The young hiker was wedged upside down between two boulders. How could rescuers pull her free? Written by Helen Signy. Read by Louise Waterson

Understanding the science behind why some people constantly interrupt others can help you to be heard better. Written by Kristina Berndt. Read by Louise Waterson.

Pinned by a giant boulder, a hiker had two choices: panic or gut it out. He did both. Written by Nick Hune-Brown. Read by Louise Waterson

Sometimes the simplest presents are the most meaningful. Here, RD readers reflect on the gifts they have never forgotten.

The Darvaza crater in Turkmenistan is known as the Gates of Hell. I stood on its edge—and lived to tell the tale. Written by Tim Johnson. Read by Louise Waterson

A couple were astonished to see who had taken up residence in their letterbox. Written by Cathy Free, from Washington Post. Read by Louise Waterson.

We wanted to do a once-in-a-lifetime trek in northern Laos. Just getting there became the adventure. By Bonnie Munday. Read by Louise Waterson

The former 'starchitect' who designed gleaming towers for Pakistan's corporate elite now rebuilds villages devastated by natural disasters. Written by Lisa Murphy. Read by Louise Waterson.

It's a spectacular sight when countless ruminants cross the Serengeti in search of greener pastures. Written by Vincent Noyoux, from Le Figaro Magazine. Read by Louise Waterson.

Far from home, a couple decides on an unusual wedding venue in the marriage capital of the world. By Christine Tan. Read by Louise Waterson.

An unusual volunteer enlisted in the navy – and brought heart and soul to a naval band. By Rudy Sadie. Read by Louise Waterson.