*Book is available in the Children Section of the Library.

Oliver Twist is one of Charles Dickens' best known novels.

This is the story of an orphan who struggles to find his fortune in life. Though he never really had a chance to know his mother, he feels deeply connected to her and misses her every now and then. He grows up in a workhouse where he isn't fed or clothed properly and is made to work hard all day. At the age of 10, when he politely asks for more food, he is instead sent away to work for a family. Though he recieves more food from them, he is still treated very poorly. And so he escapes it by running away to London, diving further into the sea of danger. Before leaving for London, however, he meets his best friend, Dick, who wishes him the best of fortune for his new journey. They never meet again but Dick's words stay with Oliver through all the challenges that he faces in London. What are these challenges? And how does Oliver deal with them? Read 'Oliver Twist' by Charles Dickens to find out.

I absolutely loved the book and I believe that every child should read it. First of all, it gives great insight into the life of an orphan and acquaints the reader of his struggles and thoughts. And secondly, it strikes the perfect balance between the cruelty that can be seen in the world and the kindness that can be found in this same world. Throughout the story, Oliver faces many struggles and though his situations keep changing, his heart remains pure. His tale is full of optimism and it revolves around the idea that good things happen to good people and that Karma catches on with everyone. Yes, the end may seem like things have magically worked in Oliver's favor. But after all that struggle, I believe he deserves it. As for the reader, I think this world can be very cruel sometimes, and believing in a little magic will do no harm to anybody.

Review submitted by Shraddha Juyal,
3rd year English Honours student at Post Graduate Government College for Girls- Sector 11,
Intern at T. S. Central State Library- Sector 17