In The Chimes, Toby (”Trotty”) Veck is a poor old messenger who is striving to keep a life for himself and his lovely daughter. One cold New Year’s Eve, he hears the bells calling to him; when he visits the chimes, goblins show him the true misery that may be his daughter’s life; good people have become ruined and wicked.

I found this novella incredibly depressing, as it seemed to dwell for the majority of the time on how anyone can become wicked. Charles Dickens’ ultimate point was that circumstances make wickedness; the poor are not born with wickedness. It seemed to be an overly political message for the rich who judge the poor unfairly. However, I disliked the format and the spooky depression that the goblins on the bells provoked. I don’t think I’ll ever reread this novella.

More reviews of Dickens Christmas novellas on my blog