The Princess and the Goblin, with eBook

By: George MacDonald

Narrated by: Ian Whitcomb

Young Princess Irene is sent to the country to be raised in a half-farmhouse, half-castle located in the side of a mountain. While exploring the top of the castle, Irene becomes lost and inexplicably finds her way to a mystifying and beautiful woman spinning a thread. Princess Irene is drawn to the woman whom she discovers is her great-great-grandmother. But after she returns, her nurse, Lootie, refuses to believe in the old woman's existence, and the young Princess cannot find the way back to her great-great-grandmother.

Days later, while on an outing with Lootie, Princess Irene believes that she detects a Goblin. They meet a young miner, Curdie, who confirms her sighting. Soon Curdie discovers Goblins lurking under the castle that have constructed an evil plot against the king and his palace. Princess Irene's belief in her great-great-grandmother's powers becomes essential as she and Curdie work to foil the sinister Goblin plan. As the Princess tells Curdie, "sometimes you must believe without seeing".

©1996 Phoenix Recordings

Pre-Tolkien Fantasy

I approached this novel, because C.S. Lewis credited George MacDonald as a huge influence on both him and Tolkien. That is exceptionally high praise, but rightly deserved. Essentially, if you are a fan of either Narnia or Lord of the Rings/The Hobbit, you will find a real treasure hidden here.

As for the recording itself, it's acceptable. Ian Whitcomb does a lovely job with the voice work, but the recording itself is very old and a bit scratchy. Also, for a brief period in the middle, it sounds like the TV is on in the background. Still, don't let that put you off this wonderful story. Very highly recommended!

A children’s book for all adults

A children’s book for all adults. It is packed with lessons of faith. It reminds that there are evil forces seeking to steal and destroy that which is precious to the King (us and our good works). It reminds that some persons will quickly recognize and be faithful to something greater than themselves while others (though naturally mighty in fortitude) will need longer to process that reality. Enjoy and let it remind us that with faith, we too can have access to that Golden thread that guides and protects.

A Classic Tale

A story of bravery, integrity and the mystery of belief told by one of the greatest storytellers of the 19th Century. A tale that belies its time and is inclusive of its audience to people of all ages.

A story to love

I had never read anything by George Macdonald before listening to this with my children. Now I understand why Tolkien and Lewis loved his writings and emulated him in their own works. Superb storytelling and a lovely performance by Ian Whitcomb.

A Wonderful book

All I can say is I loved this book. I would ride around the block before going home if I was at an exciting part in the book. The narrator was very good.