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  • Little Dorrit

  • The Audible Dickens Collection
  • By: Charles Dickens
  • Narrated by: Juliet Stevenson
  • Length: 40 hrs and 22 mins
  • 4.7 out of 5 stars (473 ratings)
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Little Dorrit cover art

Little Dorrit

By: Charles Dickens
Narrated by: Juliet Stevenson
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Summary

This Audible Exclusive production revisits Charles Dickens’ tragi-comic novel Little Dorrit. Written during the Crimean War, it a story of fortunes won and lost and a masterly portrayal of the failings of Victorian Society, with the ever-present spectre of law enforcement and imprisonment looming over a fearful population.

One of his later works, Dickens’ maturity shines through this masterpiece and a uniquely powerful and touching love story ensues from amongst scenes of heart-wrenching injustice.

About the book

Following the death of his beloved father, Arthur Clennam returns to his home in London in order to reunite with his wheelchair-bound mother.

Narrowly escaping from the clutches of his former fiancée, Flora Finching, Arthur finds solace in the company of his mother’s new seamstress, the innocent and sweet Little Amy Dorrit.

The youngest of three children, Amy works hard to support her father, who, as Arthur learns, has been imprisoned in Marshalsea debtors’ prison since before her time. Without a mother to care for them, Little Dorrit and her siblings reside with Mr Dorrit, and she, being the most caring of them all, takes it upon herself to pay off his debts through her needlework.

Wishing to find out more about their serendipitous connection and how such a girl could possibly have ended up in his mother’s well-to-do household, Arthur sets out to help Amy and uncover the Clennam’s long-held family secrets, a journey which will inevitably alter the course of both of their lives.

About the author

Like Mr William Dorrit, Dickens’ father was held at Marshalsea debtors’ prison, the memory of which haunted Dickens for years to come and eventually inspired him to transform his childhood recollections into a book entitled Little Dorrit.

At a young age, Charles Dickens had to abandon his studies and set to work in a factory so as to support himself.

Despite his short-lived education, Dickens went on to write 15 novels and various articles, novellas and short stories. He lectured and led campaigns for children's rights and education and arguably became the ultimate self-made man.

About the narrator

Juliet Stevenson CBE is an Olivier award-winning actress known for her career spanning theatre, film and television. Her film credits include Bend It Like Beckham (2002) and Truly Madly Deeply (1990). Juliet starred in Robert Icke’s 2017/2018 adaptation of Mary Stuart (Almeida & Duke of York’s Theatre) where she played not only the titular role but also the role of Elizabeth I consecutively, swapping parts at the literal flip of a coin between herself and Lia Williams. Most recently she appeared in series 2 of Riviera. Juliet’s versatility knows no bounds, and she recently collaborated with both Ruby Wax and Deborah Frances-White on a series of new comedy sketches.

Public Domain (P)2019 Audible, Ltd

What listeners say about Little Dorrit

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Perfect

A veritable tour de force. Juliet Stevenson's intelligence, understanding of plot and character shine through her narration of the novel. I have read Little Dorrit more than once and have seen more than one adaptation of it, but her reading brings new life and vitality to the text. Her characterisations - from Amy, to Flintwinch; from the delightful Maggie to the formidable Miss Wade - show incredible vocal and acting dexterity. The longer, often complex, narrative passages are delivered beautifully, with exactly the right tone and emphasis and she avoids any hint of mawkish sentimentality, which might tempt the lesser narrator. The episode of the death of Mr Dorrit and his brother is genuinely moving and her treatment of Amy - who grows in obvious strength, as the novel progresses - mirrors Dickens' intention perfectly. Her reading also helps to confirm my opinion that the novel contains some of the most odious figures in Dickens', amongst whom I would include Dorrit in his worst moments, however he might be redeemed in the end. Is there an equivalent of the Oscars for audiobook narration? If so, I would certainly nominate this.

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15 people found this helpful

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The best

I struggled with the Dickens stories at school, did better with them as I aged. However, the books never came to life like this one has. If there are Oscars for narration, Juliet Stevenson should get one now. This has been the best audible book I've listened to, not only for Dickens's wonderful writing but equally to Juliet's amazing narration.

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7 people found this helpful

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"Absolutely Superb"

Juliet Stevenson is simply superb as the narrator, drawing you in with all her skill to make the characters come to life with ease. The Story itself, needs no explanation a it is world famous. I cannot recommend this book enough to all those who are very familiar with the book and to those that are not, you will not be disappointed. The calibre of narration here is gold standard.

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A Beautiful Performance of a Wonderful Book!

I was riveted by Juliet Stevenson’s breathtaking performance of this timeless story. I became completely engrossed and feel quite lost now I have listened to it all, shedding a tear at the last few sentences. Wonderful - how Dickens would have approved of this reading! I strongly recommend this version, especially if you find Dickens difficult to read. I will be listening to it again at some point - thank you, Audible!

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Wonderful story beautifully performed

This book is in my view one of the best stories by one of the best writers ever. Having read it before, I knew it would be a great listen but the reading by Juliette Stevenson was sublime. Each character brought to life, a pure delight

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thank goodness for Juliet Stevenson

who got me through this tome of a book, without her I'd have given up

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Fantastic

Absolutely fantastic from start to finish, what a voice and what a story.. The best way to travel to work!

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Stunning Performance

My favourite Dickens novel read brilliantly by Juliet Stevenson. I am in awe of her performance, she manages to breathe life into every character without falling into any hackneyed “ gawd luv us missus” stereotypes. Thank you.

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Absolute joy to listen to

Juliet Stevenson deserves an award. Her range of voices brought out the wonder and humour of Dickens. Her Mr Pancks,well,laugh out loud brilliant and funny. Enjoyed every minute.

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Outstanding!

I am bereft ! I am already missing those wonderful characters. What an amazing narration of this story - remarkable in bringing all those different characters to life - I think my favourite is Panks! Juliet Stevenson is superb !

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