Customer Reviews

Robinson Crusoe (Blackstone Audio Classic Collection)

5 star:		(2)
4 star:		(1)
3 star:		(0)
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The narrator of this book on tape, John Lee, does an absolutely amazing job. Nine CDs and 11 hours, and not one false note.

Because it is an unabridged edition, it is all here - meaning that it includes some rather long, slow passages at times. But overall, it is a great way to revisit this famous classic. I really enjoyed it.

Excellent quality. Recommended.

Although most people know the general storyline of Robinson Crusoe, I don't think many have read it. If you read or listen to it, you'll learn there is much more to the story than you think. It really is a fun story, although it can get a little long-winded at times. Crusoe goes through many more adventures than those just on the island where he is marooned for so long. There is also an interesting religious theme woven into the storyline.

The Blackstone Audiobook version is very well done by the narrator, however at 11 hours its a little too long. I would recommend an abridged version of the audiobook.

Although most readers are probably familiar with the story of Robinson Crusoe, I doubt many have read it - and they've missed out! Robinson Crusoe goes to sea against his father's wishes and lives to regret it. In spite of promptly being shipwrecked he goes again, and finds himself enslaved by the Moors for a year before escaping. He ends up in Brazil and becomes a plantation owner before his greed gets the better of him and he once again ends up shipwrecked, this time on a small Caribbean island. Being the only survivor, he manages to save what he can from the shipwreck and builds a safe shelter. He plants crops, domesticates wild goats, and learns to be comfortable over the nearly 30 years he spends there, most of it alone. Much of the story is highly religious in nature as well, and he eventually develops a personal relationship with God.

I first read this story a little over 20 years ago and it's been a favorite ever since. Originally written and published in 1719, the language is from another time and therefore a bit more challenging - although it's usually considered a children's book, I don't think many children will find it an easy read. Adults, however, will find the style interesting and the story engrossing. I loved the way he meets the challenges of providing for himself, and his theological musings were interesting in today's politically-correct and frequently apathetic society. If I were to be cast away on a desert island I'd probably want this book with me, along with my other favorite castaway book, The Mysterious Island. This audio version is excellently done, and John Lee does a wonderful job.