Biography
Charles Dickens is the British writer most associated with England's 19th century Victorian era, and is one of the fathers of the modern novel. Dickens was born in to a family that was relatively well off, and lived the bulk of his childhood in London. Much of his youth was spent outdoors, reading and observing the people that came and went in his young life. Much of these observations would form the basis of his beloved and unique gift for characterization. Starting as a journalist after a brief stint as a law clerk, Dickens began traveling the UK writing about elections. Soon he wrote his first novel, "The Pickwick Papers", and the wild success of the book immediately propelled him into an immediate writing career. His most famous titles are "Great Expectations", "David Copperfield", "Oliver Twist" and "A Christmas Carol" among others. Dickens' novels are known for their social commentary, and hard criticism of poverty. He was against the stark divide between the rich and the poor in Victorian society, and while his tales were invariably entertaining, they also came laced with the acid tongue of a social satirist. Much of his work has been adapted to various mediums and LearnOutLoud is excited to provide his work on audio.
We Recommend
First of all, there can only be A Christmas Carol. This tale of a greedy old business man that is redeemed by a series of visits from three ghosts has become the definitive Christmas story for many, and is presented in many versions on audio. Next up is Dickens' first book, The Pickwick Papers, which follows the adventures of Samuel Pickwick, who's club is devoted to meeting friends and spreading cheer. This book is quite possibly Dickens' definitive portrait of London during his time. Finally there's the classic Oliver Twist which follows the titular orphan as he navigates his way through the dirty back streets of London. Meet some of Dickens' most memorable villiains such as the Artful Dodger and the infamous Fagin. Here is one of Dickens' most powerful illustrations of good overcoming the most impossible of circumstances.