Book review of Great Expectations: With original illustrations

by Charles Dickens (Author)

Updated at: 28/01/2025

Charles Dickens's Great Expectations, presented here with its original illustrations, is a captivating journey into the heart of Victorian England. Orphaned Pip's life takes a dramatic turn when a mysterious benefactor elevates him from humble beginnings. This classic novel follows his tumultuous ascent through society, exploring themes of ambition, love, and the elusive nature of true happiness. Dickens masterfully crafts unforgettable characters, including the emotionally scarred Miss Havisham and the alluring Estella, whose influence profoundly shapes Pip's destiny. Prepare to be swept away by this timeless tale of self-discovery and the complexities of human relationships, a must-read for lovers of classic literature and new readers alike.

Great Expectations: With original illustrations

4.2 / 28 ratings

Review Great Expectations

Okay, let's talk about Great Expectations, specifically this illustrated edition I've been wrestling with. Now, let me preface this by saying: the story itself? Absolutely phenomenal. Five stars, easily. Dickens is a master, and Pip's journey from humble beginnings to dizzying heights and subsequent disillusionment is a truly captivating read. The characters are unforgettable – Miss Havisham, a spectral figure clinging to a broken past, Estella, the icy beauty who embodies Pip's unattainable dreams, and the surprisingly sympathetic Magwitch. The way Dickens weaves together social commentary, suspense, and deeply affecting emotional moments is breathtaking. It’s one of those books that burrows into your thoughts and stays with you long after you finish the last page. I wholeheartedly recommend reading it; take your time, savour each chapter, because it's a truly rich and rewarding experience. You’ll find yourself pondering its themes of ambition, class, love, and redemption for days, maybe weeks afterward.

However, this particular edition… well, that's a different story altogether. The one-star review I read was unfortunately spot on in several respects. The publisher's claim of "additional readings and margin notes" is completely false; my copy is utterly devoid of any supplementary materials. This is a significant disappointment, especially considering the description suggests it's ideal for students or those looking for a more scholarly approach to the novel. The large print, while helpful for some, makes the book a behemoth. It's genuinely heavy and unwieldy, a physical challenge to hold and read for extended periods. And then there's the cover art… oh, the cover art. It’s completely jarring and bears absolutely no resemblance to the Victorian setting or characters of the novel. It looks like something plucked from a high-fantasy epic, which creates a jarring disconnect between the beautiful prose within and the bizarre imagery on the outside. It’s almost comical in its incongruity.

Frankly, it's frustrating. The book itself is a masterpiece deserving of the highest praise and careful consideration. This edition, however, feels like a missed opportunity. It feels like someone took a priceless painting and slapped it into a gaudy, oversized frame that completely undermines its beauty. If you're looking to read Great Expectations, I implore you to seek out a different edition. Find a version with a decent cover, a manageable size, and perhaps even a helpful introduction or notes if you're looking for a deeper understanding. Don’t let this particular edition’s flaws deter you from experiencing the brilliance of Dickens’s writing. It’s a truly exceptional novel, worthy of your time and attention, just find a better way to access it.

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