Oliver Twist is young boy in 18th or 19th century, England. After surviving a tough childhood and very tough events in the poorhouse he flees to London. He gets mixed up in really bad things; he gets associated with thiefs and burglars and is taught how to steal. However, he finds good and kind people who take care of him, and then he gets into more trouble. It is, mostly a sad story but it gets happier (in a way) as the story unravels. Dickens portrayal of what is under the nice London surface is considered classic.
I must admit that I really liked the book but parts of it bugged me. Fagin, the thief, is most often referred to as a redheaded Jew, which I find extremely rasist. Dickens casual tone towards abuse - and especially animal abuse - is also very disturbing. There are also characters that I do not like due to the fact that I cannot understand how anyone can be so evil. But Dickens portrayal of feelings such as greed, regret, guilt, sadness and hapiness are capturing, and it is the main reason why I liked this novel. I recommend it to people who are not offended by the language and actions of the time, otherwise it may be difficult to read the book.
Love,
Frida
P.S. I do not know what book to read right now and if I don't come up with it soon I will post one of my literary essays next week!
