A Tale of Two Cities
The Audible Dickens Collection
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A Tale of Two Cities
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Narrated by:
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Simon Callow
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Written by:
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Charles Dickens
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Simon Callow - introduction
About this listen
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, LtdFeatured Article: Top 9 Best Classic British Authors
From Romeo and Juliet to Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, many of the best, most enduring works of all time have come from British authors. They can make us laugh or bring us to tears, question society itself or just cheer along with our favourite characters, and feel every emotion in between. Here are just a few of the best British authors to listen to right now.
What listeners say about A Tale of Two Cities
Average Customer RatingsReviews - Please select the tabs below to change the source of reviews.
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Overall5 out of 5 stars
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Performance5 out of 5 stars
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Story5 out of 5 stars
- Charles Bourgeois
- 2021-09-18
Great novel
A magnificent piece of writing enhanced by an excellent narrator. Highly recommended. One of the best audible books that I’ve listened to.
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Overall5 out of 5 stars
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Performance5 out of 5 stars
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Story5 out of 5 stars
- kimberley lemay
- 2023-03-04
Excellent!
A brilliant narration. Callow’s performance draws one in and makes the story come to life.
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Overall5 out of 5 stars
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Performance5 out of 5 stars
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Story5 out of 5 stars
- Roberta W
- 2022-05-24
Excellent narration made this book
I want to read/re-read the classics, but for something set in another time, I think an audiobook really works. Not always grasping what is going on, I can let the narrator’s voice carry me through sections, with the occasional rewind, without getting bored or losing interest. I listened to this in a day. It was great.
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Overall5 out of 5 stars
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Performance5 out of 5 stars
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Story5 out of 5 stars
- Stefanie
- 2024-02-01
Spectacular Narration
Simon Callow brings humor, tragedy, secrets and sacrifice to life in A Tale of Two Cities. His voice acting is superb!
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Overall5 out of 5 stars
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Performance5 out of 5 stars
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Story5 out of 5 stars
- Laura
- 2022-08-27
Fabulous!
I have always loved Dickens' stories to read them and to enjoy his incredible descriptions, but to hear this audible version was a new delight for me. The story was so touching, especially at the end! The narrator made Dickens' words even more powerful and beautiful. I truly recommend this one!
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Overall5 out of 5 stars
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Performance4 out of 5 stars
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Story5 out of 5 stars
- Chris K
- 2023-02-16
Most enjoyable
My first encounter with this and it was interesting and moving, especially the ending. Dickens - I am a fan.
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Overall5 out of 5 stars
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Performance5 out of 5 stars
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Story5 out of 5 stars
- srwatson
- 2019-09-30
classic Dickins
love the story, so unlike most of Fickins novels. a social commentary with little comedy. fabulously narrated.
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2 people found this helpful
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Overall5 out of 5 stars
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Performance5 out of 5 stars
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Story5 out of 5 stars
- Nicole
- 2025-01-12
Narration brings it to life!
A Tale of Two Cities has always been one of my favourite books of all time, this it was a delight to listen to such a great performance of it in this iteration.
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Overall5 out of 5 stars
- Jamie Scott
- 2022-09-06
My first classic
Thouroughly enjoyed, though a bit difficult to follow in some spots. Dickens is amazingly descriptive, he puts you in the place and time easily with style.
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Overall5 out of 5 stars
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Performance5 out of 5 stars
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Story5 out of 5 stars
- A
- 2023-02-03
great book, especially as included in membership
if you are familiar with the book, you know the story that is coming. the reading is very dramatic, in a good way. the narrator does a great job with the different characters.
if unfamiliar with the story, it might be a bit tricky to follow at times.
Minor point about the narration is that he goes up and down in volume a lot and sometimes it's hard to hear.
overall a great audiobook! def recommend
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