Books by Charles Dickens

Krotka powiesc kwalifikowana do zbioru slynnych "e;Opowiesci wigilijnych"e; Charlesa Dickensa. Zimowy wieczor w dziewietnastowiecznym Londynie, siarczysty mroz w noc sylwestrowa. W tej mrocznej i srogiej scenerii Tobiasz Veck - poslaniec do wynajecia zwany poblazliwie Truchtkiem - szwenda sie ze swoja nastoletnia corka Malgorzata. Tuz przed nastaniem Nowego Roku rozbrzmiewa tajemniczy dzwiek dzwonow. Idealna lektura dla milosnikow opowiesci realistycznych z nutka magii. -

Kolejna mistrzowska satyra autora na brytyjskie spoleczenstwo przelomu wiekow i mieszczanska mentalnosc. Tym razem zagladamy pod dach domu rodzinnego, gdzie wladze sprawuje egoistyczny ojciec Dombi. Mezczyzna prowadzi dobrze prosperujaca firme zeglugowa i jest piekielnie sfrustrowany brakiem syna, ktory moglby zostac jego nastepca. W swojej zacieklosci komplikuje relacje rodzinne, pozostaje nieczuly na milosc corki. W tle szerszy pejzaz koniunkturalnych relacji towarzyskich i bezwzglednych stosunkow kupieckich. Na motywach powiesci w 1964 r. zrealizowano brytyjski serial "e;Dombey and Son"e;. -

Powiesc posiada opinie szczytowego osiagniecia Charlesa Dickensa. Dzieki nowatorskiej jak na owe czasy podwojnej narracji historie poznajemy z perspektywy Esther Summerson - niepewnej siebie sieroty, oraz wynioslej i bajecznie bogatej Lady Dedlock. Losy kobiet przecinaja sie, gdy obie biora udzial w sadowym procesie spadkowym. Sprawa ciagnie sie latami, komplikuje zycia kolejnych osob, a na horyzoncie nie pojawia sie zaden final. Tylko adwokaci i sedziowie zacieraja rece. -

"e;Es war die beste und die schlimmste Zeit..."e; So beginnt Charles Dickens' epischer Roman uber Gerechtigkeit, Liebe und Opferbereitschaft in einer Epoche des Aufruhrs. Wahrend die Franzosische Revolution die europaische Gesellschaft in ihren Grundfesten erschuttert, kampft eine Gruppe Menschen um ein Leben in Frieden und Freiheit: die junge Lucie Manette reist nach Paris, um ihren gerade aus dem Gefangnis entlassenen Vater kennen zu lernen. Wenig spater trifft sie auf den Franzosen Charles Darnay, der ihre groe Liebe wird. Doch das Gluck wahrt nicht lange: als Charles' Familiengeschichte ans Licht kommt, schwebt er in todlicher Gefahr. In zwei Stadten, London und Paris, wird sich nicht nur sein Schicksal entscheiden...-

Der Dienstbote Toby Veck lebt mit seiner Tochter Meg in armlichen Verhaltnissen und bekommt jeden Tag die harschen Standesunterschiede in der viktorianischen Gesellschaft zu spuren. Hoffnung auf ein besseres Leben haben die beiden kaum - doch dann geschieht in der Silvesternacht etwas Unglaubliches. Toby begegnet den Geistern der Kirchturmglocken, die ihm in einer Vision zeigen, wie das Leben seiner Lieben ohne ihn verlaufen wurde. Toby muss sich entscheiden: Findet er seinen Glauben an die Menschheit wieder und kampft fur eine bessere Zukunft - oder werden die dusteren Prophezeiungen der Geister wahr? -

'Barnaby Rudge' is a historical novel by Charles Dickens, depicting the anti-Catholic Gordon Riots of 1780 in England. It is a novel in which danger lurks around every corner, as the titular character and his mother venture across England to evade a mystery man that is haunting them. After arriving in London, the protagonists are swept up in the vortex of violence surrounding them as Barnaby is mistakenly captured by a group of soldiers and must escape before he is sentenced to death. 'Barnaby Rudge' is not simply a recollection of the riots but a sprawling story about lovers torn apart by their families and unsolved murders. Dickens' celebrated social criticism is portrayed in this novel as the urban decay in the London slums fosters 'the very scum and refuse' that return as a violent mob to destroy it. A terrifying addition to Dickens' collection, 'Barnaby Rudge' is recommended for fans of Dickens and Shakespeare.-

'David Copperfield' features Dickens' most popular protagonist and is often described as the author's masterpiece. The novel follows the life of the titular hero, who battles hardship and villainous characters as he attempts to achieve his dreams of becoming an author and finding true love. It is a panoramic novel, as Copperfield embarks on a marvellous journey across England and Europe, encountering many memorable characters and humorous situations along the way. Dickens drew from his own life experiences to create a deeply personal and poignant novel that has been embraced and adored by readers around the globe for generations. 'David Copperfield' expertly blends comedy and tragedy, creating an entertaining and compelling story that is suitable for readers of all ages and preferences. This classic novel was adapted by the creator of 'Veep' into the critically acclaimed movie 'The Personal History of David Copperfield' starring Academy Award-nominated actor Dev Patel in 2019.-

'Dombey and Son' follows Paul Dombey, the wealthy owner of a shipping firm who is frustrated by his lack of a male heir. His disappointment and frustration triggers his own financial and personal downfall as he spurns the love and support of those around him. It is a brilliant character study as this complex and interesting character comes to grips with his own personal failings. The tragedy in this story comes from Paul's inability to reconcile himself with the world around him, refusing to accept his circumstances until his life takes a devastating turn. Dickens weaves a captivating plot in this melancholic tale, sprinkled with his trademark satire and wit, it is a brilliant and engaging read, perfect for anyone who loves to immerse themselves in world of stark reality. -

What to expect when you're reading "e;Great Expectations"e; may sound like a sequel to the American pregnancy bible "e;What to Expect When You're Expecting"e; (1984), but for new readers whose familiarity with the novel might start and end with that one terribly received "e;South Park"e; (1997-) episode centered around it, it is intriguing to learn whether Dickens manages to eventually meet the eponymous expectations or crush them in a stroke of social commentary. Speaking of crushing expectations, this book will ultimately answer no such question - being part I of II. For now, meet Pip - a li'l orphan boy around the time of the War of 1812, 1812, with big aspirations despite him being used and abused both at home and on the street. Part I is mainly an introduction to the novel's large host of peculiar characters - one of the first being an escaped convict, and how they affect the lives of a pliable lad of modest means whose only crime it is to dream(!) A textbook coming-of-age story, "e;Great Expectations"e; is quite literally one of the great literary classics and has been adapted for film, television and stage numerous times... and at least one time too many (see above).-

There could only ever be three reasons as to why you find yourself reading this text. 1: You finished and liked part 1 and want to continue the story.2: The hummus on your finger brought your here by accident or 3: You're one of those... special readers who, three chapters into part 1, just NEED to know how the story ends - right now!Regardless, you shan't be spoiled today.Pip, now 23, beset by ill fortune and spectres of the past, continues his quest to wrest the fair princess Estella from the evil sorceress Miss Havisham's clutches. Fortunately, Pip uses his first wish to have the Genie turn him into a prince to help his chances. If this sounds like a completely different story, it's basically not - especially if you add a cup of frock coats, a pinch of Victorian stiff upper lip and finally that 4th spice: Cumin of Age. Read it before you watch the Bruce Lee drama "e;An Orphan's Tragedy"e; or one of the eight other film adaptations.-

Teenage angst and rebellion might feel like a modern phenomenon but, Bella and Edward, Ferris Bueller and Mean Girls couldn't have happened without 'Hard Times'. Family, work and rebellion are all at the heart of this, one of Dickens' shortest works. Mr Gradgrind gives his two children Tom and Louisa a totally Utilitarian upbringing, disregarding the value of the human heart. What this creates, is the first traces of the modern teenager - rebelliousness and emotional turmoil create more problems than he could have imagined. Louisa, living in a loveless marriage to the greedy Josiah, and Tom, a hardened and unfeeling criminal - leaves their father questioning everything he believes in. A strong critique of industrialisation, full of passionate characters and tempestuous social clashes, this novel still resonates in the modern day.No one writes about the gulf between rich and poor as passionately as Charles Dickens. Full of controversy, arguments and social insight. -

'Little Dorrit' is a highly personal novel by Charles Dickens that many critics state is one of his finest later works. The story revolves around Amy Dorrit, a kind-hearted young woman who resides in Marshalsea prison as her family cannot afford to pay their debts. Amy and her family's fortune changes as Arthur Clennam, a wealthy businessman, takes an interest in her family while attempting to solve a mystery about his lineage. 'Little Dorrit' is a sprawling family saga that involves unrequited love, blackmail, and a timeless rags-to-riches story with a twist. Dickens' celebrated social satire is displayed in this tale as he criticises the cruel prison system of Victorian England which his father spent many years in, unable to work or repay his debts. While this is a darker novel than Dickens' early work, it still entertains through its cast of comical characters and lyrical prose. A thrilling novel that is equally poignant and entertaining, 'Little Dorrit' is still as relevant today as when it was written and is a must-read for fans of Dickens and 'The Shawshank Redemption'.-

A rich misanthropic man with no friends die and leaves all his money to his estranged son, John Harmon, who lives abroad. But Harmon can only inherit the money on the condition that he marries a woman he has never met. When Harmon neglects to return home to collect his inheritance, it leaves everyone puzzled. But then the dead body of a young man is found in the Thames.The plot and characters are exquisite in this last completed novel by Dickens. A sophisticated masterpiece, Our Mutual Friend tells the story of the downside of money and the corruptive power it holds. The book was referenced on the show Lost as well as in the video game Assasin's Creed: Syndicate and in the Paul McCartney song Jenny Wren.-

"e;Once upon a time, and of course it was in the Golden Age, and I hope you may know when that was, for I am sure I don't, though I have tried hard to find out, there lived in a rich and fertile country, a powerful Prince whose name was Bull."e;Bull is one of the many characters you will meet in this wonderful Charles Dickens collection of sketches and short stories. The anthology includes sad must-reads like A Child's Dream of a Star and amusing satirical pieces like A Monument of French Folly. The stories originally appeared in his journal Household Words.-

"e;All that is loathsome, drooping, or decayed is here."e;In 1842 Dickens sailed to America to observe The New World that held such fascination for the English. He went to magnificent landmarks like Niagara Falls but also included visits to mental institutions and prisons. He met President John Tyler in D.C and the well-educated Laura Bridgman, who was deaf-blind. Dickens found lots to admire, but also noted how coarse and ill-mannered the Americans were. That did not go over well with the Americans.With superb language and humour, Dickens gathered these fascinating observations in this travelogue that will have anyone with the slightest interest in cultural differences completely spell-bound.-

"e;It is because I think so much of warm and sensitive hearts, that I would spare them from being wounded."e; In this wonderful compilation of classic Charles Dickens stories, the adventures surrounding children have been taken out of their contexts and presented on their own. Dickens' Stories About Children Every Child Can Read is therefore, as the title suggest, a great introduction for children or anyone new to Dickens. The book contains famous stories like The Christmas Carol, Great Expectations and Oliver Twist as well as a handful lesser known but equally great and informative.-

"e;To conceal anything from those to whom I am attached, is not in my nature. I can never close my lips where I have opened my heart."e;Master Humphrey is an old, crippled man living in London. To combat his loneliness, he starts a little club, Master Humphrey's Clock, and invites its members to read from their manuscripts. Delightful, supernatural, romantic and sometimes a little creepy, this is the collection of their stories. Readers familiar with Dickens will perhaps come across characters and stories they already know as it serves as an introduction to, among others, Barnaby Rudge and The Old Curiosity Shop.-

Everybody hates the refreshment room at the junction, it's terrible. But the staff is convinced that they're running a great operation. When their boss returns from abroad to report that in French refreshment rooms they actually accommodate the guests as best they can, serve them edible food and are nice in general, the staff is shocked.And so unfolds The Boy at Mugby, one of eight short stories in Mugby Junction written by Charles Dickens and a handful of other authors. The collection also includes the famous ghost story The Signal-Man, which the ninth Doctor Who, played by Christopher Eccleston, called "e;The best short story ever written."e;-

En 1827, le Pickwick Club de Londres dont Samuel Pickwick est le fondateur decide de fonder une association de correspondance. Le but de cette association est de faire voyager ses membres qui devront rapporter leurs experiences. C'est ainsi que Samuel Pickwick se met en route avec trois comparses: bon nombre d'aventures les attendent!-

Martin Chuzzlewit junior est eperdument amoureux de Mary Graham, recueillie par Martin Chuzzlewit senior, le grand-pere du junior. Il aimerait l'epouser, mais Chuzzlewit senior aimerait qu'il connaisse le travail et l'effort avant de se marier: il le desherite et l'envoie a Mr Pecksnif chez qui il doit travailler. Tres vite, Chuzzlewit junior decouvre les mauvaises intentions de Mr Pecksnif...-

David Copperfield nait peu apres le deces de son pere - son enfance neanmoins heureuse se voit rapidement troublee par le remariage de sa mere avec le cruel Mr Murdstone. Les choses ne s'arrangent pas quand il est envoye dans une institution dirigee par un homme tout aussi malveillant - si ce n'est qu'il s'y fait des amis pour la vie.-

Suite au deces de son pere, Nicolas Nickleby se doit de prendre soin de sa mere et sa sA ur. Son oncle Ralph ne l'apprecie guere et fait tout pour ruiner la vie du jeune Nicolas... qui ne se laisse pas faire!-

Par un soir de 1775, dans l'auberge de John Willet, Solomon Daisy, ami du tenancier, raconte le meurtre de Reuben Haredale qui a eu lieu 22 ans plus tot. Ce meurtre fait partie de l'histoire du village et est connu de tous. Mais qui est le coupable? Tout porte a croire qu'il s'agit du jardinier qui a disparu depuis.-

John Harmon, riche misanthrope, meurt en leguant sa fortune a son fils a condition qu'il epouse Bella Wilfer sans quoi ce sont les Boffin, fideles employes d'Harmon, qui en heriteront. John Harmon junior revient donc en Angleterre mais est repeche mort dans la Tamise... La fortune d'Harmon senior revient donc aux Boffin qui prennent Bella Wilfer sous leur aile et acceptent les services d'un certain John Rokesmith qui profite de la naivete de ses hotes...-

Fra Parigi e Londra, Dickens ambienta le vicende di un gruppo di persone coinvolte negli eventi della Rivoluzione francese e del periodo del Terrore: Charles Darnay, un aristocratico francese, vittima di accuse indiscriminate da parte dei rivoluzionari, e Sydney Carton, un avvocato inglese che cerca di redimere la propria vita per amore della moglie di Darnay. Vi si trovano tutti i temi classici del romanziere inglese: l'oppressione e la violenza, la poverta e la nobilta di spirito, il sacrificio e la redenzione.-

Amy, devota figlia del vecchio William Dorrit, si prende cura del padre rinchiuso da molti anni per debiti in una prigione londinese. La piccola Dorrit e segretamente innamorata del giovane amico di famiglia Arthur Clennam, ma un'improvvisa eredita mescolera completamente le carte in tavola.-