A Child of the Jago

Description

Often compared to other great works of Victorian literature such as Charles Dickens’ Great Expectations, A Child of the Jago – considered quite possibly Arthur Morrison’s most outstanding piece of literature – never quite caught on in its time. The oftentimes harsh but remarkably realistic depiction of life in the most notorious slum in London’s East End has, however, been given its due recognition by the critics in recent times.The book tells the story of Dicky Perrot, an extremely well-intentioned and intelligent boy who had the burden of being born under trying circumstances in the Old Jago – a pseudonym people had at the time for the district known as Old Nichol. With his father in prison and his mother and young sister to think about, Dicky finds himself facing the harsh reality of the Jago. Will he be able to take the straight and easy path after all? Or is he forced – like many other poor souls struggling for survival in the Jago – to either become a “Swellmobsmen” or face the harsh and unforgiving consequences of his refusal?This compelling drama will bring you to tears, as you are taken through Arthur Morrison’s masterful narrative, and shown a detailed, grim picture of London’s East End through the eyes of a young boy. Dicky’s character is also remarkably well-developed, and his complex feelings and dilemmas presented in a most genuine manner.The story will also present readers with characters as different as Father Sturt – who tries to help Dicky and to do as much as he can for the poverty-stricken community of the Jago – or the notorious Aaron Welch a shopkeeper with a knack for selling stolen goods.For anyone who may be more interested in the realistic portrayal of London’s lesser known and less fortunate neighborhoods during Victorian times, A Child of the Jago will be the ideal, highly compelling tale that you won’t be able to take your eyes off of.