Hard Times for These Times

16mo, br. ed. 'Teach these boys and girls nothing but Facts. Facts alone are wanted in life. Plant nothing else, and root out everything else' Dickens's novel honouring the value of the human heart in an age of materialism centres on Coketown, where Mr Thomas Gradgrind, school owner and model of Utilitarian success, feeds his pupils and his family with facts, banning fancy and wonder from young minds. As a consequence his obedient daughter Louisa becomes trapped in a loveless marriage, and his son Tom rebels to become embroiled in crime. As their fortunes cross with those of a free-spirited circus girl and a victimized weaver, Gradgrind is forced to question everything he believes in. Edited with an Introduction and notes by david craig . The book has been read, but is in excellent condition. Pages are intact and not marred by notes or highlighting. The spine remains undamaged. just some age yellowing of pages. Edited with an introduction by David Craig. Includes a note on Charles Dickens by Angus Calder, a note on the text, recommended reading, plus chapter notes. Penguin Classics. Mass market paperback. Printed in England