The Battle of the Frogs and the Mice by George W. Martin

Title: The Battle of the Frogs and the Mice


Author: George W. Martin

Read by: Graeme Malcolm

Publisher: Penguin Audio

Length: Approximately 22 minutes

Source: mp3 Download from Penguin Audio – Thanks!

The Battle of the Frogs and the Mice is a Homeric Fable. As it is told in the author’s note at the end of the fable, this fable has been translated numerous times and at one point was thought to be authored by Homer. Homer is not the author and the true author is unknown. George W. Martin (not to be confused with George RR Martin), put together the threads of the tale to make a complete and moving parable.

The death of Crum-snatcher, a Mouse, after he mounts the back of Puff-jaw, King of the Frogs, to explore the pond is seen by another mouse. Soon the mice and frogs are at war after this tragic death, and it is interesting to see how things escalate. The battle is epic, and I can see why it was thought to be a Homeric tale, it sounds a lot like the Iliad, but with critters. The narrator, Graeme Malcolm is perfect and brings gravity to the proceedings.

I enjoyed the fable and I think it would be a great audio for older children as well, perhaps 10 or so, as it is a tragic fable with death. I am a great fan of fables, myths, etc. and I thought this was entertaining and also very interesting. The author’s note on the origins of the story was fascinating.

Overall, a nice quick audio that will enthrall both adults and older children alike.