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Count Karlstein

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Count Karlstein

By: Philip Pullman
Narrated by: Mark Gatiss
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About this listen

Brought to you by Penguin.

The very first children's novel by Philip Pullman, Count Karlstien is a deliciously terrifying, wickedly funny adventure, beautifully illustrated by Peter Bailey.

All Souls' Eve is a night when nobody in the village of Karlstein dares to leave their homes. For that is the night that Zamiel, the Demon Huntsman, prowls through the forests in search of his prey . . .

This year, however, the Huntsman doesn't need to go searching. He knows exactly where to find his human prey. Ten years ago, he made a deal with the Count of Karlstein - and now the Demon Huntsman has come to collect his prize . . .

Count Karlstien has offered up the lives of his two young nieces, Lucy and Charlotte. Lucky for the orphaned sisters, the Count's maid, Hildi, has heard his evil plan and is determined that they will not be this year's prey - not on her watch . . .

© Philip Pullman 1982 (P) Penguin Audio 2020

 Action & Adventure Growing Up & Facts of Life Humorous Fiction Literature & Fiction Mysteries Mystery & Suspense Scary Stories Exciting Funny

Critic reviews

A masterly storyteller
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The narrator’s performance was amazing in my opinion. Great story, would have loved it to continue!

Loved it

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I loved this book as a kid and was excited to hear it would be on audible after listening to the full cast edition led by Jo Thurley in the early 2000’s.

Unfortunately, comparing the two is night and day. They brought the characters to life with an engaged performance but Mark Gatiss’ characterisation is weak and apparently he thinks half the cast are too common to talk. It’s a shame, but I couldn’t get past chapter 6.

If you never listened to the original audio CD, definitely give this book a chance - but if you have this won’t compare at all

A great story but some of Mark Gatiss’ worst work

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