Season 3 Episode 26

"The Nazarene" is a historical novel written by Sholem Asch and published in 1939. The book follows the life of Jesus Christ, offering a fictionalized account of his experiences and teachings. Asch's work explores the religious, social, and political context of Jesus' time, providing a unique perspective on the life of one of the most influential figures in history.

The plot of "The Nazarene" traces Jesus' journey from his humble beginnings in Nazareth to his ministry, teachings, and eventual crucifixion. Asch delves into the inner thoughts, struggles, and conflicts faced by Jesus as he faces opposition from religious authorities and contends with his own doubts and temptations. The novel presents a vivid portrayal of the characters surrounding Jesus, including his disciples, Mary Magdalene, and the Pharisees, highlighting their interactions and the challenges they face.

Asch's portrayal of Jesus is nuanced and complex, presenting him not only as a spiritual leader but also as a human being with doubts, fears, and a deep sense of purpose. The novel explores themes of faith, love, sacrifice, and the clash between religious traditions and personal beliefs. Through vivid descriptions and lyrical prose, Asch brings the historical and cultural context of Jesus' time to life, immersing readers in a richly detailed world.

The radio presentation of "The Nazarene" through the "NBC University Theater" aimed to bring Asch's powerful novel to a wider audience. The radio adaptation captured the essence of the story and its characters, allowing listeners to experience the emotional depth and spiritual journey of Jesus. Through skilled voice actors and atmospheric sound effects, the radio production created an immersive experience, transporting listeners back to the time of Jesus' life and teachings. The radio presentation of "The Nazarene" served as a testament to the enduring impact and universal appeal of Asch's work, showcasing the timeless themes and moral dilemmas explored in the novel.

Books in Sound is a free podcast series that presents a collection of hundreds of the world’s greatest books through the magic of the performing arts.

Different from audiobooks: Instead of having a single narrator read an audiobook, these performances have a full cast of actors, suitable background music, and special effects that help define the drama.

Most presentations are from old time radio theater broadcasts that have been remastered to remove most of the hissing, clicking and volume fluctuations. Many of the presentations are from the 1930's and 1940's, so a significant amount of work went into the remastering process.

Most presentations are about one hour, some are multiple hours, and some are abbreviated presentation that last about half an hour, making this series wonderful for bedtime stories, self-improvement by learning about literature, or simply as a very imaginative form of entertainment.

The episodes are not sequential, but we do recommend listening to the complete collection starting with the first episode so that you can grow and benefit from the wide assortment of styles and content.

For more information visit https://www.booksinsound.com

Season 3 Episode 25

"The Red and the Black" is a novel written by French author Stendhal, published in 1830. Set in the 19th century, the book follows the story of Julien Sorel, a young ambitious man from a poor background who aspires to rise in society. Julien, despite his humble origins, is highly intelligent and driven by his desire for power, wealth, and social status.

The plot revolves around Julien's journey as he navigates through various social circles, using his wit and cunning to climb the social ladder. He becomes involved in love affairs with two women, Madame de Rênal, the wife of a local mayor, and Mathilde de La Mole, the daughter of a wealthy aristocrat. These relationships not only serve as avenues for Julien's advancement but also expose the complexities of love, desire, and social class.

The novel is known for its insightful portrayal of the social and political climate of post-Napoleonic France. It delves into themes such as ambition, love, hypocrisy, and the clash between individual desires and societal expectations. Stendhal's writing style combines psychological depth with social commentary, providing a rich and nuanced exploration of human nature and the constraints of society.

The radio presentation of "The Red and the Black" through the "NBC University Theater" brought Stendhal's classic novel to a broader audience. The radio adaptation aimed to capture the essence of the characters and their motivations, as well as the social and political backdrop of the story. Through skilled voice acting and sound effects, the radio production provided an immersive experience for the listeners, transporting them into the world of Julien Sorel and his quest for power and love. The radio presentation allowed for a wider appreciation of Stendhal's work, showcasing the timeless themes and enduring relevance of "The Red and the Black" in a new medium.

Books in Sound is a free podcast series that presents a collection of hundreds of the world’s greatest books through the magic of the performing arts.

Different from audiobooks: Instead of having a single narrator read an audiobook, these performances have a full cast of actors, suitable background music, and special effects that help define the drama.

Most presentations are from old time radio theater broadcasts that have been remastered to remove most of the hissing, clicking and volume fluctuations. Many of the presentations are from the 1930's and 1940's, so a significant amount of work went into the remastering process.

Most presentations are about one hour, some are multiple hours, and some are abbreviated presentation that last about half an hour, making this series wonderful for bedtime stories, self-improvement by learning about literature, or simply as a very imaginative form of entertainment.

The episodes are not sequential, but we do recommend listening to the complete collection starting with the first episode so that you can grow and benefit from the wide assortment of styles and content.

For more information visit https://www.booksinsound.com

Season 3 Episode 24

"A Passage to India" is a novel written by E.M. Forster, first published in 1924. Set in the British Raj era of India during the early 20th century, the book explores the complexities of colonialism, cultural clashes, and personal relationships. It follows the journey of Dr. Aziz, a young Indian Muslim physician, and his interactions with the British colonizers.

The plot revolves around Aziz's friendship with Cyril Fielding, an English schoolmaster, and their subsequent encounter with Adela Quested, a young British woman who is visiting India with the intent of getting married. However, an incident occurs during a trip to the Marabar Caves, leading to misunderstandings and tensions between the Indian and British characters. The aftermath of the incident exposes the deep-rooted prejudices, racism, and power dynamics prevalent in the colonial society.

The radio presentation of "A Passage to India" through the "NBC University Theater" occurred on November 4, 1945. The radio adaptation aimed to capture the essence of the novel's themes and provide a thought-provoking experience for the listeners. The production featured a talented cast who portrayed the complex characters and effectively conveyed the emotional depth of the story. The radio presentation allowed a wide audience to engage with the novel's exploration of cultural identity, prejudice, and the clash between East and West. Through the power of audio storytelling, the radio adaptation of "A Passage to India" brought Forster's narrative to life, highlighting the social and political issues of the time.

Books in Sound is a free podcast series that presents a collection of hundreds of the world’s greatest books through the magic of the performing arts.

Different from audiobooks: Instead of having a single narrator read an audiobook, these performances have a full cast of actors, suitable background music, and special effects that help define the drama.

Most presentations are from old time radio theater broadcasts that have been remastered to remove most of the hissing, clicking and volume fluctuations. Many of the presentations are from the 1930's and 1940's, so a significant amount of work went into the remastering process.

Most presentations are about one hour, some are multiple hours, and some are abbreviated presentation that last about half an hour, making this series wonderful for bedtime stories, self-improvement by learning about literature, or simply as a very imaginative form of entertainment.

The episodes are not sequential, but we do recommend listening to the complete collection starting with the first episode so that you can grow and benefit from the wide assortment of styles and content.

For more information visit https://www.booksinsound.com

Season 3 Episode 23

"The Jazz Singer" is a play written by Samson Raphaelson, which was later adapted into a novelization by Arline De Haas. The story revolves around the central character, Jakie Rabinowitz, a young Jewish man who dreams of becoming a jazz singer. However, his ambitions clash with the expectations and traditions of his conservative family, particularly his cantor father.

The plot unfolds as Jakie defies his father's wishes and pursues his passion for jazz music. He changes his name to Jack Robin and finds success as a performer in the world of show business. However, his newfound fame and success come at a price as he grapples with the conflict between his musical aspirations and his cultural heritage. Along the way, he faces personal and professional challenges, including a strained relationship with his father and a love triangle that adds further complexity to his journey.

The radio presentation of "The Jazz Singer" through the "Lux Radio Theater" occurred on October 16, 1950. The radio adaptation brought the story's vibrant energy and emotional depth to the airwaves, captivating listeners with its compelling narrative and musical performances. The Lux Radio Theater's talented cast and crew brought the characters to life, allowing audiences to experience the conflicts and dilemmas faced by Jack Robin. The radio adaptation preserved the essence of the original story, highlighting its themes of identity, cultural clashes, and the pursuit of dreams.

Books in Sound is a free podcast series that presents a collection of hundreds of the world’s greatest books through the magic of the performing arts.

Different from audiobooks: Instead of having a single narrator read an audiobook, these performances have a full cast of actors, suitable background music, and special effects that help define the drama.

Most presentations are from old time radio theater broadcasts that have been remastered to remove most of the hissing, clicking and volume fluctuations. Many of the presentations are from the 1930's and 1940's, so a significant amount of work went into the remastering process.

Most presentations are about one hour, some are multiple hours, and some are abbreviated presentation that last about half an hour, making this series wonderful for bedtime stories, self-improvement by learning about literature, or simply as a very imaginative form of entertainment.

The episodes are not sequential, but we do recommend listening to the complete collection starting with the first episode so that you can grow and benefit from the wide assortment of styles and content.

For more information visit https://www.booksinsound.com

Season 3 Episode 22

"The Day the Earth Stood Still" is a science fiction novel written by Harry Bates, first published in 1940. The story revolves around the arrival of an alien spacecraft in Washington, D.C., and the encounter between humanity and the extraterrestrial being known as Klaatu. The book explores themes of interstellar communication, the consequences of violence, and the potential for humanity to change its destructive ways.

The plot of "The Day the Earth Stood Still" unfolds as Klaatu, accompanied by his powerful robot companion Gort, delivers a profound and urgent message to the people of Earth. He warns humanity of its self-destructive path and presents them with an ultimatum: change their ways or face the dire consequences. The novel delves into the political, social, and moral implications of Klaatu's visit, as various factions vie for control and Klaatu struggles to convey his message of peace and cooperation.

The radio presentation of "The Day the Earth Stood Still" through the "Lux Radio Theater" took place on February 4, 1952. The radio adaptation brought Bates' thought-provoking story to the airwaves, capturing the suspense and philosophical themes of the original work. The Lux Radio Theater's talented cast and crew skillfully portrayed the characters and events, immersing the audience in the tense and dramatic world of Klaatu's visit. The radio adaptation allowed listeners to experience the story's compelling narrative and contemplate the deeper messages it conveyed.

Books in Sound is a free podcast series that presents a collection of hundreds of the world’s greatest books through the magic of the performing arts.

Different from audiobooks: Instead of having a single narrator read an audiobook, these performances have a full cast of actors, suitable background music, and special effects that help define the drama.

Most presentations are from old time radio theater broadcasts that have been remastered to remove most of the hissing, clicking and volume fluctuations. Many of the presentations are from the 1930's and 1940's, so a significant amount of work went into the remastering process.

Most presentations are about one hour, some are multiple hours, and some are abbreviated presentation that last about half an hour, making this series wonderful for bedtime stories, self-improvement by learning about literature, or simply as a very imaginative form of entertainment.

The episodes are not sequential, but we do recommend listening to the complete collection starting with the first episode so that you can grow and benefit from the wide assortment of styles and content.

For more information visit https://www.booksinsound.com

Season 3 Episode 21

"The Count of Monte Cristo" is a classic adventure novel written by Alexandre Dumas. First published in 1844, it tells the gripping tale of Edmond Dantès, a young sailor who is wrongfully imprisoned for a crime he didn't commit. After spending years in a dark and isolated prison, Dantès manages to escape and embarks on a journey of revenge against those who betrayed him.

The novel takes readers on a thrilling adventure as Dantès, now disguised as the mysterious and wealthy Count of Monte Cristo, seeks justice and retribution. With cunning and intelligence, he manipulates the lives of his enemies, bringing them to ruin while also aiding those who were loyal to him. Along the way, Dantès encounters love, betrayal, and moral dilemmas that test his resolve and humanity.

The radio presentation of "The Count of Monte Cristo" through the "Lux Radio Theater" occurred on October 23, 1950. This radio adaptation brought Dumas' epic tale to life, capturing the essence of the adventure, suspense, and intrigue found in the novel. The Lux Radio Theater's skilled cast and production team recreated the complex characters and intricate plot, immersing the audience in the world of Edmond Dantès. The radio adaptation allowed listeners to experience the gripping story of revenge, redemption, and forgiveness in a captivating audio format.

Books in Sound is a free podcast series that presents a collection of hundreds of the world’s greatest books through the magic of the performing arts.

Different from audiobooks: Instead of having a single narrator read an audiobook, these performances have a full cast of actors, suitable background music, and special effects that help define the drama.

Most presentations are from old time radio theater broadcasts that have been remastered to remove most of the hissing, clicking and volume fluctuations. Many of the presentations are from the 1930's and 1940's, so a significant amount of work went into the remastering process.

Most presentations are about one hour, some are multiple hours, and some are abbreviated presentation that last about half an hour, making this series wonderful for bedtime stories, self-improvement by learning about literature, or simply as a very imaginative form of entertainment.

The episodes are not sequential, but we do recommend listening to the complete collection starting with the first episode so that you can grow and benefit from the wide assortment of styles and content.

For more information visit https://www.booksinsound.com

Season 3 Episode 20

"The Birds" is a chilling and suspenseful book written by Daphne du Maurier. Published in 1952, the story explores the idea of nature turning against humanity as birds suddenly and inexplicably begin to attack people in the coastal town of Bodega Bay, California. The novel follows the lives of the inhabitants, particularly the Brenner family, as they struggle to survive in the midst of the escalating bird attacks.

The protagonist, Nat Hocken, finds himself at the center of the chaos as he fights to protect his family from the relentless avian onslaught. The birds' aggression intensifies, causing panic and devastation in the community. Du Maurier skillfully weaves a sense of impending doom and captures the psychological strain of the characters as they grapple with fear and uncertainty. The book explores themes of survival, human vulnerability, and the unpredictable power of nature.

The radio presentation of "The Birds" through the "Lux Radio Theater" aired on January 9, 1950. The radio adaptation brought du Maurier's gripping tale to the airwaves, creating a tense and atmospheric experience for the listeners. With expert sound effects and voice actors, the radio production captured the eerie nature of the bird attacks and the growing sense of terror in Bodega Bay. The "Lux Radio Theater" presentation allowed audiences to experience the suspense and fear of the story, showcasing the masterful storytelling of du Maurier in a different medium.

Books in Sound is a free podcast series that presents a collection of hundreds of the world’s greatest books through the magic of the performing arts.

Different from audiobooks: Instead of having a single narrator read an audiobook, these performances have a full cast of actors, suitable background music, and special effects that help define the drama.

Most presentations are from old time radio theater broadcasts that have been remastered to remove most of the hissing, clicking and volume fluctuations. Many of the presentations are from the 1930's and 1940's, so a significant amount of work went into the remastering process.

Most presentations are about one hour, some are multiple hours, and some are abbreviated presentation that last about half an hour, making this series wonderful for bedtime stories, self-improvement by learning about literature, or simply as a very imaginative form of entertainment.

The episodes are not sequential, but we do recommend listening to the complete collection starting with the first episode so that you can grow and benefit from the wide assortment of styles and content.

For more information visit https://www.booksinsound.com

Season 3 Episode 19

"Key Largo" is a gripping novel written by Maxwell Anderson. The story is set in the Florida Keys during the 1930s and follows the character of Frank McCloud, a disillusioned World War II veteran who visits a hotel owned by the Temple family on the eponymous Key Largo island. However, McCloud's intentions for a peaceful retreat are disrupted when a gangster named Johnny Rocco and his crew take control of the hotel during a hurricane.

As the storm rages outside, tensions rise within the hotel as Rocco and his gang hold the occupants hostage. McCloud finds himself caught in a dangerous standoff, but he refuses to back down and becomes the unlikely hero of the story. Throughout the novel, themes of honor, courage, and redemption are explored as McCloud confronts Rocco and attempts to protect the innocent hostages.

The radio presentation of "Key Largo" through the "Lux Radio Theater" aired on December 10, 1945. The radio adaptation brought the suspenseful atmosphere of the novel to life, immersing listeners in the intense situation at the Key Largo hotel. With skilled voice actors and sound effects, the radio production captured the tension and drama of the story, conveying the perilous nature of the hurricane and the high-stakes confrontation between McCloud and Rocco. The "Lux Radio Theater" presentation offered an engaging and thrilling experience, showcasing the power of Anderson's narrative and the timeless appeal of the story.

Books in Sound is a free podcast series that presents a collection of hundreds of the world’s greatest books through the magic of the performing arts.

Different from audiobooks: Instead of having a single narrator read an audiobook, these performances have a full cast of actors, suitable background music, and special effects that help define the drama.

Most presentations are from old time radio theater broadcasts that have been remastered to remove most of the hissing, clicking and volume fluctuations. Many of the presentations are from the 1930's and 1940's, so a significant amount of work went into the remastering process.

Most presentations are about one hour, some are multiple hours, and some are abbreviated presentation that last about half an hour, making this series wonderful for bedtime stories, self-improvement by learning about literature, or simply as a very imaginative form of entertainment.

The episodes are not sequential, but we do recommend listening to the complete collection starting with the first episode so that you can grow and benefit from the wide assortment of styles and content.

For more information visit https://www.booksinsound.com

Season 3 Episode 18

"Captain Horatio Hornblower" is a series of historical fiction novels written by C.S. Forester. The books follow the adventures of Horatio Hornblower, a skilled and courageous officer in the British Royal Navy during the Napoleonic Wars. The series spans several decades, chronicling Hornblower's rise through the ranks and his various exploits at sea.

The plot of "Captain Horatio Hornblower" revolves around the eponymous character as he navigates through perilous missions, encounters enemy vessels, and faces personal and professional challenges. Hornblower is depicted as a complex and conflicted character, grappling with self-doubt and a constant need to prove himself. His leadership skills, strategic thinking, and unwavering commitment to duty make him a formidable naval officer.

The radio presentation of "Captain Horatio Hornblower" through the "Lux Radio Theater" aired on January 15, 1945. The radio adaptation brought to life some of Hornblower's thrilling adventures, capturing the essence of Forester's novels and the maritime setting of the story. With the use of sound effects, music, and talented voice actors, the radio production transported listeners into the heart of naval battles, the drama of life at sea, and the challenges faced by Captain Horatio Hornblower. The "Lux Radio Theater" presentation offered an exciting and immersive experience, showcasing the heroism and resilience of the beloved literary character.

Books in Sound is a free podcast series that presents a collection of hundreds of the world’s greatest books through the magic of the performing arts.

Different from audiobooks: Instead of having a single narrator read an audiobook, these performances have a full cast of actors, suitable background music, and special effects that help define the drama.

Most presentations are from old time radio theater broadcasts that have been remastered to remove most of the hissing, clicking and volume fluctuations. Many of the presentations are from the 1930's and 1940's, so a significant amount of work went into the remastering process.

Most presentations are about one hour, some are multiple hours, and some are abbreviated presentation that last about half an hour, making this series wonderful for bedtime stories, self-improvement by learning about literature, or simply as a very imaginative form of entertainment.

The episodes are not sequential, but we do recommend listening to the complete collection starting with the first episode so that you can grow and benefit from the wide assortment of styles and content.

For more information visit https://www.booksinsound.com

Season 3 Episode 17

"The African Queen" is a novel written by C.S. Forester and published in 1935. Set during World War I, the story revolves around two unlikely companions, Charlie Allnut and Rose Sayer, who find themselves navigating the treacherous waters of the African river system. Charlie is a rough-and-tumble, gin-loving captain of the dilapidated steamboat called the African Queen, while Rose is a prim and proper British missionary. When their lives are disrupted by the war, they decide to take matters into their own hands and embark on a perilous journey down the river, determined to strike a blow against the German forces in the region.

As Charlie and Rose navigate the dangerous waters, they face numerous challenges, including treacherous rapids, crocodile-infested waters, and hostile native tribes. Along the way, they develop a deep bond and rely on each other's strengths to overcome the obstacles they encounter. Their journey becomes a test of their courage, resilience, and ultimately, their love for each other.

The radio presentation of "The African Queen" through the "Lux Radio Theater" aired on January 10, 1950. Adapted from Forester's novel, the radio adaptation brought the adventurous tale to life with its captivating storytelling and compelling performances. The radio production captured the spirit of the original work, conveying the excitement, danger, and romance of Charlie and Rose's journey down the African river. With the use of sound effects and skilled voice acting, the "Lux Radio Theater" rendition transported listeners to the heart of the African jungle, allowing them to experience the thrills and tribulations alongside the beloved characters.

Books in Sound is a free podcast series that presents a collection of hundreds of the world’s greatest books through the magic of the performing arts.

Different from audiobooks: Instead of having a single narrator read an audiobook, these performances have a full cast of actors, suitable background music, and special effects that help define the drama.

Most presentations are from old time radio theater broadcasts that have been remastered to remove most of the hissing, clicking and volume fluctuations. Many of the presentations are from the 1930's and 1940's, so a significant amount of work went into the remastering process.

Most presentations are about one hour, some are multiple hours, and some are abbreviated presentation that last about half an hour, making this series wonderful for bedtime stories, self-improvement by learning about literature, or simply as a very imaginative form of entertainment.

The episodes are not sequential, but we do recommend listening to the complete collection starting with the first episode so that you can grow and benefit from the wide assortment of styles and content.

For more information visit https://www.booksinsound.com