Audiobooks narrated by Mark Bowen

Bernard Shaw's Pygmalion is a witty and thought-provoking play that explores themes of social class, transformation, and the power of language. First performed in 1913, the play remains one of Shaw's most celebrated works, blending comedy with sharp social critique. The story follows Professor Henry Higgins, a phonetics expert, who makes a bet with his friend, Colonel Pickering, that he can transform a poor flower girl, Eliza Doolittle, into a refined lady simply by teaching her proper speech and manners. Eliza, eager to improve her station in life, agrees to the experiment. However, as her transformation progresses, she begins to question her own identity and independence. Shaw cleverly satirizes the rigid British class system, highlighting the superficiality of social status. He emphasizes that one's position in society is often determined by external factors such as language and appearance rather than intelligence or character. Eliza's journey raises important questions about self-worth, agency, and the true meaning of personal change. Unlike the traditional Pygmalion myth, where the sculptor falls in love with his creation, Shaw subverts expectations by making the relationship between Higgins and Eliza complex and ambiguous. While Higgins views Eliza as a project, she ultimately asserts her own autonomy, refusing to be merely a product of his experiment. Pygmalion is a masterpiece of wit and irony, blending elements of romance, drama, and social commentary. Shaw's sharp dialogue and insightful observations on class and gender make the play as relevant today as it was over a century ago. The play later inspired the famous musical My Fair Lady, further cementing its place in literary and theatrical history. With its engaging characters and thought-provoking themes, Pygmalion remains a timeless exploration of identity, transformation, and the human desire for respect and recognition.

George Bernard Shaw (Author), Mark Bowen (Narrator)

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Yul The Younger

The Roman Empire is coming apart at the seams, relying on German recruits and foederati to hold the empire together. The eastern and western empires are ruled by incompetent young men who allow their German warlords to rule for them, but imperial elites conspire against the generals. Yul the Younger is a Saxon boy negotiating life in the empire with strong ties to his family in Germania. His father, Yul the Elder, sends Yul to a monastery school to learn the ways of the empire, with the father serving the empire as a quaestor (treasurer) in the east of Britannia. Yul the elder’s job is to make certain that the mostly German troopers of the Saxon Shore are fed, equipped, and paid, but Romano-British landlords are withholding taxes while enslaving Germans and building lavish country houses. Life in the monastic school at Verulamium (Saint Albans) proves difficult for Yul the Younger with monks insisting he give up his Germanic gods for Christ. He is also harassed by the entitled sons of British elites. Yul dares to make his escape with his best friend, a Pict, named Keaffer. Both enlist in the Brave Companions stationed at Othona as self-declared Emperor Flavius Claudius Constantine opts to invade Gaul to capture the purple and stop the Germanic tribes from crossing the Rhine Frontier to settle in the dying empire. Tall, blond, and broad, Yul joins the invasion of Europa. He also finds love and seeks revenge for the wrongs committed by Britons against his family and companions.

Jules Wright (Author), Mark Bowen (Narrator)

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World's Best Inspirational Books to Change Your Life, 7 Books: Richest Man in Babylon, The Game of L

This curated collection of seven groundbreaking works brings together some of the most transformative and inspiring books ever written. Designed to empower readers to unlock their potential, achieve success, and create lasting positive change, this anthology combines timeless wisdom with beautifully illustrated editions to enhance the reading experience. The Richest Man in Babylon by George S. Clason: Discover financial freedom through ancient Babylonian parables, offering practical principles on saving, investing, and wealth creation. The Game of Life and How to Play It by Florence Scovel Shinn: Learn the spiritual laws of success and fulfillment, blending affirmations and visualizations to navigate life's challenges. The Power of Faith: Unlock the transformative potential of unwavering belief to overcome obstacles and manifest your dreams. The Master Key System by Charles F. Haanel: A step-by-step guide to harnessing the power of thought to achieve personal and professional success. The Power of Your Sub-conscious Mind by Dr. Joseph Murphy: Understand and use the immense power of your subconscious to improve health, wealth, and happiness. The Art of Public Speaking by Dale Carnegie: Master communication skills and learn techniques to inspire and influence others with confidence and charisma. Think & Grow Rich by Napoleon Hill: A classic guide to wealth and success, providing strategies and principles derived from studying the habits of the world's most accomplished individuals. Richly illustrated and thoughtfully compiled, this collection is a must-have for anyone seeking motivation, self-improvement, and the tools to create a fulfilling and prosperous life. Contents: • The Master Key System by Charles F. Haanel • The Power of Your Sub-conscious Mind by Dr. Joseph Murphy • Think & Grow Rich by Napoleon Hill • The Art of Public Speaking by Dale Carnegie • The Richest Man in Babylon by George S. Clason • The Game of Life and How to Play It by Florence Scovel Shinn • The Power of Faith by Norman Vincent Peale

Charles F. Haanel, Dale Carnegie, Dr. Joseph Murphy, Florence Scovel Shinn, George S. Clason, Napoleon Hill, Norman Vincent Peale (Author), Joe Phoenix, Mark Bowen, Peter Coates, Rick Walz, Simon Jackson (Narrator)

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Ancient Greek Tragedies. Classic collection: Euripides. Medea; Sophocles. Antigone; Aeschylus. The O

This collection presents the works of the three fathers of ancient Greek tragedies: Aeschylus, Sophocles, and Euripides. The reader of this collection will be able to comprehend how the plots and conflicts populating classical tragedy developed. The principle theme of Aeschylus' tragedies is the idea of fate being omnipotent and the futility in struggling against it. The tragedies of Sophocles reflect the era of the Greeks' victorious war against the Persians, which opened up commercial prosperity through trade. Euripides propels his dramas by incorporating conflicts from within the human psyche. Contents: Euripides: Medea Sophocles: Antigone Aeschylus: The Oresteia Agamemnon Eumenides The Choephori

Aeschylus, Euripides, Sophocles (Author), Mark Bowen (Narrator)

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A Confession

A Confession, or My Confession, is a short work on the subject of melancholia, philosophy and religion by the acclaimed Russian novelist Leo Tolstoy. It was written in 1879 to 1880, when Tolstoy was in his early fifties. The book is a brief autobiographical story of the author's struggle with a mid-life existential crisis. It describes his search for the answer to the ultimate philosophical question: 'If God does not exist, since death is inevitable, what is the meaning of life?.' Without the answer to this, for him, life had become 'impossible'. The story begins with the Eastern fable of the dragon in the well. A man is chased by a beast into a well, at the bottom of which is a dragon. The man clings to a branch that is being gnawed on by two mice (one black, one white, representing night and day and the relentless march of time). The man is able to lick two drops of honey (representing Tolstoy's love of his family and his writing), but because death is inevitable, he no longer finds the honey sweet. Tolstoy goes on to describe four possible attitudes towards this dilemma. The first is ignorance. If one is oblivious to the fact that death is approaching, life becomes bearable. The problem with this for him personally is that he is not ignorant. Having become conscious of the reality of death, there is no going back.

Leo Tolstoy (Author), Mark Bowen (Narrator)

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Pillars of fire

In Pillars of Fire, Ray Bradbury presents a gripping tale that intertwines themes of faith, doubt, and the quest for truth. Set against a backdrop of political and social upheaval, the story follows a group of individuals grappling with the impact of a devastating event that challenges their beliefs and perceptions of reality. Bradbury's characteristic lyrical prose immerses readers in a world where the boundaries between the sacred and the profane blur. As the characters navigate their personal crises and confront the pillars of their own convictions, they are forced to reevaluate what they hold dear. The narrative deftly explores the duality of human nature—the capacity for both destruction and creation—and the ways in which individuals seek meaning in times of chaos. With its evocative imagery and profound philosophical questions, Pillars of Fire is a compelling exploration of the human spirit's resilience in the face of adversity. This thought-provoking story resonates with readers, encouraging them to reflect on their own beliefs and the fires that shape their lives. A must-read for fans of Bradbury's thought-provoking speculative fiction, Pillars of Fire stands as a testament to his ability to weave powerful narratives that challenge and inspire.

Ray Bradbury (Author), Mark Bowen (Narrator)

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Square pegs

In Square Pegs, Ray Bradbury explores the lives of individuals who don't quite fit into society's conventional molds. Set in a world where conformity is prized above all, the story centers on those who are seen as 'square pegs' in a world of round holes—people who dare to think differently, dream wildly, and challenge the status quo. With his signature lyrical prose, Bradbury crafts a tale that celebrates the uniqueness of the human spirit while examining the pressures to conform. The characters, vividly drawn with their quirks and eccentricities, struggle to maintain their individuality in a society that demands uniformity. As they navigate a world that seems determined to mold them into something they're not, Square Pegs becomes a poignant reflection on creativity, freedom, and the courage it takes to remain true to oneself.

Ray Bradbury (Author), Mark Bowen (Narrator)

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Lorelei of the Red Mist

'Lorelei of the Red Mist' is a thrilling science fiction novella co-written by Ray Bradbury and Leigh Brackett. The story follows the adventures of Hugh Starke, a notorious space outlaw, who finds himself in an unusual predicament after his death. His mind is transferred into a new, powerful body by a mysterious woman named Rann, who rules a deadly world covered in red mist. With his new form, Starke is thrown into a chaotic struggle for power, involving alien creatures, treachery, and strange forces. Bradbury's vivid imagination, combined with Brackett's action-packed storytelling, makes the novella an engaging read. The story delves into themes of identity, transformation, and survival in a fantastical alien environment. Starke's internal battle between his old self and his new body adds complexity to the plot, making it more than just a typical space opera. 'Lorelei of the Red Mist' is a testament to Bradbury's early work and collaborative efforts, blending poetic descriptions with high-paced adventure. It offers a fascinating look at a dangerous world where survival is the key, and where betrayal can come from even the most unexpected places.

Ray Bradbury (Author), Mark Bowen (Narrator)

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50+ Self-Help Classics Collection: Napoleon Hill James Allen Kahlil Gibran Sun Tzu Lao Tzu Confucius

Contents: Napoleon Hill. Think and Grow Rich (The text is reproduced from the original publications of 1937) George Samuel Clason. The Richest Man In Babylon (The text is reproduced from the original publications of 1920-1924) James Allen. As A Man Thinketh James Allen. Out from the Heart Kahlil Gibran. The Prophet Sun Tzu. The Art of War Lao Tzu. The Tao Te Ching Confucius. Analects Benjamin Franklin. The Way to Wealth Benjamin Franklin. The Autobiography Marcus Aurelius Antoninus. The Meditations Of The Emperor Russell H. Conwell Every Man His Own University Ralph Waldo Emerson. Self-reliance Florence Scovel Shinn. The Game of Life and How To Play It Charles F. Haanel. The Master Key System W. D. Wattles. The Science Of Getting Rich Wallace D. Wattles. How To Get What You Want Wallace D. Wattles. The Science Of Being Well Wallace D. Wattles. The Science of Being Great Orison Swett Marden. An Iron Will Orison Swett Marden. He Can Who Thinks He Can Russell H. Conwell. Acres of Diamonds William Walker Atkinson. Thought Vibration: or the Law of Attraction in the Thought World P. T. Barnum. Art of Money Getting Or, Golden Rules for Making Money G.K. Chesterton. Orthodoxy Leo Tolstoy. A Confession

Benjamin Franklin, Charles F. Haanel, Confucius, Florence Scovel Shinn, G.K. Chesterton, George Samuel Clason, James Allen, Khalil Gibran, Lao Tzu, Leo Tolstoy, Marcus Aurelius Antoninus, Napoleon Hill, Orison Swett Marden, P. T. Barnum, Ralph Waldo Emerson, Russell H. Conwell, Sun Tzu, Wallace D. Wattles, William Walker Atkinson (Author), Alfred Costa, David J Miles, Joe Phoenix, Kenneth Elliot, Mark Bowen, Michael Goodrick, Peter Coates, Rick Walz, Simon Jackson, Stacey Patterson, Trevor O'Hare (Narrator)

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The Black Stone

'The Black Stone' is a short story by Robert E. Howard, first published in 1931, and is a classic example of cosmic horror. The story follows an unnamed narrator, an antiquarian and scholar, who becomes obsessed with an ancient monolith called the Black Stone after reading references to it in historical documents. The Black Stone is located in a remote region of Hungary, where strange and disturbing events have been associated with it for centuries. Intrigued, the narrator embarks on a journey to investigate the mysterious artifact. Upon reaching the location, he discovers that the local villagers are deeply superstitious about the monolith, avoiding it at all costs. As the narrator spends a night near the Black Stone, he experiences a terrifying vision that reveals the dark and sinister history of the monolith, tied to ancient and monstrous gods. The story reflects Howard's skill in blending adventure, horror, and mythology, drawing on the influence of H.P. Lovecraft's Cthulhu Mythos. 'The Black Stone' presents a chilling atmosphere and themes of human insignificance in the face of ancient, incomprehensible forces, making it a significant contribution to the genre of weird fiction.

Robert E. Howard (Author), Mark Bowen (Narrator)

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People of the Dark

'People of the Dark' is a short story by Robert E. Howard, first published in 1932. The tale blends elements of fantasy, horror, and adventure, set within the dark and mysterious world of ancient races and reincarnation. The protagonist, John O'Brien, experiences strange dreams in which he finds himself in a past life as a warrior named Conan. Through these visions, he discovers a lost civilization and becomes entangled in an ancient conflict. The story is notable for its exploration of themes such as the cyclical nature of time, the struggle for power, and the primal instincts buried deep within human nature. Howard's vivid descriptions of underground cities, eerie creatures, and brutal combat create a captivating atmosphere that pulls readers into the shadowy depths of a forgotten world. 'People of the Dark' is also significant for its early depiction of Conan, a character who would later become one of Howard's most famous creations. Although the Conan in this story is not fully developed as the iconic Cimmerian barbarian, the themes and tone foreshadow Howard's later works. This story exemplifies Howard's skill at blending action with an eerie sense of the supernatural.

Robert E. Howard (Author), Mark Bowen (Narrator)

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Skull-Face

Skull-Face is a fantasy novella by American writer Robert E. Howard, which appeared as a serial in Weird Tales magazine, beginning in October 1929, and ending in December, 1929. The story stars a character called Stephen Costigan but this is not Howard's recurring character, Sailor Steve Costigan. The story is clearly influenced by Sax Rohmer's opus Fu Manchu but substitutes the main Asian villain with a resuscitated Atlantean necromancer (similar to Kull's bit character Thulsa Doom) sitting at the center of a web of crime and intrigue meant to end White/Western world domination with the help of Asian/Brown/African peoples and to re-instate surviving Atlanteans (said to lie dormant in submerged sarcophagi) as the new ruling elite.

Robert E. Howard (Author), Mark Bowen (Narrator)

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Audiobooks Narrated by Mark Bowen