Audiobooks narrated by Simon Hester

Selected Poems for Children by Robert Louis Stevenson, Lewis Caroll, Edward Lear and others.

"Delight in the whimsical world of childhood through the writing of some of the most beloved poets in English literature. Selected Poems for Children brings together works by Robert Louis Stevenson, Lewis Carroll, Edward Lear, Hilaire Belloc, and Robert Browning—poems that brim with imagination, humour, and unforgettable characters. In this charming collection, Simon Hester's warm, engaging narration and evocative music bring to life timeless classics such as Stevenson's A Child's Garden of Verse, Lear's eccentric Nonsense Poems, Carroll's fantastical Jabberwocky, and the misadventures of The Hunting of the Snark. You’ll also enjoy Belloc's somewhat macabre Cautionary Tales and the tragic story of The Pied Piper of Hamelin—all narrated with the perfect blend of joy and intrigue that children (and the young at heart) will treasure."

Edward Lear, Hilaire Belloc, Lewis Carroll, Robert Browning, Robert Louis Stevenson (Author), Simon Hester (Narrator)

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Tono-Bungay

"First published in 1909, Tono-Bungay is one of H.G. Wells’s most striking novels, blending sharp social critique with personal reflection. It tells the story of George Ponderevo, a scientifically minded young man who becomes entangled in the world of speculative business through his uncle’s fraudulent patent medicine, Tono-Bungay. Through George’s journey—from an obscure provincial upbringing to the heights of financial success and eventual disillusionment—Wells offers a biting satire of Edwardian capitalism, class mobility, and the moral compromises of ambition. While Tono-Bungay is often read as a critique of reckless entrepreneurship, it is also a deeply personal work, reflecting Wells’s own concerns about progress, empire, and the fleeting nature of wealth. The novel captures the tension between scientific idealism and the chaotic forces of commerce, making it as relevant today as it was over a century ago. At once humorous and tragic, sweeping and intimate, Tono-Bungay remains one of Wells’s finest literary achievements—a novel that continues to provoke thought about the nature of success and the price of modernity."

H.G. Wells (Author), Simon Hester (Narrator)

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Lilith

"First published in 1895, Lilith stands as one of George MacDonald’s most enigmatic and haunting works, a blend of fantasy, theology, and metaphysical speculation. Revered by literary giants such as C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkien, MacDonald’s fiction does not merely tell stories—it beckons readers into a deeper reality where moral and spiritual truths are woven into the very fabric of narrative. Lilith is not a conventional fantasy. Instead, it is a dreamlike descent into questions of life, death, identity, and salvation. The protagonist, Mr. Vane, a reserved scholar, stumbles into a surreal realm beyond the physical world, where he encounters spectral beings, timeless landscapes, and the mysterious figure of Lilith—a being of both terrible beauty and tragic consequence. The novel explores the path from self-will to self-surrender, drawing heavily on Christian mysticism, Platonism, and a deep reverence for divine grace."

George MacDonald (Author), Simon Hester (Narrator)

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Conan Doyle - Short Stories - Volume 3

"Head Stories presents the 3rd volume of Selected Short Stories by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, narrated by Simon Hester. With original music. - The Brown Hand - Upon his return from India, an eminent doctor is haunted by a patient in search of something that was taken from him. - The King of the Foxes - In an effort to shake off a hangover a young man joins a fox hunt, only to experience much more than he expected! - Lot 249 - An Oxford medical student is warned not to become familiar with his mysterious neighbouring student. He soon finds out why. - How It Happened - A recollection of a dramatic motoring accident. - The Terror of Blue John Gap - Whilst convalescing in Derbyshire, a young man is determined to discover what lurks in the local caves. - The Contest - A Greek poet finds himself in an unlooked for competition with a powerful stranger. - An Iconoclast - The origin story of the 'Venus de Milo'. - The Blighting of Captain Sharkey - A notorious Pirate meets his nemesis. - The Lost Special - The mysterious case of a disappearing train. - A Pastoral Horror - A quiet Austrian village witnesses a series of horrific murders. - John Barrington Cowles - The writer narrates the tragic story of his friend's death and his suspicions and fears as to the cause. - The Curse of Eve - A touching story of a difficult birth."

Sir Arthur Conan Doyle (Author), Simon Hester (Narrator)

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The Story of Dr. Dolittle

"Hugh Lofting’s The Story of Doctor Dolittle is a timeless tale that has delighted readers of all ages for over a century. Published in 1920, this charming story introduces us to the peculiar yet endearing Dr. John Dolittle, whose love for animals transcends the ordinary bounds of human-animal relationships. With the aid of his unique ability to speak the languages of animals, Dr. Dolittle embarks on adventures that are as whimsical as they are heartwarming. It is also important to consider the context of the time in which The Story of Doctor Dolittle was written. The book reflects certain perspectives and cultural attitudes that were common in the early 20th century but may feel outdated or problematic today. We have the opportunity to engage with the story thoughtfully, appreciating its merits while critically examining the parts that no longer align with modern values. Head Stories Audio presents ' The Story of Dr Dolittle' by Hugh Lofting. Narrated by Simon Hester, with original music."

Hugh Lofting (Author), Simon Hester (Narrator)

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The Princess and the Goblin

"The Princess and the Goblin, first published in 1872, is a timeless tale of courage, imagination, and the triumph of light over darkness. Written by George MacDonald, a pioneer of modern fantasy literature, who was to influence both C.S Lewis and Tolkien, this enchanting story has captured the hearts of readers young and old for over a century. It remains one of MacDonald's most celebrated works, embodying the deep moral and spiritual insights that define much of his writing. At its core, this story is a fairy tale—a genre MacDonald championed as a way to explore truths that transcend everyday experience. The narrative follows the adventures of Princess Irene and a miner boy named Curdie as they confront the mysterious goblins lurking beneath the kingdom. Through their bravery and trust in one another, they learn valuable lessons about faith, loyalty, and the enduring power of good in the face of evil. Head Stories Audio presents ' The Princess and the Goblin' by George MacDonald. Narrated by Simon Hester. With original music."

George MacDonald (Author), Simon Hester (Narrator)

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Once On A Time

"There is a particular magic in stories that begin with 'Once on a time.' These four simple words have an uncanny ability to unlock our imaginations, inviting us into worlds where anything is possible and where the ordinary becomes extraordinary. In the stories which follow, A.A. Milne, a masterful weaver of whimsy and wit, invites us to share in such magic. Known and beloved for his Winnie-the-Pooh tales, Milne demonstrates in Once Upon a Time that his storytelling extends far beyond the Hundred Acre Wood. With a lightness of touch and a knack for drawing out universal truths from seemingly simple scenarios, Milne captures the hearts of both children and adults. His tales do not merely entertain; they offer gentle insights into human nature, friendship, and the quirks of everyday life. Enjoy the tale of King Merriwig as he goes to battle, leaving his daughter to rule alone in his absence, only to discover she has battles of her own to fight! Head Stories Audio presents 'Once Upon a Time' by A. A. Milne. Narrated by Simon Hester, with original music."

A. A. Milne (Author), Simon Hester (Narrator)

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The Riddle of the Sands

"'The Riddle of the Sands' stands as one of the earliest spy thrillers, an intriguing blend of adventure, suspense, and a genuine call to national vigilance. First published in 1903, Erskine Childers’s novel occupies a unique place in literary and historical context. Set against the backdrop of a world growing increasingly uncertain, this novel serves not only as a thrilling narrative but also as a reflection of the anxieties of pre-war Europe. Childers crafts a story so gripping and credible that it was heralded as both a piece of literature and a cautionary warning for an unprepared British government. The story unfolds in the labyrinthine tidal channels and sandbanks of the Frisian Islands in the North Sea, where two young Englishmen, Carruthers and Davies, find themselves swept into an unintended espionage mission. What begins as a leisurely sailing holiday soon escalates into a daring adventure, as they uncover a clandestine German plot that could threaten England’s security. The novel's detailed nautical descriptions, drawn from Childers's own passion for sailing, lend an authenticity that deeply immerses the reader in the experience of navigating the sea and its lurking dangers. Head Stories Audio presents 'The Riddle of the Sands' by Erskine Childers. Narrated by Simon Hester. With original music."

Erskine Childers (Author), Simon Hester (Narrator)

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The Chimes

"The Chimes, the second of Charles Dickens' five Christmas books, first appeared in 1844, a year after the tremendous success of A Christmas Carol. Like its predecessor, this novella blends the magical with the moral, crafting a tale that is both an enchanting fable and a searing critique of Victorian society. Set on New Year’s Eve, The Chimes takes readers on a journey through themes of poverty, injustice, and the redeeming power of hope and human kindness. At the heart of The Chimes is Toby 'Trotty' Veck, a poor ticket-porter who, like many of Dickens' characters, represents the overlooked and downtrodden in society. Through a series of supernatural visions orchestrated by the spirits of the church bells, Trotty is forced to confront the despair and cynicism that poverty breeds. Yet, Dickens is careful not to let despair overwhelm the narrative. As in A Christmas Carol, he offers a vision of hope—of transformation, repentance, and the possibility of a better world, even for those whom society forgets. Dickens wrote The Chimes at a time when social reform was a pressing issue. It was a period marked by debates over the Poor Laws, the treatment of the working class, and the growing disparity between rich and poor. His personal experiences with poverty as a child, and his deep empathy for the plight of the poor, fueled his desire to use fiction as a means of advocacy. Through The Chimes, Dickens wove his sharpest social commentary into a festive tale, making it both a celebration of the New Year and a somber reflection on society's responsibilities."

Charles Dickens (Author), Simon Hester (Narrator)

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The Cricket on the Hearth

"Charles Dickens wrote The Cricket on the Hearth in 1845, at a time when the warmth of hearth and home was a cherished ideal, providing comfort amidst the rapid changes of Victorian England. Unlike Dickens’ earlier social critiques, this novella is a quieter, more introspective work—a celebration of domestic life, love, and the enduring power of hope. Through the tale of the Peerybingle family and their trials, Dickens invites readers into a cozy household where even the smallest, most seemingly inconsequential creature—a cricket—can become a symbol of resilience and joy."

Charles Dickens (Author), Simon Hester (Narrator)

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H.G. Wells -More Selected Short Stories

"H.G. Wells is widely regarded as one of the most imaginative and visionary writers of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Best known for his groundbreaking science fiction novels like The War of the Worlds and The Time Machine, Wells was also a prolific short story writer, producing a diverse body of work that explored many of the same themes as his longer novels: the wonders and perils of scientific progress, the mysteries of the human mind, and the complex relationship between society and the individual. Wells’ short stories, though perhaps less celebrated than his novels, serve as a window into his vast intellectual curiosity and creative range. These stories often play with speculative ideas in compact, inventive ways, offering a glimpse of his talent for combining narrative flair with philosophical inquiry. In these pages, the reader will find tales of strange inventions, eerie encounters, and dystopian visions, all of which reflect Wells’ keen interest in the future of humanity and the ethical dilemmas that arise with technological advancement. Head Stories Audio presents their second selection of Short Stories by H.G Wells, narrated by Simon Hester. With original music."

H.G. Wells (Author), Simon Hester (Narrator)

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The Vicar of Wakefield

"The Vicar of Wakefield, a novel by Oliver Goldsmith, first published in 1766, has long been regarded as a literary treasure of 18th-century English fiction. Though often simple in plot and unassuming in its narrative style, the novel reveals the depth of Goldsmith's genius and the charm of his storytelling, which has captivated readers across generations. The novel recounts the trials and tribulations of Dr. Charles Primrose, the vicar of the title, and his family. A man of virtuous character, the vicar's steadfast belief in providence and moral integrity is tested through a series of misfortunes—financial ruin, deception, and personal calamity. Yet, it is through these trials that the narrative explores themes of resilience, forgiveness, and the essential goodness of the human spirit. Goldsmith’s portrayal of the Primrose family, especially the vicar’s unwavering faith, serves as both a reflection of the virtues of 18th-century morality and an enduring commentary on human dignity."

Oliver Goldsmith (Author), Simon Hester (Narrator)

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Audiobooks Narrated by Simon Hester