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Birdsong

By: Sebastian Faulks
Narrated by: Harry Lloyd, Pippa Bennett-Warner
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Summary

Brought to you by Penguin

This new audio recording marks the 30th anniversary of the publication of Birdsong. This unabridged audio edition is narrated by Harry Lloyd (Game of Thrones; Wolf Hall; The Lost King) and Pippa Bennett-Warner (MotherFatherSon; Harlots; Sitting in Limbo).

In the heat of the French summer, young Englishman Stephen Wraysford travels to France and falls in love with his host's wife, Isabelle Azaire. When the world stops, their affair falters, and Stephen signs up. In a maze of tunnels under the trenches, Stephen finds the courage this war demands from the men in his command. And it is here that he will fight for everything he has ever known and loved.

A contemporary classic, Birdsong has moved millions of people all over the world. It is an epic story of passion, survival and redemption from a master storyteller.

©1993 Sebastian Faulks (P)2023 Penguin Audio
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Critic reviews

'Magnificent - deeply moving.' Sunday Times

'Engrossing, moving, and unforgettable.' The Times

What listeners say about Birdsong

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  • Overall
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Modern classic, beautifully read

A harrowing, epic, beautiful tale of love, belonging and the travesty of the first world war. Perfect narration from Harry Lloyd, utterly moving but never overdone. An incredible listen.

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  • Overall
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soldiers' relationship and living in the trenches

This is not my usual type of book and author but I really enjoyed the book. It was long for me. I learnt so much especially the soldiers' relationship and living in the trenches.
I am so pleased I went to see Birdsong in Cambridge.

I might now read the Seventh Son.

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  • Overall
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Great read

Excellent book. Well written, fantastic story with descriptions that made you feel like you was there.

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J'adore

I have loved this book, since I first read it. It has been a pleasure to listen to every word and hear the story all over again.

I dislike the character of Elizabeth, but understand the reason for her presence. I find the dates of Isabelle's age and early life, and sometimes the dates of events in the war, do not add up properly. I can overlook these because of my love for Stephen, and Jack.

The narration is very good, especially Stephen's voice. It's how I hear it in my head: wonderful.

Thank you for this exquisite production.

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The atrocity of war juxtaposed with human kindness

A fantastic story comparing man’s inhumanity to man with man’s ability to show kindness and love to his fellow beings. Jack and Steven’s story was compelling and moving.

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powerful storyline

The characterisations and the descriptions of life during the war are quite vivid. Good narration.

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Beautifully written and performed.

I loved the story, prose, and character development. Narration very strong. Left me wanting more - of the characters, plot, history, and to develop a deeper understanding of this tragic time of fruitless destruction, human suffering, and sacrifice.

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Did not live up to expectations

Do not understand the hype. Most the characters were horrible people and the women in particular were bland generalisations.

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