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Ragged Trousered Philanthropists
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Excellent
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Summary
The Ragged Trousered Philanthropists is the classic working-class novel. It was written in 1906 by an impoverished house painter, Robert Tressell, and within its framework contains a manifesto for socialism. It tells of the appalling working conditions of a group of painters and decorators and their struggle to survive at the most basic level. It is moving, grimly humorous, and tragic. It has sold over six million copies worldwide since it was published, and it has the power to change lives.
PLEASE NOTE: When you purchase this title, the accompanying reference material will be available in your My Library section along with the audio.
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- Lynn
- 02-03-13
things don't change
This book is as applicable today as it was when it was written. A fabulous book but very frustrating, I never tire of it. The audible book is excellent I picked up on bits which I had missed when reading it.
7 of 7 people found this review helpful
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- The chillout consultant
- 23-02-16
Amazing performance of a classic
A great book beautifully illuminated by the narrator. He breathes life into every sentence with an array of voices, humour, pathos, gravitas and even song.
6 of 6 people found this review helpful
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- Kas
- 12-09-15
A Classic
It's interesting to listen to something that was written almost a century ago and hear a tale that still has echoes within today's times. Narration is superb, and the book has a great array of characters that there's never a dull moment. It doesn't matter which side of the political fence you are on, you will find this an intriguing window into the times in which it was written. Agree, disagree, makes no odds - it is a well constructed piece of writing. I found it highly entertaining, and have gained quite an insight into my own beliefs and values. Highly recommended.
4 of 4 people found this review helpful
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- Gary
- 07-09-15
A must read
Should be available to every school child, gives a good insight into life years past and for years to come.
4 of 4 people found this review helpful
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- Kent A Wilson
- 24-07-15
A superb book !
So relevant that, if in a more modern setting, could have been written yesterday ! More people need to read this book !
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
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Overall
- Claire
- Manchester United Kingdom
- 07-04-13
A bible for today's working class
Coming to this again inaudible format was a fantastic find. It is excellently narrated and can be both consumed in bite sized chunks or at one sitting. If you want a clear, humorous and fascinating insight into the real causes of inequality and the sadness of people's wish to remain duped, get listening today you wont regret it.
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
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- Arnold Cossor
- 24-12-15
Superb
This is a superb book outstandingly read. Certain ideas may seem dated and even wrong to the listener but it is a fascinating storey which captures a part and view of history increasingly being lost .
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
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- John
- Richmond, United Kingdom
- 31-08-13
A Working Class Struggle Classic
If you could sum up Ragged Trousered Philanthropists in three words, what would they be?
This book brings to life a glimpse of the struggles of a working family in Edwardian England. It is written with grit and tenderness in equal measure!
5 of 6 people found this review helpful
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- Daniel
- 24-07-15
Excitingly narrated working class literature.
Unapologetically left wing rant at the state of the nation during the early part of the 20th century.
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
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Overall
- Anonymous User
- 14-02-19
Eternally relevant
Fantastic narrator. Lived with this listen morning and night for weeks. Completely absorbing and sadly relevant.
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- meikota rigge
- 12-04-18
Loved it
Great narrator, easy to listen to and entertaining. Heartbreaking and heartwarming story that should be read by everyone!
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- Virginia Waldron
- 20-10-17
A Sermon on Socialism
A tedious waste of time. The narrator did a fine job with material that was utterly tiresome.
1 of 3 people found this review helpful