The Pickwick Papers (Oxford Illustrated Dickens)

I had a defective copy of this edition and was so glad when I saw that it was (and is) available. This is a very nice facsimile copy of The Pickwick Papers with reprints of the original illustrations. For fans of Samuel Pickwick, his devoted associates, and their close friend and archivist, Mr. Charles Dickens.

Thus far in my reading journey through Dickens' works, I have found some common themes and some substantial variation as well. "Pickwick" is an early novel, appearing in segments during 1836-37. I found its tone quite different than my last Dickens novel, "Bleak House," which spun out dreary chapter upon chapter. By contrast, Pickwick is a somewhat happy and pleasant story, for the most part. It shares with Dickens other novels some common features: (1) his ability to generate an endless procession of fascinating characters; (2) his continuing interest in the Victorian legal system, including lawyers especially; (3) a remarkable ability to paint Victorian life, here more in villages and small towns than London; and (4) just a unique ability to hold the reader's interest through hundreds of pages (here 800 or so).

Among the strong elements of the novel are his attention to the notorious debtors' prisons of the period; his recounting of the tremendous amount of booze consumed as a matter of course; rather acerbic comments on some prominent charities of the times; and the legerdemain inflicted upon innocent clients by the legal profession (a precursor I guess to "Bleak House"). There is also a taste of "The Christmas Carol" which was to come many years later.

One unfortunate element is that Dickens drops in every so often an "introduced story" recounted by a character. I found these tales about goblins and other unpleasant subjects almost totally worthless. You lose nothing by skipping these inserts entirely.

Finally, I again endorse the Oxford Illustrated Dickens editions of his work. Each has a helpful, but not overly extended, introduction by a knowledgeable commentator. Of great value are the numerous original illustrations that appeared with Dickens' novels when first published. They add a great lot as they illustrate key stages in the story; being contemporary with his novels they are accurate and detailed in every way.

A very pleasant read, due largely to the warmhearted and outgoing nature of the generous Mr. Pickwick--a delightful individual to be sure. Given his trusty (and pugnacious) servant, Sam Weller, and assorted members of the Pickwick Club, and long journeys through Victorian England, it is just a most pleasant read. It is easy to see why this is one of Dickens' most popular novels--an an excellent introduction for those with an interest in delving into Dickens' works.

I had this book in paperback and really loved it, so when I discovered it was missing from my library I bought the hardback and reread it when it arrived. Tastes change, I guess. Just seems a little too a) precocious b) preachy c) ponderous throughout. But, if you're a Dickens fan, you'll probably want to read it anyway.