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A Town Like Alice

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A Town Like Alice

By: Nevil Shute
Narrated by: Robin Bailey
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About this listen

Jean Paget is just twenty years old and working in Malaya when the Japanese invasion begins. When she is captured she joins a group of other European women and children whom the Japanese force to march for miles through the jungle. While on the march, the group run into some Australian prisoners, one of whom, Joe Harman, helps them steal some food, and is horrifically punished by the Japanese as a result. After the war, Jean tracks Joe down in Australia and together they begin to dream of surmounting the past and transforming his one-horse outback town into a thriving community like Alice Springs...

©1989 The Trustees of the Estate of the Late Nevil Shute Norway (P)2014 Audible, Inc. Fiction Genre Fiction War & Military Heartfelt
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It was 50 years ago that I last read A Town Like Alice as part of my GCE curriculum. It was wonderful to revisit the tale and discover its simple beauty in a totally different way, without the analytical pressure of school. This audiobook kept me company for many running miles and lunchtimes at work and was simply wonderful. In fact if anything the story was improved as it was brought to light by the Robin Bailey’s superb and faultless narration. After time I will listen to this lovely story once again. Now what book next??

A delightful story very well read

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Almost 2 books in 1 - the war time section & then the new Australian town section. Had me interested all the way through. I guess I found it a bit hard listening to the anti Japanese’s section as it reminded me of the post war prejudices, just as there was still anti German feelings when I was young. Also found myself uncomfortable Re the way the “ natives” in Malaya. & Australia were portrayed - definitely of its time but in a way interesting to hear for that & to realise how things have changed since.

Of it’s time but worth a listen

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Great. I am listening to books that I read years ago and which left an impression on me. The story is one of great hardship and positivity. It is a well read story. I was hoping to find "On the Beach" by the same author (Nevil Shute), but alas. Cheers

Revisiting my past

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Love this book and beautifully read by Robin Bailey. A story of love and courage.

Inspiring

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A classic in storytelling and if not read at a young age then this audio version is a must

A Nevil Shute Classic

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