The Wind in the Willows (version 2)


Read by Mark F. Smith

(4.8 stars; 341 reviews)

This much-loved story follows a group of animal friends in the English countryside as they pursue adventure ... and as adventure pursues them! The chief characters - Mole, Rat, and Toad - generally lead upbeat and happy lives, but their tales are leavened with moments of terror, homesickness, awe, madcap antics, and derring-do.

Although classed as children's literature, The Wind in the Willows holds a gentle fascination for adults too. The vocabulary is decidedly not "Dick and Jane", and a reader with a love of words will find new ones to treasure, even if well-equipped for the journey. Parents will appreciate the themes of loyalty, manners, self-restraint, and comradeship which are evident throughout the book. When the characters err, they are prompt to acknowledge it, and so a reading of this book can model good behavior to children, who will otherwise be enchanted with the many ways in which the lives of these bucolic characters differ from modern life.

This book was so successful that it enabled the author to retire from banking and take up a country life somewhat like that of his creations. It has been adapted for screen, stage, and even a ride at the original Disneyland.
(Summary by Mark F. Smith) (6 hr 47 min)

Chapters

01 - The River Bank 29:55 Read by Mark F. Smith
02 - The Open Road 29:35 Read by Mark F. Smith
03 - The Wild Wood 29:56 Read by Mark F. Smith
04 - Mr. Badger 30:56 Read by Mark F. Smith
05 - Dulce Dolmum 38:00 Read by Mark F. Smith
06 - Mr. Toad 32:15 Read by Mark F. Smith
07 - The Piper at the Gates of Dawn 27:12 Read by Mark F. Smith
08 - Toad's Adventures 33:31 Read by Mark F. Smith
09 - Wayfarers All 43:41 Read by Mark F. Smith
10 - The Further Adventures of Toad 39:54 Read by Mark F. Smith
11 - 'Like Summer Tempests Came His Tears' 40:16 Read by Mark F. Smith
12 - The Return of Ulysses 31:53 Read by Mark F. Smith

Reviews

Perfect


(5 stars)

This is a classic. It is Incredible. His singing is great, this is one of my favorites. Mark Smith is my favorite narrator. He just brings it to life. This story is a classic it... it is impossible to dislike this book. Mr. Toad is funny. My grandmother's favorite part is when they try to retake toad hall. I like when Toad is put in jail.

Great Voices!


(5 stars)

This reading stands out as more a performance than a reading! The single reader employs different voices for each of the animals (and humans) - probably over a dozen in all! Read with lively energy, this was a favorite with my kids. Good job!

the wind in the willows


(5 stars)

Mark F. Smith reading of the story is perfect. My pup and I love to listen to it. Helps me calm down and stop my heart from going to fast. Thank you my favorite to listen to while doing my heart tests or in the hospitals. This is one of my favorite authors due to being an English major.


(5 stars)

imaginatively read, although Rat's and Mole's voices are somewhat akin to scratching on a chalkboard. Still quite delightful

narration review


(5 stars)

Mark Smith's wonderful narration has distinct voices for each of the four main characters. Very enjoyable.


(5 stars)

The narrator is AWESOME and really brought this wonderful tale to life for me and my child.


(5 stars)

Lovely book, lovely reading. Engaging and fun, a great way to pass the morning commute!


(5 stars)

Everything Mark F Smith touches turns to gold. I Love all his narrations