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A Tale of Two Cities cover art

A Tale of Two Cities

By: Charles Dickens,Simon Callow - introduction
Narrated by: Simon Callow
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Summary

This Audible Exclusive production revisits one of Dickens' popular novels: A Tale of Two Cities. In Dickens' driving narrative we see many themes that permeate life today as well as characters who provide a window into the past. This, coupled with Simon Callow's expert narration, is a treat for those new to Dickens and lifelong fans alike. Featuring an exclusive introduction written by Callow, whose passion for Dickens shines through.

This release marks the start of the Dickens Collection, an exclusive series of unmissable performances available throughout 2018.

About the book

'It was the best of times, it was the worst of times.'

So begins Charles Dickens' most famous historical drama: a gripping tale of war, social injustice and the choice between darkness and light. After being unjustly imprisoned for 18 years, French doctor Manette is released from the Bastille jail in Paris and embarks upon a journey to London in the hope of finding the daughter he never met. Young Lucie Manette is a pretty and dutiful girl who soon attracts the attention of two very different gentlemen. Now reunited with the father she believed to be dead, happiness appears to be within reach. But as they are all drawn back to the bloodstained streets of Paris, misery and the threat of La Guillotine loom once again.

In Callow's introduction, we discover how Dickens' own volatile personal circumstances of the time are mirrored in A Tale of Two Cities. He tells of Dickens' personal feuds and explains why this novel sees Dickens at his most theatrical.

About the author

With his father incarcerated, Charles Dickens had to abandon his studies at a young age and set to work in a factory so as to support himself. Despite his short-lived education, Dickens went on to write 15 novels, 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. Dickens had strong values, and they pervade A Tale of Two Cities, which can be seen as not only an inspirational text but one which will continue to stand the test of time.

About the narrator

Simon Callow is a multi-award-winning actor, writer and theatre director. He is best known for his performances in Amadeus, Ace Ventura: When Nature Calls and Four Weddings and a Funeral. Simon has vast stage experience and clearly loves what he does. His fervour began at a young age working as box office staff, and it wasn't long before he made the transition from behind the scenes to centre stage - never looking back.

Callow is also known for his literary talents and has published various biographies including those of Oscar Wilde, Charles Laughton and Orson Welles. He has narrated over 20 audiobooks and brings his wealth of experience and characteristic charm to this exciting performance.

Public Domain (P)2017 Audible, Ltd

Behind the scenes with Simon Callow

The actor and Dickens expert shares his thoughts on recording A Tale of Two Cities.
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What listeners say about A Tale of Two Cities

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A good story, well-performed

I have just finished listening to the book. The book itself is rather good and the performance is very good. I have on issue with this edition of the book; my issue is that there is an introduction which gives away key parts of the book and I had to tear my headphones off and skip to the next chapter, the beginning of the actual book, to not have it ruined for me. That introduction may be very good, but I feel it would be a lot better to have it at the end of the book for those people who have not read or listened to this book before.

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31 people found this helpful

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A classic story, by a master storyteller

And with the perfect person to read it. "It is a far, far, better thing I do..." Amazingly moving writing, teamed with the ideal voice for Dickens.

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26 people found this helpful

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A Tale of Two Cities

Excellent narration by Simon Callow. Thoroughly recommended even for those who think Dickens may not be for them. Take a chance - you won’t be disappointed!

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18 people found this helpful

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Cracker of a story and box set of the day - pity about the spoiler in the preface

I’d read Tale of Two Cities before, in my teens, and have continued my current run of Dickens w Audible 40 odd years later...so it was a pity that Simon Callow reads the preface ( not much choice here as listener) revealing a key element of the plot....! - Could Audible try avoid these spoilers !? Nevertheless I did love the characterisations and the historical nature of the drama. Dickens was really the HBO/Netflix - “box set “ of the day !

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14 people found this helpful

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it was the best of books,it was the worst of books

Callow brings the book to life, his characters voices are exactly how I imagined them to be........just didn't want it to finish, and so it is a far far better listen that I have heard now than I have ever heard before.......

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11 people found this helpful

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Tour de force

A wonderful story narrated by someone who obviously loves his suject matter. Simon Callow is masterful in bringing the story to life. I sometimes felt there was an ensemble cast. I can't rate this audiobook high enough. Magnificent.

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10 people found this helpful

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Callow brings Dickens to life

I've never had much time for the classics authors like Dickens, often finding them boring and drool but Simon Callow' s performance breathes real life in to this story.
The story of faith, rebellion and the contrast between the privileged few and downtrodden majority is as poignant today as it was then. I think I'll need more of both!

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9 people found this helpful

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Loved it!!!

It had me in tears. It’s a Wonderfully tragic story and fabulously narrated. I’ve just recommended it to my Mother-in-law.

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8 people found this helpful

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Epic storytelling

Epic storytelling by an epic teller of tales. Be transported across the centuries to two close but opposing worlds and travel between the two following at the heel of the people while the tale is woven.

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5 people found this helpful

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A great classic

Having read this in my teenage years I looked forward to hearing it,hoping to get a greater understanding. Sadly although I enjoyed the book I found Mr Callow at times hard to follow. His enthusiasm for the story can not be denied but unlike other narrators his ability to differentiate between characters was sadly lacking.

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5 people found this helpful