The Ragged Trousered Philanthropists is the classic working-class novel. It was written in 1906 by an impoverished house painter, Robert Tressell, and within its framework contains a manifesto for socialism. It tells of the appalling working conditions of a group of painters and decorators and their struggle to survive at the most basic level. It is moving, grimly humorous, and tragic. It has sold over six million copies worldwide since it was published, and it has the power to change lives.
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"I first read it for the Socialist message, but I've increasingly come to enjoy its unromanticised depiction of Edwardian working-class life, and its ironic humour. " — Gavin (5 out of 5 stars)
"I first read it for the Socialist message, but I've increasingly come to enjoy its unromanticised depiction of Edwardian working-class life, and its ironic humour. "
" One of the best books i've ever read.!!!! "
" A truly marvellous book that everyone should read. Try reading Atlas Shrugged first though and compare and contrast. "
" The great socialist tome on which the brass band musical "In The Red" was based. "
" Interesting as a historical document; less interesting as a novel. "
Robert Tressell (1870–1911) was the pseudonym of Robert Noonan, an Irish housepainter who came to England from South Africa at the turn of the century. After working as a signwriter and becoming involved in local politics in Adelaide, Tressell wrote The Ragged-Trousered Philanthropists, his only novel. After the manuscript was rejected by several publishers, Tressell decided to move to Canada, yet died of tuberculosis en route. The book was published three years later.
David Timson is an actor, voice actor, and playwright. He is best known for his narration of The Complete Sherlock Holmes audiobook, in which he voices all 125 characters in the Holmes novels and short stories. His narrations have earned eight AudioFile Earphones Award.
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