The Life and Adventures of Nicholas Nickleby

Summary

This is Dickens’s third novel and was originally published as a serial from 1838 to 1839. It’s a wonderful example of Dickens’s ability to weave plots within plots and portray the most glorious characters. Both theatrical and prosaic, Dickens magnetically and majestically pulls the reader (or listener!) into his unique and inimitable world. The Life and Adventures of Nicholas Nickleby tells the story of a young man who must support his mother and sister after his father dies leaving the family impoverished. Mrs. Nickleby takes them to London to appeal to the rich brother of her deceased husband, the uncaring and unscrupulous Ralph Nickleby. Through Ralph’s shameless, corrupt, and underhanded treatment, the family finds themselves facing trials and tribulations that threaten them with complete desolation. Taking on villains, rogues, and crooks who continually try to take advantage of them and those they care about, they are led by Nicholas’s moral rectitude, courage, and determination through all their difficulties. But not without anxiety, distress, and countless obstacles to be faced and overcome.