Young David Copperfield has never known his father, who died before he was born. His beloved mother remarries anc David has to endure the cruelty of a vicious stepfather, Mr. Murdstone. When David's mother dies, his cruel stepfather abandons him. David must learn to make a life for himself. Charles Dickens's warm portrayal of a child's early years and entrance into adulthood has made this one of the world's most beloved novels.