pickThis is a difficult book to love, but I do. Quilp is among the very worst of villains in Dickens‘ novels, which says a lot because there are so many wicked people in his novels. One of the main characters, Little Nell, almost 14, must lead her grandfather with dementia out of London and into the wide world. She learns in the harshest of ways his horrible dark secret, which persists along with his dementia. The most heartbreaking scene I‘ve read ⬇️
Texreader in any Dickens‘ novel is her discovery and how she learns it. The reader cannot but love and adore Nell, but her story is tragic. I love the book for Kip, Nell‘s little friend who had the biggest heart of any boy in any Dickens‘ book I‘ve read yet. Quilp puts Kip into the worst possible position in a manner that was impossible for Kip to defend himself, putting Kip‘s and the lives of his mother and baby brother at unimaginable risk. While full ⬇️ 1d
Texreader of dastardly characters, the book is also full of kind, sometimes foolish, generous, and warm-hearted people. Was this the Harry Potter of its day? Some say so, and my set of 1940s Old Curiosity Shop dishes also support it—fans could collect the dishes in the 1940s, just as Potterverse fans can now. Quilp is Voldemort with his cohort young Tom Scott, with a charming cast of young teenagers against the world. A truly bittersweet story for the ages. 1d
Texreader #whattheDickens @Cuilin 1d
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Ruthiella Did you change your mind about Duck Swiveler? He turned out to be a favorite character for me. I also felt for Miss Brass. I know she‘s a villain but I felt that she was the better lawyer if only she‘d been allowed to study. 1d
Cuilin Fabulous review. I agree with everything. Kit is definitely one of the kindest characters 💗 1d
Texreader @Ruthiella He‘s quite an unusual character. Separated from Fred, Swiveler loses the dark aura somewhat. He still seems to be associated with Quilp for awhile, making him quite the enigma. But sure enough, he does what needs to be done. I think he‘s one of Dickens‘ more intriguing characters. So glad to see why he‘s a favorite. I so wanted Miss Brass to turn good. 23h
Texreader @Cuilin Thanks! I was thinking I could squeeze in Chuzzlewit when I finished but that is a 40+ hour audiobook! Yikes!! 23h
Texreader @Cuilin If we continue into 2026, I recommend some makeup months. 😉 23h
Cuilin @Texreader I was seriously considering reducing the reading list. I rushed through the reading this year which isn‘t ideal. Maybe just two chunksters next year? (edited) 21h
Texreader @Cuilin Yes. I agree. 21h
