Sketches By Boz: The Complete Collection

'The civility which money will purchase, is rarely extended to those who have none.'

First published in various newspapers from 1833 to 1836, before Dickens's fame skyrocketed, Sketches of Boz was reissued as a book in 1839, which was brilliantly illustrated by George Cruikshank.

From humorous sketches, satirical portraits and sentimental meditations, Sketches by Boz captures several aspects of London life in the nineteenth century. Divided into sections such as, 'Our Parish', 'Scenes' and 'Characters', these episodic tales observe everything from eccentric city dwellers to the struggles of the working class. With a keen eye for social detail, Dickens explores themes such as poverty, injustice and urban living – often foreshadowing many themes that would become integral to his future body of work. Vivid in its storytelling and an early showcase of Dickens's literary talent, Sketches by Boz is a fascinating portrayal of London as Dickens knew it. This audiobook edition is wonderfully narrated by David Timson. Charles Dickens (1812 – 1870) was an English writer and social critic. He is regarded by many as the greatest novelist of the Victorian era. His works enjoyed unprecedented popularity during his lifetime and, by the twentieth century, critics and scholars had recognized him as a literary genius. His novels and short stories are widely read, performed and adapted today.

© 2026 SNR Audio (Audiobook): 9781805366096

Release date

Audiobook: 30 January 2026