Young Writers Society

I'm reading Great Expectations (Charles Dickens) for school. At the beginning, I was sure I was going to absolutely hate it. Actually, though, I really enjoy it. Sure, the plot didn't start until like a third of the way into the book, but it's still really good. I think my class discussions might make it better, because we're always arguing about the characters.

I think it's really amazing how awful Charles Dickens made the characters. Pip is selfish and arrogant and yet his is the perspective the story is told through. I have a really hard time giving my characters strong dislikable traits, so I'm learning a lot from this story.

Who else has read it? Who is your favorite character? I personally like Estella (as does probably a third of my English class. We have fun arguing with my teacher about her strong points).

--Cassie

Hi
I did this for my Eng Lit GCSE and really couldn't warm to the book, but I put that out of mind and told myself: Look, have an open mind, because it's going to get you a grade.
I'm pleased for you that you like it - that will make writing about it a lot easier for you. I just wish I was a Dickens-fan, but to be honest it isn't my thing. They make great film adaptations, though! I think, if Dickens was living today, he'd be writing television dramas rather than books, but that's just my opinion.
I know what you mean about Pip. The point is, he's meant to become a snob. But he's probably one of the most likeable people in there, apart from Joe and Herbert Pocket who are the true gentleman.
Can't say I liked Estella much. Thought her quite dull really. Thought I liked her 'I have no heart' speech - that was pretty fiesty.

Anyway, enjoy your read.

Ha, thank you!

Yeah, I guess I like Estella because she's kind of an exciting part of the book. Most of the girls in my English class like her too. Maybe because we all kind of hate Pip so much that we feel he gets what he deserves with her!

I like Wemmick too. He's kind of an eccentric and a realistic character. I would say he's my second favorite after Estella.

I'm sorry you didn't like the book. Did you read the abridged version or the unabridged? Even though I'n in the advanced class they're letting us read the abridged version which definitely makes it easier to enjoy, through all of Dickens details, etc.

-Cassie

I can't express how much I love this book. I love classics, and this is not an exception.
The characters are amazing. Pip is an innocent little boy who is turned into an arrogant and ignorant young man by someone who is trying to help him - Pip is my favourite character. I love how he has to find out for himself, the hard way, what is important in life, and that those whom he has shunned for so long are those that love him.
And whats-er-name, the beautiful girl - even though she is a nasty, spiteful, cold person, she is what she has been made by Miss Haversham (I think that's how you spell it) and I feel sorry for her. I always believed that she had light inside of her. Turns out she did. And I feel so sorry for Joe and Biddy! Read the book and you'll find out why.
I just loved this book. Enough said.

I so thought that I would hate the book, too. But once I really understood it I loved it. i really love the book, though.