The Cricket On The Hearth is a novella by Charles Dickens, first published in 1845. The story takes place during the Christmas season and follows the lives of John Peerybingle, a carrier, his wife Dot, their baby, and their servant Tilly Slowboy. The household is visited by a mysterious stranger named Caleb Plummer, who is a toy maker and also happens to be Dot's father. Caleb has a secret that he is keeping from his daughter, and as the story progresses, his secret is revealed.The title of the book comes from the cricket that lives in the Peerybingle's hearth. The cricket is seen as a symbol of good luck and is believed to bring happiness and prosperity to the household. The story is filled with themes of love, family, and forgiveness, and it is considered to be one of Dickens' most sentimental works.The Cricket On The Hearth has been adapted into various plays, films, and operas. It is also a popular choice for readings during the Christmas season. The book has been praised for its heartwarming story, memorable characters, and Dickens' masterful storytelling.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.