Farm Boy

Read by Derek Jacobi and Michael Morpurgo

Set on a farm in rural Devon, this is a collection of Grandpa’s reminiscences and stories as told to his grandson. Grandpa’s nature and his touching relationship with the boy is evoked superbly by Michael Morpurgo’s writing.

This two-voice read brings the characters to life as the story of Grandpa’s ‘shame’ (the fact that he cannot read and write) unfolds.

Derek Jacobi is sensitive and compelling in the role of Grandpa, inspiring a true sense of achievement and triumph as he finally tells his own story in his own words.

Reviews

‘Here is a very important book, combining the very best of storytelling and illustration.’
JUNIOR EDUCATION

‘If there are such things as contemporary classics, then this, surely is one of them.’
Daily Mail

Praise for SHADOW:
“As ever, Morpurgo's warmth and humanity suffuse a story of courage, love and hope.” – Amanda Craig, The Times

“passionate and touching” – Julia Eccleshare, Lovereading

Praise for AN ELEPHANT IN THE GARDEN:
"This is a handsome, very pickupable book. Brightly and informatively jacketed, its text punctuated by lovely, fluid ink and wash illustrations by Michael Foreman, it deserves a prominent place on school library bookshelves and, if there is any justice in the world, in bookshops."
Guardian

"A thrilling and moving new novel about an extraordinary animal caught up in a very human war, for anyone who loved The Amazing Story of Adolphus Tips or The Butterfly Lion!" Waterstones

"For readers aged eight and over, this captivating novel offers an insight into how Hitler came to power, refracted through the gaze of the young narrator."
Telegraph

"Following the stage success of War Horse, Michael Morpurgo returns with another gem in his animals in war series, An Elephant in the Garden."
Telegraph

About the author

Sir Michael Morpurgo OBE FRSL FKC DL is a writer, playwright, performer and librettist. The author of more than 150 children’s books, he has sold over 35 million copies worldwide and in almost 40 languages. A former teacher and vocal spokesperson for the benefits of reading for pleasure, he is currently the President of Book Trust. Between 2003–2005 he was Children’s Laureate and in 2018 he was knighted for services to literature and charity. Many of Michael’s books have been adapted for stage and screen, including the phenomenal National Theatre adaptation of War Horse, which has been seen by over 10 million people in over 100 cities around the world, broke the West End record for weekly ticket sales, and won 5 Tony Awards and 2 Olivier Awards. Michael is also the co-founder, with his wife Clare, of the charity Farms for City Children.