Meet New Books
Book Cover

Oliver Twist

Save:
Find on Amazon

Oliver Twist by Charles Dickens is a dark tale set in London's underworld, following the struggles of a poor orphan named Oliver. The story delves into the harsh realities of the 19th century society, portraying social injustice and the challenges faced by those marginalized by poverty. Through vivid characters like Fagin and Oliver himself, Dickens weaves a gripping narrative filled with plot twists and moral dilemmas. The writing style is described as captivating, with a mix of humor, vivid descriptions of London's back alleys, and a concise plot that keeps the reader engaged.

Characters:

Characters range from virtuous to villainous, representing various facets of 19th-century society.

Writing/Prose:

The writing style is ornate and descriptive, offering a mix of humor, satire, and social criticism.

Plot/Storyline:

The plot follows an orphan's relentless struggles for a better life, filled with challenges from the cruel world around him.

Setting:

Set in Victorian London, the story vividly portrays the life of the underclass and the corrupt social systems.

Pacing:

The pacing is uneven, with a slow start that quickens as the plot progresses.
AMONG OTHER PUBLIC BUILDINGS IN A CERTAIN TOWN, WHICH for many reasons it will be prudent to refrain from mentioning, and to which I will assign no fictitious name, there is one an ciently common to m...

Notes:

Oliver Twist was first published as a serialized novel from 1837 to 1839.
The novel's full title is 'Oliver Twist, or The Parish Boy's Progress.'
Dickens wrote Oliver Twist when he was only 25 years old.
The character of Fagin has been criticized for perpetuating anti-Semitic stereotypes.
The novel presents a grim depiction of the Victorian workhouse system and child welfare.
Oliver famously asks for more food with the line, 'Please, sir, I want some more.'
Dickens uses humor and satire to critique social issues, especially regarding the poor and orphans.
Nancy, a complex character, is often seen as the most sympathetic figure in the book.
The story explores themes of innocence, suffering, and the hypocrisy of society.
Fagin and the Artful Dodger have become iconic figures in literature, representing criminality and survival in a harsh world.

Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings

The book includes themes and depictions of extreme poverty, child abuse, violence, and antisemitism.

From The Publisher:

Charles Dickens's second novel is the tale of a young orphan who faces the gruelling conditions of a Victorian workhouse before finding himself sucked into the criminal underworld of London. Teeming with unforgettable characters such as the villainous Fagin, the virtuous Nancy and the brutal Bill Sikes, Oliver Twist combines dark humour, elements of melodrama and social polemic.

At once a ferocious indictment of the author's era and a timeless story of coming of age, this classic has enthralled readers and inspired countless adaptations and imitations since it was first published in 1838.

Ratings (48)

Incredible (3)
Loved It (19)
Liked It (20)
It Was OK (5)
Did Not Like (1)

Reader Stats (82):

Read It (49)
Currently Reading (1)
Want To Read (25)
Not Interested (7)

3 comment(s)

Incredible
1 month

****5.0****

A wonderful read worth re-reading forever!!

Happy Reading!!

 
Liked It
1 month

Enjoyable read, I am a huge fan of Dickens in general.

 
Loved It
1 year

Amazing read certainly a page turner. The plot grips at the heartstrings. It lays bare the suffering of poor children in the Victorian era.

 

About the Author:

Charles Dickens was born in a little house in Landport, Portsea, England, on February 7, 1812. The second of eight children, he grew up in a family frequently beset by financial insecurity. When the family fortunes improved, Charles went back to…

 
Meet New Books is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a way for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to products and services on amazon.com and its subsidiaries.
When you click the Amazon link and make a purchase, we may receive a small commision, at no cost to you.