In 1847 a home for “ homeless women “ was established in Shepherds Bush by Charles Dickens and financed by his friend Angela Burdett-Coutts. This novel explores an imaginary story regarding some of the inhabitants of the home at Utopia Cottage .
The young women (well, girls really) who were selected for life at Utopia Cottage had to follow a strict daily routine ,were taught household management and were given basic reading and writing skills.Not all of the girls were appreciative!
Most of the young women were shown as well rounded characters, with interesting back stories and their own storyline going forward within the narrative. It was hard not to have sympathy for these young individuals who found themselves at the very bottom of society.
There is also a sub plot concerning the patron Angela Burdett-Coutts. Unfortunately I did not feel any warmth towards her, and on the whole she seemed to come across as completely self absorbed.
This was a detailed but fast paced read . Thoroughly enjoyable and probably my favourite of the author’s novels.
The young women (well, girls really) who were selected for life at Utopia Cottage had to follow a strict daily routine ,were taught household management and were given basic reading and writing skills.Not all of the girls were appreciative!
Most of the young women were shown as well rounded characters, with interesting back stories and their own storyline going forward within the narrative. It was hard not to have sympathy for these young individuals who found themselves at the very bottom of society.
There is also a sub plot concerning the patron Angela Burdett-Coutts. Unfortunately I did not feel any warmth towards her, and on the whole she seemed to come across as completely self absorbed.
This was a detailed but fast paced read . Thoroughly enjoyable and probably my favourite of the author’s novels.