Head Stories Audio presents 16 selected short stories by one of the genre’s masters, H.G. Wells.Not unexpectedly some, such as “The Crystal Egg” and “The Remarkable Case of Davidson’s Eyes” are typical of Wells’ popular science fiction and explore the possibilities of time and space.Others like “The Moth” and “The Red Room” are classics of horror. Wells could equally be humorous and show no hint of his visionary tendencies, whether recounting the good luck of an inept burgl...

The Picture of Dorian Gray is a novel which shocks us still. The sensibilities of its original Victorian readership may have blanched at the exoticism and barely disguised eroticism which drip from Wilde’s prose, but for us today who barely look twice at such things, we find something much more horrific at the heart of the book.Narration and music performed by Simon Hester.

In The Green Fairy Book, Andrew Lang continues his celebrated work of gathering fairy tales from many nations into one collection, preserving stories that have delighted generations and offering them anew to young readers—and to all who value the enduring charm of folklore. This volume, the third in Lang’s famous “Coloured” Fairy Book series, draws its tales from an especially wide array of sources: French, German, Russian, Italian, Scottish, and even oral traditions from tribal c...

There is a particular magic in stories that begin with "Once on a time." These four simple words have an uncanny ability to unlock our imaginations, inviting us into worlds where anything is possible and where the ordinary becomes extraordinary. In the stories which follow, A.A. Milne, a masterful weaver of whimsy and wit, invites us to share in such magic.Known and beloved for his Winnie-the-Pooh tales, Milne demonstrates in Once Upon a Time that his storytelling...

"Lord Peter Views the Body," first published in 1928, stands as a brilliant testament to Dorothy L. Sayers' mastery of the detective genre. This collection of short stories offers readers an intimate glimpse into the world of Lord Peter Wimsey, one of the most beloved detectives in literary history. With his characteristic charm, incisive wit, and an unerring sense of justice, Lord Peter navigates a series of perplexing cases, each showcasing Sayers' exceptional storytelling prowess.

Although accepted to be a classic of children's literature, Kenneth Grahame's tale of Mole, Ratty, Badger and Toad is layered with the universal themes of nature, longing, belonging, awe and friendship; all woven around the exciting adventures of the incorrigible Mr Toad and his faithful companion's attempts to tame his wayward spirit.

In the realm of mystery and intrigue, few tales possess the captivating allure and timeless charm as G.K. Chesterton's "The Man Who Knew Too Much." Originally penned in an era ripe with fascination for detective fiction, Chesterton's work continues to mesmerize readers across generations with its ingenious plots, vivid characters, and profound insights into the human condition.Published in 1922, "The Man Who Knew Too Much" epitomizes Chesterton's mastery of the detective genre, sho...

Hugh Lofting’s The Story of Doctor Dolittle is a timeless tale that has delighted readers of all ages for over a century. Published in 1920, this charming story introduces us to the peculiar yet endearing Dr. John Dolittle, whose love for animals transcends the ordinary bounds of human-animal relationships. With the aid of his unique ability to speak the languages of animals, Dr. Dolittle embarks on adventures that are as whimsical as they are heartwarming.It is also impor...

The famous and thrilling stories of William Shakespeare's plays are lovingly retold in equally poetic language by Charles and Mary Lamb. First published in 1807 and intended as an introduction to the plays for children, these retellings have a beauty of their own which still captivate today.Music and narration by Simon Hester.

To categorise Chesterton’s tale "The Man Who Was Thursday" is near impossible and ultimately fruitless. Nightmare? Dream? Allegory? It matters little; like all Chesterton’s writing it is packed with rich imagery, whimsical humour and universal wisdom.Like Gabriel Syme, at the conclusion of the story, we may not be quite sure whether we too, were dreaming or not.Narrated by Simon Hester. With original music.

Arguably the most famous Sherlock Holmes story by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle.Dr Watson is sent by Holmes to the wilds of Dartmoor to protect the young Sir Henry Baskerville, heir to a substantial fortune but also threatened bythe historic Baskerville curse. Are supernatural powers at work in the shape of a diabolical hound? Or does a criminal hand lay behind the mystery?And why does Sherlock Holmes not leave London to assist Watson?Here is the first in the Compl...

First published in 1909, Tono-Bungay is one of H.G. Wells’s most striking novels, blending sharp social critique with personal reflection. It tells the story of George Ponderevo, a scientifically minded young man who becomes entangled in the world of speculative business through his uncle’s fraudulent patent medicine, Tono-Bungay. Through George’s journey—from an obscure provincial upbringing to the heights of financial success and eventual disillusionment—Wells offers a biting sa...