Oliver Twist (Classic Starts) Hardcover – March 28, 2006

Dickens began to publish stories and sketches of London life in a variety of periodicals in his early twenties. "Classic Starts' Oliver Twist": Retold from the Charles Dickens Original; is an abridged novel for easier reading, carefully rewritten, in a selective appropriate words and Dickens expressions, so young readers can experience the wonder of timeless stories from an early age. Filled with grim workhouses, oppressed orphans, and thieving children gangs, it enraptures young readers into a vivid Victorian England, and echoed into my conscience for years. This is how my grandson got his lovely name!Dickens timeless novel, "Oliver Twist" is about an orphan who was born in a workhouse. As soon as Oliver dares to ask for more food in the orphanage, he consequently finds himself in dire circumstances. Determined to make his way into the world, he runs away to London after his unhappy encounter. When he leaves the workhouse, he hopes it would be an endurable adventure. Now, Oliver finds himself taken under the wing of a snub-nosed 'Artful Dodger', caught up with a group of pickpocket juveniles. As he tries to free himself from their clutches he becomes immersed amongst criminals and the homeless. Rescued by Mr. Brownlow, the gang kidnap him back. But the gang is exposed, and Oliver discovers his parents identity.Charles Dickens was the second of eight children in a needy family burdened with debt. Despite difficult early years, he became the most successful British writer of the Victorian age. In 1824, 12 years old Charles was taken out from school to work at a boot-blacking factory when his imprudent father, together with his mother, were sentenced to three months in a debtor's prison. Charles attended a private school for three years, after they were released. The young lad then became a shorthand solicitor's clerk, and was then employed as a Parliamentary reporter.

I debated whether to buy this or not. The description said for a 2-4 grader so that seemed pretty simplistic for me. On the other hand the length seemed too long for a little kid. I enjoy reading at night, but honestly I'm usually so tired I can only get thru a couple pages. I just read Robinson Crusoe which is fairly long and it took me a couple months to get thru it. So I was thinking this might actually fit my desire for a fun read, something not too long for night-time reading, and be a classic that I never actually read. I got the book and again had second thoughts, but after starting to read it I think it fits my needs perfectly. They kept enough of the original book that it flows nicely and I can get thru it in a reasonable amount of time.If you are looking for the original version this is NOT it though!

Great little adaptation for early readers!

We've added many of the classical books to our homeschool library and although the kids haven't read through them all yet I can say they are excited about every title and colorful cover. They are very well made. Nice old fashioned real books!! We can't wait to compare our readings to any old movie versions we can find. I feel this was a great decision!

The hardcover gives it a nice touch. It is not glossy and feels soft to the touch. The book contains few pictures ( drawing-like) and it’s the abridged version so it’s a quick story for kids!Nicer in person than the pictures here.

My 3rd grade son needed it for school. It was exactly what he needed.

Excellent service and came quickly. I bought the book for my classroom. I Would use this service again. It's nice to be able to count on quick service.

A classic, so really enjoyed reading it again. Easy on the eyes.