Memoirs of a London Doll

Richard Henry Horne (1802 - 1884)

This is a fictional work written in the early 20th century. The story is narrated by Maria Poppet, a doll with a unique consciousness, offering readers an imaginative perspective on life in London through her experiences. Following her journey from being crafted by a poor doll-maker to being adopted by various families, Maria provides insight into the lives of the children and adults she encounters, revealing both the joys and hardships of Victorian society. At the start of the narrative, we meet Maria as she is created in the workshop of Mr. Sprat, a small doll-maker residing in a cramped garret. In her vibrant introduction, Maria recounts her early observations and interactions with the Sprat family, including her first moments of consciousness and her desires to be part of the bustling world outside. As her story progresses, we witness her transition from the Sprat's doll workshop to being sold in a shop, ultimately becoming the cherished toy of a girl named Ellen Plummy. The opening chapters set the stage for Maria’s adventures, filled with curiosity and wonder as she navigates the complexities of relationships, childhood, and society through her unique viewpoint. - Summary by VO Gal

Genre(s): Children's Fiction, Action & Adventure Fiction, Fictional Biographies & Memoirs

Language: English

Section Chapter Reader Time
Play 00 Introduction VO Gal
00:10:43
Play 01 My Making VO Gal
00:08:06
Play 02 My First Mama VO Gal
00:11:59
Play 03 Twelfth Night VO Gal
00:10:01
Play 04 The Little Milliners VO Gal
00:06:01
Play 05 My First Frock and Trousers VO Gal
00:10:17
Play 06 The Little Lady VO Gal
00:06:20
Play 07 The West End of the Town VO Gal
00:06:55
Play 08 A Narrow Escape VO Gal
00:10:03
Play 09 Doll's Letters VO Gal
00:09:11
Play 10 Playing with Fire VO Gal
00:09:05
Play 11 The Portrait Painter VO Gal
00:06:54
Play 12 Punch and Judy VO Gal
00:06:53
Play 13 The City VO Gal
00:11:08
Play 14 The Lord Mayor's Show VO Gal
00:09:50
Play 15 The Lost Bracelet VO Gal
00:09:19
Play 16 The New Grand Christmas Pantomime VO Gal
00:22:08
Play 17 Conclusion VO Gal
00:09:45