Reflections on The Pickwick Papers | Mega Dickens Readalong

#Victober #Dickensalong
In which I talk about The Pickwick Papers . . .
The Pickwick Papers, Charles Dickens: / 229432.the_pickwick_pa...
The audiobook I listened to: www.audible.co...
Death and Mr Pickwick, Stephen Jarvis: / 22929571
More about the Mega Dickens Readalong
Discorder server: / discord
Goodreads group: / the-mega-dickens-reada...
Announcement video: • The Mega Dickens Reada...
The Schedule
The Pickwick Papers, 1837: October and November 2022
Oliver Twist, 1838: December 2022
Nicholas Nickleby, 1839: January and February 2023
The Old Curiosity Shop, 1841: March 2023
Barnaby Rudge, 1841: April and May 2023
Martin Chuzzlewit, 1844: June and July 2023
Dombey and Son, 1848: August and September 2023
David Copperfield, 1850: October and November 2023
Bleak House, 1853: December 2023 and January 2024
Hard Times, 1854: February 2024
Little Dorrit, 1855: March and April 2024
A Tale of Two Cities, 1859: May 2024
Great Expectations, 1861: June 2024
Our Mutual Friend, 1865: July and August 2024
The Mystery of Edwin Drood, 1870: September 2024
My Debut Novel
My debut novel, The Secrets of Hartwood Hall, is coming out in early 2023.
Pre-order from Waterstones (UK): www.waterstone...
Pre-order from Bookshop.org (UK): uk.bookshop.or...
Pre-order from Amazon (UK): www.amazon.co....
Pre-order (US): bit.ly/Hartwoo...
Pre-order (Canada): bit.ly/Hartwoo...
Goodreads: / the-secrets-of-hartwoo...
General Links
My website: www.katielumsde...
Twitter: / katiejlumsden
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Facebook: / justbooksandthings
Goodreads: / katie-lumsden
NaNoWriMo: nanowrimo.org/p...
Email: [e-mail]

[@larrymilliken288]

You mentioned something significant that points out a difference between reading a book versus listening to it being read. It never occurred to me that the opinions we form about characters while first physically reading a novel can be changed or colored after listening to it being read. The reader’s tone of voice, the emphasis and enunciation, and accent can paint the canvas of our mind into a totally new hue. Thank you, Katie, for this astute observation.

[@katiejlumsden]

I think it can make a difference - it depends on the character and how open their dialogue is to tone and interpretation, I suppose.

[@lw3646]

"Kent, sir - everybody knows Kent. - apples, cherries, hops and women."

[@lw3646]

"The happiness of young people," said Mr. Pickwick, a little moved, 'has ever been the chief pleasure of my life."

[@lw3646]

"Ven you're a married man, Samivel, you'll understand a good many things as you don't understand now; but vether it's worthwhile, goin' through so much, to learn so little, as the charity-boy said ven he got to the end of the alphabet, is a matter o' taste."

[@lw3646]

The Pickwick Papers is one of the most delightful books I've read. The plot is very loose and relaxed like a series of separate adventures. It feels like a celebration of country life with the festivities and fun which happen on Christmas Eve in the country Manor for instance. Mr Pickwick and Sam Weller are so loveable and even the villain is more of a nusiance and a rascal, not the odious sort we meet in the Old Curosity Shop or Nicholas Nickleby. It's so different to the setting of urban poverty and strife in a lot of his later books too. You can still find traces of an older way of life in the book, when people still fought duels, long distance travel was only by stagecoach and society was more rural still than urban. Its a very nostalgic view, I read Dickens had happy memories of a childhood in Kent but bad memories of what followed in London. The women in the book are mostly there to just shriek though and react hysterically, it's a little bit of a cruel portrayal making them so foolish. The female characters get stronger though as his writing progressed, you start off with very sweet and innocent heroines like Arrabella Allen, Kate Nickleby, Little Nell, Florence Dombey or Agnes Wickfield V Estelle or Bella Wilfer later on who are more independent and outspoken. He definitely matured as a writer anyway and his view of human nature became a bit more complex and doubtful. I like the Sam Weller character though partly because he's a working class character who is shown as being very capable and sharp witted, you are laughing with him not at him whatever Orwell says. I think its a masterpiece of comedy and adventure. I won't even begin to try and describe the plot. I don't think anyone could. Mr Pickwick goes on a series of comical adventures with his trusted companion I think that's all that needs to be said. Dickens delights in the scenes he paints, the lively cast of characters we meet and the unfortunate situations our dear Mr Pickwick finds himself in. The world is populated with absurd characters and misunderstandings yet somehow it's all endlessly charming, fun and disarming.❤

[@AndreaSmallArt]

Thank you for this video. I've just finished The Pickwick Papers and loved it. Although I have read much of Dickens, my knowledge of TPP was entirely based on the references in Little Women and snippets from the 1960s film Pickwick. Because of the latter, Mr P was always Harry Secombe and Sam Weller, Roy Castle in my head, but listening to the audio book has shifted them. The version I listened to was narrated by David Timson, who was brilliant. Interesting point about Mary - in Timson's reading she comes across as quite sensible and level-headed. I loved all the social history - for instance, I was fascinated by the use of 'mother-in-law' rather than 'step-mother' - and I found the sections set in the prison very powerful. I also recognised the seeds of Scrooge in one of the stories. I'm not going to be joining in the whole readathon, but I have Martin Chuzzlewit and Hard Times waiting for when you get to them!

[@johnkelland]

Without a doubt my most favourite of Dickens works . I can identify in part as I was a prolific road tripper until covid .

[@kimhoot2044]

I listened to the Patrick Tull narration and actually laughed out loud once which I never do. I read it a couple of decades ago and wasn't happy with it but this time, knowing how "episodic" it is, I was better prepared and appreciated it much more. Thanks for doing this project. I'm not much of a rereader but this will be good. Maybe I'll even get on Discord…

[@mikesnyder1788]

Yes, Patrick Tull's narration if first rate! I read Pickwick while listening to his narration and I enjoyed it immensely. Great book, great reader!

[@RaineyDayReads]

I absolutely loved reading Pickwick Papers last month!

[@greenenergy4265]

Thanks for your insights. I have made a decision to read one of his per year and it just coincidentally that I selected the Pickwick Papers for 2022 & Oliver Twist for 2023. BTW although Sam is better developed character that Alfred Jingle, I found Alfred more amusing.

[@lw3646]

I think another of the appeals of the Pickwick Papers is how footloose and free Mr Pickwick is to travel and have all these adventures. Which other protagonists in Dickens has his level of freedom? All the others are more or less trapped by their circumstances and in some way constrained, especially the younger ones. Maybe Scourge or Mr Dombey have the money and power but they're also trapped by their own rigidness and love of money that they can't let go of their work and ever enjoy themselves.

[@CharlieBrookReads]

I really enjoyed this too. I love how Dickens comes up with such brilliant names they always make me smile. I loved the relationship between Sam and Mr Pickwick too. I do agree about the female characters but Mrs Potts did make me laugh at a few points maybe just because of the ridiculous moments with her, she’s such a feisty character!! Loved hearing your thoughts, you are always spot on and so insightful!! I am looking forward to starting Oliver Twist in Dec 😊

[@lellymills]

I also listened to the Rory Kinnear audiobook and totally agree that he really brings the characters to life, making it much more humorous for the listener. I also agree about D's depiction of women, being either beautiful or hysterical, which did spoil it for me. I found it better dipping into it in installments, as it would have originally been published, rather than reading cover to cover - which for me, became a tad tedious. Def not my favourite Dickens but it does have its charms. ❤️👍

[@NadaOQ96]

I went in not expecting much but I ended up having such fun with this book!! It was just the kind of light hearted episodical entertainment which I needed at the time and Rory Kinnear's narration is superb. Definitely a book I'll revisit in the future :D I was actually unsure about whether or not to join the #MegaDickensalong at first because it is a big commitment, but TPP sold me on it 👍🏼

[@katiejlumsden]

Glad to hear it :)

[@dqan7372]

Have been enjoying Pickwick very much, even though I fell very much behind the pace. I've long considered it my favorite among the few Dickens' novels that I've read. Will be interesting to see how long it takes to read one that I enjoy more. I don't think Oliver Twist will dethrone Pickwick in my mind/heart, but it's been years since I read it.

[@cheryleprice2842]

I’ve been wanting to reread all of Dickens’ novels. Reading along with others gives me renewed inspiration! I really enjoyed Pickwick Papers more this time. Thanks for arranging this read along. I’ve subscribed for years & never commented but have always admired your talents & share your love of Dickens.

[@katiejlumsden]

Thanks very much! Glad you really enjoyed The Pickwick Papers :)

[@bookingthroughlife]

I loved The Pickwick Papers. I listened to it on audio so I had to go back and actually read some it because I would lose my concentration and not know what happened. I was loved that Sam Weller was so devoted to Mr Pickwick. It was my first Dickens other than A Christmas Carol, although I have watched many film adaptations. I’m looking forward to the rest of his collection.

[@jamesduggan7200]

I love that top; it suits you well. Wish I could contribute more here now but Dickens is one of my weakest areas. Thx and happy holidays!

[@cynthiaespinoza4514]

Yes I'm taking part in this wonderful project! I'm starting Oliver Twist today!

[@johnsaxongitno4life588]

All I can say is that it’s one of my favourite books love it 🥰 love you and your amazing channel love your Aussie friend John ❤❤❤

[@YourTrueShelf]

I wouldn't have ever thought to read this book, so I'm so glad I've joined in on the dickens readalong as I've enjoyed it immensely 😊 Sam and Mr Jingle were also my favourites, and I got very fond of Mr Pickwick too. I agree, so many laugh out loud moments!! Especially liked when he accidentally got into the wrong bed, and the sporting incidents 😊

[@sumathi5487]

I absolutely love your shirt!!

[@jf8559]

I am reading The Pickwick Papers and enjoying it very much, although I am not yet halfway. I am finding it very fun and funny with episodes of just beautiful writing and poignant moments as well. I do intend to read many of the books in the Dickens readalong. Not sure about Oliver Twist in December now as I want to finish Pickwick. Great video! Thanks Katie!

[@jamestong8080]

I began reading all of Dickens in order last year. I'm just starting Martin Chuzzlewit. I loved Pickwick. I remember seeing the musical Pickwick when it was touring America decades ago. It was very good. A couple of months ago I wanted to go back to Pickwick and began reading it five pages a day. Very slowly. It is terrific that way. Lots to go. It really is a book to read slowly and savor.

[@katiejlumsden]

I can imagine a musical Pickwick would be fun!

[@weaverinahollygarden109]

The Pickwick papers is one of my favourite novels of dickens and that has not changed during my re read. I am a little behind with it though I feel this will not be a problem as I am going to give Oliver Twist a miss and read some of the Christmas works instead. Thank you again Katie for putting this together for us.

[@Lu.G.]

I missed reading _The Pickwick Papers_ with the group, but it's one of the few Dickens' that I have read. 🤓 When I finished it, I remember thinking, 'what a fun ride!' 😬 Definitely enjoyable and worth a reread! Assuming I can get out of the slump I'm in, I'm hoping to join in for _Oliver Twist._ 🤷🏼‍♀ Thank you, Katie! 📚

[@jodihowe7274]

Wonderful reflections and I totally agree with you! I love this book very much because it’s just so fun and Dicken’s always creates great characters 🤣❣️

[@springintoreading7225]

I quite enjoyed this audiobook:) Just finished

[@davidleonard8547]

I've begun reading Pickwick for the first time. I'm drawn to Dickens in December, these days, and endeavour to read all of him now, now that I'm a little later in life. As a teen, I though Dickens rather dour, only having read A Tale of Two Cities in school, and seen Oliver Twist (the 1960s film) and A Christmas Carol (the seasonal staple). Tales of his father's debt imprisonment and his own child labour horrors rang in my head and that misery seemed prominent in his stories to me then. I was surprised how easy he was to read when I picked him up again to read A Christmas Carol one December, years ago, and how funny. Since then, he is truly one of my favourite, and most venerated authors. I'd not thought of Pickwick, so reading that this year at your suggestion is quite a treat. It's quite farcical and fun. So much fun. Thank you. Can you tell that I do love Dickens so?

[@katiejlumsden]

Dickens really is so funny! I think often in films and adaptations, that is kind of forgotten!

[@elizabethmoloney6967]

Its great fun 😀

[@mikesnyder1788]

Excellent review! Pickwick Papers is at the top of my Desert Island book list! There are so many wonderful episodes in this hilarious novel and surely Alfred Jingle wins the prize for the best comical villain in all of English literature.

[@katiejlumsden]

Jingle is definitely great!

[@amusicalbookworm]

I’m still working on the book, but I can definitely find things to appreciate in this fun early Dickens accidental novel! I struggle a bit with the lack of overarching plot - it’s kind of there, but also isn’t. It is an interesting and funny reading experience, nonetheless!

[@wendycayless]

I had intentions of doing the read-along but a vacation intervened. So, I need to catch up!

[@sararichards518]

I had a late start with this as I have so much that I want to get to, but I have found it laugh aloud funny in places and will finish it asap and then Oliver Twist which is a novel that I personally find difficult. More of that next month.

[@stevencarsley2446]

Hello Another good video

[@elizabethbrink3761]

This was my first time reading The Pickwick Papers and it is so much fun! I was struck by how much the story felt like something out of P.G. Wodehouse. I haven't read much about Wodehouse's literary influences, but I bet The Pickwick Papers was right up there! Mr. Pickwick and Sam Weller are two of my new favorite literary characters. They are such a great pair! I was wondering about them having the same name, too. Appreciated your reflections on that and on the book in general.

[@katiejlumsden]

Oh yes, it definitely does feel a bit P.G. Wodehouse!

[@AnnaD791]

I have just finished reading it today and Sam Weller is now one of my favourite male characters! I really enjoyed it and I'm looking forward to starting Oliver Twist soon.

[@stevenfullman5646]

PP was my introduction to CD, and I loved it as a travelogue. NN was the novel that made me love and understand him, though. NN is a beautiful book. I know it’s (nearly) your least favourite…but hopefully your re-read will change that view.

[@katiejlumsden]

I do like Nicholas Nickleby, and I'm looking forward to rereading it. Oliver Twist is my least favourite by a long way - I think all the rest are 5 stars for me, just some I love more than others!

[@stevenfullman5646]

@@katiejlumsden I agree that Oliver Twist is one of his weakest, possibly slightly better IMO than Curiosity Shop, though. I’m planning to re-read them all in 23, so maybe I’ll change my mind again!

[@gabrielcardoso8512]

I love these books ^^

[@jansmith9391]

So late to the party. I don’t think I can keep to the schedule. For me, Pickwick was best read either a chapter at a time, or chapters that are a continuation of another. It was delightful, I thought. As always, I appreciate your insights. What happened to the Valentine?! Did I miss the follow-up? There seemed to be no repercussions. Looking forward to the novel you mentioned.

[@katiejlumsden]

That's true - I'm not sure it does get mentioned again. I suppose maybe we're meant to think that Sam tells Mary about it at some point, or that it never reached her because she moved.

[@mimishimaineko1173]

I'm enjoying "The Pickwick Papers" very much! Do you find any parallels with "Don Quijote"? The vibes are there.🧡

[@mandybrack1708]

That was exactly my thought, it reminded me so much of Don Quixote.

[@katiejlumsden]

I haven't yet read Don Quixote! That is interesting to know.

[@betinaceciliafeld9854]

I'm only half way through The Pickwyck Papers but that's fine since I'll skip Oliver Twist, so I'll be just in time for Nicholas Nickleby in January and February. I'm having a lot of fun with this novel even though I tend to lose a bit of interest with the stories within the story. Each time we leave the main characters to listen to a story not related to them, I sigh a little. But in general I'm loving this book and it's my first Dickens too, so I'm hopeful for the rest of my journey!

[@ArtBookshelfOdyssey]

10:50 interesting thoughts on their first names... so is it a Tale of Two Sams? 🤣 I was really wondering about that on this recent reread of Pickwick Papers, I was really trying to see if I could see what connection between the two Samuels would be, if any.

[@takz0743]

Not only do I enjoy the main story immensely, but all the background information --- the "education" regarding Victorian life and atmosphere --- I find most interesting. One thing I cannot quite yet understand (there are many) are references to buildings, stairs and "pairs." For example, "Mrs. Bardell's back one pair of stairs...". I am guessing that this means the first floor (second floor in the US and elsewhere), and the back room; but I cannot understand the significance of the word "pair." I've noticed references to "pair of stairs" all over Dickens' works, but have yet to find what it means. Can anyone help? Thank you.

[@MartinDSmith]

Isn't there a great moment when Pickwick teams up with old Mrs Wardle in a game of cards and they slaughter the opposition,sparking a moment of joy in the aforementioned lady,whereas he later finds himself amongst a group of society "dames"😁only interested in the celebrity he brings,but to their chagrin blunders his way through every round of cards?😂💝

[@lw3646]

I wonder today if a book like this would be published with so many minor characters or would the writer be pressured into removing or merging some of them?

[@kcsunshine4008]

There’s absolutely nothing wrong with audiobooks but it is NOT reading!!!!! Let’s not get confused