Photo by Fillmore Photography
I grew up listening to my dad reminisce about the days when he would gather around his family’s huge radio and listen to the Lone Ranger, Fibber McGee and Molly, Hopalong Cassidy, George Burns, and many other old-time radio shows.
Unlike television, radio shows gave children and adults alike a chance to use their imaginations and picture the exploits of detectives, cowboys, and action heroes.
My father’s love for radio was passed on to me and even now I still enjoy listening to radio dramas while I’m driving or relaxing.
Before heading out on your next trip with your kids, grandkids, or just a solo excursion, you might want to check out a few of these suggestions.
Adventures in Odyssey
One of the longest running radio dramas, Adventures in Odyssey has been a staple in my life since I was about six years old.
The ongoing adventures of Eugene, Connie, Bernard, Tom, the Rathbones, and of course, the beloved Mr. Whitaker has captivated young and old for twenty years.
Odyssey can be streamed live over the internet, or you can purchase Adventures in Odyssey CD albums
Many Christian radio stations around the world also broadcast AIO on a daily or weekly basis.
Paws and Tales
This drama is the brainchild of Insight for Living, a ministry of Pastor Chuck Swindoll. The main character, named PawPaw Chuck, is a kindhearted grizzly bear, who passes on words of wisdom to his young friends C.J., Ned, Staci, Marsha, and my personal favorite, a young, klutzy, but compassionate weasel named Pinkie Gongoozler or just plain Gooz to her friends.
Paws and Tales is aimed toward the younger generation, but its songs, valuable lessons, and memorable characters have made it a favorite of fans all ages.
Focus on the Family Radio Theatre
From the same organization that produces Adventures in Odyssey comes Focus on Family Radio theatre. Although they do have an original series called the Father Gilbert mysteries, Radio Theatre has dramatized such great classics as Silas Marner, Anne of Green Gables, the entire Chronicles of Narnia series, Little Women, and even newer favorites like Jan Karon’s At Home in Mitford.
Very young children may find them difficult to follow, but for anyone over the age of 12, I wholeheartedly recommend the entire lineup, especially the Luke Reports.
The Word of Promise
The Greatest Story Ever Told is now available in the format of classic radio drama thanks to actor Jim Caviezel and the wonderful team behind the Word of Promise. Taken word for word from the New King James version of the New Testament, the Bible is brought to life featuring the vocal talents of Stacy Keach, Caviezel, Kimberly Williams-Paisley, Michael York, Ernie Hudson, and other award-winning actors.
I go to sleep every night listening to a CD from the collection, and often set my alarm to wake me up to it as well. My only complaint is that the company has not released the Old Testament. Imagine instead of turning on a television to entertain your seven-year-old, you could pop in a CD of David fighting Goliath, Jonah being swallowed by a whale, or Esther saving her people!
