⌘K
Author
Mark Twain
Language
English
Genre
audiobook
by Mark Twain
recording of The Prince and the Pauper by Mark Twain. Read by John Greenman The Prince and the Pauper (1882) represents Mark Twain's first attempt at historical fiction. The book, set in 1547, tells the story of two young boys who are identical in appearance: Tom Canty, a pauper who lives with his abusive father in Offal Court, London, and Prince Edward son of Henry VIII of England.
Due to a series of circumstances, the boys accidentally replace each other, and much of the humor in the book originates in the two boys' inability to function in the world that is so familiar to the other (although Tom soon displays considerable wisdom in his decisions). In many ways, the book is a social satire, particularly compelling in its condemnation of the inequality that existed between the classes in Tudor England. In that sense, Twain abandoned the wry Midwestern style for which he was best known and adopts a style reminiscent of Charles Dickens.
org) For further information, including links to online text, reader information, RSS feeds, CD cover or other formats (if available), please go to the catalog page for this recording. org.
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My partner overheard me listening and ended up sitting down with me for the rest of it. We're both still talking about it. That's not nothing.
I specifically look for audiobooks with a natural narration style — nothing worse than robotic delivery. This nails it. Very easy to listen to for long stretches.
Some chapters hit differently depending on where you are in life. I think I needed to hear The Prince and the Pauper right now. Perfect timing, perfect book.
Good balance of depth and accessibility. You don't need a background in this topic to follow along, but it never feels dumbed down either. Well done.
