The Story of Wallace and Bruce Brought to Life through the Radio Drama In Freedom’s Cause
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This post, The Story of Wallace Brought to Life through the Radio Drama In Freedom’s Cause, was made possible with the chance to review the In Freedom’s Cause Single Package ($29.97) from Heirloom Audio Productions.
We are most definitely a family of readers who enjoy a good story. Historical fiction is a genre that the boys have grown to love, but don’t always seek out on their own. And, while we might all be found with noses in a book, there are times when a different presentation is hard to pass up. Hence our love of a good audio book , whether read by one individual or done more like the radio dramas of days gone by. In Freedom’s Cause is a production which most definitely falls into the later category and we were excited to review it.
About In Freedom’s Cause
In Freedom’s Cause was originally a G. A. Henty novel seeking to bring the story of William Wallace and “the Bruce” to life. Adults might be familiar with the name of Wallace from the movie Braveheart. However, his story might be easily overlooked as one to share with children who are not ready for a full on multimedia assault which that motion picture provides. This particular telling of Wallace and “the Bruce” provides a platform to educate on the need to fight for true freedom as well as maintaining faith in God.
For our review, we were provided with the single package which included In Freedom’s Cause (CD Set – Physical Copy), In Freedom’s Cause Study Guide (Digital Download), In Freedom’s Cause Soundtrack (MP3 download), and a Printable copy of The Prayer Of William Wallace. (Digital Download). Other options for ordering are available on their website including a mp3 recording only or a family 4 pack which provides you with 3 extra copies of the CD to share with others.
My Thoughts on In Freedom’s Cause
As the boys and I had enjoyed the first release by Heirloom Audio Productions, , which we reviewed last year, I was certain that this one would be met with much enthusiasm. My 11 year old remarked about some of the actors pictured on the physical CD as he recognized names and faces. He came over pointing at the photo of Billy Boyd and talking about his role in Lord of the Rings, a movie series the boys all adore. I think that always helps to lend a sense of credibility when there is any doubt about whether something will be enjoyed.
Like the previous production we had experienced, In Freedom’s Cause goes beyond actors providing voices. This active listening audio drama production by Heirloom Audio Productions combines the story by G. A. Henty with a full audio representation of the story. Additional sounds in the background help to bring the story to life. In turn, it becomes easier for people to be drawn into the story and “paint a picture” of what is happening in their mind.
When we have listened to audio books in the car, I’ve rarely had the boys seeking something to do while listening. But, when we listen to an audio only presentation at home, I like to given them something to keep their hands busy. It could be a page to color, paper to draw what they envision happening, or even building blocks to build structures.
The study guide which was part of the additional materials in the package we were sent allows you to dig a bit deeper than just listening to the audio. You will find sets of questions which are broken into three parts: Listening Well (to see what is remembered), Thinking Further (digging beneath the surface to deepen the understanding of the story) and Defining Words (enhancing vocabulary and understanding.) Some sections of the audio have more questions and vocabulary words that others. Additionally, there are short biographies of G.A. Henty, William Wallace and Robert the Bruce plus notes on the history of Scotland and three short Bible studies that tie with In Freedom’s Cause.
Overall, this is a great way to have the kids learn a bit more about history in a more exciting manner than your typical history book provides. And, if they have their appetite whet from this introduction to 2 prominent men from Scotland’s history, they just might go off on their own rabbit trail to learn more!
Does your family enjoy audiobooks or theatrical productions like this one?
Have you or your children learned history through stories like this one instead of textbooks?
Don’t just take my word for how we found this to be. Visit the In Freedom’s Cause post on the Schoolhouse Review Crew website to see what other homeschooling parents thought about this and other self-paced courses.
