Swallows and Amazons

By: Arthur Ransome

Narrated by: Alison Larkin

For anyone who loves sailing and adventure, Arthur Ransome's classic Swallows and Amazons series stands alone. Originally published in the UK over a half-century ago, these books are still eagerly read by children, despite their length and their decidedly British protagonists.

We attribute their success to two facts: first, Ransome is a great storyteller and, second, he clearly writes from first-hand experience. Independence and initiative are qualities any child can understand, and every volume in this collection celebrates these virtues.

Swallows and Amazons, the book that started it all in 1930, introduces the Walker family, the camp on Wild Cat Island, the able-bodied catboat "Swallow", and the two intrepid Amazons, plucky Nancy and Peggy Blackett. (All 12 novels in the Swallows and Amazons series have been brought to life in the U.S. in print by David R. Godine, Publisher.)

Listen to more in the Swallows and Amazons series.©1994 Arthur Ransome (P)2008 Audible, Inc.

kids loved and are begging for next book in series

Kids loved and are begging for next book in series. It is read in a British voice. Easy to understand, and my kids have had practice, but a warning if it's a new accent for your family.

Simply Delightful

like "the lion, the witch, and the wardrobe" without magic... but plenty of imagination and adventure. For anyone who loves boats, sailing, adventure, camping, and the occasional simplicity of childhood.

Narration by Alison Larkin is beautifully paced and delivered with enthusiasm and skill.

one of the only "5-Star" across the board reviews I've given.

Terrific Adventure

Where does Swallows and Amazons rank among all the audiobooks you’ve listened to so far?

Among the best. The story is a treat to listen to. I loved the book when I was a kid. I thoroughly enjoyed listening to it in 2014

Who was your favorite character and why?

Probably Titty because she has a vivid imagination that becomes an important part of the Swallows and Amazons adventure. I loved the scenes when she is left alone on the island and is bold enough to steal the Amazons sail boat.

What about Alison Larkin’s performance did you like?

She did a great job of creating the characters.

Was there a moment in the book that particularly moved you?

the best dramatic moment is when the arrow with the green feather tip lands in the Swallows campfire. A surprise worthy of J. K. Rowling and the best of Children's Literature.

Childhood Favorite Rediscovered

What did you love best about Swallows and Amazons?

What I love about Swallows and Amazons is the freedom the children take for granted. It was a different world.

What did you like best about this story?

I loved the war against Captain Flint alias Uncle Jim.

Love of sailing...

Loved this book , can't wait to share it with my grand daughters. Hopefully starting a fondness for Sailing as I have.

I love this book

I recommend this book to anyone who has a great heart.


- Nate Dallas-38 years old

Delightful fun for all ages

My grandson recommended that I listen to this series. I put it off, thinking it was "just for kids." Boy, was I wrong! It is a wonderful story, beautifully written and narrated. I can't wait to start the next one.

That’s so cute

This is a very well written story-I love the characters and the way the story turns out in the end-the narration is only okay in my opinion-I think this is a good LONG read or listen for youngers- I think the book was made for children 11 and under buts that’s only me-I hope you listen and love-FROM:ONE of SEVEN-

beautiful story

kids liked the story. I liked that the reader did the voices so well. A-plus.

great book

loved it. this is a wonderful children's book. kids don't live like this anymore. must read for kids.