The Picture of Dorian Gray Audiobook, by Oscar Wilde Play Audiobook Sample

The Picture of Dorian Gray Audiobook

The Picture of Dorian Gray Audiobook, by Oscar Wilde Play Audiobook Sample
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Read By: Simon Vance Publisher: Blackstone Publishing Listen Time: at 1.0x Speed 5.17 hours at 1.5x Speed 3.88 hours at 2.0x Speed Release Date: February 2008 Format: Unabridged Audiobook ISBN: 9781483089461

Quick Stats About this Audiobook

Total Audiobook Chapters:

21

Longest Chapter Length:

44:13 minutes

Shortest Chapter Length:

02:49 minutes

Average Chapter Length:

22:07 minutes

Audiobooks by this Author:

75

Other Audiobooks Written by Oscar Wilde: > View All...

Publisher Description

Dorian Gray, a handsome and narcissistic young man, lives thoughtlessly for his own pleasure—an attitude encouraged by the company he keeps. One day, after having his portrait painted, Dorian makes a frivolous Faustian wish: that he should always remain as young and beautiful as he is in that painting, while the portrait grows old in his stead.

The wish comes true, and Dorian soon finds that none of his wicked actions have visible consequences. Realizing that he will appear fresh and unspoiled no matter what kind of life he lives, Dorian becomes increasingly corrupt, unchecked by public opinion. Only the portrait grows degenerate and ugly, a powerful symbol of Dorian’s internal ruin.

Wilde’s dreamlike exploration of life without limits scandalized its late-Victorian audience and has haunted readers’ imaginations for more than a hundred years.

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"I finished this book today, and I haven't the slightest clue why it took me so long to seek it out and read it. It is a classic Gothic horror tale of a man who values beauty and the material above matters of the soul and details the fallout of his making a sort of "Devil's bargain" to retain that beauty. It is delightfully chilling while at the same time alive with Wildean wit - the best sort of wit, you know."

— Kim (5 out of 5 stars)

Quotes

  • “Simon Vance’s portrayal of each character is spot-on. His Lord Henry is casual, dismissive, and haughty. His Basil Hallward, the artist infatuated with Dorian, comes across as timid and pitiful but always endearing. Best of all, Vance’s Dorian Gray exudes youth and impetuousness at the beginning but quickly darkens once the character’s madness takes hold…Vance…finds the essence of each character, making Wilde’s work a delightfully creepy listen.”

    — AudioFile
  • “The book seems more modern than one would imagine. Rather than merely a potboiler from two centuries back, Wilde’s genius imbues the story with a strange and haunting immediacy, and a cautionary tale for us all: Be careful what you wish for.”

    — Pittsburg Examiner
  • “Wilde’s only novel, The Picture of Dorian Gray, seems—in an age devoted to youth—unsettlingly modern.”

    — Kirkus Reviews
  • “More than a century after its publication, Oscar Wilde’s novella The Picture of Dorian Gray is recognized as one of the classics of English literature, a masterpiece of fin-de-siècle aestheticism and in many respects a harbinger of the Modernist movement.” 

    — Brooke Allen, author of Twentieth-Century Attitudes

Awards

  •  An Audie Award Finalist for Best Narration
  • A BookRiot Pick of Best Audiobooks under Eight Hours
  • A Literary Hub Pick of Great Irish Novels Not Set in Ireland

The Picture of Dorian Gray Listener Reviews

Overall Performance: 4.03870967741936 out of 54.03870967741936 out of 54.03870967741936 out of 54.03870967741936 out of 54.03870967741936 out of 5 (4.04)
5 Stars: 67
4 Stars: 38
3 Stars: 42
2 Stars: 5
1 Stars: 3
Narration: 0 out of 50 out of 50 out of 50 out of 50 out of 5 (0.00)
5 Stars: 0
4 Stars: 0
3 Stars: 0
2 Stars: 0
1 Stars: 0
Story: 0 out of 50 out of 50 out of 50 out of 50 out of 5 (0.00)
5 Stars: 0
4 Stars: 0
3 Stars: 0
2 Stars: 0
1 Stars: 0
Write a Review
  • Overall Performance: 3 out of 53 out of 53 out of 53 out of 53 out of 5

    " The creepy, sad, and heartbreaking tale of how a man's actions color and illustrate his soul. I would recommend it to most. "

    — Kristy, 2/19/2014
  • Overall Performance: 5 out of 55 out of 55 out of 55 out of 55 out of 5

    " Gran libro, mi hanno colpito specialmente i dialoghi, ti catturano in una maniera incredibile... "

    — Luigi, 2/16/2014
  • Overall Performance: 4 out of 54 out of 54 out of 54 out of 54 out of 5

    " Another from my well-read youth, this time prompted by a crush on Peter Firth, who played Dorian in a BBC adaptation. "

    — Viv, 2/11/2014
  • Overall Performance: 5 out of 55 out of 55 out of 55 out of 55 out of 5

    " It is very interesting and excellent book I heard about this book and I want to read this "

    — Gia, 2/9/2014
  • Overall Performance: 3 out of 53 out of 53 out of 53 out of 53 out of 5

    " I typically don't like reading older books, but this was pretty good. It still has a lot of seemingly superfluous information and dialogue, and could be hard to read at times, but the story itself is pretty interesting and says a lot about how we choose to live our lives. "

    — Taylor, 2/9/2014
  • Overall Performance: 5 out of 55 out of 55 out of 55 out of 55 out of 5

    " The descriptions, the language, the way to get you through the story make this book an absolute classic. "

    — Juano, 2/9/2014
  • Overall Performance: 4 out of 54 out of 54 out of 54 out of 54 out of 5

    " Not as exciting and interesting as I expected, but still very good. "

    — Julia, 2/8/2014
  • Overall Performance: 5 out of 55 out of 55 out of 55 out of 55 out of 5

    " One of my favourite books. Beautifully written and a very quotable piece of literature. "

    — Bianca, 2/7/2014
  • Overall Performance: 3 out of 53 out of 53 out of 53 out of 53 out of 5

    " Worth reading, although the plot can get dull at times. The thematic concepts in this book were fantastic. Would recommend with the asterisk that it may bore you. "

    — Paul, 2/7/2014
  • Overall Performance: 5 out of 55 out of 55 out of 55 out of 55 out of 5

    " This book does not need text reviews since everyone knows it, but I love it. I love every little intricate detail, and every intentional detail left out. "

    — Pantslady, 2/5/2014
  • Overall Performance: 3 out of 53 out of 53 out of 53 out of 53 out of 5

    " I enjoyed Sybil Vanes conversation with her brother James. "

    — William, 2/3/2014
  • Overall Performance: 4 out of 54 out of 54 out of 54 out of 54 out of 5

    " Dragged in the middle, but I liked it otherwise. "

    — Daniel, 2/1/2014
  • Overall Performance: 5 out of 55 out of 55 out of 55 out of 55 out of 5

    " Witty, dark, gruesome, engrossing. I loved it. "

    — Aimee, 1/24/2014
  • Overall Performance: 5 out of 55 out of 55 out of 55 out of 55 out of 5

    " Oscar Wilde should have written more novels. He understands rhetoric, imagery and tone unlike any other novel I have ever read. Every sentence impressed me. "

    — Tracy, 1/20/2014
  • Overall Performance: 5 out of 55 out of 55 out of 55 out of 55 out of 5

    " This is one of my favorite books. I just love exploring morality through the story Wilde lays before me. I love the characters, the setting. It's an amazing book. And I see something different each time I read it. "

    — Kristin, 1/19/2014
  • Overall Performance: 4 out of 54 out of 54 out of 54 out of 54 out of 5

    " One of the more haunting books from the canon that I have read. The book feels that much more relevant considering the 21st century's obsession with looks and the aesthetic ideal. "

    — Mr., 1/16/2014
  • Overall Performance: 5 out of 55 out of 55 out of 55 out of 55 out of 5

    " It is a really exciting story full of unexpected events. Loved it from the beginning to the very end. "

    — Behzad, 1/14/2014
  • Overall Performance: 4 out of 54 out of 54 out of 54 out of 54 out of 5

    " A favorite book. Dark but not gruesome, didn't have to mention evil spawn or whatevs. I like that it also did not have to detail everything yet reader would have an idea of what went on. Lord Henry is absolutely a favorite character, his point of view is just amusing. "

    — Maricar, 1/14/2014
  • Overall Performance: 2 out of 52 out of 52 out of 52 out of 52 out of 5

    " Parts of this book could have been cut, for instance the chapter that went on and on about the hobbies that Dorian became obsessed with. I found after a little research, that Oscar Wilde had written this as a story for a magazine, and then added material to turn it into a novel. I suspect the part that seemed dull and to drag on were the parts he added, which is too bad. Overall the plot and overall moral of the story were cleverly written. "

    — Sally, 1/13/2014
  • Overall Performance: 3 out of 53 out of 53 out of 53 out of 53 out of 5

    " I liked the picture of Dorian Grey. However, I didn't read it; it was read to me on Librevox. I'm sure that has altered my perception of it quite a bit compared to if I had read it myself. However, I did enjoy the story. It was what I thought it would be, and ended nicely. "

    — Jeena, 1/9/2014
  • Overall Performance: 5 out of 55 out of 55 out of 55 out of 55 out of 5

    " The book which contains most of Oscar Wilde's greatest quotes. Can't beat that! "

    — Vinay, 12/25/2013
  • Overall Performance: 5 out of 55 out of 55 out of 55 out of 55 out of 5

    " The book that made me fall in love with Oscar Wilde but in totally straight way. :P "

    — Lin, 12/21/2013
  • Overall Performance: 5 out of 55 out of 55 out of 55 out of 55 out of 5

    " despre dorain grey, kare niciodata na vrut sa fie batran, a lasat sulfetul in portretul sau, asa a trait tinar tot timpu ku suflet batran, indragostit de o fata kare sa sinucis pentru el. la urma se sinucide singur de kinul pe kare la avut "

    — Serhiy, 12/19/2013
  • Overall Performance: 4 out of 54 out of 54 out of 54 out of 54 out of 5

    " Surprised by this book. I didn't know what to expect from the story and it certainly didn't give away any secrets early on. Great short story with lots of humour. "

    — Alison, 12/17/2013
  • Overall Performance: 4 out of 54 out of 54 out of 54 out of 54 out of 5

    " Climax lead a lot to ponder about. "

    — Aravind, 12/16/2013
  • Overall Performance: 5 out of 55 out of 55 out of 55 out of 55 out of 5

    " Reread for teaching this semester. What can I say but that I love Oscar Wilde so? "

    — brenna, 12/15/2013
  • Overall Performance: 5 out of 55 out of 55 out of 55 out of 55 out of 5

    " The plot is excellent, but what really makes this book an absolute crime to miss is Wilde's completely incomparable mastery of the English language. Beautifully written. "

    — Joel, 12/14/2013
  • Overall Performance: 4 out of 54 out of 54 out of 54 out of 54 out of 5

    " The premise is captivating and the plot is haunting. I love the poetry of Wilde's scene-setting passages. I find his epigrams (here from the character of Lord Henry) to be quickly tiresome. But there were plenty other elements to keep me enthralled, and I really enjoyed it. "

    — Lisa, 12/6/2013
  • Overall Performance: 4 out of 54 out of 54 out of 54 out of 54 out of 5

    " Surprised by this book. I didn't know what to expect from the story and it certainly didn't give away any secrets early on. Great short story with lots of humour. "

    — Alison, 12/2/2013
  • Overall Performance: 1 out of 51 out of 51 out of 51 out of 51 out of 5

    " One of only two books I couldn't read - finally finished it, but hated it all the way :( "

    — Stephanie, 11/24/2013
  • Overall Performance: 5 out of 55 out of 55 out of 55 out of 55 out of 5

    " Oscar Wilde is a genius. I felt like highlighting every single dialogue by Lord Henry. The name Basil Hallward got me craving Spicy Basil Chicken. "

    — Maisha, 11/20/2013
  • Overall Performance: 3 out of 53 out of 53 out of 53 out of 53 out of 5

    " Interesting read. Enjoyed but found the story spent too much time building up the plot and not enough on what he did. I guess left to your imagination. "

    — Maureen, 11/15/2013
  • Overall Performance: 5 out of 55 out of 55 out of 55 out of 55 out of 5

    " I fought not to read this book for a while since the school's "must read" list of books usually contained not so interesting stuff. And when I finally got it to read I was strongly surprised that I found a masterpiece of drama and fantasy! "

    — Elena, 11/11/2013
  • Overall Performance: 3 out of 53 out of 53 out of 53 out of 53 out of 5

    " Every evil has its end .... "

    — Salma, 10/31/2013
  • Overall Performance: 5 out of 55 out of 55 out of 55 out of 55 out of 5

    " A quote to remember on every page "

    — Arjan, 10/25/2013
  • Overall Performance: 5 out of 55 out of 55 out of 55 out of 55 out of 5

    " I would give it a 4.5 stars if possible. "

    — Hanna, 10/20/2013
  • Overall Performance: 1 out of 51 out of 51 out of 51 out of 51 out of 5

    " I admit I gave up on it. I think I only read half of the book. I just don't like watching someone corrupt someone else, and the slew of bad decisions that Dorian makes. Bleh. I was getting really tired of lord Henry. "

    — Becky, 9/25/2013
  • Overall Performance: 5 out of 55 out of 55 out of 55 out of 55 out of 5

    " I really liked this book. It was very thought provoking, and rarely boring. I really liked all of the characters, and thought the end was pretty fitting. I would recommend it to anyone! "

    — Chelsea, 9/16/2013
  • Overall Performance: 4 out of 54 out of 54 out of 54 out of 54 out of 5

    " held my interest throughout....a beautiful soul running down the road to perdition knowingly and purposefully meeting it's demise. "

    — Andrea, 9/10/2013
  • Overall Performance: 3 out of 53 out of 53 out of 53 out of 53 out of 5

    " I probably would give it 3.75 stars. There were a couple of slow spots, but overall I enjoyed the plot twists and there were a lot of quotable quotes. Also, it's just over 200 pages which makes it manageable for a classic. "

    — Tammy, 8/20/2013
  • Overall Performance: 5 out of 55 out of 55 out of 55 out of 55 out of 5

    " this is one of my favoirtes. "

    — Nadine, 7/30/2013
  • Overall Performance: 3 out of 53 out of 53 out of 53 out of 53 out of 5

    " The creepy, sad, and heartbreaking tale of how a man's actions color and illustrate his soul. I would recommend it to most. "

    — Kristy, 7/6/2013
  • Overall Performance: 5 out of 55 out of 55 out of 55 out of 55 out of 5

    " Genius. There is nothing else to be said. This is an unsettling read - but necessary. What is the price of beauty? What is its essence? What would you give for it? "

    — Rose, 7/2/2013
  • Overall Performance: 5 out of 55 out of 55 out of 55 out of 55 out of 5

    " One of my favorite books of all time. Has a great early sort of magical realism and the decadents are interesting in the way they blend victorianism and modernism. Read it! "

    — Rachael, 6/22/2013
  • Overall Performance: 5 out of 55 out of 55 out of 55 out of 55 out of 5

    " The book which contains most of Oscar Wilde's greatest quotes. Can't beat that! "

    — Vinay, 6/18/2013
  • Overall Performance: 5 out of 55 out of 55 out of 55 out of 55 out of 5

    " It is a really exciting story full of unexpected events. Loved it from the beginning to the very end. "

    — Behzad, 6/10/2013
  • Overall Performance: 5 out of 55 out of 55 out of 55 out of 55 out of 5

    " This book was fantastic! Do yourself a favor and read this book! "

    — Dawnmarie, 5/16/2013
  • Overall Performance: 5 out of 55 out of 55 out of 55 out of 55 out of 5

    " I love Oscar and I wish he would reincarnate just like Jesus did so I could elope with him! "

    — Chelsea, 5/15/2013
  • Overall Performance: 4 out of 54 out of 54 out of 54 out of 54 out of 5

    " I was given this book upon my completion of year 12 English by my teacher. She said it was her favourite book. I have to agree, that it is incredible. I most likely wouldn't have read it otherwise and thank her. "

    — Shannon, 4/22/2013
  • Overall Performance: 5 out of 55 out of 55 out of 55 out of 55 out of 5

    " The Picture of Dorian Gray has become one of my favorite books of all time. It's such a beautifully tragic story, and is surprisingly laced with the grotesque values of an average person. "

    — Cavina, 3/28/2013
  • Overall Performance: 4 out of 54 out of 54 out of 54 out of 54 out of 5

    " A very good read. Thought provoking, beautifully written, I found it hard to put it down. "

    — Sarah, 3/15/2013
  • Overall Performance: 5 out of 55 out of 55 out of 55 out of 55 out of 5

    " I enjoyed this book. A little different than what historically I understood of the story from other writings and fiction. Good one to read. "

    — Steven, 3/8/2013
  • Overall Performance: 5 out of 55 out of 55 out of 55 out of 55 out of 5

    " I enjoyed it, it was wonderful and witty to read. Wordy, yes. But that is how most older books are. If you like something fast paced and action packed then this is not for you. But if you like a deep look into the slow and steady corruption of someone's soul then you will like this book. "

    — Ian, 12/16/2012
  • Overall Performance: 3 out of 53 out of 53 out of 53 out of 53 out of 5

    " Middle third of the book is really dull and cause for skimming. Bit of a Poe feel to it. Lord Henry is alive and well today unfortunately, while Basil is becoming less and less visible. Are we all the 17 year old Dorian looking for Basil, but finding Lord Henry instead? "

    — Carole, 12/13/2012
  • Overall Performance: 3 out of 53 out of 53 out of 53 out of 53 out of 5

    " This story was painfully slow with detail in spots, I will always remember it, and I am glad to have read a classic. My rating 3.5 "

    — Richard, 11/19/2012
  • Overall Performance: 3 out of 53 out of 53 out of 53 out of 53 out of 5

    " Just not my cup of tea. "

    — Susan, 11/17/2012
  • Overall Performance: 5 out of 55 out of 55 out of 55 out of 55 out of 5

    " Very good plot, simply loved it. "

    — Hariharan, 10/25/2012
  • Overall Performance: 4 out of 54 out of 54 out of 54 out of 54 out of 5

    " Through the portray of Dorian, Wilde manages to portray a human soul and its most primitive and dark parts. "

    — Matea, 10/23/2012
  • Overall Performance: 5 out of 55 out of 55 out of 55 out of 55 out of 5

    " Bewildered by the splendidly articulated philosophical inclinations of Oscar Wilde. "

    — Aristides, 10/12/2012
  • Overall Performance: 5 out of 55 out of 55 out of 55 out of 55 out of 5

    " Problablemente la obra mas espectacular de Oscar Wilde. DEGRADACION DE LA MORALIDAD. "

    — La_montserrat, 9/10/2012
  • Overall Performance: 5 out of 55 out of 55 out of 55 out of 55 out of 5

    " Probably one of my favourite reads of all time, a true classic. "

    — Amelia, 8/23/2012
  • Overall Performance: 5 out of 55 out of 55 out of 55 out of 55 out of 5

    " i love love love it "

    — Zoe, 7/24/2012
  • Overall Performance: 4 out of 54 out of 54 out of 54 out of 54 out of 5

    " Through the portray of Dorian, Wilde manages to portray a human soul and its most primitive and dark parts. "

    — Matea, 6/25/2012
  • Overall Performance: 5 out of 55 out of 55 out of 55 out of 55 out of 5

    " So current that makes this one of the best classics ever. The first big book i've ever read, i was only 11 when first got to it. "

    — Milena, 6/16/2012
  • Overall Performance: 4 out of 54 out of 54 out of 54 out of 54 out of 5

    " i've learned to be suspicious of people who enjoy flinging themselves into chairs. "

    — Devin, 5/29/2012
  • Overall Performance: 5 out of 55 out of 55 out of 55 out of 55 out of 5

    " the best to represent : careful what you wish for :)...one of the most affecting novels i have ever read "

    — AMAL, 5/15/2012
  • Overall Performance: 3 out of 53 out of 53 out of 53 out of 53 out of 5

    " This may be a classic but I had to force myself to finish it . "

    — Viki, 5/13/2012
  • Overall Performance: 5 out of 55 out of 55 out of 55 out of 55 out of 5

    " one of the best examples of Victorian writing in my very uninformed opinion. "

    — Jim, 4/18/2012
  • Overall Performance: 4 out of 54 out of 54 out of 54 out of 54 out of 5

    " The book was enjoyable, but at times a little bit dry. "

    — Evan, 3/11/2012
  • Overall Performance: 3 out of 53 out of 53 out of 53 out of 53 out of 5

    " One of the strangest books I have ever read. "

    — Annette, 3/4/2012
  • Overall Performance: 4 out of 54 out of 54 out of 54 out of 54 out of 5

    " It was an interesting read. "

    — Peter, 2/23/2012
  • Overall Performance: 4 out of 54 out of 54 out of 54 out of 54 out of 5

    " So many beautiful quotes. I totally loved it because it made me think after every sentence about "good vs bad". "

    — Ledja, 2/3/2012
  • Overall Performance: 5 out of 55 out of 55 out of 55 out of 55 out of 5

    " Fantastic. Couldn't put it down. "

    — Jabril, 1/5/2012
  • Overall Performance: 5 out of 55 out of 55 out of 55 out of 55 out of 5

    " I love lord Henry. He and his quotes are amazing. Absolutely. "

    — natália, 12/28/2011
  • Overall Performance: 2 out of 52 out of 52 out of 52 out of 52 out of 5

    " Once I got through the first half it was pretty good. I guess I like more action or plot in my books than just philosophical wonderings. I am glad I read it though. "

    — Nicki, 12/16/2011
  • Overall Performance: 4 out of 54 out of 54 out of 54 out of 54 out of 5

    " Love this! Such great philosophical statements. Loved that he was an anti-hero all the way through. "

    — Roy, 11/30/2011
  • Overall Performance: 5 out of 55 out of 55 out of 55 out of 55 out of 5

    " Profoundly contributed to my childhood pondering. "

    — Cynthia, 11/12/2011
  • Overall Performance: 5 out of 55 out of 55 out of 55 out of 55 out of 5

    " One of my favorite books ever! It's brutal honesty of how indulging in your every wish and desire has a price to pay yet it has some complete truth and fear some have " when one loses their youth and beauty, one looses everything " "

    — Lisa, 11/12/2011
  • Overall Performance: 4 out of 54 out of 54 out of 54 out of 54 out of 5

    " Even knowing of the story, the book is an excellent read. I enjoyed it thoroughly! "

    — Richard, 11/8/2011
  • Overall Performance: 5 out of 55 out of 55 out of 55 out of 55 out of 5

    " What a Extraordinary Tale of a man's quest to hide his sins, and the life impure and immortalized of Mister Gray. I would give this book a four and a half stars if they had a rating for that.....Timothy~ "

    — Timothy, 11/6/2011
  • Overall Performance: 4 out of 54 out of 54 out of 54 out of 54 out of 5

    " Slow and tedious read but absolutely beautifully written. A work if art. "

    — Danielle, 11/3/2011
  • Overall Performance: 1 out of 51 out of 51 out of 51 out of 51 out of 5

    " To be honest, it became so boring, I stopped reading it. The story could have lasted fewer pages, and that's a fact. "

    — Justin, 11/2/2011
  • Overall Performance: 5 out of 55 out of 55 out of 55 out of 55 out of 5

    " Very unique. I think what I really got out of this was how easily we are influenced at a certain age in our life if we don't have the proper guidance and mentoring. One wrong turn???? "

    — Teresa, 10/30/2011
  • Overall Performance: 3 out of 53 out of 53 out of 53 out of 53 out of 5

    " Good. Very quotable. At times Dorian Gray and Lord Henry make you want to pull your hair out. "

    — James, 10/30/2011
  • Overall Performance: 5 out of 55 out of 55 out of 55 out of 55 out of 5

    " A deeply dark and wondrous story of narcissism and regret! "

    — Fred, 9/26/2011
  • Overall Performance: 5 out of 55 out of 55 out of 55 out of 55 out of 5

    " Una de mis obras favoritas. Extraordinaria. "

    — José, 8/28/2011
  • Overall Performance: 4 out of 54 out of 54 out of 54 out of 54 out of 5

    " The book was enjoyable, but at times a little bit dry. "

    — Evan, 8/27/2011
  • Overall Performance: 2 out of 52 out of 52 out of 52 out of 52 out of 5

    " I had to read this for school, and it really just wasn't a favourite of mine. "

    — Natalie, 8/3/2011
  • Overall Performance: 5 out of 55 out of 55 out of 55 out of 55 out of 5

    " I am yet to read a bad Oscar Wilde book. He is simply amazing. "

    — Stephanie, 5/24/2011
  • Overall Performance: 2 out of 52 out of 52 out of 52 out of 52 out of 5

    " I'm glad I finally read it. I don't enjoy stories where the protagonist is a villain, especially when the author obviously has so much sympathy for the character. "

    — Thara, 5/24/2011
  • Overall Performance: 5 out of 55 out of 55 out of 55 out of 55 out of 5

    " very witty book, definitely one to be read over and over. All Wilde says is the truth, no matter how paradoxical "

    — Angelaswing, 5/24/2011
  • Overall Performance: 5 out of 55 out of 55 out of 55 out of 55 out of 5

    " I am yet to read a bad Oscar Wilde book. He is simply amazing. "

    — Stephanie, 5/24/2011
  • Overall Performance: 2 out of 52 out of 52 out of 52 out of 52 out of 5

    " I'm glad I finally read it. I don't enjoy stories where the protagonist is a villain, especially when the author obviously has so much sympathy for the character. "

    — Thara, 5/24/2011
  • Overall Performance: 5 out of 55 out of 55 out of 55 out of 55 out of 5

    " I am yet to read a bad Oscar Wilde book. He is simply amazing. "

    — Stephanie, 5/24/2011
  • Overall Performance: 4 out of 54 out of 54 out of 54 out of 54 out of 5

    " The dated style of prose makes it a slow read, but the story is a classic. Knowing that Oscar Wilde was struggling with his sexuality adds an element that gives depth to the conflict. "

    — Katie, 5/23/2011
  • Overall Performance: 3 out of 53 out of 53 out of 53 out of 53 out of 5

    " I found much of this difficult to read in this day and age, especially the epigramatic dialog but the rest was very good. Not my first time and would recommend as an important classic to read. "

    — Carol, 5/22/2011
  • Overall Performance: 3 out of 53 out of 53 out of 53 out of 53 out of 5

    " I found much of this difficult to read in this day and age, especially the epigramatic dialog but the rest was very good. Not my first time and would recommend as an important classic to read. "

    — Carol, 5/22/2011
  • Overall Performance: 3 out of 53 out of 53 out of 53 out of 53 out of 5

    " I found much of this difficult to read in this day and age, especially the epigramatic dialog but the rest was very good. Not my first time and would recommend as an important classic to read. "

    — Carol, 5/22/2011
  • Overall Performance: 3 out of 53 out of 53 out of 53 out of 53 out of 5

    " I found much of this difficult to read in this day and age, especially the epigramatic dialog but the rest was very good. Not my first time and would recommend as an important classic to read. "

    — Carol, 5/22/2011
  • Overall Performance: 3 out of 53 out of 53 out of 53 out of 53 out of 5

    " I found much of this difficult to read in this day and age, especially the epigramatic dialog but the rest was very good. Not my first time and would recommend as an important classic to read. "

    — Carol, 5/22/2011
  • Overall Performance: 3 out of 53 out of 53 out of 53 out of 53 out of 5

    " I found much of this difficult to read in this day and age, especially the epigramatic dialog but the rest was very good. Not my first time and would recommend as an important classic to read. "

    — Carol, 5/22/2011
  • Overall Performance: 3 out of 53 out of 53 out of 53 out of 53 out of 5

    " I found much of this difficult to read in this day and age, especially the epigramatic dialog but the rest was very good. Not my first time and would recommend as an important classic to read. "

    — Carol, 5/22/2011
  • Overall Performance: 3 out of 53 out of 53 out of 53 out of 53 out of 5

    " I found much of this difficult to read in this day and age, especially the epigramatic dialog but the rest was very good. Not my first time and would recommend as an important classic to read. "

    — Carol, 5/22/2011
  • Overall Performance: 3 out of 53 out of 53 out of 53 out of 53 out of 5

    " I found much of this difficult to read in this day and age, especially the epigramatic dialog but the rest was very good. Not my first time and would recommend as an important classic to read. "

    — Carol, 5/22/2011
  • Overall Performance: 3 out of 53 out of 53 out of 53 out of 53 out of 5

    " Macabre version of Thomas Hardy. Memorable. "

    — Jeremiah, 5/20/2011
  • Overall Performance: 3 out of 53 out of 53 out of 53 out of 53 out of 5

    " This novel isn't as well known as Dracula or Frankenstein but it is just as good. In some ways, it is darker than those two as well. "

    — Drucilla, 5/20/2011
  • Overall Performance: 3 out of 53 out of 53 out of 53 out of 53 out of 5

    " Macabre version of Thomas Hardy. Memorable. "

    — Jeremiah, 5/20/2011
  • Overall Performance: 3 out of 53 out of 53 out of 53 out of 53 out of 5

    " Macabre version of Thomas Hardy. Memorable. "

    — Jeremiah, 5/20/2011
  • Overall Performance: 3 out of 53 out of 53 out of 53 out of 53 out of 5

    " This novel isn't as well known as Dracula or Frankenstein but it is just as good. In some ways, it is darker than those two as well. "

    — Drucilla, 5/20/2011
  • Overall Performance: 3 out of 53 out of 53 out of 53 out of 53 out of 5

    " Macabre version of Thomas Hardy. Memorable. "

    — Jeremiah, 5/20/2011
  • Overall Performance: 3 out of 53 out of 53 out of 53 out of 53 out of 5

    " Macabre version of Thomas Hardy. Memorable. "

    — Jeremiah, 5/20/2011
  • Overall Performance: 3 out of 53 out of 53 out of 53 out of 53 out of 5

    " Macabre version of Thomas Hardy. Memorable. "

    — Jeremiah, 5/20/2011
  • Overall Performance: 3 out of 53 out of 53 out of 53 out of 53 out of 5

    " This novel isn't as well known as Dracula or Frankenstein but it is just as good. In some ways, it is darker than those two as well. "

    — Drucilla, 5/20/2011
  • Overall Performance: 3 out of 53 out of 53 out of 53 out of 53 out of 5

    " Macabre version of Thomas Hardy. Memorable. "

    — Jeremiah, 5/20/2011
  • Overall Performance: 3 out of 53 out of 53 out of 53 out of 53 out of 5

    " This novel isn't as well known as Dracula or Frankenstein but it is just as good. In some ways, it is darker than those two as well. "

    — Drucilla, 5/20/2011
  • Overall Performance: 3 out of 53 out of 53 out of 53 out of 53 out of 5

    " Macabre version of Thomas Hardy. Memorable. "

    — Jeremiah, 5/20/2011
  • Overall Performance: 3 out of 53 out of 53 out of 53 out of 53 out of 5

    " This novel isn't as well known as Dracula or Frankenstein but it is just as good. In some ways, it is darker than those two as well. "

    — Drucilla, 5/20/2011
  • Overall Performance: 3 out of 53 out of 53 out of 53 out of 53 out of 5

    " Macabre version of Thomas Hardy. Memorable. "

    — Jeremiah, 5/20/2011
  • Overall Performance: 3 out of 53 out of 53 out of 53 out of 53 out of 5

    " Had a hard time finishing it. Maybe it's because I really don't like him. "

    — Heather, 5/19/2011
  • Overall Performance: 5 out of 55 out of 55 out of 55 out of 55 out of 5

    " I feel the urge to add that I have read this in three languages. I guess this sums up how much I like it. "

    — Julia, 5/19/2011
  • Overall Performance: 4 out of 54 out of 54 out of 54 out of 54 out of 5

    " I've read this book a couple of times over the years and have always enjoyed it. "

    — Wilde, 5/19/2011
  • Overall Performance: 5 out of 55 out of 55 out of 55 out of 55 out of 5

    " I feel the urge to add that I have read this in three languages. I guess this sums up how much I like it. "

    — Julia, 5/19/2011
  • Overall Performance: 3 out of 53 out of 53 out of 53 out of 53 out of 5

    " Had a hard time finishing it. Maybe it's because I really don't like him. "

    — Heather, 5/19/2011
  • Overall Performance: 4 out of 54 out of 54 out of 54 out of 54 out of 5

    " I've read this book a couple of times over the years and have always enjoyed it. "

    — Wilde, 5/19/2011
  • Overall Performance: 4 out of 54 out of 54 out of 54 out of 54 out of 5

    " It was very good, a bit slow in the beginning but the ending was really unexpected. "

    — Johanne, 5/19/2011
  • Overall Performance: 5 out of 55 out of 55 out of 55 out of 55 out of 5

    " I feel the urge to add that I have read this in three languages. I guess this sums up how much I like it. "

    — Julia, 5/19/2011
  • Overall Performance: 4 out of 54 out of 54 out of 54 out of 54 out of 5

    " I've read this book a couple of times over the years and have always enjoyed it. "

    — Wilde, 5/19/2011
  • Overall Performance: 5 out of 55 out of 55 out of 55 out of 55 out of 5

    " I feel the urge to add that I have read this in three languages. I guess this sums up how much I like it. "

    — Julia, 5/19/2011
  • Overall Performance: 4 out of 54 out of 54 out of 54 out of 54 out of 5

    " It was very good, a bit slow in the beginning but the ending was really unexpected. "

    — Johanne, 5/19/2011
  • Overall Performance: 5 out of 55 out of 55 out of 55 out of 55 out of 5

    " I feel the urge to add that I have read this in three languages. I guess this sums up how much I like it. "

    — Julia, 5/19/2011
  • Overall Performance: 4 out of 54 out of 54 out of 54 out of 54 out of 5

    " I've read this book a couple of times over the years and have always enjoyed it. "

    — Wilde, 5/19/2011
  • Overall Performance: 4 out of 54 out of 54 out of 54 out of 54 out of 5

    " I've read this book a couple of times over the years and have always enjoyed it. "

    — Wilde, 5/19/2011
  • Overall Performance: 3 out of 53 out of 53 out of 53 out of 53 out of 5

    " Had a hard time finishing it. Maybe it's because I really don't like him. "

    — Heather, 5/19/2011
  • Overall Performance: 5 out of 55 out of 55 out of 55 out of 55 out of 5

    " I feel the urge to add that I have read this in three languages. I guess this sums up how much I like it. "

    — Julia, 5/19/2011
  • Overall Performance: 4 out of 54 out of 54 out of 54 out of 54 out of 5

    " I've read this book a couple of times over the years and have always enjoyed it. "

    — Wilde, 5/19/2011
  • Overall Performance: 3 out of 53 out of 53 out of 53 out of 53 out of 5

    " Had a hard time finishing it. Maybe it's because I really don't like him. "

    — Heather, 5/19/2011
  • Overall Performance: 4 out of 54 out of 54 out of 54 out of 54 out of 5

    " I've read this book a couple of times over the years and have always enjoyed it. "

    — Wilde, 5/19/2011
  • Overall Performance: 5 out of 55 out of 55 out of 55 out of 55 out of 5

    " Exquisite... the word that came to my mind after the last page of this wonderful piece of art. I can't really say much, but its interesting how everything goes around the arts, the beauty and the greed. Go and read this, period. "

    — Jose, 5/18/2011
  • Overall Performance: 5 out of 55 out of 55 out of 55 out of 55 out of 5

    " Exquisite... the word that came to my mind after the last page of this wonderful piece of art. I can't really say much, but its interesting how everything goes around the arts, the beauty and the greed. Go and read this, period. "

    — Jose, 5/18/2011
  • Overall Performance: 5 out of 55 out of 55 out of 55 out of 55 out of 5

    " Exquisite... the word that came to my mind after the last page of this wonderful piece of art. I can't really say much, but its interesting how everything goes around the arts, the beauty and the greed. Go and read this, period. "

    — Jose, 5/18/2011
  • Overall Performance: 5 out of 55 out of 55 out of 55 out of 55 out of 5

    " Exquisite... the word that came to my mind after the last page of this wonderful piece of art. I can't really say much, but its interesting how everything goes around the arts, the beauty and the greed. Go and read this, period. "

    — Jose, 5/18/2011
  • Overall Performance: 5 out of 55 out of 55 out of 55 out of 55 out of 5

    " Exquisite... the word that came to my mind after the last page of this wonderful piece of art. I can't really say much, but its interesting how everything goes around the arts, the beauty and the greed. Go and read this, period. "

    — Jose, 5/18/2011
  • Overall Performance: 5 out of 55 out of 55 out of 55 out of 55 out of 5

    " Exquisite... the word that came to my mind after the last page of this wonderful piece of art. I can't really say much, but its interesting how everything goes around the arts, the beauty and the greed. Go and read this, period. "

    — Jose, 5/18/2011
  • Overall Performance: 5 out of 55 out of 55 out of 55 out of 55 out of 5

    " I love Oscar Wilde's style of writing. Believe it or not, this is the first time I've read anything by him, and now I am itching to read everything he wrote. "

    — Syreeta, 5/18/2011
  • Overall Performance: 4 out of 54 out of 54 out of 54 out of 54 out of 5

    " Clever wordplay, flowery symbolism, tortured souls. Gotta love Oscar Wilde. "

    — Kristen, 5/17/2011
  • Overall Performance: 4 out of 54 out of 54 out of 54 out of 54 out of 5

    " Clever wordplay, flowery symbolism, tortured souls. Gotta love Oscar Wilde. "

    — Kristen, 5/17/2011
  • Overall Performance: 4 out of 54 out of 54 out of 54 out of 54 out of 5

    " Clever wordplay, flowery symbolism, tortured souls. Gotta love Oscar Wilde. "

    — Kristen, 5/17/2011
  • Overall Performance: 4 out of 54 out of 54 out of 54 out of 54 out of 5

    " Clever wordplay, flowery symbolism, tortured souls. Gotta love Oscar Wilde. "

    — Kristen, 5/17/2011
  • Overall Performance: 4 out of 54 out of 54 out of 54 out of 54 out of 5

    " Clever wordplay, flowery symbolism, tortured souls. Gotta love Oscar Wilde. "

    — Kristen, 5/17/2011
  • Overall Performance: 4 out of 54 out of 54 out of 54 out of 54 out of 5

    " Clever wordplay, flowery symbolism, tortured souls. Gotta love Oscar Wilde. "

    — Kristen, 5/17/2011
  • Overall Performance: 5 out of 55 out of 55 out of 55 out of 55 out of 5

    " wonderful story of a man who finds out how life is and who becomes something that he is not. I think this is what happens with all of us at a certain age, we are all good people at the beginning but we have to change during the life. And the metaphor of the picture is great. "

    — Ioana, 5/16/2011
  • Overall Performance: 5 out of 55 out of 55 out of 55 out of 55 out of 5

    " wonderful story of a man who finds out how life is and who becomes something that he is not. I think this is what happens with all of us at a certain age, we are all good people at the beginning but we have to change during the life. And the metaphor of the picture is great. "

    — Ioana, 5/16/2011
  • Overall Performance: 5 out of 55 out of 55 out of 55 out of 55 out of 5

    " wonderful story of a man who finds out how life is and who becomes something that he is not. I think this is what happens with all of us at a certain age, we are all good people at the beginning but we have to change during the life. And the metaphor of the picture is great. "

    — Ioana, 5/16/2011
  • Overall Performance: 5 out of 55 out of 55 out of 55 out of 55 out of 5

    " wonderful story of a man who finds out how life is and who becomes something that he is not. I think this is what happens with all of us at a certain age, we are all good people at the beginning but we have to change during the life. And the metaphor of the picture is great. "

    — Ioana, 5/16/2011
  • Overall Performance: 5 out of 55 out of 55 out of 55 out of 55 out of 5

    " wonderful story of a man who finds out how life is and who becomes something that he is not. I think this is what happens with all of us at a certain age, we are all good people at the beginning but we have to change during the life. And the metaphor of the picture is great. "

    — Ioana, 5/16/2011

About Oscar Wilde

Oscar Wilde (1854–1900) was born in Dublin. He won scholarships to both Trinity College, Dublin, and Magdalen College, Oxford. In 1875, he began publishing poetry in literary magazines, and in 1878, he won the coveted Newdigate Prize for English poetry. He had a reputation as a flamboyant wit and man-about-town. After his marriage to Constance Lloyd in 1884, he tried to establish himself as a writer, but with little initial success. However, his three volumes of short fiction, The Happy Prince, Lord Arthur Savile’s Crime, and A House of Pomegranates, together with his only novel, The Picture of Dorian Gray, gradually won him a reputation as a modern writer with an original talent. That reputation was confirmed and enhanced by the phenomenal success of his society comedies: Lady Windermere’s Fan, A Woman of No Importance, An Ideal Husband, and The Importance of Being Earnest, all performed on London’s West End stage between 1892 and 1895. In 1895, he was convicted of engaging in homosexual acts, which were then illegal, and sentenced to two years imprisonment with hard labor. He soon declared bankruptcy, and his property was auctioned off. In 1896, he lost legal custody of his children. When his mother died that same year, his wife Constance visited him at the jail to bring him the news. It was the last time they saw each other. In the years after his release, his health deteriorated. In November 1900, he died in Paris at the age of forty-six.

About Simon Vance

Simon Vance (a.k.a. Robert Whitfield) is an award-winning actor and narrator. He has earned more than fifty Earphones Awards and won the prestigious Audie Award for best narration thirteen times. He was named Booklist’s very first Voice of Choice in 2008 and has been named an AudioFile Golden Voice as well as an AudioFile Best Voice of 2009. He has narrated more than eight hundred audiobooks over almost thirty years, beginning when he was a radio newsreader for the BBC in London. He is also an actor who has appeared on both stage and television.