Great Expectations

"Great Expectations" is the classic novel by Charles Dickens that traces the life of an orphan named Pip, beginning at age seven, from Christmas eve 1812 to the winter of 1840. At the center of the novel is a complicated set of themes that can be simplified by the idea that the affection of love and loyalty of friendship are more important than aspirations for wealth and to a higher social class. "Great Expectations" is one of the great classics of the English language.

An absorbing mystery as well as a morality tale, the story of Pip, a poor village lad, and his expectations of wealth is Dickens at his most deliciously readable. The cast of characters includes kindly Joe Gargery, the loyal convict Abel Magwitch and the haunting Miss Havisham. If you have heartstrings, count on them being tugged.