Between The Lines - Planning Your Summer Reading List? Don't forget the classics

When I was young, I would sit down at the end of every school year and plan out my summer reading.  I was just that nerdy.  I would spend time deciding on the perfect mix of mystery, romance, and contemporary fiction. Finally, the cherry on top of the sundae, would be the choice of classic novel.  From my teens onward, a classic was always on the summer menu as a challenge and a pleasure. From Dostoevsky to Steinbeck to Austen, the classics took me to another time and place in ageless language and memorable images.

I have a few summers under my belt, and thus more than a few classics.  But somehow I never read anything by Charles Dickens.  While I know that this is a shocking admission, I have finally redeemed myself:  I have conquered David Copperfield.

What a great pleasure.  If you haven’t had a chance to read this wonderful novel, it is a treat not to be missed.  David Copperfield tells the story of his life, starting with the famous line: “Whether I shall turn out to be the hero of my own life, or whether that station will be held by anybody else, these pages must show.”  As we follow David from his innocent childhood, through his days at school and at work, we meet the ridiculous, yet endearing Micawbers, the lovely Peggotty, the childish Dora and the evil Uriah Heep.  Dickens takes the reader on a tour of the back alleys of London, the streets of Dover and the beaches of Yarmouth with David and his companions. As David grows in age, he also grows in wisdom. He finds love, suffers loss and learns to value friendship, experiences that are universal and span all ages. 

Like many of Dickens novels, David Copperfield was originally published in serial form.  The chapters often end with cliff-hangers and despite its great length, it is well-paced.  If you like to listen to your books, there is excellent version of the book available on CD, narrated by Simon Vance. Whether you listen or read, treat yourself to David Copperfield this summer.  It will round out your summer reading list perfectly.

You may buy this book and other great books from The Open Book located at 1 Glovers Lane, Westhampton Beach, New York or visit us online at www.theopenbookwhb.com