A collection of 14 stories written and read by Johnny Morris, who became enduringly popular in the TV series Animal Magic. Based on the residents of Bristol zoo, the stories include 'Charlie and Gladys the Warthogs', 'Hooter the Elephant', 'Lulu the Baby Seal', 'Harum Scarum’s Mistake', and 'Mark and Cark’s New Nest'...

Johnny Morris: Bedtime Stories was originally released on LP in 1972 and contains 14 short tales. Each story begins with Morris, as a Bristol Zoo animal keeper, approaching each animal to say goodnight and then reflecting on what they've been up to during the day.

The one thing that comes across in this collection is how Morris had a natural talent for mimicking animal noises and finding a voice befitting of each character. Probably his most successful is that of the kookaburras.

As well as the other animals, Walter Pobjoy also makes a handful of appearances. Pobjoy is a rather naughty young boy who seems to visit the zoo in order to get up to mischief. But he always gets his comeuppance in the end.

As short bedtime stories for the youngest member of your family these stories are entertaining enough.

5

Darren Rea