"Nicholas Nickleby" is a novel by Charles Dickens, first published in serial form between 1838 and 1839. The story follows the life of Nicholas Nickleby, a young man who must provide for his mother and sister after the death of his father. Nicholas begins working as a schoolteacher at a school run by the cruel and abusive Wackford Squeers, but eventually flees with a young boy named Smike. The two make their way to London, where they encounter a host of colorful characters, including the scheming businessman Ralph Nickleby, the kind-hearted Cheeryble brothers, and the actress Mrs. Crummles. Along the way, Nicholas falls in love with a young woman named Madeline Bray, and must navigate various obstacles to be with her. The novel explores themes of social injustice, family, and the complexities of human relationships, and is notable for its vivid descriptions of Victorian England and its memorable cast of characters.