[titania7]

Originally Posted by Galatea92

Thanks for the review, Titania. It makes me realise what an odd and complex story it is (and what beautiful, witty writing).

Galatea,
I'm delighted you enjoyed my review! I think what's so marvelous about Great Expectations is that it offers a little something for everyone. Like so many of Dickens' novels, Great Expectations deals with the day-to-day struggles of people just like you and me. Disappointment in love, for example, is a common theme that appeals to most of us. Then, of course, there is intrigue, mystery, deception and a host of other elements in such books as this and Bleak House that make them absolutely mesmerizing novels!

Originally Posted by Galatea

Oddly, I've never read anything by Dickens. It must have been all those sugary versions of David Copperfield, Oliver Twist and A Christmas Carol when I was a child, but I've always been put off. I must admit, though, the more snippets of his prose I read, and the more top class adaptations I see, the more tempted I am.

I think Dickens' immense popularity has both helped and hurt him. Because of the "sugary versions" of his books that you mention, Galatea, some people have developed a misconception about what he is like as an author. They expect a lot of sentimental claptrap and boring, tedious passages about characters they can't relate to. But what is so very appealing about Dickens is actually his timelessness. Although the most recent film adaptations of his books are excellent, there is still nothing quite like reading the books themselves. I continue to be amazed at his wit, his humor, and his understanding of life. I encourage you to read one of his books as soon as you can! You won't be regretful.

Originally Posted by Galatea

I think I might put Great Expectations on my reading list

Oh, please do!

Originally Posted by Galatea

(or Hard Times, Bleak House, or Little Dorrit, or maybe all four ).

One of the advantages that Great Expectations has over some of Dickens' other novels, is that, at less than 500 pages, it isn't inordinately lengthy. Personally, I would recommend starting with either Great Expectations or A Tale of Two Cities because these books will familiarize you with Dickens' style, without overwhelming you. Of course, I don't think you can go wrong with ANY of Dickens' novels. He's a consummate storyteller, and, I wouldn't be a bit surprised if he didn't will rapidly become one of your favorites, Galatea.

Thanks so very much for your comments! I'm so pleased that you found this forum, Galatea. You're proving yourself to be a splendid contributor!

~Titania