THE PICKWICK PAPERS

Simon Vance's narration of this Dickens classic promises to please listeners with its array of eclectic characters whom Mr. Pickwick meets during his adventures. Vance is masterful in voicing Dickens's expansive cast. From the good-natured Mr. Pickwick to the crafty Mr. Jingle, Vance makes each character's voice distinct and natural. His portrayal of the ever-loyal, perceptive servant Samuel Weller captures the young man's idiomatic speech, and the exchanges between Sam and his father are wonderfully entertaining. For Mr. Pickwick, Vance adopts a good-natured and kindly tone that suits the old bachelor. Vance's adept narration especially highlights the absurdity and wit in Dickens's dialogue. D.M.W. © AudioFile 2020, Portland, Maine [Published: NOVEMBER 2020]