Enter the tormented mind of a prisoner in his quest for hope in a world of darkness. Edgar Allan Poe, today on The Classic Tales Podcast. 

Welcome to this Vintage Episode of The Classic Tales Podcast. Thank you for listening. 

Two Vintage Episodes are released each week, so be sure to check your feed regularly. New episodes will be available every Friday. If you like the Vintage Episodes, please let us know by going to http://classictalesaudiobooks.com. Become a supporter, tell your friends, order an audiobook, or send us an email. You can also leave us a review on Apple Podcasts. We’d love to hear if you like the older episodes, or even if you don’t.

Edgar Allan Poe. This master of the short story was such a pioneer, defining the sleuth mystery, expanding the realm of science fiction. And of course, he gave us the definitive canon of horror stories. 

Today’s story was published 180 years ago, in 1843. There are no supernatural elements in the story itself. The realism of the story is enhanced through the reported sensations of the narrator. It’s a thrill ride, moving from one thrilling episode to the next. It seems as though Poe is experimenting with the effectiveness of several devices to create a desired thrilling effect.

16 years ago, this episode rocketed The Classic Tales Podcast to the #3 Top Podcast in Apple Podcasts (then iTunes). Let’s see how it holds up. 

And now, The Pit and the Pendulum, Edgar Allan Poe. 

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Everyone says Henry’s wife, Phoebe, has died. But to Henry, she’s still alive. Theodore Dreiser, today on The Classic Tales Podcast. 

Welcome to this Vintage Episode of The Classic Tales Podcast. Thank you for listening.

Two Vintage Episodes are released each week, so be sure to check your feed regularly. New episodes will be available every Friday. If you like the Vintage Episodes, please let us know by going to http://classictalesaudiobooks.com. Become a supporter, tell your friends, order an audiobook, or send us an email. You can also give us a review on Apple Podcasts. We’d love to hear if you like the older episodes. 

Theodore Dreiser was a leading figure of a new literary movement in America, replacing the observances of the Victorian days with new social problems that reflected the industrialization of America. His best known works are Sister Carrie (1922), and An American Tragedy (1925). 

Dreiser’s works are far from perfect, and tend to get longer as you read them. However, like many who brave new paths, the writers before Dreiser were remarkably different than those who followed him. While perhaps not a perfect guidepost, he nevertheless showed a new path and took a few wavering steps.

The Lost Phoebe is the only one of Dreiser’s titles in the Classic Tales canon. I’ve tried to return to him over the past 16 years and it just hasn’t worked out. Strange, because The Lost Phoebe has some absolutely masterful moments. 

And now, The Lost Phoebe, by Theodore Dreiser.

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Have 30 years dimmed the memory of music in Clark’s aunt? What will happen if it’s awakened? Willa Cather, today on The Classic Tales Podcast. 

Welcome to The Classic Tales Podcast. Thank you for listening. 

The Vintage Episodes of The Classic Tales Podcast just keep coming. How did you like them? Are you looking for more? Please let us know by going to http://classictalesaudiobooks.com. Pick up an audiobook, become a supporter, leave a review, or send us an email. Let us know if you’d like more. 

Monday we’ll have Theodore Dreiser’s incredible story The Lost Phoebe, and on Wednesday, Poe’s The Pit and the Pendulum. Believe it or not, when this episode of The Pit and the Pendulum was originally released, The Classic Tales Podcast was the #3 podcast in all of iTunes (Apple Podcasts) not just fiction, but in ALL podcasts, in between This American Life and Car Talk. Times have changed, and I’m glad we’ve kept up, to some extent. If you’d like more Vintage Episodes, head on over to http://classictalesaudiobooks.com and let us know one way or another. And thanks for your support! 

Today’s story is about a gifted musician who fell in love, and eloped to the frontier, forsaking her promising career as a professional musician. It’s interesting to think of this time when her life was wholly unconnected. Talk about off the grid. No internet, television, movies, or even a band concert. Hymns in church – that’s entertainment. 

Beautifully written by the great Willa Cather, A Wagner Matinee takes us to a simpler time, while still capturing much of the darker complexities we don’t want to talk about. 

And now, A Wagner Matinee, by Willa Cather.

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Does a mummified monkey’s paw have supernatural powers? What happens when a careless wish puts it to the test? W. W. Jacobs, today on The Classic Tales Podcast. 

Welcome to this Vintage Episode of The Classic Tales Podcast. Thank you for listening. 

Two Vintage Episodes are released each week, so be sure to check your feed regularly. New episodes will be available every Friday. If you like the Vintage Episodes, please let us know by going to http://classictalesaudiobooks.com. Become a supporter, tell your friends, order an audiobook, or send us an email. You can also leave us a review on Apple Podcasts. We’d love to hear if you like the older episodes, or even if you don’t.

William Wymark Jacobs’ remarkable story of The Monkey’s Paw was originally published in 1902 in Harper’s Monthly. It was reprinted the same year in his third collection of short stories, entitled The Lady of the Barge.

It’s been celebrated on stage, screen, radio, television, comics, and even opera since 1903. Something about the unintended consequences connected with having your wish granted really strikes a chord. Let’s strike it again. 

And now, The Monkey’s Paw, W.W. Jacobs. 

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It’s the most glorious flower garden the world has ever known. But when a young student falls in love with the mysterious Eve who tends the garden, he learns that this Paradise is anything but a Garden of Eden. Nathaniel Hawthorne, today on The Classic Tales Podcast. 

Welcome to this Vintage Episode of The Classic Tales Podcast. Thank you for listening. 

Two Vintage Episodes are released each week, so be sure to check your feed regularly. New episodes will be available every Friday. If you like the Vintage Episodes, please let us know by going to http://classictalesaudiobooks.com. Become a supporter, tell your friends, order an audiobook, or send us an email. You can also give us a review on Apple Podcasts. We’d love to hear if you like the older episodes.

Today we continue the Gothic vein with a short story by Nathaniel Hawthorne. Most of us are familiar with The Scarlet Letter. But Hawthorne really shines in the medium of the short story, and this story is an excellent example. 

Gothic elements abound – Beatrice is socially and physically isolated from the rest of the world. There is a supernatural and scientific element to the garden, the romance of the two lovers, and the Faustian/diabolical figure of Dr. Rappaccini. 

All in all, it’s a solid piece of literature, if you can overlook the green narrator.  

And now, Rappaccini’s Daughter, by Nathaniel Hawthorne. 

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Why does the rose bush tremble, when there isn’t a hint of wind? Mary Wilkins Freeman, today on The Classic Tales Podcast. 

Welcome to The Classic Tales Podcast. Thank you for listening. 

How are we liking the Vintage Episodes? Are they brightening up your week? Are you looking for more? Please let us know by going to http://classictalesaudiobooks.com. Pick up an audiobook, become a supporter, leave a review, or send us an email. Let us know if you’d like more. 

When I first started the show, we did a lot of ghost stories. So, this week, you’ll hear Rappaccini’s Daughter, by Nathaniel Hawthorne, and The Monkey’s Paw, by W. W. Jacobs. Keep an eye on your podcast feed for two Vintage Episodes – one on Monday, another on Wednesday. If you like them, head on over to http://classictalesaudiobooks.com and let us know one way or another. And thanks for your support! 

Today’s story is riddled with secrets, and but the main theme is deception. Each woman handles the truth differently in this story, and it’s interesting to see who does what with the information they have. 

Puritanism is rampant in the story, from the characters’ style of speaking, their way of life, the attitude toward teenage boys, and the unspoken understanding of how to handle the truth. Good people don’t tell lies, right? Well, let’s see. 

And now, The Wind in the Rose Bush, by Mary Wilkins Freeman.

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How does Barbara cope with the loss of her handsome Edmond? Can Lord Uplandtowers use this to exact a cruel revenge? Thomas Hardy, today on The Classic Tales Podcast. 

Welcome to this Vintage Episode of The Classic Tales Podcast. Thank you for listening. 

We’ll be releasing two Vintage Episodes each week, so be sure to check your feed regularly. New episodes will be available every Friday. If you like the Vintage Episodes, please let us know by going to http://classictalesaudiobooks.com. Become a supporter, tell your friends, order an audiobook, or send us an email. We’d love to hear if you like the older episodes. 

T.S. Eliot said that Barbara of the House of Grebe “would seem to have been written solely to provide a satisfaction for some morbid emotion”. Looking back on this production, I’m rather inclined to agree. When you think about why this story was written, or what message it’s trying to convey, it may be simply to scratch some dark and murky itch. See how far you can go, kind of thing. 

In short, the ending of this story is pretty dark. Just a heads up. 

And now, Barbara of the House of Grebe, Part 2 of 2, by Thomas Hardy.  

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When Barbara elopes with her penniless lover, it sets in motion a series of events culminating in tragedy. Thomas Hardy, today on The Classic Tales Podcast. 

Welcome to this Vintage Episode of The Classic Tales Podcast. Thank you for listening. 

We’ll be releasing two Vintage Episodes each week, so be sure to check your feed regularly. New episodes will be available every Friday. If you like the Vintage Episodes, please let us know by going to http://classictalesaudiobooks.com. Become a supporter, tell your friends, order an audiobook, or send us an email. You can also give us a review on Apple Podcasts. We’d love to hear if you like the older episodes. 

This episode of The Classic Tales Podcast was originally released on June 22, 2007, along with The Cask of Amontillado, by Edgar Allan Poe, and The Speckled Band, by Arthur Conan Doyle.

I ran across this story in a collection of short stories called The Oxford Book of Gothic Tales, edited by Chris Baldick, which I’d highly recommend. Of course, you’ll run into most of the stories if you listen to the Vintage Episodes of the podcast. 

Barbara of the House of Grebe was originally published in the periodical The Graphic in 1890, and later collected with nine other stories in A Group of Noble Dames, and published in book form in 1891. 

It’s a pretty gothic story. You’ve got the dark atmosphere, romance, tragedy, and a dark villain. So buckle up. It’s about to get real. 

And now, Barbara of the House of Grebe, Part 1 of 2, by Thomas Hardy. 

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Why is Bryden’s doppelgänger curiously disfigured? Henry James, today on The Classic Tales Podcast. 

Welcome to The Classic Tales Podcast. Thank you for listening. 

This marks the first week of Vintage Episodes released alongside the new episodes of The Classic Tales Podcast. How did you like them? Are you looking for more? Please let us know by going to http://classictalesaudiobooks.com. Pick up an audiobook, become a supporter, leave a review, or send us an email. Let us know if you’d like more. 

The Vintage Episodes include not only a remastered version of the original release, starting in 2007, but also new introductory material, story and author background, notes on why the story was chosen, and any performance choices that may or may not have worked. We’ll continue the Vintage Episodes for a month. At that point, we’ll see if this is something we can continue. This week we’ll be releasing both parts of Thomas Hardy’s Barbara of the House of Grebe. Classic Tales app users can hear the first episode now in the special features for today’s episode. 

So keep an eye on your podcast feed, and you’ll see two Vintage Episodes appear – one on Monday, another on Wednesday. If you like it, head on over to http://classictalesaudiobooks.com and let us know one way or another. And thanks for your support! 

Today we finish Brydon’s story, and he meets his doppelgänger – the darker man he could have been. This desperate need to reconnect with his lost chances, lost friendships, lost opportunities, etc. has its roots in the writings of Emmanuel Swedenborg, who influenced James greatly. One of Swedenborg’s theories was that of “vastation”, in which a supernatural encounter with your darker alter-ego occurred, which must be defeated and overcome to progress in the spiritual plane.

Emmanuel Swedenborg influenced many great thinkers, including Fjodor Dostoyevsky, Robert Louis Stevenson, George Bernard Shaw, Sheridan LeFanu,  Abraham Lincoln, Henry Wadsworth Longfellow and many others. 

And now, The Jolly Corner, Part 2 of 2, by Henry James.

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Helen Stoner is terrified. Two years ago, her sister died after hearing strange noises in her room. Now after moving into her sister’s room, Helen is hearing the noises again! Arthur Conan Doyle, today on The Classic Tales Podcast. 

Welcome to this Vintage Episode of The Classic Tales Podcast. Thank you for listening.

 We’ll be releasing two Vintage Episodes each week, so be sure to check your feed regularly. New episodes will be available every Friday. If you like the Vintage Episodes, please let us know by going to http://classictalesaudiobooks.com. Become a supporter, tell your friends, order an audiobook, or send us an email. We’d love to hear if you like the older episodes. 

This episode of The Classic Tales Podcast was originally released on June 22, 2007, along with The Cask of Amontillado, by Edgar Allan Poe, and Part One of Barbara of the House of Grebe, by Thomas Hardy. 

The Adventure of the Speckled Band is one of 12 Sherlock Holmes stories comprising The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes. It is one of the 56 short stories in the Sherlock Holmes canon, and hosts many tell-tale signs of the classic detective genre. Doyle himself called it his “best story”. It was originally published in the Strand Magazine in February 1892. 

And now, The Adventure of the Speckled Band, by Arthur Conan Doyle. 

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The bloody-minded Montresor leads the pompous Fortunato deep into the wine vaults and catacombs, crowning in a climax that is delightfully sinister. Edgar Allan Poe, today on The Classic Tales Podcast. 

Welcome to The Classic Tales Podcast. Thank you for listening. 

This is our first Vintage Episode of The Classic Tales Podcast. We’ll be releasing two Vintage Episodes each week, so be sure to check your feed regularly. New episodes will be available every Friday. 

We’ve got a special treat for you. Head on over to Nancy Peterson’s TikTok channel @nancy_peterson_narrates, and you can see her recording an episode or two of The Classic Tales Podcast LIVE. In October, she and I will be doing a duet narration of The Closed Cabinet. You can watch her record her portion live on her TikTok channel, and even chime in! Nancy is an Audie Award-Winning narrator, a world class individual, and great friend. Check out her TikTok channel, and you’ll have a ball. A link is in the show description.

This episode of The Classic Tales Podcast was originally released on June 22, 2007, along with The Speckled Band, by Arthur Conan Doyle, and Part One of Barbara of the House of Grebe, by Thomas Hardy. 

The recording of Basil Rathbone recording The Cask of Amontillado changed my life. It really did. Up until that time, I couldn’t understand the heavier language of the classics. I never really understood Poe until I had an actor help me with it. But when I heard this recording, the world opened up for me. I listened to it over and over again, until I practically memorized it. Then I discovered other audiobooks, and learned how to really read. I could understand these amazing stories that were up until that time, hidden from me. I can’t emphasize how deeply this impacted my life. We named our first-born son Basil. 

So, after I listened to a few hundreds of audiobooks over a dozen years or so, I heard about podcasting, and I had an idea for one. The Cask of Amontillado had to be the first episode. I cobbled together an old computer, borrowed some recording equipment, and threw three episodes together. 

Now, 17 years later, I record audiobooks as my full-time job. 

Let’s start the journey again. 

And now, The Cask of Amontillado, by Edgar Allan Poe. 

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Is the spectral presence in Bryden’s home the ghost of his alter ego, or is he just seeing what he wants to see? Henry James, today on The Classic Tales Podcast. 

Welcome to The Classic Tales Podcast. Thank you for listening. 

If you’d like to hear more Classic Tales, then buckle up. Starting this week, for every one episode of new content, we will be releasing two Vintage Episodes of The Classic Tales Podcast. You may have noticed that there are only 250+ episodes available through the podcast, but the episode numbers are 850+. That means there are around 600 episodes currently not on the feed. Well, we’re going to change that. 

Not only will we continue to create new content every Friday, but on Mondays and Wednesdays we be releasing Vintage Episodes of The Classic Tales Podcast. We’re going to start at the very beginning, with the very first episode, and release two Vintage Episodes every week. If we release two Vintage Episodes for every new episode, we’ll be caught up in around five and a half years. 

So if you want more, you got it. But this is a trial program. We’re going to try this for a while, and if you like it, please become a supporter, or tell your friends, or drop us a line and let us know. We’ll see how it goes. As for me, I’m excited to revisit some of my old friends, and I’d like to hear from you.

Keep an eye on your podcast feed, and you’ll see two new episodes in addition to our regular show on Friday. If you like it, head on over to http://classictalesaudiobooks.com and let us know one way or another. And thanks for your support! 

Today’s story is incredibly autobiographical, and is considered one of Henry James’ best ghost stories. He wrote it six years before his death, and thirty-three years after he settled in Europe after leaving America. 

It’s the story of a wealthy young man who leaves America in his youth, follows a life of dissipation for 33 years in Europe, and returns to his ancestral home in New York. He is struck by the changes he sees, of course. But upon realizing he has a certain knack for real estate development, he is haunted by his alter ego – the man he could have been. 

And now, The Jolly Corner, Part 1 of 2, by Henry James. 

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Why is a spectre haunting a lonely signal man in the small hours of the night? Charles Dickens, today on The Classic Tales Podcast. 

Welcome to The Classic Tales Podcast. Thank you for listening.

If you’re like me, when it comes to choosing audiobooks, I have two problems:

I don’t know if I’ll like the writing, and I don’t know whether I’ll like the narrator.

Being a supporter of The Classic Tales solves this problem perfectly.

You can listen to the podcast for free, go to the Classic Tales store, and try downloading some of our free offerings. You can totally try before you buy, and we’ve recently updated our free titles, so check it out!

Whatever title you choose, you know it’s going to be carefully curated, so the writing is on point, and you know the narrator! 

Become a monthly supporter, and you can support the show, and get more audiobooks! 

It’s a great way to listen to high quality audiobooks you know you’ll love! We got you covered! 

After the show, go to classictalesaudiobooks.com and become a supporter. Thanks for helping out.

Oliver Twist. Great Expectations. David Copperfield. A Christmas Carol. Nicholas Nickleby. The list goes on. When it comes to classic literature, Charles Dickens has it covered. He’s written some of the most iconic characters in our canon of classic literature. 

He used his power to point out some of the worst parts of the Industrial Revolution in Victorian England. And he also showed us the heights of humanity by detailing the lives of the poor and lower classes. Now, let’s hear a ghost story. 

And now, The Signal Man, by Charles Dickens. 

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Ten undetectable humanoids are loose in the United States, and if they get together, they will transform into a horrific bomb. How can they be stopped? Isaac Asimov, today on The Classic Tales Podcast. 

Welcome to The Classic Tales Podcast. Thank you for listening. 

If you’re like me, when it comes to choosing audiobooks, I have two problems:

I don’t know if I’ll like the writing, and I don’t know whether I’ll like the narrator.

Being a supporter of The Classic Tales solves this problem perfectly. You can listen to the podcast for free, go to the Classic Tales store, and try downloading some of our free offerings. You can totally try before you buy, and we’ve recently updated our free titles, so check it out!

Whatever title you choose, you know it’s going to be carefully curated, so the writing is on point, and you know the narrator! 

Become a monthly supporter, and you can support the show, and get more audiobooks! 

It’s a great way to listen to high quality audiobooks you know you’ll love! We got you covered! 

After the show, go to classictalesaudiobooks.com and become a supporter. Thanks for helping out.

Isaac Asimov (1920 – 1992) was an American writer and professor. In his time, he was considered one of the “Big Three” most influential science fiction writers of his day, along with Robert A. Heinlein and Arthur C. Clarke. He wrote or edited over 500 works, including the Foundation series, the first three books of which won the Hugo Award for “Best All-Time Series” in 1966. His other major series are the Galactic Empire series, and the Robot series. 

Asimov is also known for inventing terms which are now commonplace. He coined the phrase “robotics” in his 1941 story, “Liar”. Also, the word psychohistory, having to do with a fictional branch of science that combines statistics, science, and history, to make predictions about the future. This concept is explored in his Foundation series. 

Today’s story was first published in the February 1957 issue of Infinity magazine. Extensive research did not uncover that the U.S. copyright was renewed. 

And now, Let’s Get Together, by Isaac Asimov. 

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Why does Mr. Lavington insist that his nephew remain in the brutal winter of New England, defying the diagnoses of many doctors? Edith Wharton, today on The Classic Tales Podcast. 

Welcome to The Classic Tales Podcast. Thank you for listening. 

We are proudly supported by our listeners. We couldn’t do this without you. Your monthly donation helps in so many ways, and it also gives you access to more classic titles. 

Go to http://classictalesaudiobooks.com and become a financial supporter today. A $5 dollar monthly donation gets you an $8 monthly coupon code for any audiobook order. Give more, and you get more! Thank you so much. 

Edith Wharton wrote several ghost stories in the early twentieth century. Today’s story was first published in 1914. She believed a good supernatural tale should, “ send a cold shiver down one’s spine”, but not resort to conventional descriptions of ghosts and similar spirits. In this way she is similar to her contemporary and friend, Henry James. 

The craft of the Victorian Ghost Story is evident in the subtle way the atmosphere is crafted, and the suspense gently builds. Notice how Mr. Lavington is described. His smile is fixed on his face. “His intense personality has permeated every corner of his dwelling, in an occult way.” It’s one of those stories you want to listen to again once you’re done, to see what you missed. I hope you like it. 

And now, The Triumph of Night, by Edith Wharton.

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Why are Mr. and Mrs. Brede telling so many lies? They seem like such nice people. Henry Cuyler Bunner, today on The Classic Tales Podcast. 

Welcome to The Classic Tales Podcast. Thank you for listening.

We are proudly supported by our listeners. We couldn’t do this without you. Your monthly donation helps in so many ways, and it also gives you access to more classic titles. 

Go to http://classictalesaudiobooks.com and become a financial supporter today. A $5 dollar monthly donation gets you an $8 monthly coupon code for any audiobook order. Give more, and you get more! Thank you so much. 

Henry Cuyler Bunner (1855-1896) Was an American journalist, novelist, and poet. His works were largely anthologized in the early 1900s, but he’s mostly forgotten now. His short story about the comedic adventures of a circus elephant, Zenobia’s Infidelity, was made into a film in 1939 starring Oliver Hardy. 

This piece stuck out to me because there are some really nice moments of description, and the way characters can be described so concisely. It’s also an interesting study of how humor has evolved over the years. 

And now, The Nice People, by Henry Cuyler Bunner.

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How will mother respond when she learns that a new barn is being built where she’d been promised a house? Mary E Wilkins Freeman, today on The Classic Tales Podcast. 

Welcome to The Classic Tales Podcast. Thank you for listening. 

We are proudly supported by our listeners. We couldn’t do this without you. Your monthly donation helps in so many ways, and it also gives you access to more classic titles. 

Go to http://classictalesaudiobooks.com and become a financial supporter today. A $5 dollar monthly donation gets you an $8 monthly coupon code for any audiobook order. Give more, and you get more! Thank you so much.

Mary E Wilkins Freeman (1852 – 1930) was an American author who wrote in a variety of formats, including novels, short stories, and children’s poetry. She is known for her strong voice in defending the plight of women. 

Today’s story was published in her most famous work, A New England Nun and Other Stories (1891) I discovered it in a book published for high school English students in 1920. I just wanted to point out a couple of things about this story. Note that in the beginning, no names are used for the characters – their roles are emphasized first, then the names come after a while. 

Also, in the beginning, when the mother and daughter are discussing father’s behavior, mother says: “You hadn't ought to judge father, though. He can't help it, 'cause he don't look at things jest the way we do.” Notice how this one line sets up everything that follows.  

And now, The Revolt of Mother, by Mary E Wilkins Freeman.

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Will the joys of the Araby bazaar live up to the hype, or is this enthusiasm possibly misplaced? James Joyce, today on The Classic Tales Podcast. 

Welcome to The Classic Tales Podcast. Thank you for listening. 

We are proudly supported by our listeners. We couldn’t do this without you. Your monthly donation helps in so many ways, and it also gives you access to more classic titles. 

Go to http://classictalesaudiobooks.com and become a financial supporter today. A $5 dollar monthly donation gets you an $8 monthly coupon code for any audiobook order. Thank you so much. 

James Augustine Aloysius Joyce lived from 1882 – 1941, and is widely considered one of the most important writers of the 20^th century. He contributed to the modernist avant-garde movement, and stream of consciousness writing. His most well-known works include The Portrait of the Artist as a Young Man (1916), Finnegan’s Wake (1939), and Ulysses (1922).

Today’s story was published in the short story collection Dubliners in 1914. It centers around a coming-of-age narrator who is infatuated with his friend’s sister, and promises to get her something at the Araby bazaar. 

There are several themes touched on in Araby, many of which recur frequently in Dubliners. The meeting of imagination with reality, the consequences of idealization, The Catholic Church’s influence to shame desire and sensuality, among others. There is also a focus on the pain one feels when encountering love in reality, rather than in its idealized form. 

And now, Araby, by James Joyce.

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A cutthroat quest for buried treasure begs the question - is one life more sacred than another? H.G. Wells, today on The Classic Tales Podcast. 

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We are proudly supported by our listeners. We couldn’t do this without you. Your monthly donation helps in so many ways, and it also gives you access to more classic titles. 

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Herbert George Wells lived from 1866 to 1946, and saw the world change on a scale like never before. A forward-thinking social critic, he wrote a number of utopian works and foresaw the advent of aircraft, space travel, nuclear weapons, and the world wide web.  

He was known for placing commonplace detail alongside a single extraordinary assumption in each work. This method was dubbed “Wells’ Law”. His most notable works include The Invisible Man, The Time Machine, The Island of Dr. Moreau, and The War of the Worlds. 

Today’s story contains the commonplace details surrounding a hunt for buried treasure. What do you see as the single extraordinary assumption? 

And now, The Treasure in the Forest, by H.G. Wells. 

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Are there really more things in heaven and earth than we can dream of? Joaquim Maria Machado de Assis, today on The Classic Tales Podcast. 

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Joaquim Maria Machado de Assis is widely regarded as the greatest Brazilian writer. Born on June 21^st, 1839 to a poor family, and the grandson of freed slaves in Rio de Janeiro, he did not achieve notoriety outside of Brazil during his lifetime. He was an autodidact, never attending university, and scrapping to learn everything he could while struggling to rise in society. He taught himself French, English, German and Greek, and was the first President of the Brazilian Academy of Letters. 

Today’s story begins by referencing the expression from Shakespeare about there being more things in heaven and earth than are dreamed of in our philosophy. There’s more going on than we can see, or touch, etc.. Ghosts, mystical forces, prophesy, divine guidance, destiny, these types of things. It’s possible that like most people, a version of these things give you comfort. The question I’d pose is – why do they comfort you? 

And now, The Fortune-Teller, by Joaquim Maria Machado de Assis.  

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Is a young man’s philandering ever really a victimless crime? D.H. Lawrence, today on The Classic Tales Podcast. 

Welcome to The Classic Tales Podcast. Thank you for listening. 

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App users can watch a short video of me talking about another thing I love about the classics, if that’s your idea of a good time. 

If you’re in the mood for a good contemporary thriller, check out Immortal Red, by Keith Hummel on Audible. The link is in the show notes. When a biologist discovers a jellyfish that holds the secret to immortality, things start to spin out of control. Tapping into his years of medical experience, Hummel’s convincing thriller spans the globe as governments and mercenaries conspire to acquire the real essence of eternal life. I had a great time recording it. That’s Immortal Red, by Keith Hummel. Don’t miss it! 

David Herbert Lawrence was a novelist, poet, short story writer and essayist. His best known novels, including “Sons and Lovers”, “The Rainbow”, and “Lady Chatterley’s Lover”, were subjects of censorship trials for their radical use of strong language and sexuality. Lawrence was largely maligned and estranged during his career. However, E.M. Forster in an obituary notice challenged this view, dubbing Lawrence, “the greatest imaginative novelist of our generation”. 

Today’s story isn’t particularly racy at all, please don’t worry about that. But it’s elegantly written, and very powerful in it’s message. It’s from a collection of short stories written from 1913 – 1922, and takes place during World War I. Written a hundred years before the “Me Too” movement, this is one of the issues we’re still struggling with as a species. See if the punishment fits the crime. Then ask yourself why you came to that conclusion. 

And now, Tickets, Please, by D.H. Lawrence. 

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What gruesome mystery surrounds the two-hundred-year-old derelict? William Hope Hodgson, today on The Classic Tales Podcast. 

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There are 10 new titles from the archives now available on the website. Works from O. Henry, Kate Chopin, Guy de Maupassant, Louisa May Alcott and others are ready when you are. 

One of the things I love about the classics is that even the “scary” stories have something interesting to offer. Take today’s story for instance. It’s not just a story where, “oh, you know what would be really creepy…”. Hodgson, as he often does, has couched his scary story within a story where two men are discussing the nature of life. 

Is it life as we know it simply something that spontaneously happens when the elements and conditions are perfect? Or is there a deeper, more mysterious power at play? What does this mean about life after death? Then the story illustrates a point. I mean, seriously, to probe these profound questions in the midst of getting thrilled and spooked is one of the charms of these stories. 

And if you’d like to experience this phenomenon further – go read Frankenstein. Again.

And now, The Derelict, by William Hope Hodgson

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Will Bess and Venters make it out of the valley with Tull’s men on their trail? Will Lassiter and Jane find safety? Zane Grey, today on The Classic Tales Podcast. 

Welcome to The Classic Tales Podcast. Thank you for listening. 

We are proudly supported by our listeners. We couldn’t do this without you. Your monthly donation helps in so many ways, and it also gives you access to more classic titles. 

Go to http://classictalesaudiobooks.com and become a financial supporter today. A $5 dollar monthly donation gets you an $8 monthly coupon code for any audiobook order. Thank you so much. 

There are 10 new titles from the archives now available on the website. Works from O. Henry, Kate Chopin, Guy de Maupassant, Louisa May Alcott and others are ready when you are. 

The first season of the Arsène Lupin Podcast is complete!  Binge all episodes of our gentleman burglar’s own show. And tell your friends! Links can be found in the show notes. 

App users and those who follow us on social media can see a short video of me talking about books! Check us out on the Classic Tales App, or on YouTube, Instagram, Facebook or TikTok. Links are in the show notes. 

And now, Riders of the Purple Sage, part 12 of 12, by Zane Grey

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Why does Bess’s true identity shatter the worlds of Venters, Jane, and even Lassiter? Zane Grey, today on The Classic Tales Podcast. 

Welcome to The Classic Tales Podcast. Thank you for listening. 

We are proudly supported by our listeners. We couldn’t do this without you. Your monthly donation helps in so many ways, and it also gives you access to more classic titles!

Go to http://classictalesaudiobooks.com and become a financial supporter today. A $5 dollar monthly donation gets you an $8 monthly coupon code for any audiobook order. Thank you so much. 

The first season of the Arsène Lupin Podcast is complete!  Binge all episodes of our gentleman burglar’s own show. And tell your friends! Links can be found in the show notes. 

Okay, so I’m trying a new thing. I’ve talked before about how much these stories mean to me. I couldn’t read well as a kid, then I discovered audiobooks, and all of these classics which I’ve wanted to read for years but were too difficult were now available to me. I want to share the joy I find in these stories with everyone who’ll hear. This is why I do what I do.

Here’s the thing: I’m sure there are a lot of people listening now with a similar story to tell. I want you to tell them. Here. Here’s the plan: 

Send me an email to mail@classictalesaudiobooks.com. Briefly tell me why classic literature means so much to you. Doesn’t need to be much, maybe a quick story, an experience you had while reading something. A decision you made because of a book you read, reaffirmation of a tough decision you made, how they make you feel, whatever it is. There’s a reason you’re listening to this podcast. Tell me what it is, and we’ll see if it will work!  

We’ll set up a time, and do a quick zoom meeting where you can tell me about your love for classic literature. Doesn’t need to be long. I’ll record our meeting, and share it with all the classic tales fans on the podcast and YouTube. 

Then, we’ll start sprinkling our award-winning audiobook content with your stories. Hopefully we can deepen the conversation, and all develop a greater appreciation for these amazing stories! 

So send me an email – mail@classictalesaudiobooks.com. Tell me your story, and we’ll see if we can get you on the show! 

And now, Riders of the Purple Sage, part 11 of 12, by Zane Grey

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With Faye’s abduction, Lassiter’s about to show what he’s made of.  Zane Grey, today on The Classic Tales Podcast. 

Welcome to The Classic Tales Podcast. Thank you for listening. 

We are proudly supported by our listeners. We couldn’t do this without you. Your monthly donation helps in so many ways, and it also gives you access to more classic titles. 

Go to http://classictalesaudiobooks.com and become a financial supporter today. A $5 dollar monthly donation gets you an $8 monthly coupon code for any audiobook order. Thank you so much. 

The first season of the Arsène Lupin Podcast is complete!  Binge all episodes of our gentleman burglar’s own show. And tell your friends! Links can be found in the show notes. 

This week’s episode starts right where the last one left off, so I’m including a few minutes of the tail end of last week’s episode to lead us into Chapter 20.  

And now, Riders of the Purple Sage, part 10 of 12, by Zane Grey

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When the townsfolk see Venters returning to town with Jane Withersteen’s stolen horses, they know somebody’s gonna die. Zane Grey, today on The Classic Tales Podcast. 

Welcome to The Classic Tales Podcast. Thank you for listening. 

We are proudly supported by our listeners. We couldn’t do this without you. Your monthly donation helps in so many ways, and it also gives you access to more classic titles. 

Go to http://classictalesaudiobooks.com and become a financial supporter today. A $5 dollar monthly donation gets you an $8 monthly coupon code for any audiobook order. Thank you so much. 

The first season of the Arsène Lupin Podcast is complete!  Binge all episodes of our gentleman burglar’s own show. And tell your friends! Links can be found in the show notes. 

The National Audio Theatre Festival has awarded a Platinum Award to my recording of 813, by Maurice Leblanc. It’s the highest honor they bestow, and I’m so happy and humbled to have received it. Thanks to all of our monthly supporters who have made it possible for us to create this award-winning content. 

And now, Riders of the Purple Sage, part 9 of 12, by Zane Grey 

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Who are the shady horsemen Venters finds leading Jane Withersteen’s favorite horses? Zane Grey, today on The Classic Tales Podcast.

Welcome to The Classic Tales Podcast. Thank you for listening.

We are proudly supported by our listeners. We couldn’t do this without you. Your monthly donation helps in so many ways, and it also gives you access to more classic titles. 

Go to http://classictalesaudiobooks.com and become a financial supporter today. A $5 dollar monthly donation gets you an $8 monthly coupon code for any audiobook order. Thank you so much. 

The first season of the Arsène Lupin Podcast is complete!  Binge all episodes of our gentleman burglar’s own show. And tell your friends! Links can be found in the show notes. 

The National Audio Theatre Festival has awarded a Platinum Award to my recording of 813, by Maurice Leblanc. It’s the highest honor they bestow, and I’m so happy and humbled to have received it. Thanks to all of our monthly supporters who have made it possible for us to create this award-winning content.

  And now, Riders of the Purple Sage, part 8 of 12, by Zane Grey

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Can Venters publicly call out Tull’s crimes without a serious backlash? Zane Grey, today on The Classic Tales Podcast. 

Welcome to The Classic Tales Podcast. Thank you for listening. 

We are proudly supported by our listeners. We couldn’t do this without you. Your monthly donation helps in so many ways, and it also gives you access to more classic titles. 

Go to http://classictalesaudiobooks.com and become a financial supporter today. A $5 dollar monthly donation gets you an $8 monthly coupon code for any audiobook order. Thank you so much. 

The Arsène Lupin Podcast is happening!  Be sure to subscribe to our gentleman burglar’s own show. And tell your friends! Links can be found in the show notes.

It looks like it’s time to talk about the elephant in the room: The Mormonism in this story. 

First of all, I’ve got to say that Mormon people are some of the best people I’ve known. My parents, friends, colleagues, neighbors - I have a Mormon background. Most of the people I know locally are Mormon. And they’re wonderful – I love them dearly! Mormons, or members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints are great. They’re my folks. The fact that I’m producing this book now isn’t any reflection on them. 

The thing that’s so nefarious about this book is its villain. It’s not a person – it’s systemic religious extortion used to build wealthy empires, while neglecting the poor and needy. That’s what it’s all about – when the institutions we trust to take care of us that actually take way more than they give. Now, is this a uniquely Mormon/LDS problem? No! But it happened then, and it’s happening now. Don’t believe me? Check out 60 Minutes on CBS last week. This religious empire building they talk of in the book is still happening today. 

And so, like other topics that we’ve discussed over the years - racism, classism, poverty, - things that these classic authors wrote about over 100 years ago that were a problem then and are still a problem now, I’m afraid religious-oriented extortion is among them. I wish it wasn’t but here we are. 

Let’s see if we can do better.

And now, Riders of the Purple Sage, part 7 of 12, by Zane Grey

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Follow this link to the 60 minutes program mentioned in the intro

Can Jane Withersteen handle another devastating blow to her livelihood? How many hits can her trembling loyalty take? Zane Grey, today on The Classic Tales Podcast. 

Welcome to The Classic Tales Podcast. Thank you for listening. 

We are proudly supported by our listeners. We couldn’t do this without you. Your monthly donation helps in so many ways, and it also gives you access to more classic titles. 

Go to http://classictalesaudiobooks.com and become a financial supporter today. Thank you so much.

The Arsène Lupin Podcast is plugging along!  Be sure to subscribe to our gentleman burglar’s own show. And tell your friends! Links can be found in the show notes.  

If you’d like to listen and review the amazing audiobook Cuban Son Rising, by Charles Gomez, please reach out to mail@classictalesaudiobooks.com. I’ll send you a free copy. Thanks for your help! 

And now, Riders of the Purple Sage, part 6 of 12, by Zane Grey

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What will Lassiter do when Jane Withersteen’s true intentions are revealed? Zane Grey, today on The Classic Tales Podcast. 

Welcome to The Classic Tales Podcast. Thank you for listening. 

We are proudly supported by our listeners. We couldn’t do this without you. Your monthly donation helps in so many ways, and it also gives you access to more classic titles. 

Go to http://classictalesaudiobooks.com and become a financial supporter today. Thank you so much. 

The Arsène Lupin Podcast hit the #49 spot on the Canadian Fiction Podcast charts last week. Be sure to subscribe to our gentleman burglar’s own show. And tell your friends! 

If you’d like to listen and review the amazing audiobook Cuban Son Rising, by Charles Gomez, please reach out to mail@classictalesaudiobooks.com. I’ll send you a free copy. Thanks for your help! 

This week we continue our series of Riders of the Purple Sage, by Zane Grey. Last week Venters and Bess found a secret place where they could hide and heal. Today we’ll pick up right where we left off there. 

And now, Riders of the Purple Sage, part 5 of 12, by Zane Grey

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Why does Venters want to save the cattle rustler he shot? How is he going to save anyone, with the rustlers on his trail? Zane Grey, today on The Classic Tales Podcast. 

Welcome to The Classic Tales Podcast. Thank you for listening. 

We are proudly supported by our listeners. We couldn’t do this without you. Your monthly donation helps in so many ways, and it also gives you access to more classic titles. 

Go to http://classictalesaudiobooks.com and become a financial supporter today. Thank you so much. 

The Arsène Lupin Podcast is out! Be sure to subscribe to our gentleman burglar’s own show. And tell your friends! 

And finally, if you’d like to be an Audible reviewer, here’s your chance. I just finished an amazing project, and we need some reviews on Audible to help give it some traction. CBS News reporter Charles Gomez was fearless when facing down dictators. Earning an Emmy and an Edward R. Murrow Award, the Latin correspondent and son of a Cuban immigrant seemed on top of the world. But the terror of exposing his sexuality and AIDS diagnosis led him down a dark path of drugs and depression that nearly destroyed him. 

If you’d like to listen and review this audiobook for Audible, please reach out to mail@classictalesaudiobooks.com. I’ll send you a free copy. Thanks for your help! 

This week we continue our series of Riders of the Purple Sage, by Zane Grey. Today we return to Venters and his dilemma. He had just shot the famed Masked Rider, afterwards discovering that the rider was, in fact, an unarmed young woman. 

And now, Riders of the Purple Sage, part 4 of 12, by Zane Grey 

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Lassiter discovers another plot to sabotage Jane Withersteen’s cattle, and only he can stop it. Zane Grey, today on The Classic Tales Podcast. 

Welcome to The Classic Tales Podcast. Thank you for listening. 

We are proudly supported by our listeners. We couldn’t do this without you. Your monthly donation helps in so many ways, and it also gives you access to more classic titles. 

Go to http://classictalesaudiobooks.com and become a financial supporter today. Thank you so much. 

The Arsène Lupin Podcast is out! Four episodes are now available on the feed, and a new episode will be released every Wednesday. Right now, this is a limited series, but if it takes off, we may add to it. So tell your friends about our favorite Gentleman Burglar’s own show! A link to subscribe can be found in the notes for today’s episode.

This week we continue our series of Riders of the Purple Sage, by Zane Grey. Last week, we followed Venters as he discovered the hideout of the cattle rustlers, and discovered that the famed Masked Rider was, in fact, a young woman. 

Our story now turns back to Jane Withersteen, as she tries to discover who called her riders in, opening the door for her herd of 2,500 cattle to be stolen.

And now, Riders of the Purple Sage, part 3 of 12, by Zane Grey

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Venters heads off to discover the cattle rustlers’ hideout in Deception Pass. But when he crosses paths with the Masked Rider, everything goes sideways. Zane Grey, today on The Classic Tales Podcast. 

Welcome to The Classic Tales Podcast. Thank you for listening. 

We are proudly supported by our listeners. We couldn’t do this without you. Your monthly donation helps in so many ways, and it also gives you access to more classic titles. 

Go to http://classictalesaudiobooks.com and become a financial supporter today. Thank you so much. 

The Arsène Lupin Podcast is out! Three episodes are now available on the feed, and a new episode will be released every Wednesday. Right now, this is a limited series, but if it takes off, we may add to it. So tell your friends about our favorite Gentleman Burglar’s own show! A link to subscribe can be found in the notes for today’s episode. 

This week we continue our series of Riders of the Purple Sage, by Zane Grey. Last week, we met Jane Withersteen, a wealthy single woman who owns an extensive ranch in Southern Utah. Her refusal to enter into a polygamous marriage with Tull caused a deal of friction and threats from the Mormon elders. 

Venters, her most trusted hand, saw Judkins from afar riding like gangbusters back to the ranch – apparently with some terrible news…

And now, Riders of the Purple Sage, part 2 of 12, by Zane Grey 

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Jane Withersteen has a reputation for befriending the homeless outcast. So why are the town elders fuming mad? Zane Grey, today on The Classic Tales Podcast. 

Welcome to The Classic Tales Podcast. Thank you for listening. 

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Go to http://classictalesaudiobooks.com and become a financial supporter today. Thank you so much. 

The Arsène Lupin Podcast is coming out next week. Wednesdays are about to get even better. Keep an ear open for our new show! 

And now for something completely different. 

This week we’re beginning a 12-part series of the Zane Grey classic: Riders of the Purple Sage. 

Riders of the Purple Sage is consistently short-listed as one of the best westerns of all time. Zane Grey was instrumental in defining the western novel, and Purple Sage was his best-selling book. Multiple films, operas, and TV adaptations have all been made of Jane Withersteen’s courageous story. Grey also wrote a sequel to it: The Rainbow Trail. I hope you like it!

And now, Riders of the Purple Sage, part 1 of 12, by Zane Gre

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With the world’s population perfectly regulated, what does it mean when Mrs. Wehling has triplets? Kurt Vonnegut, today on The Classic Tales Podcast. 

Welcome to The Classic Tales Podcast. Thank you for listening. 

We are proudly supported by our listeners. Please sign up to be a supporter for as little as $5 a month. We’ll give you a monthly coupon code for $8 off any audiobook order. Your support on a monthly basis is vital to keep us going. 

Go to http://classictalesaudiobooks.com and become a financial supporter today. Thank you so much. 

The Arsène Lupin Podcast is coming along. Wednesdays are about to get even better. Keep an ear open for our new show!

This week we’re continuing our little foray into the world of classic science fiction. 

Kurt Vonnegut attained international success with his novel Slaugherhouse-Five in 1969. His other notable works include Welcome to the Monkey House, Sirens of Titan and Cat’s Cradle. The latter two were nominated for Hugo Awards for notable science fiction. 

And now, 2BR02B, by Kurt Vonnegut.

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In a world where delusions become reality, what is the standard for sanity? Ray Bradbury, today on The Classic Tales Podcast. 

Welcome to The Classic Tales Podcast. Thank you for listening.

We are proudly supported by our listeners. Please sign up to be a supporter for as little as $5 a month. We’ll give you a monthly coupon code for $8 off any audiobook order. Your support on a monthly basis is vital to keep us going.

Go to http://classictalesaudiobooks.com and become a financial supporter today. Thank you so much.

The Arsène Lupin Podcast is coming along. If you haven’t heard, I’ll be releasing the first collection of Lupin stories as its own show. Wednesdays are about to get even better. 

This week we’re continuing our little foray into the world of classic science fiction. 

The New York Times dubbed Ray Bradbury, “The writer most responsible for bringing modern science fiction into the literary mainstream”. While he wrote chiefly in the realm of speculative fiction, he also worked in other genres, including horror, mystery, and coming of age fiction. 

His best-known works include the novel Fahrenheit 451, his collections of short stories, The Martian Chronicles and The Illustrated Man, and the speculative horror novel Something Wicked This Way Comes.

Today’s story was first published in the pulp magazine, Thrilling Wonder Stories, in October 1948. 

And now, The Square Pegs, by Ray Bradbury. 

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What do you call a con man in an advanced world of rocket ships, concrete, and stainless steel? A stainless steel rat. Harry Harrison, today on The Classic Tales Podcast. 

Welcome to The Classic Tales Podcast. Thank you for listening. 

We are proudly supported by our listeners. Please sign up to be a supporter for as little as $5 a month. We’ll give you a monthly coupon code for $8 off any audiobook order. Your support on a monthly basis is vital to keep us going. 

Go to http://classictalesaudiobooks.com and become a financial supporter today. Thank you so much. 

The Arsène Lupin Podcast is coming along. If you haven’t heard, I’ll be releasing the first collection of Lupin stories as its own show. Wednesdays are about to get even better. 

And now for something completely different.  

I thought we’d have a little bit of classic science fiction for a while. We’re starting with a short story by Harry Harrison. The Stainless Steel Rat is his most well-known story, along with the Deadworld series. Originally released in the August 1957 issue of Astounding Science Fiction, the noir style of the story helps us to immediately know our protagonist, and the world he inhabits. I hope you like it. 

And now, The Stainless Steel Rat, by Harry Harrison 

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How is Ukridge hoping to finagle his own wedding bells? PEPPO – the tonic that bucks you up! I don’t see a problem, here. P.G. Wodehouse, today on The Classic Tales Podcast. 

Welcome to The Classic Tales Podcast. Thank you for listening. 

We are proudly supported by our listeners. Please sign up to be a supporter for as little as $5 a month. We’ll give you a monthly coupon code for $8 off any audiobook order. Your support on a monthly basis is vital to keep us going. 

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The Arsène Lupin Podcast is coming along. If you haven’t heard, I’ll be releasing the first collection of Lupin stories as its own show. Wednesdays are about to get even better. 

And now, Ukridge Turns a Nasty Corner, by P.G. Wodehouse. 

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What happens when you mix up Ukridge, Battling Billson, and a Welsh revival meeting? Let’s find out. P.G. Wodehouse, today on The Classic Tales Podcast. 

Welcome to The Classic Tales Podcast. Thank you for listening. 

We are proudly supported by our listeners. Please sign up to be a supporter for as little as $5 a month. We’ll give you a monthly coupon code for $8 off any audiobook order. Your support on a monthly basis is vital to keep us going. 

Go to http://classictalesaudiobooks.com and become a financial supporter today. Thank you so much. 

The Arsène Lupin Podcast is coming along. If you haven’t heard, I’ll be releasing the first collection of Lupin stories as its own show. Wednesdays are about to get even better. 

And now, The Exit of Battling Billson, by P.G. Wodehouse. 

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What’s the most substantial thing that Ukridge can bring to a political campaign? Hopefully not scandal – anything but that. P.G. Wodehouse, today on The Classic Tales Podcast. 

Welcome to The Classic Tales Podcast. Thank you for listening. 

We are proudly supported by our listeners. Please sign up to be a supporter for as little as $5 a month. We’ll give you a monthly coupon code for $8 off any audiobook order. Your support on a monthly basis is vital to keep us going.  

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The Arsène Lupin Podcast is coming along. If you haven’t heard, I’ll be releasing the first collection of Lupin stories as its own show. Wednesdays are about to get even better.

And now, The Long Arm of Looney Coote, by P.G. Wodehouse. 

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How much harm can be done by taking a simple car ride with a chummy chauffeur? Well, if Ukridge is involved, apparently, quite a bit. P.G. Wodehouse, today on The Classic Tales Podcast. 

Welcome to The Classic Tales Podcast. Thank you for listening. 

For a limited time, you can purchase a license for lifetime access to the entire Classic Tales library by going to http://classictalesaudiobooks.com. 7 licenses remain available. Once they’re gone, they’re gone. We don’t know when we will make this offer again, if ever. This grants immediate access to all the titles now in the library, and all the Classic Tales titles I will ever record in the future. No coupon codes needed.

Do you want to binge the Lupin series? You’re in luck. How about the Barsoom series? Sherlock Holmes? Hercule Poirot? Dickens? Shakespeare? All titles are available to brighten your commutes and road trips, or help you relax at bedtime.

It's a rare opportunity to gain access to award-winning classic audiobooks anytime, anywhere, forever. 

Go to http://classictalesaudiobooks.com and purchase your lifetime access license today. Thank you so much. 

The Arsène Lupin Podcast is coming along. If you haven’t heard, I’ll be releasing the first collection of Lupin stories as its own show. Wednesdays are about to get even better. 

And now, No Wedding Bells For Him, by P.G. Wodehouse. 

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Can Ukridge deliver on a promise he made to save Doris’ fledgling dictation business? P.G. Wodehouse, today on The Classic Tales Podcast.  

Welcome to The Classic Tales Podcast. Thank you for listening. 

For a limited time, you can purchase a license for lifetime access to the entire Classic Tales library by going to http://classictalesaudiobooks.com. 9 licenses remain available. Once they’re gone, they’re gone. We don’t know when we will make this offer again, if ever. This grants immediate access to all the titles now in the library, and all the Classic Tales titles I will ever record in the future. No coupon codes needed.

Do you want to binge the Lupin series? You’re in luck. How about the Barsoom series? Sherlock Holmes? Hercule Poirot? Dickens? Shakespeare? All titles are available to brighten your commutes and road trips, or help you relax at bedtime. 

It's a rare opportunity to gain access to award-winning classic audiobooks anytime, anywhere, forever. 

Go to http://classictalesaudiobooks.com and purchase your lifetime access license today. Thank you so much. 

I’m pleased to announce a new endeavor – The Arsene Lupin Podcast. I’ll be releasing the first collection of Lupin stories as its own show. I hope you like it! It’s still in the preliminary phase, but it’s a coming! 

And now, Ukridge sees her through, by P.G. Wodehouse. 

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Corky’s flat is invaded by an unknown woman whose stripling in tow is bent on seeing the sights of London – the murderey ones. P.G. Wodehouse, today on The Classic Tales Podcast.

Welcome to The Classic Tales Podcast. Thank you for listening.

For a limited time, you can purchase a license for lifetime access to the entire Classic Tales library by going to http://classictalesaudiobooks.com. Only 10 licenses remain available. Once they’re gone, they’re gone. We don’t know when we will make this offer again, if ever. This grants immediate access to all the titles now in the library, and all the Classic Tales titles I will ever record in the future. No coupon codes needed.

Do you want to binge the Lupin series? You’re in luck. How about the Barsoom series? Sherlock Holmes? Hercule Poirot? Dickens? Shakespeare? All titles are available to brighten your commutes and road trips, or help you relax at bedtime.

It's a rare opportunity to gain access to award-winning classic audiobooks anytime, anywhere, forever.

Go to http://classictalesaudiobooks.com and purchase your lifetime access license today. Thank you so much.

We’re going to continue with the adventures of Ukridge. Wodehouse uses this character elsewhere, but I think that this collection of stories from Corky’s point of view, and seeing Ukridge as the well-meaning antagonist is quite effective.

The first few stories in this series are available in the podcast feed. You can hear them if you scroll back to episodes 748, to 751, back in September of 2021.

And now, The Return of Battling Billson, by P.G. Wodehouse.

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Dora has lost her position because of Ukridge’s gratuitous “help”. But Ukridge has a plan to make it right – with a little help from his friend. P.G. Wodehouse, today on The Classic Tales Podcast.

Welcome to The Classic Tales Podcast. Thank you for listening.

I have a special announcement to make: For a limited time, you can purchase a license for lifetime access to the entire Classic Tales library by going to http://classictalesaudiobooks.com. We’re in need of a shot in the arm, so we are offering this rare offer. Only 15 licenses are available. We don’t know when we will make this offer again, if ever. This grants immediate access to all the titles now in the library, and all the Classic Tales titles I will ever record in the future.

It's a rare opportunity to gain access to award-winning classic audiobooks anytime, anywhere, forever.

Go to http://classictalesaudiobooks.com and purchase your lifetime access license today. Thank you so much.

And now for something completely different.

P.G. Wodehouse’s Ukridge series begins with a collection of short stories featuring Stanley Featherstonhough Ukridge, a bombastic, leather-headed sentimentalist. He frequently tries to help friends of his, but his schemes seem to always get twisted around. His adventures are seen through the lens of writer James “Corky” Corcoran, an old school chum of Ukridge’s, and a friend of Bertie Wooster’s.

And now, First Aid for Dora, by P.G. Wodehouse.

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When Uncle Pio discovers his protégé, his life seems complete. But the protégé’s tragedy is only beginning. Thornton Wilder, today on The Classic Tales Podcast.

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One of the main themes in this book, The Bridge of San Luis Rey is the nature of love. Wilder deftly dissects it, and we examine it in the many ways love manifests itself. We’ve seen it in the parent-child relationship, and the sibling relationship. We’ve also seen it in the romantic relationship, with Camilla Perichole and the brothers Manuel and Esteban. Today we’ll examine the surrogate parent relationship. Afterwards, we’ll conclude our journey.

And now, The Bridge of San Luis Rey, Part 3 of 3, by Thornton Wilder

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Manuel and Esteban are identical twins that no one can tell apart – they even have their own language. It seems to everyone that they have an almost supernatural connection.  Thornton Wilder, today on The Classic Tales Podcast.

Welcome to The Classic Tales Podcast. Thank you for listening.

We are proudly supported by our listeners. Please sign up to be a supporter for as little as $5 a month. We’ll give you a monthly coupon code for $8 off any audiobook order. Your support on a monthly basis is vital to keep us going.

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And now, The Bridge of San Luis Rey, Part 2 of 3, by Thornton Wilder

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Five people fall to their deaths when a bridge collapses in Peru. Can Brother Juniper discover the reason that these five individuals had to die?  Thornton Wilder, today on The Classic Tales Podcast.

Welcome to Season 17 of The Classic Tales Podcast. Thank you for listening.

We are proudly supported by our listeners. Please sign up to be a supporter for as little as $5 a month. We’ll give you a monthly coupon code for $8 off any audiobook order. Your support on a monthly basis is vital to keep us going.

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Thornton Wilder won two Pulitzer Prizes: one for the novel we’ll begin today: The Bridge of San Luis Rey, and another for his play: Our Town.

In The Bridge of San Luis Rey, Brother Juniper witnesses the tragedy of five people falling to their deaths when a bridge collapses in Peru. He takes it upon himself to study the lives of those who fell in the accident, in an effort to figure out why these five people had to die.

In 1998, the book was selected by the American Modern Library as one of the 100 best novels of the twentieth century.

It has also been hinted that this book is the progenitor of the modern-day disaster epic, where a single disaster intertwines the lives of the victims, whose previous histories are then explored through a series of flashbacks.  

British Prime Minister Tony Blair quoted the final words of the book in a memorial service for the victims of the September 11th attacks. Nine days after the attacks, he read:

"A witness to the deaths, wanting to make sense of them and explain the ways of God to his fellow human beings, examined the lives of the people who died, and these words were said by someone who knew the victims, and who had been through the many emotions, and the many stages, of bereavement and loss.

"But soon we will die, and all memories of those five will have left earth, and we ourselves shall be loved for a while and forgotten. But the love will have been enough; all those impulses of love return to the love that made them. Even memory is not necessary for love. There is a land of the living and a land of the dead, and the bridge is love. The only survival, the only meaning."

And now, The Bridge of San Luis Rey, Part 1 of 3, by Thornton Wilder

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