What a book. I had no idea what infinite charms 19th-century literature holds for me. I have never read Dickens strictly for pleasure before, but this is the book to do it. Nicholas Nickleby is not a wimp! That's what I loved about it. He stands up for himself in a way that I always longed for in, say, Great Expectations. He is quite an admirable character. Also, what an awesome villain. It's the same inexplicable hatred for our hero as in Othello. And, of course, the ending is satisfying and tidy.
Plus I'm just really proud of myself for finishing it before it was due back at the library--this time. :)