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Les Misérables
The story that has thrilled millions comes to life in a brand new way in Focus on the Family Radio Theatre's Les Miserables. This audio drama beautifully portrays the redeeming power of forgiveness through the story of Jean Valjean, an embittered convict whose life is changed by a single act of kindness. Recorded in London with some of England's finest actors, it will mesmerize adults and families alike.
- GenresClassics
3 pages, Audio CD
First published January 1, 1862
24 people want to read
About the author
Focus on the Family
293 books48 followersFocus on the Family is a conservative, interdenominational Christian parachurch organization founded in 1977 by psychologist James Dobson, and currently based in Colorado Springs, Colorado. It is active in promoting an effort toward its socially conservative views on public policy.
The stated mission of the organization is "nurturing and defending the God-ordained institution of the family and promoting biblical truths worldwide". The core promotional activities of the organization include a daily radio broadcast by its president Jim Daly and his colleagues, providing free resources according to Focus on the Family views, and publishing magazines, videos, and audio recordings. The organization also produces programs for targeted audiences, such as Adventures in Odyssey for children, dramas, Focus on the Family Radio Theatre, and Family Minute.
The stated mission of the organization is "nurturing and defending the God-ordained institution of the family and promoting biblical truths worldwide". The core promotional activities of the organization include a daily radio broadcast by its president Jim Daly and his colleagues, providing free resources according to Focus on the Family views, and publishing magazines, videos, and audio recordings. The organization also produces programs for targeted audiences, such as Adventures in Odyssey for children, dramas, Focus on the Family Radio Theatre, and Family Minute.
Ratings & Reviews
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Displaying 1 - 10 of 10 reviews
January 18, 2026
This theatrical audio of Les Miserables as fantastic and great for those who know the story well and can already picture the backdrop, setting and characters. With only 4 CD's it was a great listen.
September 10, 2018
DISCLAIMER: I am a Les Miserables fanatic!
I have read the full unabridged version of Les Miserables twice, led a discussion on it with my book club (highest score ever), seen it live on stage twice, watched the 10th Anniversary edition of the stage production and listened to the soundtrack of this edition more times than I can count, and watched the 2012 movie version a week before listening to this audio book.
This audio book will be proudly added to my collection of all things Les Miserables!
What a wonderful three hour abridgment that hits all the important elements of mercy and redemption in this story! It is the perfect way to introduce someone to this timeless message. It is also sensitive to a younger audience in that some of the "grittier" elements have been toned down (Fantine really WAS a prostitute in the book, but this is not emphasized in this abridgment making it appropriate for younger listeners.)
The acting is SUPERB. Brian Blessed is a seasoned actor that portrays Jean Valjean wonderfully.
The musical score is also beautiful. It will move you much like the music from the musical version does. I could not stop listening to this dramatization!
Five stars for this fine production that has been re-released to coincide with the release of the 2012 film.
NOTE: Tyndale House Publishers has provided me with a complimentary copy of this audio book in exchange for an unbiased review.
I have read the full unabridged version of Les Miserables twice, led a discussion on it with my book club (highest score ever), seen it live on stage twice, watched the 10th Anniversary edition of the stage production and listened to the soundtrack of this edition more times than I can count, and watched the 2012 movie version a week before listening to this audio book.
This audio book will be proudly added to my collection of all things Les Miserables!
What a wonderful three hour abridgment that hits all the important elements of mercy and redemption in this story! It is the perfect way to introduce someone to this timeless message. It is also sensitive to a younger audience in that some of the "grittier" elements have been toned down (Fantine really WAS a prostitute in the book, but this is not emphasized in this abridgment making it appropriate for younger listeners.)
The acting is SUPERB. Brian Blessed is a seasoned actor that portrays Jean Valjean wonderfully.
The musical score is also beautiful. It will move you much like the music from the musical version does. I could not stop listening to this dramatization!
Five stars for this fine production that has been re-released to coincide with the release of the 2012 film.
NOTE: Tyndale House Publishers has provided me with a complimentary copy of this audio book in exchange for an unbiased review.
January 6, 2013
Sincere, understated performances and overall high-quality production values make "Les Miserables" from "Focus on the Family RADIO THEATRE" a very enjoyable listening experience. A talented ensemble cast, led by Brian Blessed as Jean Valjean, brings to life Victor Hugo's compelling human drama. The three CDs are paced just right for the most effectiveness in following the story line of a once-lost man's renewal and redemption, and the background music does not overwhelm the actors or distract from the story itself. As the tale unfolds, we are once again reminded of the personal suffering and political turbulence of the era and setting. Through it all, Jean Valjean's path takes unexpected twists and turns from the darkness of a prison galley to the ultimate cleansing light of love and faith. I was multi-tasking as I began listening to this audio-book, but soon I stopped everything else and allowed myself to just listen and be entertained. I visited the "Focus on the Family RADIO THEATRE" website, and I was quite impressed with the roster of talent and intriguing titles that are also offered in audio-book. Treat yourself to books on tape, especially if you can't find much time to read, and don't forget those who are visually impaired and love books.
Review Copy Gratis Tyndale House Publishers
Review Copy Gratis Tyndale House Publishers
January 17, 2013
This retelling of Victor Hugo’s classic, Les Miserables, is a must hear CD series!
This beautiful story follows the main character Jean Valjean and his life’s journey of injustice, forgiveness, compassion, and love. This listener was captivated with the beauty of the story and found myself transported in time to the period surrounding the French Revolt, and the life circumstances surrounding Hugo’s character, Jean Valjean.
The production is of the highest quality and rivals any medium in the telling of this story. I give my highest recommendation for the hearing of this beautiful classic produced by Focus on the Family. (rev. J. La Tour)
About the audio recording: The story that has thrilled millions comes to life in a brand new way in Focus on the Family Radio Theatre's Les Miserables. This audio drama beautifully portrays the redeeming power of forgiveness through the story of Jean Valjean, an embittered convict whose life is changed by a single act of kindness. Recorded in London with some of England's finest actors, it will mesmerize adults and families alike.
DISCLOSURE: A complimentary copy of Focus on the Family's Radio Theatre audio recording of "Les Misérables" was provided in order that we might provide an honest review. Opinions expressed are those of the reviewer and there was no obligation to render a positive review.
This beautiful story follows the main character Jean Valjean and his life’s journey of injustice, forgiveness, compassion, and love. This listener was captivated with the beauty of the story and found myself transported in time to the period surrounding the French Revolt, and the life circumstances surrounding Hugo’s character, Jean Valjean.
The production is of the highest quality and rivals any medium in the telling of this story. I give my highest recommendation for the hearing of this beautiful classic produced by Focus on the Family. (rev. J. La Tour)
About the audio recording: The story that has thrilled millions comes to life in a brand new way in Focus on the Family Radio Theatre's Les Miserables. This audio drama beautifully portrays the redeeming power of forgiveness through the story of Jean Valjean, an embittered convict whose life is changed by a single act of kindness. Recorded in London with some of England's finest actors, it will mesmerize adults and families alike.
DISCLOSURE: A complimentary copy of Focus on the Family's Radio Theatre audio recording of "Les Misérables" was provided in order that we might provide an honest review. Opinions expressed are those of the reviewer and there was no obligation to render a positive review.
January 16, 2013
The Overview
This is the audio version of the classic story *almost* no one can pronounce! Victor Hugo's masterpiece come alive through voice and a music score that is amazingly well done.
The Readability
In my humble opinion...this is the BEST way to "read" such a classic. I listened it to it while doing housework, but found myself repeatedly standing next to the radio listening with captive attention.
The Highlights
I have never read this story before so I can't compare, but I will say that the highlight for me was what I felt was a better understanding through hearing the story than reading the story. And, if I'm not mistaken, I think reading it would be wading through some thick old language!
The Downside
I really didn't think there was a downside to this book or audio book...possibly the sad story line, but then you must also add to The Highlights the redemptive story line.
The Recommendation
I gladly recommend this audio book for any "reader" and encourage it for family listening. It may be a bit scary for the younger listener, but it has a fabulous and powerful story that is beneficial to all.
This is the audio version of the classic story *almost* no one can pronounce! Victor Hugo's masterpiece come alive through voice and a music score that is amazingly well done.
The Readability
In my humble opinion...this is the BEST way to "read" such a classic. I listened it to it while doing housework, but found myself repeatedly standing next to the radio listening with captive attention.
The Highlights
I have never read this story before so I can't compare, but I will say that the highlight for me was what I felt was a better understanding through hearing the story than reading the story. And, if I'm not mistaken, I think reading it would be wading through some thick old language!
The Downside
I really didn't think there was a downside to this book or audio book...possibly the sad story line, but then you must also add to The Highlights the redemptive story line.
The Recommendation
I gladly recommend this audio book for any "reader" and encourage it for family listening. It may be a bit scary for the younger listener, but it has a fabulous and powerful story that is beneficial to all.
December 3, 2011
I have only been vaguely acquainted with this classic for much of my life and have always had a desire to know more about it than what I have gleaned from pop culture references. Since I enjoy Radio Theatre, I thought this abridgement might be a good place to start. The pace of the adaptation flows at break-neck speed. (I had it done in two days of commutes.) In the end, I feel I know a bit more than I used to, but not much. It was a nice introduction, but I would have to dive into a more complete version to say I truly know the story.
August 13, 2008
Such a powerful story. Very well done audio adaptation
February 26, 2009
Wow--a great adaptation of an incredible story. Justice vs. mercy comes out strongly in this tale of France during the time of the French Revolution.
September 2, 2011
Very entertaining!
September 13, 2016
Most wonderful story and I loved the format--Radio Theatre with multiple actors and sound effects.
Displaying 1 - 10 of 10 reviews