The Merry Adventures of Robin Hood

Howard Pyle (1853–1911), author and illustrator, was born in Wilmington, Delaware. Inspired as a child by Grimm’s German Fairy Tales and The Arabian Nights, he decided as an adult to write and illustrate stories for children. After some success contributing to children’s magazines, he became famous with his book The Merry Adventures of Robin Hood of Great Renown in Nottinghamshire. He also wrote and illustrated historical romances and fairy stories. Having studied painting at the Drexel Institute in Philadelphia, he was one of the most influential illustrators of his time, known for his imagination and detail. He also taught painting and wrote many stories for young people, illustrating his own works.

Jim Hodges began reading aloud in the second grade with a stirring rendition of Dick and Jane. He continued to volunteer to speak throughout his schooling years, performed as a newscaster while in the Navy, and participated in community theater groups. His wife, Monica, once asked what his dream job would be. He answered, “I’d record books.” And so began Jim Hodges Audio Books, producing unabridged recordings of the G. A. Henty historical novels, children’s books, Overtly Christian titles, and classic literature.