Tales of Old

Stories from the Old Testament

By: Clive Johnson

Narrated by: Clive Johnson

The Old Testament is not only an inspired canon of scripture but also stands among the finest works in English literature. Its many tales of angels and demons, heroes and villains, breath-taking miracles and heart-stirring prophecies ensure its appeal not only as a book of instruction and inspiration but also of fascination and enchantment. Above all, it is a book of stories, originally intended to be told to enthralled audiences via the oral tradition. Despite many translations, and having been transcribed now through many centuries, these great tales of old have never lost their power to touch hearts and open minds wherever they are told, in whatever culture or tongue.

This new work offers a retelling of 15 of the canon’s best-known stories. Delivered with the color and wonder of the storyteller’s craft, while remaining faithful to the Bible’s presentation, they will delight young and old listeners alike. Each story presented in this audiobook is also available as a separate title.

Clive Johnson is an interfaith minister, teacher, and storyteller. This is his eleventh book.

©2019 Labyrinthe Press (P)2019 Labyrinthe Press

Critic reviews

"The tales from the Old Testament are as familiar and comfortable as pot roast for Sunday dinner, yet these are new and fresh in lively retellings by Clive Johnson. Using great storytelling techniques and modern language, Johnson makes these fifteen tales nearly dance off the pages." (San Francisco Book Review)

"Accessible, enlightening pieces that lend to read-aloud drama, bringing to life not just the tales but their underlying lessons. These stories don't just lend to read-aloud, but beg to be performed.... Embracing drama and adventure, but adding the moral, ethical, and spiritual flourishes necessary to open dialogues about the Bible's underlying lessons, making them far more than just a rehash of the originals.... Christians who look for a better way of imparting these complex messages to a younger audience than is typical for these Old Testament stories will find Tales Of Old: Stories from the Old Testament just the ticket for family enjoyment." (Midwest Book Review)

"A read-aloud compilation for children and adults...encouraging a revival of the oral tradition of storytelling.... Using simple language and vivid imagery, including perspectives on each story’s meaning or lesson...illuminating the modern relevance of these ancient writings." (BlueInk Review)

Enjoyable for children and adults alike

"Tales of Old: Stories from the Old Testament" (2020) is written and narrated by Clive Johnson and successfully retells fifteen Old Testament biblical stories. Intended for children ages five and up, the stories will hold the attention of any adult as well. Well-known characters such as Adam and Eve, David and Goliath, Samson, and Esther are presented in a colorful and entertaining way. The only clunker is the story of Job, which consists almost entirely of dialogue. I thoroughly enjoyed the book. Johnson’s narration is terrific. Solidly recommended. At my request, I was given this free audiobook and have voluntarily left this review.

Narrator has a beautiful voice.

The author is the narrator and he has a great voice. I was looking for a more “dramatic” storytelling experience for my grandchildren. I feel the young ones need more emotive storytelling. I do however think this would make great “bedtime” story time.

It’s an interesting selection of OT stories. I’d recommend it for more quiet time listening.

Great stories of the Bible

I really enjoyed this book. It was like Sunday school on my phone. It was a great way to interpret stories without the D in the deal which always throws me off. I am so glad I got this book and I highly recommend it to those who want to learn these great stories of the Bible or you can even get it for your children, because yes it’s a great audio for children. God is good and I love stories that reiterate that this book is full of them.