
A group of lively siblings and their friends—Robert, Anthea, Cyril, and Jane—spend a rainy November afternoon squabbling over cheap fireworks, secret trinkets, and the promise of a tram ride. Their ordinary quarrels soon give way to something extraordinary when a mysterious hole in an old carpet reveals a shimmering, magical surface.
Unfolding from that moment, the children discover a phoenix that can rebirth itself and a wishing‑carpet that whisks its riders to hidden realms beyond their imagination. Together they embark on a series of whimsical escapades, meeting enchanted creatures and navigating puzzling riddles, all while learning the value of courage, friendship, and a dash of cleverness. The tale balances gentle humor with a sense of wonder, inviting listeners to join the youngsters as they explore marvels that lie just beyond the everyday world.
Language
en
Duration
~5 hours (336K characters)
Publisher of text edition
Project Gutenberg
Credits
Produced by Jo Churcher, and David Widger
Release date
1997-03-01
Rights
Public domain in the USA.

1858–1924
Best known for blending everyday family life with adventure and magic, this pioneering English writer helped shape modern children’s fiction. Her stories, including The Railway Children and Five Children and It, still feel lively, funny, and warm.
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