The Stranger

By: Albert Camus

Narrated by: Jonathan Davis

Length: 3 hrs and 27 mins

Publisher's summary

Albert Camus' The Stranger is one of the most widely read novels in the world, with millions of copies sold. It stands as perhaps the greatest existentialist tale ever conceived, and is certainly one of the most important and influential books ever produced. Now, for the first time, this revered masterpiece is available as an unabridged audio production.

When a young Algerian named Meursault kills a man, his subsequent imprisonment and trial are puzzling and absurd. The apparently amoral Meursault, who puts little stock in ideas like love and God, seems to be on trial less for his murderous actions, and more for what the authorities believe is his deficient character.

This remarkable translation by Matthew Ward has been considered the definitive English version since its original publication. It unlocks the prose as no other English version has, allowing the listener to soak up the richness of Camus' ideas.

©1988 Alfred A. Knopf, Inc. (P)2005 Recorded Books, LLC

Thought provoking read

The Stranger manages to ask many questions in its short runtime. The book explores the value and meaning of human life, how we process and come to terms with death (whether it be a death of another or our own mortality), as well as relationships between people and how we perceive the world in different ways. I especially appreciated how efficient the storytelling is; even small, seemingly unimportant events have some kind of eventual payoff. The narrator does an excellent job, he is very clearly invested in the performance and it elevates the experience substantially.

So glad I listened to this!

When I first read this book, I couldn’t get through it. This audiobook made me think of the importance of allowing yourself to take up space. Time, God, love and the power of emotions are major highlights throughout this book. What is most important is being your own self… it’s about embracing and accepting what isn’t popular and about not being bogged down in shame about others perceptions of your character. The only person who can truly judge you is yourself.

Classic book, excellent audiobook

The Ward translation of "The Stranger," while not universally loved (many prefer the Gilbert translation which I have not read), works well for this audiobook. The reading is well done and recorded properly. It is, pretty much, a perfect audiobook.

Well narrated version of a disturbing classic

Both my sons had to read this for school for 8th grade, and in turn they and I listened to this version. I can't say that it is my favorite book for pleasure reading, but it is certainly something to have read to be conversant in modern philosophy and literature. The narrator does an excellent job, and it moves along swiftly. Recommended for an easy way to encounter a classic!

Excellent Performance

I found the performance quite well done, with the reader accurately capturing the moral detachment and existential irony of Camu's story. I personally find Kafka more engaging, but Camu is one of the giants of existentialism. A must for any serious student.

Great book

Any additional comments?

The final talk with the Priest seemed rushed and not in pace with the book

Love this book

I received the book as a graduation present 16 years ago and I've re-read it again and again over the years. Glad to find an audiobook of it. The reader does a good job reading the book as well. I wish someone would make an audiobook of the Fall in English some time in the future.

Great book, narrator was great!

Awesome book. it was my second time reading it and it got better. the narrator gets you really involved.

Exquisite

I loved everything about this. Having read this move twice it was a pleasure to hear it being read. The narration was terrific and he did an excellent job pronouncing the French names.

Can't say this was an enjoyable listen.

What did you like best about The Stranger? What did you like least?

This was an uncomfortable book, to say the least. It does put you in the mind of a self indulgent, amoral psychopath.... Hard to grasp, yet the book helps to make the reader understand how his Mersault's mind works.

What was most disappointing about Albert Camus’s story?

That Mersault was satisfied with his life.

What three words best describe Jonathan Davis’s performance?

Fits the character.