Little Dorrit

The Audible Dickens Collection

By: Charles Dickens

Narrated by: Juliet Stevenson

This Audible Exclusive production revisits Charles Dickens’ tragi-comic novel Little Dorrit. Written during the Crimean War, it a story of fortunes won and lost and a masterly portrayal of the failings of Victorian Society, with the ever-present spectre of law enforcement and imprisonment looming over a fearful population.

One of his later works, Dickens’ maturity shines through this masterpiece and a uniquely powerful and touching love story ensues from amongst scenes of heart-wrenching injustice.

About the book

Following the death of his beloved father, Arthur Clennam returns to his home in London in order to reunite with his wheelchair-bound mother.

Narrowly escaping from the clutches of his former fiancée, Flora Finching, Arthur finds solace in the company of his mother’s new seamstress, the innocent and sweet Little Amy Dorrit.

The youngest of three children, Amy works hard to support her father, who, as Arthur learns, has been imprisoned in Marshalsea debtors’ prison since before her time. Without a mother to care for them, Little Dorrit and her siblings reside with Mr Dorrit, and she, being the most caring of them all, takes it upon herself to pay off his debts through her needlework.

Wishing to find out more about their serendipitous connection and how such a girl could possibly have ended up in his mother’s well-to-do household, Arthur sets out to help Amy and uncover the Clennam’s long-held family secrets, a journey which will inevitably alter the course of both of their lives.

About the author

Like Mr William Dorrit, Dickens’ father was held at Marshalsea debtors’ prison, the memory of which haunted Dickens for years to come and eventually inspired him to transform his childhood recollections into a book entitled Little Dorrit.

At a young age, Charles Dickens had to abandon his studies and set to work in a factory so as to support himself.

Despite his short-lived education, Dickens went on to write 15 novels and various articles, novellas and short stories. He lectured and led campaigns for children's rights and education and arguably became the ultimate self-made man.

About the narrator

Juliet Stevenson CBE is an Olivier award-winning actress known for her career spanning theatre, film and television. Her film credits include Bend It Like Beckham (2002) and Truly Madly Deeply (1990). Juliet starred in Robert Icke’s 2017/2018 adaptation of Mary Stuart (Almeida & Duke of York’s Theatre) where she played not only the titular role but also the role of Elizabeth I consecutively, swapping parts at the literal flip of a coin between herself and Lia Williams. Most recently she appeared in series 2 of Riviera. Juliet’s versatility knows no bounds, and she recently collaborated with both Ruby Wax and Deborah Frances-White on a series of new comedy sketches.

Public Domain (P)2019 Audible, Ltd

Amazing performance of an excellent work

Highly recommend this performance of Little Dorrit. Juliet Stevenson gives a masterful performance. Not to be missed.

Superb

Juliet Stevenson brought this masterpiece to life - I couldn't stop listening. Highly, highly recommend!

Wonderfully entertaining

How does Ms. Stevenson do it?!? Make all those distinguishable voices and bring out their character so well! I am especially floored by her characterization of Mr. Panks. I highly recommend this book.

Brilliantly narrated

Juliet Stevenson brings to life this wonderful assortment of Dickens’ characters. Even lesser Dickens is still delightful.

Little Dorrit

Loved it!I did not want this story to end!Narration was very well done.

Excellent Narration

Another wonderful Dickens satire/romance made thoroughly enjoyable by this incredibly talented narrator. Thank you!

Juliet Stevenson is amazing. Can’t say enough about the great job she did.

Charles dickens is a fascinating writer! He kept me interested in every chapter. And the ending was perfect!

Fantastic

The best written and narrated book I’ve purchased on audible. I will no doubt listen again. A+

Incredibile story performed by incredible Juliet Stevenson

I dare say Little Dorrit the best Charles Dickens. There is nothing better than Charles Dickens performed by Juliet Stevenson. Particularly her portrait of Flora is to die for. I shall listen to everything performed by her.

I loved this book!

When I thought Dickens couldn’t get much better I came across Little Dorrit! This may be my favorite story yet. Juliet Stevenson was remarkable in all her voices for each character. Truly captivating in all ways overall, performance and the incredible story! You won’t regret spending the time with this Dickens masterpiece!!