Review: Hard Times (novel)

Some of Charles Dickens' novels are rightly regarded as masterpieces. Others are more obscure. This is one of his little-known works, and for good reason.

Hard Times is Charles Dickens' tenth novel, first published in 1854. It's the shortest novel he ever wrote, with a conspicuous lack of the many subplots and colourful characters he's known for. It's been adapted into a silent film, two miniseries, and at least one stage version.

In some ways the story is reminiscent of North and South. It's set in a grim manufacturing town, and features trade unions, mill owners, and the misery of people who work in the mills. But it's also a harsh criticism of the sort of schooling that relies entirely on facts, with disastrous consequences.

My opinion of the book is divided between loving some of it and being bored by the rest. Sissy is the only character I truly like. Louisa frequently infuriates me -- especially when she married Bounderby. She hated him and no one forced her to marry him, so why accept his proposal?! 😒 On the other hand, the scene where she confronts her father and calls him out for his terrible parenting is my favourite part of the book. All the other characters are either boring or despicable. Tom manages the extraordinary feat of being both.

For such a short novel, Hard Times is relentlessly depressing. Everyone suffers whether they deserve it or not. Even the ending is bittersweet at best. It's easy to see why this book is largely forgotten. I'd recommend it only for people who are already Dickens fans and/or don't mind books full of endless misery.

Is it available online?: Yes, on Gutenberg.

Rating: 6/10.