Piece image

The Tale of Despereaux

Series: Camel's Hump Radio
From: Vermont Public Radio
Length: 00:28:17

He was a mouse deeply in love with a human princess named Pea, which presents some serious problems but makes for a great story! Read the full description.

Camelshumplogo_small Bill Harley introduces an excerpt from THE TALE OF DESPEREAUX, by Kate DiCamillo. Can a mouse find true love with a princess named Pea? Despereaux Tilling's unmouse-like behavior causes him to be banished to a dungeon. But all is not lost, as his life becomes entwined with those of a rat and a peasant girl who also dare to dream. Together these outsiders redefine happily ever after. Each episode of Camel's Hump Radio features a compelling excerpt from a book, read by a professional actor and accented with original music. Our goal is to air an excerpt that hooks the listener into the story and ends with a finish that leaves them wanting to read the rest of the book. A companion website allows listeners to learn more about the featured books, authors and provides additional related material.

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Piece Description

Bill Harley introduces an excerpt from THE TALE OF DESPEREAUX, by Kate DiCamillo. Can a mouse find true love with a princess named Pea? Despereaux Tilling's unmouse-like behavior causes him to be banished to a dungeon. But all is not lost, as his life becomes entwined with those of a rat and a peasant girl who also dare to dream. Together these outsiders redefine happily ever after. Each episode of Camel's Hump Radio features a compelling excerpt from a book, read by a professional actor and accented with original music. Our goal is to air an excerpt that hooks the listener into the story and ends with a finish that leaves them wanting to read the rest of the book. A companion website allows listeners to learn more about the featured books, authors and provides additional related material.

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Review of The Tale of Despereaux

Enchanting and captivating story - but not a usual story tale about princesses and kings and heroes.
It has all the right mix of magic and drama, rightness and darkness, wisdom and love, but the hero is … a mouse.
The short piece reminds us that everybody is capable of great things and feelings…
Beautifully read.

Broadcast History

One of thirteen episodes featured in Season 5 of Camel's Hump Radio, produced by Vermont Public Radio.

Timing and Cues

Camel's Hump Radio reads from The Tale of Despereaux
TRT 28:16
In: CHR Theme Music....
Out: This is Bill Harley.

Musical Works

Original music composed by Peter Engisch, copyright 2004 Vermont Public Radio.

Related Website

http://www.camelshumpradio.net