Common Sense (version 2)
Thomas Paine
Read by Bob Neufeld
Thomas Paine has a claim to the title The Father of the American Revolution because of Common Sense, the pro-independence monograph pamphlet he anonymously published on January 10, 1776; signed "Written by an Englishman", the pamphlet became an immediate success. It quickly spread among the literate, and, in three months, 100,000 copies (estimated 500,000 total including pirated editions sold during the course of the Revolution) sold throughout the American British colonies (with only two million free inhabitants), making it the best-selling book ever. Paine's original title for the pamphlet was Plain Truth; Paine's friend, pro-independence advocate Benjamin Rush, suggested Common Sense instead.
The pamphlet appeared in January 1776, after the Revolution had started. It was passed around, and often read aloud in taverns, contributing significantly to spreading the idea of republicanism, bolstering enthusiasm for separation from Britain, and encouraging recruitment for the Continental Army. Paine provided a new and convincing argument for independence by advocating a complete break with history. Common Sense is oriented to the future in a way that compels the reader to make an immediate choice. It offers a solution for Americans disgusted and alarmed at the threat of tyranny. (Introduction by Wikipedia) (2 hr 25 min)
Chapters
| Introduction/Of The Origin And Design Of Government In General, With Concise Re… | 18:46 | Read by Bob Neufeld |
| Of Monarchy And Hereditary Succession | 20:30 | Read by Bob Neufeld |
| Thoughts On The Present State Of American Affairs | 42:15 | Read by Bob Neufeld |
| Of The Present Ability Of America, With Some Miscellaneous Reflections | 27:33 | Read by Bob Neufeld |
| Appendix | 36:25 | Read by Bob Neufeld |
Reviews
Bob neufled I sincerely hope this review reaches you, every book should be narrated by you. I sense an element of mastery and hard work in your narration, someone that has put a lot of time and effort in perfecting the craft and books you read which is rare in narrating. I can sincerely say you equal the work you read, if you know what I mean. I often search for the books you narrate and so hope you do much more narrations you would be regarded as the best I'm sure of it once it's spreads across the Internet. Emerson's The conduct of life is a book I would take delight in hearing you put to voice, his eloquence dare I say suits your voice, anyway thank you so much for the gift!
Excellent Narrator
Horatio Bunce
The narrator displays a familiarity, passion, and professionalism rarely rivaled by LibriVox volunteers! This was a masterful recording by a gentleman who obviously loves the text he is reading!
The narration is absolutely superb, he could read an oven manual and it would be riveting. The fact that the book is great as well means that this is well worth your time. Good read for history buffs, politics buffs, and anyone interested in America and its founding.
Wow!!!
thatartgirl
Very well read, and quite appropriate even today.
I so enjoyed the writing as well as the reader whose knowledge of the writing allows him to deliver it in such a way as to make its meaning easily ascertained by those hearing it for the first time time (in decades anyway)
This is my third time listening to this masterpiece read by Bob. I suggest to many friends or anyone who asks of a good audiobook to listen to this. Powerful words read by a powerful speaker...Thomas Paine is ok too.
Great reading by Bob Neufeld
Jim
The content is obviously great, and the reading by Bob Neufeld is on point. The sound of his voice is very fitting to this genre. Check out his readings of Plato.
All Americans Should Listen to This
2sticks&Astring
Oh, Bob Neufeldt. Listening to your readings borders on a sacred experience. Thank you for leaving us this legacy of readings, such an amazing and timeless body of work.