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Nation

By: Terry Pratchett
Narrated by: Stephen Briggs
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Summary

Finding himself alone on a desert island when everything and everyone he knows and loved has been washed away in a huge storm, Mau is the last surviving member of his nation. He's also completely alone - or so he thinks until he finds the ghost girl. She has no toes, wears strange lacy trousers like the grandfather bird and gives him a stick that can make fire.

Daphne, sole survivor of the wreck of the Sweet Judy, almost immediately regrets trying to shoot the native boy. Thank goodness the powder was wet and the gun only produced a spark. She's certain her father, distant cousin of the Royal family, will come and rescue her, but it seems, for now, all she has for company is the boy and the foul-mouthed ship's parrot.

As it happens, they are not alone for long. Other survivors start to arrive to take refuge on the island they all call the Nation, and then raiders accompanied by murderous mutineers from the Sweet Judy. Together, Mau and Daphne discover some remarkable things - including how to milk a pig and why spitting in beer is a good thing - and start to forge a new Nation.

As can be expected from Terry Pratchett, the master story-teller, this new children's novel is both witty and wise, encompassing themes of death and nationhood, while being extremely funny. Mau's ancestors have something to teach us all. Mau just wishes they would shut up about it and let him get on with saving everyone's lives!

©2008 Terry and Lyn Pratchett (P)2009 ISIS Publishing
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What listeners say about Nation

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Captivating, a read and re-read.

Would you recommend this audiobook to a friend? If so, why?

Yes, most defiantly. Nation is a captivating read that addresses a number of concepts without you even realising it half of the time. The serious moments are well developed and just as engrossing as the lighter hearted ones that stop the story from being overly serious. Pratchett develops characters and story's well and his writing style is just wonderful. A must read for Pratchett lovers and a highly recommended read for anyone.

What other book might you compare Nation to, and why?

I'm sure I have read books that are similar but none come to mind. If I had to compare it to familiar stories I guess I would say it was Pocahontas meeting Life of Pi, in elements but also in no way at all.

Did you have an emotional reaction to this book? Did it make you laugh or cry?

This story did both.. Well almost. I defiantly laughed and felt sad. I shouted in indignation at my MP3 player. I didn't cry, I was on public transport most of the time I was listening but I must admit there was a moment I fought hard to contain it.

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Wow!

A powerful story about bravery and kindness in the face of disaster that's beautifully read.

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One of my favourite Pratchetts

Must read!

Love this story. Have read it multiple times.

There’s a wave, there’s a boy and there’s a girl, two people make a nation.

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amazing.

an amazing story and narration, a new favourite I think and as soon as my daughter is old enough I'm sure it will be her new favourite.

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exceptional

loved this book.
one of Terry pratchett stand alone and not on the disc world as far as we know....because it could be.....
the world as you know it might not be as you know it just because you've always been told it's TRUE doesn't mean it isn't
thinking there is a lot in this book feel free to try it at home

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Absolutely superb story of a nation being born!

Loved every minute of it. Wonderful characters beautifully told, with just the right amount of peril, action and understanding

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Brilliant STP

Very well read and performed.
Another brilliant and unique story by Sir Terry Pratchett RIP

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love this book

another fantastic terry Pratchett's book a must read set in a completely different universe but so filled out

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Brilliant story, a complete change from the authors usual stories

The writers understanding of human nature, compassion, loyalty and sacrifice are astounding. A very different listen to his disc world stories.

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Clever, funny and educational

This was the first book I've read from Mr. Pratchett and I must say, it won't be the last. The story was exciting, the presentation well-paced and entertaining, the characters amusing, their pondering and dialogues witty and thought-provoking; and all this paired with Stephen Briggs' outstanding performance... this book had everything. My highest recommendations.

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