Favourite Essays (Classic Literature with Classical Music) [Audiobook] [Audio CD]

Swift (Author), Carlyle (Author), Addison: Johnson (Author), Chesterton (Author), Montaigne (Author, Editor), Samuel Johnson (Editor), Richard Steele (Editor)

Book Description

Series: Classic Literature with Classical Music | Publication Date: May 5, 2009

Here, in this unusual collection, are some of the greatest essays in Western literature. Witty, informative and imaginative; the topics vary from starvation in Ireland, fine China, the extension of railways in the Lake District and the tombs in Westminster Abbey. A little like after-dinner monologues, they are passing thoughts expressed as journalism. Neville Jason reads with urbane clarity.

Editorial Reviews

Review

'"He who lives everywhere lives nowhere," wrote Montaigne 400 years ago. Another jewel in this fine collection is Richard Steele's account of the "inexpressible pleasure" of an early-morning trip down the Thames, picking up gardeners of apricots and melons on their way to the market. Neville Jason's voice is irresistable.' (Rachel Redford, The Observer)

From AudioFile

The point of this book is to highlight the essay form as a relatively short, concise piece that tightly argues an idea. Many of the works included are funny, and some are downright shocking, but they're all fascinating. Neville Jason has selected his favorites and delivers them in what could be called the quintessential British reading voice. It's deep, precise, mellifluous, authoritative, and distinctive. His phrasing and diction are superb, and he pronounces every word with nary a swallowed consonant. Jason also knows how to present these classics so they ring true to the modern ear, which is not easy considering that most people have not extensively read these authors. Perhaps after hearing Jason's performance, they will. R.I.G. © AudioFile 2010, Portland, Maine

Product Details

• Audio CD
• Publisher: Naxos AudioBooks; Unabridged edition (May 5, 2009)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 9626349379
• ISBN-13: 978-9626349373
• Product Dimensions: 5.5 x 4.9 x 1 inches
• Shipping Weight: 7.8 ounces (View shipping rates and policies)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #2,258,815 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)