The Dancing Bear Audiobook By Michael Morpurgo cover art

The Dancing Bear

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The Dancing Bear

By: Michael Morpurgo
Narrated by: Sir Ian McKellen
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A gentle and deeply moving story of a young girl and her bear, told with great charm by a master storyteller.

High in the mountains, in a tiny village, an abandoned bear cub is adopted by a lonely orphan child. Soon they are inseparable, beloved by the whole village – safe, until the arrival of a glamorous film crew who need a dancing bear…

 Animal Fiction Dance Family Life Growing Up & Facts of Life Music & Performing Arts Performing Arts Animals & Nature Literature & Fiction Bears Fiction Animals

Critic reviews

It’s rare to find a story that combines so successfully a contemporary plot and modern morality with a feel for legend and fairy tale.
She Magazine
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wonderful little story narrated by Sir Ian McKellen, very enjoyable plot line and simple, your children and grandchildren will enjoy it very much. I love the story of the little girl and her bear Bruno and the tough decision Roxanne needs to make. I did find the ending a little sad. but brings up good discussion to have with your family

Fantastic

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Brilliant read by Ian. This short story will enthrall you and take you to a special place. The tale leaves us with a powerful message, as it is also an allegory of life. Never lose sight of your inner child. Never forget your roots. One added thought.....animals understand a lot more than we think they do!

Have Tissues Handy

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What could have made this a 4 or 5-star listening experience for you?

I have never written a audio book review before, but had to here. The story is running along nicely and then, smack upside the head. The ending, well let's say if I were to ever meet the writer, I will just slap him upside his head for such.

Would you ever listen to anything by Michael Morpurgo again?

No

What aspect of Sir Ian McKellen’s performance would you have changed?

Easily, the ending, as it ruined a great story.

What character would you cut from Dancing Bear?

None

Any additional comments?

Someone explain to the writer, a child's book where many said this belongs, needs uplifting story endings. Not one where the poor child will be left in tears. The world itself has enough sad things for a child to already deal with.

I will openly admit, it pissed me off

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