Our Island Story by H.E. Marshall is an Edwardian history book for younger listeners (aged six&;twelve years old) which tells the story of England, concluding with the reign of Queen Victoria. Having released it earlier this year unabridged in three volumes, Naxos Audiobooks now offers an attractive collection of the main stories and personalities. This skilful abridgement nevertheless maintains the narrative of British history, from the arrival of Julius Caesar to the height of the British Empire and the long reign of Queen Victoria.

There is a need for accessible short biographies of key people for younger listeners. Following the success of Famous People, Volume I, Nicolas Soames presents another varied group of men and women who have changed the course of history.