Kensuke’s Kingdom cover art

Kensuke’s Kingdom

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Kensuke’s Kingdom

By: Michael Morpurgo
Narrated by: Derek Jacobi
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About this listen

A desert-island adventure, and a subtle observation of friendship, trust and humanity.

Winner of The Children’s Book Award.

Superbly read by DEREK JACOBI.

When Michael is washed up on an island in the Pacific after falling from his parents’ yacht, he struggles to survive on his own. He can’t find food and he can’t find water, and as Michael and his dog curl up to sleep, he knows they cannot last long.

But he soon realises there is someone close by, someone who is watching over him and helping him to stay alive. Following a close-run battle between life and death, the mysterious stranger – Kensuke – allows Michael into his world and they become friends, teaching and learning from each other, until the day of separation becomes inevitable.

 Action & Adventure Animals Animals & Nature Geography & Cultures Growing Up & Facts of Life Literature & Fiction Survival Stories Heartfelt

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Critic reviews

“This is a wonderful book, a modern day Robinson Crusoe and is simply too good to miss.”
Wendy Cooling
All stars
Most relevant
Great story, well told. Our family (youngest 6) enjoyed this very much. It made our long journey to Scotland go well.

Great story, well told

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the narrator was brilliant (very good at Japanese accent )and very engaging voice . A great listen and a must have audio book . ( all coming from me a kid)

amazing and engaging book and wonderful reading

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I studied this book in high school and absolutely loved it. I've got the hard copy too!

Great book

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A gentle story, full of interesting details and superbly read by Derek Jacobi. A good book for children of any age between about 8 and 105!

A beautiful story

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If you could sum up Kensuke's Kingdom in three words, what would they be?

Heartfelt Engaging Emotional

What other book might you compare Kensuke's Kingdom to, and why?

I haven't listened or read any other childrens books so I am unable to compare.

Have you listened to any of Derek Jacobi’s other performances? How does this one compare?

No

Was there a moment in the book that particularly moved you?

The end brought me to tears, but not my nine year old son

Any additional comments?

A book written for children but should also be read by adults. Loved it.

Kids Book for Adults

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