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Oliver Twist / Great Expectations / A Tale of Two Cities
These elegant volumes are bound in simulated leather with titles stamped in gold and gilt-edged pages. Includes complete and original versions of Oliver Twist, A Tale of Two Cities, and Great Expectations.
816 pages, Leather Bound
First published January 1, 1861
11 people are currently reading
347 people want to read
About the author
Charles Dickens
12.7k books31.3k followersCharles John Huffam Dickens (1812-1870) was a writer and social critic who created some of the world's best-known fictional characters and is regarded as the greatest novelist of the Victorian era. His works enjoyed unprecedented popularity during his lifetime, and by the twentieth century critics and scholars had recognised him as a literary genius. His novels and short stories enjoy lasting popularity.
Dickens left school to work in a factory when his father was incarcerated in a debtors' prison. Despite his lack of formal education, he edited a weekly journal for 20 years, wrote 15 novels, five novellas, hundreds of short stories and non-fiction articles, lectured and performed extensively, was an indefatigable letter writer, and campaigned vigorously for children's rights, education, and other social reforms.
Dickens was regarded as the literary colossus of his age. His 1843 novella, A Christmas Carol, remains popular and continues to inspire adaptations in every artistic genre. Oliver Twist and Great Expectations are also frequently adapted, and, like many of his novels, evoke images of early Victorian London. His 1859 novel, A Tale of Two Cities, set in London and Paris, is his best-known work of historical fiction. Dickens's creative genius has been praised by fellow writers—from Leo Tolstoy to George Orwell and G. K. Chesterton—for its realism, comedy, prose style, unique characterisations, and social criticism. On the other hand, Oscar Wilde, Henry James, and Virginia Woolf complained of a lack of psychological depth, loose writing, and a vein of saccharine sentimentalism. The term Dickensian is used to describe something that is reminiscent of Dickens and his writings, such as poor social conditions or comically repulsive characters.
On 8 June 1870, Dickens suffered another stroke at his home after a full day's work on Edwin Drood. He never regained consciousness, and the next day he died at Gad's Hill Place. Contrary to his wish to be buried at Rochester Cathedral "in an inexpensive, unostentatious, and strictly private manner," he was laid to rest in the Poets' Corner of Westminster Abbey. A printed epitaph circulated at the time of the funeral reads: "To the Memory of Charles Dickens (England's most popular author) who died at his residence, Higham, near Rochester, Kent, 9 June 1870, aged 58 years. He was a sympathiser with the poor, the suffering, and the oppressed; and by his death, one of England's greatest writers is lost to the world." His last words were: "On the ground", in response to his sister-in-law Georgina's request that he lie down.
(from Wikipedia)
Dickens left school to work in a factory when his father was incarcerated in a debtors' prison. Despite his lack of formal education, he edited a weekly journal for 20 years, wrote 15 novels, five novellas, hundreds of short stories and non-fiction articles, lectured and performed extensively, was an indefatigable letter writer, and campaigned vigorously for children's rights, education, and other social reforms.
Dickens was regarded as the literary colossus of his age. His 1843 novella, A Christmas Carol, remains popular and continues to inspire adaptations in every artistic genre. Oliver Twist and Great Expectations are also frequently adapted, and, like many of his novels, evoke images of early Victorian London. His 1859 novel, A Tale of Two Cities, set in London and Paris, is his best-known work of historical fiction. Dickens's creative genius has been praised by fellow writers—from Leo Tolstoy to George Orwell and G. K. Chesterton—for its realism, comedy, prose style, unique characterisations, and social criticism. On the other hand, Oscar Wilde, Henry James, and Virginia Woolf complained of a lack of psychological depth, loose writing, and a vein of saccharine sentimentalism. The term Dickensian is used to describe something that is reminiscent of Dickens and his writings, such as poor social conditions or comically repulsive characters.
On 8 June 1870, Dickens suffered another stroke at his home after a full day's work on Edwin Drood. He never regained consciousness, and the next day he died at Gad's Hill Place. Contrary to his wish to be buried at Rochester Cathedral "in an inexpensive, unostentatious, and strictly private manner," he was laid to rest in the Poets' Corner of Westminster Abbey. A printed epitaph circulated at the time of the funeral reads: "To the Memory of Charles Dickens (England's most popular author) who died at his residence, Higham, near Rochester, Kent, 9 June 1870, aged 58 years. He was a sympathiser with the poor, the suffering, and the oppressed; and by his death, one of England's greatest writers is lost to the world." His last words were: "On the ground", in response to his sister-in-law Georgina's request that he lie down.
(from Wikipedia)
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Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews
October 17, 2008
I first read this novel almost 40 years ago. I’ve just finished rereading: it remains my favourite Charles Dickens novel. ‘A Tale of Two Cities’ was initially published in weekly instalments over 31 weeks in 1859: it is historical fiction, encompassing the period from 1775 to 1792.
The novel is divided into three separate sections (books) dealing with different events in the lives of Dr Alexandre Manette, his daughter Lucie, French emigrant Charles Darnay and his family, as well as a number of other people and events in France and England. I believe that the novel will be easier to follow for a reader broadly familiar with the history leading to and consequences of the French Revolution in 1789.
On my first read, I was most interested in the French aspects of the novel: the images of Madame Defarge knitting, and Vengeance, together with the guillotine, have remained in my mind. This time, I was more focussed on identifying some of the themes that run through the novel. Those themes are resurrection, relationships, retribution and redemption.
The sufferings of Dr Manette, and later of Charles Darnay; the relationships between Dr Manette, Lucie, Mr Lorry, and others; the role of the DeFarges, and Vengeance, in both sustaining relationships and seeking retribution; and the redemption of Sydney Carton: combine in a way which illustrates much of what can be good and bad about humanity.
‘Repression is the only lasting philosophy. The dark deference of fear and slavery, my friend,’ observed the Marquis, ‘will keep the dogs obedient to the whip as long as this roof,’ looking up to it, ‘shuts out the sky’.
To write more about the story may spoil its impact for those yet to read it. It is both a fine example of English literature and an interesting work of historical fiction. This is a novel where both the journey and the destination matter.
‘It is a far, far better thing that I do, than I have ever done; it is a far, far better rest that I go to, than I have ever known.’
The novel is divided into three separate sections (books) dealing with different events in the lives of Dr Alexandre Manette, his daughter Lucie, French emigrant Charles Darnay and his family, as well as a number of other people and events in France and England. I believe that the novel will be easier to follow for a reader broadly familiar with the history leading to and consequences of the French Revolution in 1789.
On my first read, I was most interested in the French aspects of the novel: the images of Madame Defarge knitting, and Vengeance, together with the guillotine, have remained in my mind. This time, I was more focussed on identifying some of the themes that run through the novel. Those themes are resurrection, relationships, retribution and redemption.
The sufferings of Dr Manette, and later of Charles Darnay; the relationships between Dr Manette, Lucie, Mr Lorry, and others; the role of the DeFarges, and Vengeance, in both sustaining relationships and seeking retribution; and the redemption of Sydney Carton: combine in a way which illustrates much of what can be good and bad about humanity.
‘Repression is the only lasting philosophy. The dark deference of fear and slavery, my friend,’ observed the Marquis, ‘will keep the dogs obedient to the whip as long as this roof,’ looking up to it, ‘shuts out the sky’.
To write more about the story may spoil its impact for those yet to read it. It is both a fine example of English literature and an interesting work of historical fiction. This is a novel where both the journey and the destination matter.
‘It is a far, far better thing that I do, than I have ever done; it is a far, far better rest that I go to, than I have ever known.’
June 26, 2025
The Unabridged Charles Dickens (Leather Bound Edition) is not so much a book as it is a brick of literary immortality. It sits on your shelf like a cathedral wrapped in cowhide, daring you to open it—and once you do, you fall headfirst into the soot-slicked streets of 19th-century London, elbowing through orphans, debt collectors, mad old women in yellowing lace, and lawyers with names like Mr. Jaggers.
Inside this leviathan lives everything—Oliver Twist, David Copperfield, Great Expectations, A Tale of Two Cities, Bleak House, Little Dorrit, Nicholas Nickleby, and so much more. It’s like a Victorian Netflix binge, except you read it in candlelight (or at least imagine you are) while sipping tea and thinking deep thoughts about social inequality and redemption arcs. Dickens gives you comedy, tragedy, satire, social commentary, love stories, murder mysteries, and the occasional courtroom monologue that goes on for six pages—and somehow, it works.
He was the original cliffhanger king, the father of the serialized novel, and probably the only writer who could name a character “Uriah Heep” and still win your heart.
I bought the leather-bound edition in 2010—partly for the gravitas, partly because it made me feel like a Victorian scholar with questionable eyesight. I didn’t read it straight through (who does?), but I dipped in and out like it was a literary pick-'n'-mix. Every return felt like meeting an old friend in a foggy alley, always with something wise, hilarious, or heartbreaking to say. Dickens doesn’t just write stories. He builds worlds. And this tome? It’s the whole galaxy in one binding.
Inside this leviathan lives everything—Oliver Twist, David Copperfield, Great Expectations, A Tale of Two Cities, Bleak House, Little Dorrit, Nicholas Nickleby, and so much more. It’s like a Victorian Netflix binge, except you read it in candlelight (or at least imagine you are) while sipping tea and thinking deep thoughts about social inequality and redemption arcs. Dickens gives you comedy, tragedy, satire, social commentary, love stories, murder mysteries, and the occasional courtroom monologue that goes on for six pages—and somehow, it works.
He was the original cliffhanger king, the father of the serialized novel, and probably the only writer who could name a character “Uriah Heep” and still win your heart.
I bought the leather-bound edition in 2010—partly for the gravitas, partly because it made me feel like a Victorian scholar with questionable eyesight. I didn’t read it straight through (who does?), but I dipped in and out like it was a literary pick-'n'-mix. Every return felt like meeting an old friend in a foggy alley, always with something wise, hilarious, or heartbreaking to say. Dickens doesn’t just write stories. He builds worlds. And this tome? It’s the whole galaxy in one binding.
January 27, 2024
Charles Dickens' 'Great Expectations' is a compelling exploration of social class, morality, and the transformative power of self-discovery. The novel follows the life of Pip, an orphan raised by his sister and her husband. When a mysterious benefactor elevates Pip's social status, he navigates the complexities of wealth, love, and identity. Dickens' narrative skillfully intertwines humor, suspense, and social commentary. The characters, from the eccentric Miss Havisham to the convict Magwitch, are vividly drawn and contribute to the novel's rich tapestry. 'Great Expectations' is a timeless classic that delves into the human condition, revealing the highs and lows of ambition and the unforeseen consequences of our choices.
September 21, 2023
I read only Two Cities. I happened to be in France at the time, touring Versailles and Paris. What a great book to read for this trip! But really, brings the horrors of the French revolution to life. I suppose I had never thought about the actual mechanics of it, past the musical of "Les Miserables" haha.
May 10, 2020
I thoroughly enjoyed Olver Twist and Great Expectations. A Tale of Two Cities.....I will need to read a different version. I just could not "get into" the book, but after watching the movie understood it a great deal more. And loved it.
March 7, 2022
Marking as read only for Oliver Twist at this stage.
May 9, 2009
Read Great Expectations.
My first Dickens and not my last. I love the way he writes, I love his wit and imagination. The twists and turns in the last third/quarter of the book are fantastic, keeps the page turning. The rest of the book is just a pleasure to read, beautiful. Pip's early behaviour really got me angry, he was pompous indeed, but I still loved him.
My first Dickens and not my last. I love the way he writes, I love his wit and imagination. The twists and turns in the last third/quarter of the book are fantastic, keeps the page turning. The rest of the book is just a pleasure to read, beautiful. Pip's early behaviour really got me angry, he was pompous indeed, but I still loved him.
August 3, 2008
Comparison and contrast were never better used than in Charles Dickens' classic a tale of two cities. He interweaves the French Revolution with personal stories and relationships that culminate in memorable actions. Another one of my all time favorites. If you appreciate a writer on top of their craft you will enjoy Charles Dickens.
November 8, 2010
One of the most perfect stories I have ever read. It has it all.... Charles Dickens was a genius, and his writing is still important. I have read this over 11 times, and I imagine I will re-visit it in the future!
February 26, 2008
It's true that I've a love affair with Dickens. Along with Tolkein, I can re-read his books with impunity.
July 6, 2008
Its a great book
August 16, 2008
Three great Dickens classics. First you get a war adventure, you then face hard times at public work houses, and then you get caught up with a convict.
January 21, 2009
Read a previous edition (leather bound) Great Book!
Want to read
April 13, 2009again, really hard to read. lots of "old language"
December 5, 2010
Book Club book
May 17, 2011
I loved this book. I chose to read Oliver Twist. This book had everything, interesting and complex characters, intrique, and how glad I am not to have lived in London, during that time.
December 28, 2014
collection of dickens stories for lovers of the Victorian age
Read
April 29, 2014Pure brill
Read
April 4, 2016Enjoyed Oliver Twist and Great Expectations, then turned the book back in to the library.
Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews