The Cricket On The Hearth is a novella by Charles Dickens that was first published in 1845. The story is set in the early 19th century in England and revolves around a poor, young couple named John Peerybingle and his wife Dot. They live in a small cottage with their baby boy and a mysterious old man named Caleb Plummer, who works as a toy maker.The central character of the story is a cricket who lives in the hearth of the Peerybingle's home. The cricket serves as a guardian angel to the family and brings them good luck and happiness. However, their peaceful life is disrupted when a jealous and conniving character named Tackleton, who is also a toy maker, tries to ruin their happiness by spreading false rumors about Dot's fidelity.The story takes several twists and turns as the characters navigate through their emotions and relationships. The cricket plays a significant role in resolving the conflicts and bringing happiness back to the Peerybingle family.The Cricket On The Hearth is a heartwarming tale of love, redemption, and the power of kindness. It is considered one of Dickens' lesser-known works but is still widely read and appreciated for its charming characters, vivid descriptions, and touching storyline.THE kettle began it! Don't tell me what Mrs. Peerybingle said. I know better. Mrs. Peerybingle may leave it on record to the end of time that she couldn't say which of them began it; but, I say the kettle did. I ought to know, I hope!This scarce antiquarian book is a facsimile reprint of the old original and may contain some imperfections such as library marks and notations. Because we believe this work is culturally important, we have made it available as part of our commitment for protecting, preserving, and promoting the world's literature in affordable, high quality, modern editions, that are true to their original work.