The Life and Adventures of Nicholas Nickleby

The Life and Adventures of Nicholas Nickleby was Charles Dickens' third novel. Originally published as a serial from 1838 to 1839. The novel centers on the life and adventures of Nicholas Nickleby, a young man who must support his mother and sister after his father dies. His Uncle Ralph, who thinks Nicholas will never amount to anything, plays the role of principal antagonist.

'Nicholas Nickleby' marks a new development as it is the first of Dickens' romances. When it was published the book was an immediate and complete success and established Dickens's lasting reputation.

Like many of Dickens' works, the novel has a contemporary setting. Much of the action takes place in London, with several chapters taking place in Dickens' birthplace of Portsmouth, as well as settings in Yorkshire and Devon.

The tone of the work is that of ironic social satire, with Dickens taking aim at what he perceives to be social injustices. Many memorable characters are introduced, including Nicholas' malevolent Uncle Ralph, and the villainous Wackford Squeers, who operates an abusive all boys boarding school at which Nicholas temporarily serves as a tutor.

© 2015 Anncona Media AB (Audiobook): 9789176052105

Release date

Audiobook: 1 January 2015