Great Expectations

The Audible Dickens Collection

By: Charles Dickens, Howard Jacobson

Narrated by: Matt Lucas, Howard Jacobson

Length: 20 hrs and 39 mins

Publisher's summary

In this Audible Exclusive performance by Matt Lucas of Great Expectations, Charles Dickens demonstrates that conscience, loyalty and empathy are virtues far more valuable than intellect, wealth and social standing.

First published in Dickens’ own periodical, All the Year Round, the novel was divided into nine monthly instalments, from December 1860 to August 1861. Unsurprisingly, it was an instant success and managed to sell over 100,000 copies per week. Though written at a challenging time in Dickens’ life, when the impending breakdown of his marriage loomed over him, Great Expectations proves to be one of his most optimistic, comical and romantic novels.

This exclusive recording of Great Expectations starts with a unique introduction written and narrated by Howard Jacobson, the Booker Prize-winning author of The Finkler Question, in which he explains why Great Expectations is his favourite Dickens title.

About the book

Through a rich first-person narrative, listeners are introduced to the character of young Pip as he visits the tombstones of his beloved parents. Unexpectedly confronted by the dark and mysterious Magwitch, a convict in desperate need of food, Pip must decide whether to aid or impede the stranger standing in front of him - a decision which will shape the course of his life. Introducing some of the most iconic, Gothic and comically repulsive literary characters of all time, from the vengeful Miss Havisham, torn apart by a man she once loved, to her beautiful yet seemingly impenetrable ward, Estella, the listener is propelled through a wonderfully Dickensian world.

About the author

Much like Pip, Charles Dickens was born into poverty. In his case, it was due to the incarceration of his father, and Dickens was forced to set aside his education in order to work at a nearby factory. Amazingly, this did not deter the young Dickens from rising above his station, and he went on to publish 15 novels, various articles, five novellas and hundreds of short stories. He lectured and campaigned for fair treatment of the lower classes as well as for children’s rights and education.

About the narrator

British comedian, actor and screenwriter Matt Lucas is best known for the television show Little Britain as well as playing both Tweedle Dum and Tweedle Dee in Alice in Wonderland and his role as Nardole in the 10th series of Doctor Who. Able to embody so many characters with just his voice, Lucas is a perfect fit for Great Expectations.

Public Domain (P)2018 Audible, Ltd

Not as good as expected

This is a classic I had not read. The performance of the reader was fantastic, but I found the story hard to believe.

Skip the Intro

Has hella spoilers i don’t know how someone could write and intro which spoils so much about a book. Read it after the book

Great narration

I have a preference for a different narrator of Dickens novels, but took a chance on Matt Lucas. I tried a couple of chapters with my old favorite, and returned to Mr Lucas for the rest of the book. His animated style, excellent voice characterizations, and pleasant tone made this book-which I hated in high school-a delight.

Excellent

This is a great classic I first read in 9th grade English. 45 years later, I enjoyed it much, much more. This version is extremely well read.

Great Expectations

I loved it!Narration was excellent. I am totally enjoying listening to all of Mr Dickens work.

Fantastic book

This book is one of the best I’ve ever read! The story is amazing. All the details weave into a huge web to give the reader that big “Aha!”. The characters were very complex and well written. They’re so realistic you’d think they’re sitting next to you. The actor did a fantastic job. He did different voices for all the characters.

Rich story

Dickens’ classic tale is full of rich language and vivid descriptions. This version is well done.

BRAVO!!! 10 stars! ☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆

Amazing narration. I've never read this book before, and I'm so glad I chose this narrator. He really brought it to life. I loved it. ❤️

Serious and funny

Loved the humor of the protagonist's narrative throughout. The performance was also excellent, and contributed to the humor. The story itself is very engaging, and serious moral lessons are explored.

Outstanding reader!

The story is somewhat bizarre but demonstrates very well the class distinctions in England at that time.