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Oliver Twist

Full Cast Drama

Audiobook
0 of 1 copy available
Wait time: About 2 weeks
0 of 1 copy available
Wait time: About 2 weeks

"Oliver Twist," one of Charles Dickens' most enduring works, unfolds a compelling narrative of an orphaned boy's struggle against the stark injustices of 19th-century London. The story begins with the birth of Oliver in a workhouse, where his mother, who has died during childbirth, is just one of many tragic figures in the heartless world of poverty and exploitation. As a young boy, Oliver faces a harsh existence in the workhouse and eventually escapes to the bustling and treacherous streets of London.


In the city, Oliver becomes entangled with a gang of juvenile delinquents led by the malevolent Fagin and his menacing associate, Bill Sikes. Despite his innocence, Oliver is drawn into a world of crime, a stark contrast to his inherently good nature. As the narrative unfolds, readers follow Oliver's journey from the dangerous underworld to the compassionate embrace of Mr. Brownlow, who offers the boy a glimpse of a better life.


The narrative of "Oliver Twist" is a tale of contrasts, highlighting the stark divisions between the privileged and the impoverished, the forces of good and evil, and the corrupting influences of society. Dickens paints a vivid picture of the injustices and suffering experienced by the poor and orphaned, while also showcasing the potential for redemption and transformation. Through Oliver's journey, the narrative ultimately conveys a message of hope, resilience, and the belief that individuals, even those born into the most dire circumstances, can find their way to a better, more just life. Dickens' storytelling in "Oliver Twist" remains a powerful reminder of the enduring struggle for social justice and the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity.

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    • Publisher's Weekly

      Starred review from July 26, 2010
      The inimitable Martin Jarvis brings his talents to bear on Charles Dickens's classic in an audiobook that will delight listeners with its superb recreations of gritty 19th-century London. To escape Mr. Bumble and life in the workhouse, Oliver flees to London where he meets the Artful Dodger and becomes embroiled with Fagin's ragtag band of thieves. Jarvis simply dazzles: his performance captures both the humor and sorrow of the text, his narration is crisp, and his characterizations—his rendition of the terrifying district magistrate, Mr. Fang, is particularly memorable—are as varied as they are energetic, befitting, and enjoyable.

    • Publisher's Weekly

      October 2, 1996
      A Twist of Beauty An inviting design may inspire readers of a newly abridged edition of Charles Dickens's classic Oliver Twist to join the hero in asking, please sir, for more. Christian Birmingham spots nearly every page of text with a small, charcoal-gray image, and complements important scenes with full-page color illustrations. Birmingham's hues are predominantly deep, somber and gritty, but not without occasional flashes of royal blues and golds. Text is shaded in the faintest yellow, soft on the eye.

Formats

  • OverDrive Listen audiobook

Languages

  • English

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