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Review
The lascivious and repellent dwarf Quilp who dogs saintly Little Nell and her feckless grandfather is one of Dickens's most vividly nasty creations. Anton Lesser is wonderful in all the intricacies of this powerful fable a sound investment for winter evenings. --Rachel Redford, The Observer
--This text refers to the
Audio CD
edition.
Product Description
`... holding her solitary way among a crowd of wild, grotesque companions; the only pure, fresh, youthful object in the throng.' `Little Nell' cares for her grandfather in the gloomy surroundings of his curiosity shop. Reduced to poverty the pair flee London, pursued by the grotesque and vindictive Quilp. In a bizarre and shifting kaleidoscope of events and characters the story reaches its tragic climax, an ending that famously devastated the novel's earliest readers. Dickens blends naturalistic and allegorical styles to encompass both the actual blight of Victorian industrialization and textual echoes of Bunyan, the Romantic poets, Shakespeare, pantomine and Jacobean tragedy. Contrasting youth and old age, beauty and deformity, innocence and cynicism, The Old Curiosity Shop is a compelling mixture of humour and brooding meance. This edition uses the Clarendon text, the definitive edition of the novels of Charles Dickens, and includes the original illustrations.
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Most Helpful Customer Reviews
2 of 2 people found the following review helpful
Format:Paperback|Amazon Verified Purchase
This is my fifth Dickens' novel in a row, and it has, to say the very least, absolutely not diminished my appetite to read all of his novels. As I'm trying to do so as Dickens wrote them I can only compare with The Pickwick Papers (Oxford World's Classics), Oliver Twist (Oxford World's Classics), Nicholas Nickleby (Oxford World's Classics) and Barnaby Rudge (Oxford World's Classics). 'The Old Curiosity Shop' is both different from and very alike to those previous four novels.
First of all, I found it eminently 'Dickensian' in several aspects: the captivating characters, Dickens' rarely equalled talent for the spoken word and to give each character its very own voice, the overall sheer exuberance of the language, the sometimes rickety plot, and an amazing story-telling talent that captivates from page one and keeps you reading on well into the night. Concerning those characters, it struck me - more so perhaps than in the other novels I've read - that it's above all 'the villains' that are most powerfully depicted and claim center-stage. Above all there's Daniel Quilp, the scheming dwarf hunting down little Nell and her grandfather: he is the very embodiment of malice, to such a degree that he seems barely human (and Dickens often describes him as 'a creature' or 'the monster') and I have the feeling I'll remember him long after I've forgotten much if not everything about for instance the poor schoolmaster coming to the rescue of little Nell, or Mr. and Mrs. Garland. And there's others too: Sampson and Sally Brass are wonderfully drawn, repulsive as they may be. In fact, as is pointed out in the (excellent) introduction to this edition, the majority of the people little Nell meets on her journey are grotesques, barely recognizable as human beings.
In terms of atmosphere, however, 'The Old Curiosity Shop' is definitely more gloomy than the previous novels I've read, in fact it's my very first Dickens' novel that doesn't have an outright happy end for all principal characters. True enough, there are plenty of scenes of grand humour too (Richard Swiveller and 'The Marchioness' are an unforgettable couple, and so is Mrs. Jarley and the motley crew working at her wax-works) but overall, there's an almost constant sense of brooding menace and 'bad things about to happen'. The scenes describing for instance Nell and her grandfather's journey through an industrial town at night are almost descriptions of a journey through some sort of hell on earth, where the poorest of the poor do not even have enough money to bury their deceased children. Man seems but a tiny speck of dust in this industrial wasteland, as Dickens puts it: 'They were but an atom, here, in a mountain heap of misery'.
All in all, I found 'The Old Curiosity Shop' a very powerful novel and one that I am not likely to forget soon. It may be (at least to our 21st century taste) in places unashamedly pathetic, but Dickens pulls this off as no other author I've read so far could have. A true classic, and very much worth the read!
First of all, I found it eminently 'Dickensian' in several aspects: the captivating characters, Dickens' rarely equalled talent for the spoken word and to give each character its very own voice, the overall sheer exuberance of the language, the sometimes rickety plot, and an amazing story-telling talent that captivates from page one and keeps you reading on well into the night. Concerning those characters, it struck me - more so perhaps than in the other novels I've read - that it's above all 'the villains' that are most powerfully depicted and claim center-stage. Above all there's Daniel Quilp, the scheming dwarf hunting down little Nell and her grandfather: he is the very embodiment of malice, to such a degree that he seems barely human (and Dickens often describes him as 'a creature' or 'the monster') and I have the feeling I'll remember him long after I've forgotten much if not everything about for instance the poor schoolmaster coming to the rescue of little Nell, or Mr. and Mrs. Garland. And there's others too: Sampson and Sally Brass are wonderfully drawn, repulsive as they may be. In fact, as is pointed out in the (excellent) introduction to this edition, the majority of the people little Nell meets on her journey are grotesques, barely recognizable as human beings.
In terms of atmosphere, however, 'The Old Curiosity Shop' is definitely more gloomy than the previous novels I've read, in fact it's my very first Dickens' novel that doesn't have an outright happy end for all principal characters. True enough, there are plenty of scenes of grand humour too (Richard Swiveller and 'The Marchioness' are an unforgettable couple, and so is Mrs. Jarley and the motley crew working at her wax-works) but overall, there's an almost constant sense of brooding menace and 'bad things about to happen'. The scenes describing for instance Nell and her grandfather's journey through an industrial town at night are almost descriptions of a journey through some sort of hell on earth, where the poorest of the poor do not even have enough money to bury their deceased children. Man seems but a tiny speck of dust in this industrial wasteland, as Dickens puts it: 'They were but an atom, here, in a mountain heap of misery'.
All in all, I found 'The Old Curiosity Shop' a very powerful novel and one that I am not likely to forget soon. It may be (at least to our 21st century taste) in places unashamedly pathetic, but Dickens pulls this off as no other author I've read so far could have. A true classic, and very much worth the read!
Most Helpful Customer Reviews on Amazon.com (beta)
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6 reviews
14 of 14 people found the following review helpful
For fan's of Dickens's remarkable characters
13 Jan 2004
Format:Paperback
The Old Curiosity Shop is one of Dickens's most often-overlooked novels. A quite long (720+ pages) novel, it originally appeared in weekly segment in Dickens's short-lived journal, Master Humphrey's Clock. Appearing originally in this form in 1840, they were a huge success. In this novel format, separated from the journal, it still makes for some delightful reading, though sometimes it is clear that it was originally published in weekly portions. That is to say, the novel is largely episodic, to an even greater degree than his masterpiece, Great Expectations. Nell and her grandfather's trials and tribulations experienced during their travels through the English countryside are interspersed with parallel urban scenes involving different characters. Much of it goes along with little apparent connection to what has come before, with very little in the way of suspense and not much to speak of in terms of a traditional plot. The book's charm lies centrally with the characters and with the pathos and other emotions that their triumphs and travails evoke. There is little in the way of a theme -- no philosophizing or moralizing. These features belie the story's origin. It can make it something of a slow read at times, but the book certainly has its virtues.
These reside chiefly in, as always, the wonderful characters of Dickens. Here he, indeed, conjured up a motley crew -- from the innocent, angelic Nell to the demonic, malevolent Daniel Quilp, and everyone in-between. Like much of Dickens's work, the chief joy in reading this book comes from the pure enjoyment of reading about these delightful characters. They exist for their own sake, outside of the restrictions of the basic plot. The character of Mr. Swiveller is one of his best-loved and most-enduring characters -- and the aforementioned Quilp is a devilish, beastly fiend to rank with Iago and Cathy from John Steinbeck's East of Eden. This book's chief strengths and weaknesses being thus laid out, suffice it to say that this is not Dickens's best book, and it is not where the new Dickens reader should start; try Great Expectations or A Tale of Two Cities for that. It is, however, a delightful read for the Dickens fan and should definitely be picked up and read by them in time, as well as by anyone who loves character-driven literature.
5 of 5 people found the following review helpful
'There is nothing innocent or good that dies and is forgotten'
30 Oct 2008
Format:Paperback
'The Old Curiosity Shop' is the latest in a line of Dickens novels I have read, since initially bemoaning having to read 'David Copperfield' as a freshman in high school. As I venture further into this talented author's works, I have to wonder if the tales are getting simpler to read, or if I am just enjoying them more.
The 'Shop' which the title mentions is merely a backdrop for the beginning of the story, which led me to believe that I was in for a disappointment, having not read the basic plot outline before I picked it up, which is a rarity for me. But having read enough Dickens now to know what a treat I am in for, I prefer not to spoil anything about the book ahead of time. However, in reading on, I discovered that this minor 'distraction', that the 'Shop' was not the focus of the tale, was not at all to take away from a wonderful story.
Little Nell, the heroine of this tale, is like Little Dorrit from the book of the same name, Pip from Great Expectations, and the beleagured Smike from Nicholas Nickelby...a sympathetic, instantly ingratiating, and lovable character. Orphaned in youth, Nell resides with her grandfather, an ailing and frail man who dotes on the young girl.
But the grandfather also holds a secret 'vice' which soon is revealed to be the source of their misfortune, and the reason for their expulsion from the 'Shop', above which they reside. Nell and her grandfather are forced to leave their home in the early morning hours, and seek their fortunes elsewhere.
Of course any Dickens story would not be complete without a host of colorful supporting characters that the major players interact with, and this novel is no different. Nell's friend Kit, a young man eager to please and with a heart of gold, finds himself in favor of the Garlands as their horse driver, seeing that the young man has a way with the beast that no one else does. Sampson and Sally Brass, brother and sister and employers of Mr. Richard (Dick) Swiveller, Kit's mother and younger brothers, and Kit's friend Barbara and her mother also figure prominently into the tale as well. Mr. Swiveller and the Brass siblings play host to a 'mysterious' bachelor, who arrives in town and begins his search for Nell and her grandfather, his purpose to be revealed at a later time.
But no review of this book would be complete without giving special recognition to the villain of the piece....one Daniel Quilp...a dwarf with a heart blacker than the foggiest nights of London. Quilp's interest is piqued when he realizes that 'someone' is looking for Nell and her grandfather, and resolves to find them as well, no matter who he has to hurt in the process. Quilp's dastardly actions propel the tale along for both Nell and Kit, and set in motion a chain of events that lead to....well...a very Dickensian ending.
Like 'Dombey and Son' before it, this foray into Dickens' works was every bit as enjoyable as all the Dickens I have read in the past. Highly recommended, and perhaps, like Dombey, a great place to get acquainted with a wonderfully entertaining author.
The 'Shop' which the title mentions is merely a backdrop for the beginning of the story, which led me to believe that I was in for a disappointment, having not read the basic plot outline before I picked it up, which is a rarity for me. But having read enough Dickens now to know what a treat I am in for, I prefer not to spoil anything about the book ahead of time. However, in reading on, I discovered that this minor 'distraction', that the 'Shop' was not the focus of the tale, was not at all to take away from a wonderful story.
Little Nell, the heroine of this tale, is like Little Dorrit from the book of the same name, Pip from Great Expectations, and the beleagured Smike from Nicholas Nickelby...a sympathetic, instantly ingratiating, and lovable character. Orphaned in youth, Nell resides with her grandfather, an ailing and frail man who dotes on the young girl.
But the grandfather also holds a secret 'vice' which soon is revealed to be the source of their misfortune, and the reason for their expulsion from the 'Shop', above which they reside. Nell and her grandfather are forced to leave their home in the early morning hours, and seek their fortunes elsewhere.
Of course any Dickens story would not be complete without a host of colorful supporting characters that the major players interact with, and this novel is no different. Nell's friend Kit, a young man eager to please and with a heart of gold, finds himself in favor of the Garlands as their horse driver, seeing that the young man has a way with the beast that no one else does. Sampson and Sally Brass, brother and sister and employers of Mr. Richard (Dick) Swiveller, Kit's mother and younger brothers, and Kit's friend Barbara and her mother also figure prominently into the tale as well. Mr. Swiveller and the Brass siblings play host to a 'mysterious' bachelor, who arrives in town and begins his search for Nell and her grandfather, his purpose to be revealed at a later time.
But no review of this book would be complete without giving special recognition to the villain of the piece....one Daniel Quilp...a dwarf with a heart blacker than the foggiest nights of London. Quilp's interest is piqued when he realizes that 'someone' is looking for Nell and her grandfather, and resolves to find them as well, no matter who he has to hurt in the process. Quilp's dastardly actions propel the tale along for both Nell and Kit, and set in motion a chain of events that lead to....well...a very Dickensian ending.
Like 'Dombey and Son' before it, this foray into Dickens' works was every bit as enjoyable as all the Dickens I have read in the past. Highly recommended, and perhaps, like Dombey, a great place to get acquainted with a wonderfully entertaining author.
2 of 2 people found the following review helpful
A Grand Beginning But...
26 July 2006
Format:Paperback
It can be quite harmful to a great writer like Dickens when one insists that one of his mediocre works is one of his best. This book certainly has its moments as well as some good points, but it also has a number of flaws.
Now, the start is actually quite grand. Charles Dickens puts himself into the 1st few pages when he finds the lost Nell. CD helps Nell find her way home to her grandfather, and in a fierce way tells him to take better care of her. (Obviously, Dickens already knows that this is not the grandfather of the year, or even week.) Moving on, under the impression that the grandfather is rich, Nell's brother Fred insists on getting his share of money. (We don't yet know how poor Nell and her grandfather are.)
Well, in comes Daniel Quilp. He lends some money to Nell's grandfather Trent for a purpose that Trent does not reveal. Soon, Nell brings Quilp a letter from Trent asking for more money. Now Quilp starts to suspect that something isn't right. It is not long before her realizes that Trent has wasted all his money gambling. Quilp is furious, and we can scarcely blame him. Quilp gains possession of Trent's house, but only gains a part of his money back.
Well, that was a GRAND start, but things kind of drop from here. Nell and Trent decide to flee. Alright, but the fact that they wander with no clear destination is strange. (Even Oliver Twist and David Copperfield had some idea of where they were going when they made their long painful walk.) Do Nell and Trent plan to spend the rest of their lives just running away?
Later, Quilp meets the eccentric, but benevolent Swiveller. He plots to have Swiveller marry Nell even though she is broke. It would seem that Quilp has been reduced from a sharp observer with understandable anger to a simple prankster. Did Quilp even have a reason to dislike Swiveller?
Moving on, Trent and Nell find some relief and sanctuary from Mrs. Jarley who owns a wax museum. But after finding this much needed relief and sanctuary, Trent has no problem stealing from Nell and gambling AGAIN! We can perhaps recall that Dickens's real grandfather was a compulsive gambler. And perhaps, Dickens was just venting his anger here.
I could go on and on, but the story just seems to lack any believable edge from here. While this book certainly has its redeeming elements, it is a good, but NOT great book. If you like Dickens, you may as well add this to your collection. But if you are only after his best, you can probably skip this one. To put this on the same level as "Oliver Twist," "Great Expectations," or "David Copperfield" is absurd.
Now, the start is actually quite grand. Charles Dickens puts himself into the 1st few pages when he finds the lost Nell. CD helps Nell find her way home to her grandfather, and in a fierce way tells him to take better care of her. (Obviously, Dickens already knows that this is not the grandfather of the year, or even week.) Moving on, under the impression that the grandfather is rich, Nell's brother Fred insists on getting his share of money. (We don't yet know how poor Nell and her grandfather are.)
Well, in comes Daniel Quilp. He lends some money to Nell's grandfather Trent for a purpose that Trent does not reveal. Soon, Nell brings Quilp a letter from Trent asking for more money. Now Quilp starts to suspect that something isn't right. It is not long before her realizes that Trent has wasted all his money gambling. Quilp is furious, and we can scarcely blame him. Quilp gains possession of Trent's house, but only gains a part of his money back.
Well, that was a GRAND start, but things kind of drop from here. Nell and Trent decide to flee. Alright, but the fact that they wander with no clear destination is strange. (Even Oliver Twist and David Copperfield had some idea of where they were going when they made their long painful walk.) Do Nell and Trent plan to spend the rest of their lives just running away?
Later, Quilp meets the eccentric, but benevolent Swiveller. He plots to have Swiveller marry Nell even though she is broke. It would seem that Quilp has been reduced from a sharp observer with understandable anger to a simple prankster. Did Quilp even have a reason to dislike Swiveller?
Moving on, Trent and Nell find some relief and sanctuary from Mrs. Jarley who owns a wax museum. But after finding this much needed relief and sanctuary, Trent has no problem stealing from Nell and gambling AGAIN! We can perhaps recall that Dickens's real grandfather was a compulsive gambler. And perhaps, Dickens was just venting his anger here.
I could go on and on, but the story just seems to lack any believable edge from here. While this book certainly has its redeeming elements, it is a good, but NOT great book. If you like Dickens, you may as well add this to your collection. But if you are only after his best, you can probably skip this one. To put this on the same level as "Oliver Twist," "Great Expectations," or "David Copperfield" is absurd.
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