Barnaby Rudge

By: Charles Dickens

Narrated by: Sean Barrett

For the background to this historical novel, a tale of mystery, suspense and unsolved murder, Dickens chose the anti-Catholic Gordon Riots of 1780. Mayhem reigns in the streets of London, vividly described by Dickens, and the innocent Barnaby Rudge is drawn into the thick of it. Against the public disorder, Dickens tells of the private discord within families - with fathers and sons at loggerheads - and creates a wealth of colourful characters: the sinuously evil Lord Chester; the pretty and vivacious Dolly Varden; and the host and regulars at the Maypole Inn - a symbol of security in those uncertain and violent times.

Download the accompanying reference guide.Public Domain (P)2009 Naxos Audiobooks

A lesser known Dickens well worth listening to

I had not really heard of this Dickens work before I decided to listen to it, but I’m so glad I did. Dickens’ description of the Gordon riots is so compelling, it made me want to research them further on my own to see if they were as destructive as he describes.

The narrator also did a fantastic job of bringing Dickens’ character to life. A memorable experience overall.

Not his best, but it's still Dickens

I love Dickens, so I enjoyed this novel. The historical account of the riots is interesting and graphic. As usual, there's some wonderful writing and characterization--and the reading is excellent. As a work of art, though, it is not one of Dicken's highest achievements.

Brilliant performance, strong historical plot

What did you love best about Barnaby Rudge?

It's a Dickens thriller, if there is such a thing. As a historical novel it has some fact-based characters and a full complement of Dickens inventions, read superbly by Sean Barrett. It amazes how easy it is to tell which character is speaking by the thoroughly enjoyable delivery. Can't say enough about how well Barrett brings the troupe to life.

What other book might you compare Barnaby Rudge to and why?

I listened to the Old Curiosity Shoppe just before Rudge and it wasn't nearly as good - this has a large purport, and could better be compared to Little Dorrit which is also somewhat factual. However Rudge is better paced and frankly more interesting. I also saw the film The Duchess recently, based on Amanda Foreman's nonfiction book on Georgiana Cavendish, Duchess of Devonshire, which is set at the same time - the late 18th century. This great book helps inform Dickens' subject, and made the Rudge experience even richer.

Which character – as performed by Sean Barrett – was your favorite?

Haredale was good - steady. But I love the locksmith, and John Willett was a lot of fun.

If you were to make a film of this book, what would be the tag line be?

The ill-informed riots that might have felled the British empire.

Any additional comments?

Get it. Someday I'll buy the book and read along as I listen. Sean Barrett deserves a fancy award for this work.

Wow!

I love the work of Dickens and this one did not disappoint. His ability to bring stories to life is beyond any modern day authors to which I have listened with the exception of his shallow female characters. However, the characters and images that is created are pure delight. The reader was amazing.

Great historical novel with an excellent narrator

I have read most of Dickens, but somehow passed over this book until recently. If you are interested in British history, the Gordon Riots will certainly hold your interest. I know that I would not have enjoyed this book nearly as much if I had read it instead of listening to this audio book. The narration is amazing.

Absolutely spellbinding!

If you could sum up Barnaby Rudge in three words, what would they be?

Mesmerizing
Gripping
Beautiful

What did you like best about this story?

Charles Dickens's ability to bring out human nature at its darkest and finest. These characters are like every day people we all know.

What about Sean Barrett’s performance did you like?

Mr. Barrett's ability to make the characters come alive and to give them their own voice was truly remarkable.

Was this a book you wanted to listen to all in one sitting?

Yes, yes, and yes!

Any additional comments?

My wife and I thouroughly enjoyed listening to this with the book open in front of us each night this past week. We'll definitely be making this a regular practice.

Rudge is a tall poppy

My followers may also enjoy this classic novel. It is historical soap I guess but Dickens has charm and social observation skills

Fascinating historical story

Reading (knd of) Dickens has been one of the gifts that Audible has introduced me too. As a historical novel this is a bit of a departure from Dickens normal period and I needed to remind myself of that change of era at times through the story.

Before this book I knew that there had been "Gordon Riots" but I had no idea what or who Grodon was and what the riots were about. Dickens sets out the story clearly and using the kind of characters and storylines that he seems to create better than anybody else. By the end of the work all the threads have been drawn together for a satisfying story but also the history has been told in a clear and memorable way.

The narration is good and clear, characterisation is useful rather than intrusive. Recommended.

Magnificent

Captivating from the very beginning. This book is well read and draws the listener into each character in a profound way.

Best narrator ever! Great story.

Best narrator ever. I would listen to him til the end of time. The story is true Dickens and quite apt for our own day. The mob scenes are truly frightening. A great listen.