The Pickwick Papers is Dickens’ first novel. It was originally serialised in monthly instalments and quickly became a popular success with sales reaching 40,000 by the final part.

The Pickwick Papers began as a series of amusing observations based on the travels of the protagonist Samuel Pickwick, Esquire. He is a kind and wealthy old gentleman, the founder and president of the Pickwick Club. He suggests that he and three other “Pickwickians” should make journeys to places that are remote from London and report on their findings to the other members of the club. They travel throughout the English countryside by coach, on hunting, fishing and other expeditions. Pickwick’s cheerful stature allows Dickens a light-hearted social commentary and The Pickwick Papers remains one of his most popular books.