AUDIO

Hard Times

by Charles Dickens
9 CDs. retail ed. unabridged. 10¾ hrs. Naxos Audiobooks. 2011. ISBN 9781843794431. $59.98; 3 CDs. retail ed. abridged. 4 hrs.; digital download. CLASSIC
COPY ISBN
OrangeReviewStarHard Times is Dickens's most political novel. Taking place in the industrial burg of Coketown, the drama among the characters illustrates the author's view of the dehumanizing effects of industrialization and utilitarianism on the lives of all involved and is essentially a "moral fable" illustrating the principle that one reaps what one sows.
VERDICT Anton Lesser, a classical actor and an award-winning audiobook reader, gives a spirited reading, bringing out the character of each persona—the dictatorial Gradgrind, the pompous Bounderby, and the meek Sissy—with skill and verve. An entertaining and captivating listening experience; all libraries should consider. [See the Dickens roundup, p. 68.—Ed.]
Reviewed by Michael T. Fein, Central Virginia Community Coll. Lib., Lynchburg , Feb 15, 2012
Comment Policy:
  • Be respectful, and do not attack the author, people mentioned in the article, or other commenters. Take on the idea, not the messenger.
  • Don't use obscene, profane, or vulgar language.
  • Stay on point. Comments that stray from the topic at hand may be deleted.
  • Comments may be republished in print, online, or other forms of media.
  • If you see something objectionable, please let us know. Once a comment has been flagged, a staff member will investigate.

RELATED 

MEDIA

The Last Shot: City Streets, Basketball Dreams
by Frey, Darcy
MEDIA

The Bitter Truth
by Williams, Shanora
MEDIA

Southern Man
by Iles, Greg
MEDIA

Little Rot
by Emezi, Akwaeke
MEDIA

The Phoenix Ballroom
by Hogan, Ruth
MEDIA

Horror Movie
by Tremblay, Paul
More
ALREADY A SUBSCRIBER?

We are currently offering this content for free. Sign up now to activate your personal profile, where you can save articles for future viewing

ALREADY A SUBSCRIBER?