Alden

First off- if you are looking for a good recording, this one is of excellent quality. However, the quality of George Orwell's work is what I might question.

There is so much right about this book- its examination of some of the logical consequences of relativism are fascinating. As a book study of relativism I have no qualms. However, as a study of human nature, I think Orwell falls far from the point. The basic conclusion of the novel is that the human soul is worthless, and that there is no metaphysical realities.

Why do many highschool students across the world read this book? I don't know. This is a difficult book to understand even for someone educated with a degree in Philosophy.

The recording quality of the book was acceptable. It was read by women, and perhaps I'm a little biased, but these more adventuresome stories, might be better read by men. Who knows.

Quality of the stories varied. Since it is a collected work of sorts, some of the stories were better than others. Although, I must admit I am used to more of the "western" type fairy tales and stories. I usually expect a moral to a story, or some sort of a conclusion. Often these books ended unpredictably, while I was expecting some sort of conclusion, the tale would end completely without one.

My second main reservation was the view of life and death. The human soul did not seem to be valued highly in these stories. People would die without the author even caring that much, and the read would be expected not to car as well. Accordingly, I would NOT recommend these stories for young children (unless their parents are trying to instill in them a lack of value of the human life).

First off- Recording quality is excellent. Other than the cheesy music which begins every chapter, I have no reservations.

The quality of the story? Its good. Its a simple story, with nothing terribly complex or insightful, but its good. A "brain candy" book for people from some years ago perhaps. Very much enjoyed it, and would recommend it to anyone looking for an escape on a pirate adventure for a while. Young boys especially should read this.