The Axeman's Carnival

By: Catherine Chidgey

Narrated by: Nic Sampson

A dazzling portrayal of humanity and the natural world that perfectly balances violence and humor

Tama is just a helpless chick when he is rescued by Marnie, and this is where his story might have ended. “If it keeps me awake,” says Marnie's husband Rob, a farmer, “I'll have to wring its neck.” But with Tama come new possibilities for the couple's future. Tama can speak, and his fame is growing. Outside, in the pines, his father warns him of the wickedness wrought by humans. Indoors, Marnie confides in him about her violent marriage. The more Tama sees, the more the animal and the human worlds—and all the precarity, darkness and hope within them—bleed into one another. Like a stock truck filled with live cargo, the story moves inexorably towards its dramatic conclusion: the annual Axeman's Carnival.

©2024 Catherine Chidgey (P)2024 W.F. Howes Ltd

Critic reviews

WINNER OF THE JANN MEDLICOTT ACORN PRIZE FOR FICTION AT THE 2023 OCKHAM NEW ZEALAND BOOK AWARDS

Something delightfully different

I absolutely loved this book. It's unique, creative, funny and even educational, but never boring. The narration was masterful. I'll never see magpies the same way.

Surprising and original

A tale told by a magpie, full of sound and fury! Wonderful story wonderful narration

Unbelievably good narration, the best of any audiobook I’ve ever listened to

A fabulous story that was creative, fun, sad, dark - every emotion. The writing is stellar and I became very invested in the characters especially Tama. The narrator brings this story to life, brings Tama to life.

Interesting premise

Unusual characterization. Enjoyed the story and the narrator. Would be interested in others by this author.

loved this book

I had put off listening for a good while as the talking magpie put me off but had a credit and trusted the reviews.
It was sad and funny in equal measures, the birds character made me laugh.
The author highlights the subject of domestic abuse and gaslighting in a really impactful way without it being too graphic or troubling.
I read teachers pet too by the same author and will be looking for more of her books now.