fantasy but also a profound exploration of moral and spiritual truths. Lizzie Driver’s narration captures the innocence of Irene and the bravery of Curdie with a warmth that makes you feel as if you are part of their journey.
The themes of good versus evil, courage, and perseverance are central to the narrative. Curdie’s bravery in facing the goblins and Irene’s resilience in the face of danger highlight the importance of standing up for what is right. The great-great-grandmother, a source of spiritual guidance, requires faith and trust, much like the stories told by the grandmother I stayed with in Oaxaca. Her voice, rich with wisdom and perfect timing, made each evening a masterclass in oral storytelling. Driver’s narration, with its authentic and charming use of dialect, brings a similar quality to this audiobook.
However, the pacing can be uneven at times, and the narrative structure somewhat episodic. Some listeners might find Curdie’s dialect challenging, though others will appreciate its authenticity. Despite these minor criticisms, the book’s imaginative storytelling and vivid characters make it a foundational work of fantasy literature.
In comparison to works like ‘The Hobbit’ by J.R.R. Tolkien and ‘The Chronicles of Narnia’ by C.S. Lewis, MacDonald’s influence is undeniable. Both authors have acknowledged his impact on their work, and ‘The Princess and the Goblin’ continues to resonate with readers of all ages. Its exploration of inner strength, faith, and the importance of standing up for what is right is as relevant today as it was in 1872.
For those who enjoy audiobooks, this free version narrated by Lizzie Driver offers a unique listening experience. The audio quality is clear, and Driver’s performance adds depth to the characters and the story. Whether you are a long-time fan of MacDonald or new to his work, this audiobook is a journey worth taking.
With literary appreciation and a sense of adventure, I recommend ‘The Princess and the Goblin’ to anyone who loves fantasy, moral storytelling, and the magic of audiobooks. It is a tale that not only entertains but also inspires, reminding us of the power of faith, courage, and the human spirit.
Marcus Rivera
