The Cricket on the Hearth

The sprightly Dot Perrybingle and her steady John, Tilly Slowboy and her infant charge, the sweet blind Bertha and her misguided father, even gruff Tackleton and the young lovers themselves, are not so responsible for this homely yet artistic story as the kettle and the cricket—although to which of these the credit belongs remains a matter of doubt since each insists the other began it. An excellent introduction to Dickens, showcasing his colorful characterizations and engaging narrative.