The Snowman cover art

The Snowman

Inspired by the original story by Raymond Briggs

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About this listen

Penguin presents the audiobook edition of The Snowman by Michael Morpurgo, inspired by the original story by Raymond Briggs, read by Richard Armitage.

One December morning, James is thrilled to wake up to see snow falling.

He spends the whole day making his perfect snowman; he has coal eyes, an old green hat and scarf and a tangerine nose... just like the snowman from his favourite story.

That night, something magical happens- the Snowman comes to life!

He and James take to the skies on a magical adventure where they meet someone very special.

Inspired by the timeless tale, Michael Morpurgo and Robin Shaw have created the perfect Christmas story for the whole family.

Christmas Classics Fiction Holidays & Celebrations Literature & Fiction Winter

Critic reviews

In Raymond Briggs' story, a boy's dream comes true. Somehow, Michael Morpurgo makes Briggs' story come true. It's a delightful magic track. It has all the wonder of reading the Snowman for the first time.
On seeing the cover for the very first time I felt just as James might have felt as he glanced out of the window at The Snowman for the first time. The magic of The Snowman never truly melts and in this adaptation Michael Morpurgo and Robin Shaw have faithfully honoured the spirit of the original story whilst adding a new magical lustre to appeal to a whole new, very lucky generation.
Just wonderful! Loyal to the first story with fresh elements that flesh it out for older readers. A timeless tale, freshly made but with the same magic at its heart - just like a real snowman. It's rare that a remake is ever as good as the original but in this case, great care has been given to ensure it is both complementary and a tribute to the book that means so much to lots of people.
What a magical book! The Snowman is such a lovely read (for young and old alike) and has already made me excited for Christmas. It's truly heartwarming.
The Snowman by Michael Morpurgo not only brings a much-loved tale to a new audience, it brings with it an extra layer of festive magic. We predict this book will fast become as much a part of every family Christmas as snuggling down with a hot chocolate to catch the classic animation on TV.
Michael Morpurgo plays homage to the classic tale of The Snowman, bringing James, his family and snowy friend beautifully to life through his words, in a story to melt your heart. All the classic elements of the original story are here, in a book which will surely be at the heart of a magical Christmas for many families, to read alongside the picture book and the film.
All stars
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I am a great fan of Richard Armitage and he has truly excelled in his reading of this magical story.
His voice is like an orchestra and he really captures the essence of what is like to be a child at Christmas.
Wonderful story by Michael Morpurgo which will surely become a Christmas Classic. I am planning to buy several copies of the book to give as Christmas presents and I will be reading it to my grandchildren but I also want them to listen to the story of James and his snowman friend. Thank you Richard for sprinkling some Christmas Magic. James says the snowman gave him his voice - you have given your voice to this narrative - I cannot rate this highly enough,

Christmas Magic

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What a lovely story! Warm, sweet, and uplifting. The joy of a little boy and his childlike view of the world. Who knew a snowman could be so lovable! Absolutely charming narration by the unequalled Richard Armitage, yet again.

Enchanting

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Snowman was a very charming book, I like Richard Armitage´s narration...ideal for Christmas time :)

lovely

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Absolutely brilliant fantastic story lots of fun to be enjoyed over and over again merry Christmas

Fantastic

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The story is full of emotion and beautifully performed by Richard Armitage. Every character has a voice and the listen is a very intimate one. Highly recommended for adults who are young at heart as well as children

Brilliant Performance

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