Error loading page.
Try refreshing the page. If that doesn't work, there may be a network issue, and you can use our self test page to see what's preventing the page from loading.
Learn more about possible network issues or contact support for more help.

Five Children and It

Audiobook
1 of 1 copy available
1 of 1 copy available

Filled with wit and humour, Nesbit’s 1902 fantasy tells the adventure of 5 siblings sent to spend the summer with their uncle. One day, when the children wander from the strange house by the sea to play in old gravel pits, they uncover “It” – a prehistoric Sand-fairy. Psammead (pronounced Sammyadd) was an odd-looking creature with eyes on long horns which, like those of a snail, moved in and out like telescopes; ears like that of a bat; its tubby body shaped like a spider's, covered with thick soft fur; and at the base of its furry arms and legs were hands and feet resembling a monkey’s. The unusual Sand-fairy grants the children one wish a day, each lasting until sunset. Though wishes can come true, they are not always as pleasant as they might seem, which the children soon discover.

  • Creators

  • Publisher

  • Release date

  • Formats

  • Languages

  • Levels

  • Reviews

    • AudioFile Magazine
      In this British story, five siblings discover a sand fairy while playing in an old gravel pit. Not only is the creature unusual looking (its eyes are on long horns like a snail's, and it has bat's ears and a tubby, spider-like body), but the fairy can grant the children one wish each day that will last until sunset. Narrator Anna Bentinck draws out all the imaginative fun in Nesbit's premise, and her smooth, professional voice easily distinguishes among the children's characters. From the toddler to the elder boy and girl, all are equally pleasing and apt. The story is straightforward and unadorned with sound effects, but pleasant musical interludes mark the chapter breaks. J.C.G. (c) AudioFile 2004, Portland, Maine
    • AudioFile Magazine
      First published in 1902, Edith Nesbit's novel tells the story of four children (and their burdensome baby brother), whose boring summer is turned on its ears when they discover an unlikely fairy capable of fulfilling one wish per day. As their friendship with the grumpy, furry, bug-eyed creature grows, the children learn to be careful what they wish for. With musical elasticity, Virginia Leishman speaks to the listener, matching the author's conversational style, guiding this classical flight of fancy. Leishman's magnetic tongue holds the listener's attention as she brings the children, and their wishes, to life. S.E.S. (c) AudioFile 2001, Portland, Maine

Formats

  • OverDrive Listen audiobook

Languages

  • English

Levels

  • Lexile® Measure:600
  • Text Difficulty:2-3

Loading