Robinson Crusoe

Widely regarded as the first English novel, Daniel Defoe's Robinson Crusoe is one of the most popular and influential adventure stories of all time.

This classic tale of shipwreck and survival on an uninhabited island was an instant success when first published in 1719, and it has inspired countless imitations.

In his own words, Robinson Crusoe tells of the terrible storm that drowned all his shipmates and left him marooned on a deserted island. Forced to overcome despair, doubt, and self-pity, he struggles to create a life for himself in the wilderness. From practically nothing, Crusoe painstakingly learns how to make pottery, grow crops, domesticate livestock, and build a house. His many adventures are recounted in vivid detail, including a fierce battle with cannibals and his rescue of Friday, the man who becomes his trusted companion.

Full of enchanting detail and daring heroics, Robinson Crusoe is a celebration of courage, patience, ingenuity, and hard work.

Download the accompanying reference guide.Public Domain (P)2008 Tantor

Great adventure book

one of my favorite books of all time. i've read this book several times growing up and have always found the imagry of daniel defoes writings exceptional. i like to listen to this on my mp3 as i work out at the gym

loved this audio book!

I really enjoyed this audio book. It is probably my favorite one so far. My hour plus commute twice a day seemed much shorter!

Much easier than reading.

Well done & written, should be heard by all. Perhaps to often forgotten, & no longer taught.

This classic is good but often drags.

I thoroughly enjoyed this story of Robinson Crusoe and his survival against the odds. Unfortunately the story does drag along at times as Defoe details the various philosophical conflicts and religious debates that affect Crusoe. These moments give a lot of perspective as to the mindset of Robinson, and the care that he takes with every action. Crusoe also goes over his mistakes in great detail. This leads to large passages where situations are examined from every possible angle, which often takes up much of a chapter. I do agree that there are some troubling racial issues that persist in the story, but taken for its time of writing it's not surprising. It just serves as a stark reminder of the prejudices of our past. Otherwise the story has much more detail than just being a man trapped on an island. It details how he came there and what happens when he tries to return to normal life. I personally enjoyed the way Defoe delved into the mind of Crusoe, but I will say that by the end it was wearing thin. By comparison, I have found Treasure Island to be a much more enjoyable narrative for those that are interested.

The greatest of adventures

Over a span of many years, this is the third time I have read or listened to this marvelous story and great adventure! All young persons and those not so young should experience this engaging tale.

This gripping story will keep one engaged and reluctant to put it dow.