The Darling Buds of May

The Larkin Novels, Volume 1

By: H. E. Bates

Narrated by: Philip Franks

When Cedric Charlton, an unsuspecting tax inspector, arrives at the door of the Pop Larkin farm, he soon forgets the purpose of his visit: The fun-loving Ma and Pop Larkin distract him at every turn with strawberries, cream, alcohol, and their attractive young daughter, Mariette. Well known by the popular TV series starring David Jason and Catherine Zeta-Jones, The Darling Buds of May is the quintessential feel-good country romp. It will have you falling wholeheartedly in love with the Larkin family and their carefree way of life. So grab a bowl of ice cream, pull out a deck chair, and share in the "perficktion" of country life.

Download the accompanying reference guide.©1958 H. E. Bates (P)2015 Naxos AudioBooks

Philip Franks IS Cedric "Charlie" Charlton!

How wonderful that Philip Franks — who played Charlie on the ITV ultimate version of "The Darling Buds of May" (also starring David Jason, Pam Ferris, and Catherine Zeta Jones) is reading the H. E. Bates' series of Larkin family books! His personal connection to the TV series and incredible skill in narration (PERFICK!) makes this audio book series (this is the first in the series) beyond special. So often book TV / film adaptations are sadly world's apart, but having first seen the TV series, I find these books almost identical in character descriptions, plots, scenes, etc., so kudos to the TV series producers/writers. So if you've already seen the original TV series, you'll not be disappointed in this series of books.
If you've never seen the TV series or are unfamiliar with the books, you will find respite in this world of a large, loving family and their often crazy adventures; a host of unique village neighbors; farm/country life; and the ambiance of 1950s Southeast England — Kent in particular — when rural England was still quite safe, unspoiled, and life was simple but never boring.

Loved it!

These stories were totally new to me and I am so glad I discovered them. I am hooked! So very very charming!!

Perfik!

Narration is fantastic! Mr Frank’s does a wonderful job and really brings the characters to life. This will be a repeat listen for me. What a scream!

Even better read aloud

I recall reading all five of the Larkin books about 30 years ago and loving them. With so much general dread and fear in the world, I thought this would be an ideal time to reread the Darling Buds. The reader was outstanding, particularly differentiating the various English accents. Purfick!