It is widely known that Charles Dickens gave public readings of his works, and that those readings were enormously popular. Far less well known are the stories themselves these were not, as is the modern fashion, taken verbatim from the published novels. Instead, Dickens trimmed, reworded, and reshaped material from the novels to create stories that would be selfcontained artistic entities. These concise performance fictions, shaped in every way to be accessible to a broad audience, are in many ways an ideal introduction to Dickenss work for the modern reader.Four of the most successful of these short works have been selected for this volume, including The Story of Little Dombey (perhaps the most emotionally affecting of all the readings, and described by Dickens as his greatest triumph everywhere) and the violent and suspenseful Sikes and Nancy (Dickenss overpowering performances of which were said to have contributed to his death). Provided in the contextual materials is a selection of reviews and contemporary descriptions that comment on Dickenss manner of performance and audience reception. A brief excerpt from Dombey and Son is also included, illustrating the extensive revision process that led to The Story of Little Dombey.

Binding: Paperback;140 pages; Publisher: Broadview Press Ltd; Classification: DSK; Weight: 331 g; Dimensions: 216 x 140 x 9

Something not quite right? You have 21 days from the day you receive it, to send something back.

Please note, we cannot offer refunds on fashion face masks, cosmetics, pierced jewellery, adult toys, and swimwear or lingerie if the hygiene seal is not in place or has been broken.

Items of footwear and/or clothing must be unworn and unwashed with the original labels attached. Also, footwear must be tried on indoors. Items of homeware including bedlinen, mattresses, and toppers, and pillows must be unused and in their original unopened packaging. This does not affect your statutory rights.

Click here to view our full Returns Policy.