
Tales by the Fireside - Bedtime stories and sleep meditation
Joe Fireside 114 episodes Feb 4, 2025
Tales by the Fireside is a weekly podcast of bedtime stories designed to reduce anxiety and help listeners sleep. It offers old favourites, new creations, obscure tales, and works by independent authors, read aloud with the soothing sound of a crackling fire. The show is aimed at both adults and children. All stories are used with permission from rights holders or are in the public domain.
Episodes

Tales for Adults - Beware of the Dog
Tonight, a story about war time fighter pilots. A story about the hazards and treachery of world war 2. A story about one mans fight, in the air, and on the ground. A story about clarity following bewilderment.This story has adult themes, so I would suggest younger listeners avoid it!I sincerely hope you enjoy it-------Should you wish to support Tales by the Fireside, please feel free to head to

Tales for Everyone - The Nightingale
Tonight, a story about enchantment. About an ancient Chinese emperor and his court. A story about the beauty and power of song.Presenting "The Nightingale" By Hans Christian Andersen, published in 1843.I sincerely hope you enjoy it-------Should you wish to support Tales by the Fireside, please feel free to head to www.talesbythefireside.com/support, or tell your friends about the show, or rate an

Tales for Adults - All Gold Canyon
A story about the beauty of nature. A story about one mans quest to find his fortune. A story set in the united states, before it was the united states. A story, about prospectin out West.Presenting "All Gold Canyon" by Jack London, published in 1905.I sincerely hope you enjoy it - Better late than never!-------Should you wish to support Tales by the Fireside, please feel free to head to www.tale

Tales for Everyone - Sherlock Holmes in A Case of Identity
A story of deduction and deception. A story of typewriters and fingerprints. A story of fortunes and family. A story, of our beloved English detective returning once again.Presenting, “A Case of Identity” by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, published in 1892.I sincerely hope you enjoy it.-------Should you wish to support Tales by the Fireside, please feel free to head to www.talesbythefireside.com/support

Tales for Everyone - Paul Bunyan - First Chapter
Tonight, we have a long overdue story of giant men, and giant dreams. A story of blue snow and blue calfs. A story of untamed wilderness and of untapped potential. A story, held in the hearts of millions. Presenting, the first chapter of Paul Bunyan by James Stevens, published in 1925. I really, truly hope you enjoy it., and I am sorry it took me so long to get a new piece of content out to you al

Wonders by the Fireside - A Matter of Scale - 1 Million Listen Special
Tonight, to celebrate 1 million listens, we have some personal thoughts and insight into my brain and the way I try and live my life, with a bit of inspirational ideas thrown in too. Presenting “A Matter of Scale" by Joe Fireside. I really, truly hope you enjoy it. And thank you all, so much, for helping me reach 1 million listens. ------- Should you wish to support Tales by the Fireside, please f

Tales for Everyone - Foundation
Tonight, we have a story about heroes and villains. A story about rebuilding a shattered world. A story about doing your best and things not always working out. A story, about beginnings. Presenting “Foundation” written by me, Joe Fireside. I don't read my own stories here very often, and I really hope you enjoy it. And thank you all, so much, for helping me reach 1 million listens. -------

Tales for Adults - The Empty House
A story of fear, and dread. A story about dark histories, and darker deeds. A story about endurance, and determination. A story, about the power of the unknown.Presenting “The Empty House” – written by Algernon Blackwood, published in 1906.We are kicking off the spooky season with something pretty creepy, so I urge only adult listeners to proceed! -------Should you wish to support Tales by the Fir

Tales for Everyone - The Ransom of Red Chief
Tonight, we have a story of ransoms and retribution. A story about kidnapping and regret. A story about Scouts and Horses and games. A story, about things not going quite the way you expect them to. Presenting “The Ransom of Red Chief” – written by O. Henry, published in 1907. ------- Should you wish to support Tales by the Fireside, please feel free to head to www.talesbythefireside.com/support,

Tales for Adults - The Star
Tonight, we have a story about stars and astrological coincidence, a story about worldwide observation and planetary danger. A story about disaster, and perspective. Presenting “The Star” by H. G. Wells, published in 1897. ------- Should you wish to support Tales by the Fireside, please feel free to head to www.talesbythefireside.com/support, or tell your friends about the show. Everything you do

Tales for Everyone - Viking Tales - Part 2
Tonight, we have a story of war, and marriage. A story about great battles at land and at sea. A story about culture, and kingship. A story, about the unification of a nation. Presenting, part 2 of “Viking Tales” written by Jennie Hall. ------- Should you wish to support Tales by the Fireside, please feel free to head to www.talesbythefireside.com/support, or tell your friends about the show. Ev

Tales for Everyone - The Haunted House
Tonight, we have a story of haunted houses, and preoccupied travellers. A story of Odd Girls and Good friends. A story of hysteria, and ghostly goings on. Presenting Charles Dicken’s “The Haunted House”, as featured as part of the Lock and Key Library, edited by Julian Hawthorne. It is great to be back, thank you so much for all of your support over the last year. ------- Should you wish t

A Message from Joe Fireside
Tonight, we have a small update about me, my life, and Tales by the Fireside.If you would like more little updates like this, please let me know!Thank you all, for being who you are x----Should you wish to support the show, please check out talesbythefireside.com/support Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Tales for Everyone - Viking Tales - Part 1
Tonight, we have a story of long-ships and spears, a story of thralls and kings, a story of Thor and Odin and going a-viking. A story of Iceland and Norway.Presenting part one of "Viking Tales", written by Jennie Hall, published in 1902.Please let me know what you think! Leave a rating or review, and subscribe to Tales By The Fireside.Should you wish to support the show, please check out talesbyth

Wonders by the Fireside - The Legends of the Gods - Part 1
Hello everyoneA story of gods and goddesses, of poison and serpents, of the creation of the universe, and the destruction of mankind. A story of the mythology of the Ancient Egyptians, taken from their own texts and tombs.Presenting the first part of "Legends of the Gods" by E.A. Wallis Budge. Published in 1912.This is the 100th episode of Tales by the Fireside! Thank you all for your continued pa

Tales for Everyone - Sindbad The Sailor
Tonight, we have a story about voyaging across the sea and the perils therein. A story about serpents, pirates and diamonds. Of making a huge profit, sometimes out of skill and sometimes out of sheer luck. A story about a famous seafarer.Presenting, Sindbad The Sailor, by an unknown author.Please let me know what you think! Leave a rating or review, and subscribe to Tales By The Fireside.Should yo

Tales for Adults - Feline Red
Tonight, we have a story of rivalry and deception. A story of mining desolate asteroids in the depths of space. A story of cats, but, ones unlike anything you have heard before.Presenting "Feline Red", written by Robert Sampson, published in 1954.Please let me know what you think! Leave a rating or review, and subscribe to Tales By The Fireside.Should you wish to support the show, please check out

Tales for Children - The Girl Who Dreamed of Sleep
Tonight we have a story of a girl, who just couldn't sleep. A story of bad sleeping habits, and helpful animals. A story of changing your routines to sleep better.Presenting "The Girl Who Dreamed of Sleep", written by Gemma Clatworthy. You can purchase this wonderful little book for yourself on Amazon: www.amazon.co.uk/Girl-Who-Dreamed-Sleep-Child-ebook/dp/B08WR9S6G4 There are some truly

Tales for Adults - Josephine: A Woman With A Past
A story of high society, and low behaviour. A story of young girls and young bucks, duelling with propriety and station. A story of one girl and her realising some very important truths about herself and her actions.Presenting "Josephine: A Woman With A Past", written by F. Scott Fitzgerald, published in 1930.Please let me know what you think! Leave a rating or review, and subscribe to Tales By Th

Tales for Children - Little Snow White
Tonight, we have a story of evil stepmothers and poison apples. A story of dwarfs, and combs, and magic mirrors. A story of goodness, and of jealousy. Presenting "Little Snow White" Written by an unknown author.Don't forget to leave a comment, like or review, and subscribe to the show.Should you wish to support the show, please check out www.talesbythefireside.com/support Joe x Host

Tales for Adults - Kiera's Quest - Sacrifices
A story of fantasy and peril. A story of betrayal and hope and destiny. A story of one normal girl, and her quest to save many different worlds. A story, about love.Presenting "Kiera's Quest, Sacrifices" Written by Kristy Brown.You can pick up a copy of this story, and this talented authors other work on Amazon: www.amazon.co.uk/Kristy-Brown/e/B079YTT7Q2.This episode is sponsored by The Isbourne W

Tales for Children - The Jungle Baby
Tonight, we have a story of an evil snake and his attempts to cause harm to a sweet little baby. A story of wolves, and tigers, and bears. A story about the inherent goodness of most animals.Presenting, The Jungle Baby, written by G.E. Farrow, published in 1905.Rate, review, or subscribe to Tales by the Fireside! Support Tales by the Fireside! Check out: talesbythefireside.com/support H

Tales for Adults - Kiera's Quest - Awakenings
Tonight, we have a story of prophecy and destiny. A story of plastic princes and rings of crystal. A story of dreams, different worlds and teenage life. A story, about a strange connection between two very different people.Proudly presenting “Kiera’s Quest – Awakenings”, a fantastic fantasy story written by Kristy Brown. Pick up a copy of this enthralling story for yourself, or look at some of the

Tales for Everyone - Jack and the Giants
Tonight we have a story of giants, and a very famous giant slayer. A story of knights and ladies, captives and cookery, a story of trickery, of bravery, and of chivalry. Presenting "Jack and the Giants", a story in the same vein as Jack and the Beanstalk, but without the beanstalk. And with many, many more giants. The author of this particular version is unknown, but this was published in 185

Meditation by the Fireside - Bad Day Remedy
Tonight, we have another guided meditation episode. This one is designed to be listened to after we have had a day that hasn't gone particularly well for us, and we will take a look at accepting it for what it is, and then letting it go, together.This episode is brought to you by the Isbourne Wellbeing Charity. For more information, visit isbourne.orgI hope you enjoy this guided meditation. Please

Tales for Children - Rhyming Story Collection
Tonight, we have a set of short stories. Stories about ghosts and zombies. About Loch Ness Monsters and ghosts playing at midnight. About Big sisters and younger brothers and taking your pet dragon to the vet.Presenting the "Rhyming Stories Collection", each written by Michael Alexander.You can purchase this talented authors book on Amazon, here: www.amazon.co.uk/s?k=until+wishes+are+fulfilledPlea

Tales for Adults - The Last Evolution
Tonight, we have a story of the partnership of man and machine as we advance through our future. A story, of the end of one of those partners, and the progression and beauty of the journey we go on. Another look of the future, from the perspective of the past. Presenting "The Last Evolution", written by John Wood Campbell Jr, published in 1932. I must add that it does certainly have qui

Tales for Everyone - Sadie, A Story About a Girl Who Just Didn't Know
Tonight, we have a story about the moon, and the stars, and the ocean and a wise wolf. A story about the journey of life, portrayed in a wonderful way. A story about a little girl who just did not know.Proudly presenting "Sadie, A Story About a Girl That Just Did Not Know", written by Andreah Barker. Pick up a copy of the book here: www.sadietellsstories.ca/published-booksPlease leave a comme

Tales for Adults - The Legend of Sleepy Hollow
A story of schoolmasters and spectres. Of whimsical stories contrasted with terrible rumours. Of rivals in love, of beauty in nature, and of terror in folklore.Proudly presenting "The Legend of Sleepy Hollow" by Washington Irving, as written in 1819.I first watched the Disney adaptation of this story as a young child, and I remember it as one of the scariest cartoon films I had seen up to that poi

Tales for Children - Tahj the Brave Kite Speaks Up
Tonight, our brave little kite returns to teach us all another lesson. A story of inclusion and of welcoming distant friends. A story that shows us that we should be nice to everyone, regardless of who they are, where they are from or what they look like.Presenting "Tahj the Brave Kite Speaks Up", written by Anna Digard. If you enjoy this book, you can pick up a copy of it here: www.amazon.co

Tales for Adults - Sherlock Holmes in "The Adventure of the Speckled Band"
Tonight, we have A story of intrigue and betrayal, of baboons and cheetahs, of doctors and heiresses and overseas intrigue. A story, about the worlds most famous detective and his stalwart assistant on another of their most singular adventures.Proudly presenting "Sherlock Holmes and The Adventure of the Speckled Band" by Arthur Conan Doyle. I sincerely hope you enjoy it. If you do, please let

Tales for Everyone - Fenrir, the Giant Fox
Tonight, we have a story of one very unique fox, whose origins are in deep Norse mythology. A story of our ever changing world, and mankind's impact on it. A story of waste, and sustenance, of growing ever larger and larger, and of our need to respect the planet we live on.Proudly presenting "Fenrir, the Giant Fox" written by Tom Sains. A story written by one man and his passion for this world we

Fathers Day Special Episode - My Dad's Jokes Are Very (Terribly, Awfully, Painfully) Bad!
Today, we have a cheeky bonus episode to celebrate Fathers Day. A story in honour of the beautiful and massively underappreciated dad-joke. Presenting "My Dad's Jokes Are Very (Terribly, Awfully, Painfully) Bad!", by Jacob Eckeberger. Thank you Jacob for allowing me to tell your story, and if you would like to find out more about this book, or pick up a copy for yourself, please check out htt

Tales for Everyone - Doctor Dolittle Part 2
Tonight, we have a story of Pirates and Parrots. Of Princes and pushmi-pullyus. of fishermen, sharks and swallows. Of travelling across the jungles in search of a way home, and the seas in search of family. Proudly presenting the conclusion of “Doctor Dolittle” by Hugh Lofting, published in 1950. I'd like to thank everyone on the Tales by the Fireside Facebook page who helped vote in the

Tales for Children - Cinderella
After a long, unintended break, WE ARE FINALLY BACK! I would like to apologise for the delay in delivering new content, and assure you that issues are now resolved, and the show will continue as it used to. Please bear with me as I slowly release my back-catalogue of content over the next week or so!I would like to sincerely thank you all for your continued support, patience and love.Joe x--Tonigh

Tales for Children - The Tales of Punky Dunk, the Cat
Tonight, we have a story about a mischievous little cat, and his misadventures. A story about puppies and mice and fish. A story, flushed with the charm of innocence. Presenting “The Tales of Punky Dunk, The Cat”, written in 1912, by an unknown author. This book started appearing in a little bookshop in Chicago, but the authors name is lost to antiquity. I really hope you enjoy listening to this s

Tales for Everyone - Doctor Dolittle Part 1
Tonight, we have a story of animals. Lots of Animals. Of parrots and crocodiles and swallows and monkeys and old plough-horses. A story of being able to talk many, many different languages. A story about a very famous doctor, and his humble beginnings.Proudly presenting part one of “Doctor Dolittle” by Hugh Lofting, published in 1950. Id like to thank everyone on the Tales by the Firesid

Tales for Children - Sleep Story Collection
Tonight, we have a series of short stories. Stories about fireflies and puppies, about bear cubs and dreaming. Of flying and sailing and swimming and dancing. Stories, of sleep and dreamsPresenting four stories tonight. Firstly “Fireflies” written by Carolyn Watson-Dubisch, followed by “Never Been Thirstier” by Maya Page, then with “Let’s go Dreaming” and finally “Sleep, Tiny Dreamer” written by S

Meditation by the Fireside - Stroll Along the Beach Visualisation
Tonight, we have another guided meditation. This time, we are taking a journey together through a tropical forest, and then along a warm, golden sandy beach, utterly revelling in the wonder of nature and the peace of the ocean, before again, finding our tranquil campsite and settling down for sleep.Visualisation meditation takes our mind on a journey where we imaginatively engage all our senses. A

Tales for Children - Jacob's Tales
Tonight, we have a series of stories written to spark the imagination. Stories of dragons and planes, of flies and farms, of kings and honey. Of goodness, gratefulness and friendship.Presenting “Jacobs Tales” written by Loreta Yono. A charming storybook I heartily recommend picking up for yourself. You can find this on Amazon, and support the author on Facebook.I really do hope you enjoy thi

Tales for Everyone - The Parchment
Tonight, we have a story of the magic of writing. A story of worlds and netherworlds, of gifts and beauty, of life and loss and journeys. A story, about the power of the imagination.Proudly presenting “The Parchment” written by Rowan Grey. A thoroughly encapsulating and well written story I am happy to read for you now.This wonderful tale is available here: amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B08LBSBYQ6, and

Tales for Children - The Three Little Pigs
Tonight, we have an old family favourite. A story you almost certainly have heard before, but maybe not in its original form. A story of bricks and sticks and straw. Of butter churns and cooking pots. Of chinny chin chins.Proudly presenting “The Three Little Pigs”, retold and edited by Joe Fireside.I really do hope you enjoy this rendition of this ancient tale. If you would like to hear more of th

Tales for Everyone - A Place to Rest Your Paws
A short story, of a day in the turbulent life of an armed forces spouse. A story about moving from place to place, and the adjustments we need to make as we go. A story about new places, but old companions. A story, about finding home again. Proudly presenting, “A Place to Rest Your Paws” written by returning author Tammy B. Tsonis. For more information on the author and her new book, please visit

Tales for Children - The Wise Mamma Goose
Tonight, we have a story about a goose and her little baby goslings. A story of mysterious disappearances and the hard job of thinking. Of roosters and hens, and foxes and fidos. A story, of a mothers protection.Presenting “The Wise Mamma Goose” by Charlotte B. Herr, originally published in 1913. I really do hope you enjoy listening. If you do, please let me know by leaving a comment, like or revi

Tales for Adults - In The Year 2889
Tonight, we have a story about the far future, written from the perspective of the past. A story of telephotes and commutators, of editors and ambassadors, of newspapers and reporters. A story of one day in the life of the busiest man in the world.Proudly presenting “In The Year 2889” written by Jules and Michael Verne in 1889. This story was originally published under the well known and famous na

Tales for Children - Powerful Me Series
Tonight, we have two stories about the power you have. Stories about mindfulness, about consideration, about kindness and meaning. Stories about the wonder of you.Proudly presenting the “Powerful Me” series, The Power in Me, and The Power in Words, written by Meaghan Axel. These two books, complete with powerful concepts in rhyming form and delightful illustrations are worthy additions to any chil

Tales for Adults - Twelve Times Zero
Tonight, we have a story of murder and mystery. A story of futuristic technology and old fashion police work. A story of women in blue fire, nuclear experimentation and lies and conspiracy. A story, about the greater good.Proudly presenting “Twelve Times Zero” by Howard Browne, published in 1950. I really do hope you enjoy this 1950s murder mystery. If you would like to hear more of this kind

Tales for Everyone - Prosperity Lane
Tonight, we have a story about a bright little girl and a wonderfully strange house. About a very unique aunt with a very unique job. About plenty of purple, about stars, about flowers, about the man on the moon and about pompous neighbours. A story, about blooming in your own time.Presenting “Prosperity Lane”, written by Payden Hall. It is an absolute pleasure to read, well written and enchanting

Meditation by the Fireside - Guided Meditation for Stress Relief
Tonight, we have another guided meditation, this time, we will focus on relieving stress using a well-established meditative method. You can follow my voice and give yourself to the imagery and we can relax together. As always, please ensure you are comfortable by either sitting or lying down, and are well supported. I would love to hear how you find this meditation. Please let me know by lea

Tales for Children - The Tales of Tom Kitten and Mrs. Tiggy-Winkle
Tonight, we have a story of a fat little kitten and his sisters, a story of Puddle-ducks and buttonless clothing, of getting dirty and not being fit to be seen! And another, of a darling old washer-woman. Of a mysterious door in the side of the hill, and a very prickly encounter. Proudly presenting the Tales of Tom Kitten and Mrs. Tiggy-winkle, by Beatrix Potter, in their original texts of 1907 an

Tales for Adults - The Song of Hiawatha
Tonight, we have a story of creation and destruction. Of joy, and sorrow, of war and peace, of gods and goddesses, of rivers and animals and the wonders of nature. An epic story about Native American folklore and legends.Proudly presenting a slightly abridged version of “The Song of Hiawatha”, written by Henry W Longfellow, originally written in 1855.This is by far the longest episode I have ever

Tales for Children - A World Beyond the Rainbow
Tonight, we have a story about fairies, and beauty. A story about one little girls journey into a magical kingdom. A story about kindness.Presenting “A World Beyond the Rainbow”, written by Adrita Goswami. This book was written when the author was only 13 years old, and that innocence and charm really does shine through in this story. Should you wish to purchase the book for yourself, you can on w

Tales for Adults - The Canterville Ghost
Tonight, we have a story about life, and death, and love. A story about hauntings, nobility and Americans. About blood stains, suits of armour and hidden rooms. A story of fear and terror, but not necessarily in the way you might imagine. Proudly presenting “The Canterville Ghost” written by Oscar Wilde. This was the very first of his stories to be published, back in 1887. This was great fun to re

Tales for Children - The Greatest Treasure
Tonight, we have a story about a happy little otter and his families very special rock. A story about squawking seagulls and cracking clams. A story, about learning very important lessons from very important people.Presenting a Fireside Community Author Spotlight, “The Greatest Treasure” written by Stefanie Fields. An absolute pleasure to read and one your little ones will enjoy. The illustrations

Tales for Adults - The Curious Case of Benjamin Button
Tonight, we have a story about a man with an aging condition like no other. A story about the oddity of life and death and society in the late 1800’s. A story about what it could be like, if we aged backwards.Proudly presenting “The Curious Case of Benjamin Button” written by F. Scott Fitzgerald, as part of his “Tales from the Jazz Age” novel, published in 1922. This original story is a little dif

Tales for Everyone - The Wonderful Wizard of Oz Part 2
Tonight, we have a story about wicked witches and winged monkeys. A story of silver shoes and golden caps. A story of Hammer-Heads, Winkies, beasts and people made of dainty china. A story about returning home.Proudly presenting the concluding Part Two of “The Wonderful Wizard of Oz”, written by L. Frank Baum, originally published in 1900. Thank you to everyone who took part in our Facebook p

Meditation by the Fireside - Journey Through the Forest Visualisation
Tonight, we are taking a journey together through a peaceful forest on your own private island. Basking in the glory of nature before finding our welcoming campsite and settling down for sleep.Visualisation meditation takes our mind on a journey where we imaginatively engage all our senses. All we have to do is follow the voice as it leads us along the trail.I would love to hear how you find this

Tales for Everyone - The Wonderful Wizard of Oz Part 1
Tonight, we have a story about lions, scarecrows and tinmen. A story about brains, and courage and heart. A story about being far from home. A story, about somewhere over the rainbow.Proudly presenting part one of “The Wonderful Wizard of Oz”, written by L. Frank Baum, originally published in 1900. Thank you to everyone who took part in our Facebook poll and helped decide we should have this episo

Poetry by the Fireside - The Love Hundred
A story about churches, and nature. A story about grief and beauty and hope. A story utterly suffused with emotion. A story about cultivation.Proudly presenting “The Love Hundred” by Neil Willis. The talented poet returns to Tales by the Fireside to share a very personal piece with us. Follow him on Facebook at NWPoetry and show him some support. Thank you for letting me read this out Neil. P.S. a

Tales for Children - I Can Do Stories
Tonight, we have three short stories about being able to do it, if you try hard enough. Stories about never giving up, even if it seems really hard. Stories about seagulls, and waves, and octopuses. Stories, about succeeding.Presenting, the "I Can Do Stories" written by Sally Tears. A wonderful collection of short stories with charming illustrations. Should you wish to purchase this for yourself,

Tales for Adults - Life and the Piazza
Tonight, we have a story about the lasting impacts childhood memories can have on us. A story about the value of our roots and those who helped us grow. A story, about returning home.Presenting another Fireside Community Author Spotlight, “Life and the Piazza” written by Tammy B. Tsonis. For more information on the author and her new book, please visit her website, tammybtsonis-author.com, or foll

Tales for Everyone - Little Daylight
Tonight, we have a story about princes and princesses, of good fairies and bad ones, of curses and counter curses. A story, of moonlight.Presenting, “Little Daylight” by George MacDonald, as published in 1871.If you enjoy this story, please let me know by leaving a rating or review or subscribing on whatever platform you’re listening on. Every interaction truly means the world to this channel.If y

Tales for Children - The Little Red Hen
Tonight, we have a story about one little farmyard animal’s quest to see a job well done. A story that teaches us the value of hard work and determination, even when surrounded by those who might not be so helpful. A story about just rewards.Presenting the old family favourite, The Little Red Hen, as retold by Florence white Williams in 1916.As always, if you enjoyed this episode please do let me

Tales for Adults - Sherlock Holmes in "The Red-Headed League"
Tonight, we have a story about mystery and deceit, about red headed men and strange job situations, about pawnbrokers, plots and counter plots.The worlds greatest detective and his faithful assistant return in Arthur Conan Doyle's “Adventures of Sherlock Holmes” second installment, “The Red-Headed League”. As published in 1891.As always, if you enjoyed this episode please do let me know by leaving

Tale for Children - Being Small (Isn't So Bad After All)
Tonight, we have a short story about a little girl who doesn’t want to go to school today. About how being the shortest in the class, really might not be such a bad thing after all. A story, about positivity.Presenting “Being Small (Isn’t so bad after all)”, written by Lori Orlinsky. A charming book with lovely illustrations and an encouraging message. Thank you Lori for allowing me to read out yo

Meditation by the Fireside - Guided Anxiety Easing Meditation
Tonight, we have another guided meditation. This time, we are focusing on reducing anxious thoughts through understanding anxiety, and positive affirmations before counting down together for sleep.Please do let me know how this worked for you, either by leaving a rating or review and subscribing to the show. We are on:Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0xiljb4JUYuerHm60VWdQ5iTunes: https://pod

Tales for Children - The LittleBig Detectives
Tonight, we have a story about the world’s youngest detective. A story about cats, cases and clocks, of partners and penguins, of milk and of mysteries. Presenting another Fireside Community Author Spotlight piece, “The LittleBig Detectives” written by Alexandra Antipa. I would like to thank Alexandra for allowing me to read these excerpts from her wonderful book. You can purchase it for yourself

Tales for Adults - Hunted Down
Tonight, we have a story about a strange untrustworthy man, and the life insurance officer whom is his adversary. A story about plots and counter plots, of vendettas and shadows, of brandy and middle partings.Presenting "Hunted Down" written by Charles Dickens, published in 1860. An author more widely known for "A Christmas Carol" or "Great Expectations", tonight we have a much more insidious and

Tales for Children - The Alycat Series
Tonight, we have a set of stories about a lovely little kitten. Stories about imagination, creativity, and believing in yourself. Stories about friendship.Presenting "The Alycat Series", written by Alysson Foti Borque. A charming set of books with wonderful art. I would like to thank Alysson for allowing me to read this series, and would urge you all to check out the website www.alycatseries.com f

Tales for Everyone - The Magical Ring of Trees
Tonight's story is about a humble monk, and a fable for us all to share. A story about treating our natural world with the respect and reverence it deserves. A story, about the majesty of Nepal.Presenting another Fireside Community Spotlight piece, The Magical Ring Of Trees by Lucia Huybrechts, part of a larger story inspired by the authors travels around Nepal and the Himalayas.You can purchase t

Tales for Children - The Wishing Well Collection Part 2
Tonight, we have a continuation of Liana Wall's wonderful story of fairies and power, of dreams and hope, of journeys and destinations, of courage and dreams.Presenting part two of the Wishing Well Collection.You can find more information about this lovely book here: www.thewishingwellcollection.comAs always, if you enjoy the content, please do consider leaving a rating or review or subscribing. E

Tales for Adults - Jane Austen's "Love and Friendship"
Tonight's story, is "Love and Friendship", part of Jane Austen's "Juvenilia", a collection of short stories and novels she wrote in her youth. This particular story was written in around 1790, when she was just a young girl. This is a tale of fortunes and favours, of suitors and supplicants, of swooning and sensibilities. Of love, and tragedy. In the form of several letters, a woman explains her h

Poetry by the Fireside - Christmas Poetry Compilation
Tonight, we have a compilation of all the poems that we featured on our Tales by the Fireside Bedtime Advent Calendar (plus a few that didn't make the original list). Authors are listed within the episode itself. I sincerely hope you enjoy this story as much as I enjoyed reading it. If you do, please consider leaving a rating or review and subscribing to Tales by the Fireside. Every interaction tr

Tales for Everyone - A Christmas Carol
Tonight, we have a story that is firmly ingrained into the hearts of multiple generations. A story that perfectly encapsulates the feeling and emotions of the holiday, and a lesson for us all. A story about misers and phantoms, of past, present and future, a story of Christmas.Proudly presenting, A Christmas Carol, by Charles Dickens. An abridged version of the story he wrote for his own public re

Tales for Adults - A Tale of Habits and Ritual
Tonight, we have a story about a diligent, intelligent Police Inspector and his two understudies. A story about a tragedy. A story about human psychology and tiny, important details.Proudly presenting "A Tale of Habits and Rituals" by Colin W Currill. A talented author and Fireside Community member who writes for the sheer passion of it. Thank you Colin, I appreciate you letting me read this endea

Christmas Bonus Episode - Santa's First Christmas
Tonight we have another Christmas Bonus Episode. A story about a magical village, and its magical inhabitant. A story about the history of someone very special, this time of year. A story, of Frogs and Ramsay's, of Elves and gifts. Of Magic.Presenting "Santa's First Christmas" by M. B. Bennett, written for santasweb.co.uk. I would like to thank the author for allowing me to read this lovely book,

Christmas Bonus Episode - The Snow Queen
Tonight, we have a much beloved Christmas Bonus Episode, a story about a brave little girl on a grand journey to save her best friend. A story about crows and royalty. A story of robbers and glass, of reindeer and sorceresses. A story about roses.Proudly presenting Hans Christian Andersen's "The Snow Queen", as published in 1844.If you enjoyed this episode, or any of the others, please do let me k

Tales for Children - The Wishing Well Collection Part 1
Tonight, we have a wonderful set of stories about a magical forest and the magical beings within it. A story about fairies and pixies, of courage and love, of enchantment and wonder.Presenting part one of The Wishing Well Collection, written by Liana Wall. You can find more information about this lovely book here: thewishingwellcollection.comAs always, if you enjoy the content, please do cons

Meditation by the Fireside - Guided ASMR Bedtime Pain Management Meditation
Tonight, we have another guided ASMR Meditation. This time, we are focusing on trying to relieve pain by creating a safe place we can return to at any time, and then winding us down for sleep. Please do let me know how this works for you, by leaving a rating or review, following or sharing. Every interaction truly means the world to this channel xCheck out our website to listen to all the episodes

Christmas Bonus Episode - The Romance of a Christmas Card
Tonight, we have a lovely Tale about a sleepy little village in 1900s America. A story about the magic of a piece of art, about struggles and troubles that can be remedied by coming together. A story about family.I am proud to present A romance of a Christmas card by Kate Douglas Wiggin, as published in 1916.Please rate, follow, or share if you enjoy this episode. Every interaction truly means the
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