The Arabian Nights

By: Sir Richard Burton

Narrated by: Philip Madoc

Though The Arabian Nights are generally known as stories for children, they were originally tales for adults full of adventure, sexuality, violence, and the supernatural. They certainly inspired the imagination of Sir Richard Burton, the 19th century explorer, linguist, and erotologist who brought all his worldly experience and superbly expressive prose style to bear on the tales of Sindbad the Seaman and Ali Baba and the Forty Thieves. Scheherazade must keep her king entertained with stories if she is to avoid the promised sentence of death.

Download the accompanying reference guide.©1995 NAXOS AudioBooks Ltd. (P)1995 NAXOS AudioBooks Ltd.

Overly dramatic telling

The stories are decent, but there are stories within stories within stories and it's just a bit hard to keep track of.

The musical transitions are okay and different but didn't add anything in my humble opinion. The narrator is dramatic and has a lot of gravitas. it might work in another setting/form but I didn't think the book needed such embellishment, and made it harder for me to follow the story and stay engaged.

Beautifully spoken

Such an amazing, and vivid tale brought brilliantly to light. Highly recommended to anyone looking to lose themselves in a true classic.

Excellent Narration!

What did you love best about The Arabian Nights?

The narration is truly great. The reader's voice is engaging and fits the part perfectly. He reads with emphasis and emotion. Fantastic storytelling, even if just to listen to the words being spoken.

Any additional comments?

Was disappointed by how shortened it was. The story of Aladdin is not included, though that is arguably not a true part of the 1001 Nights (although the same could be said of the story of Ali Babba, which is included). I wanted more.

Some of the stories were less than completely satisfying, but that's a matter of opinion and the stories are what they are, although it makes me wonder (not having read a full, unabridged version, why some of these stories were included over the rest). Worth a listen to any of those interested, but I will probably try and get an unabridged version at some point to get the full experience (although lacking the amazing voice and production).

Music is a nice touch

It’s a fun story but the breaks between the chapters were not so smooth. The music helped, i wish they had played a little more of it.

The Arabian Nights by Sir Richard Burton

I loved listening to this audible book. The music was awesome and the narrator was superb. I probably would not have enjoyed this as much if I was reading it and really appreciate the story telling.