NPR's Book of the Day: Allison Epstein's 'Fagin the Thief' Gives a Charles Dickens Character a Second Chance

Release Date: March 25, 2025

Introduction

In the March 25, 2025 episode of NPR's Book of the Day, host Andrew Limbong delves into a fascinating literary reimagining with author Allison Epstein. Epstein's novel, "Fagin the Thief," breathes new life into one of Charles Dickens' most controversial characters, Fagin, from the classic novel "Oliver Twist." This episode explores Epstein's motivations, research, and creative process in transforming Fagin from a stereotypical villain into a nuanced, fully realized character.

Revisiting a Dickens Classic

Andrew Limbong opens the conversation by pondering the fine line between fan fiction and literary reimagining. He states, "What counts as fan fiction versus what is a literary reimagining?" (00:02). Epstein responds by emphasizing her intent to treat Dickens not as an untouchable literary titan but as a skilled writer subject to critique. She aims to move Fagin beyond the two-dimensional, anti-Semitic portrayal often criticized in Dickens' work.

Epstein's Motivation and Research

Epstein explains her personal connection to Fagin, mentioning that her introduction to the character was through Ron Moody's portrayal in the 1968 film adaptation. However, upon reading the original "Oliver Twist," she found Fagin to be a more complex figure than the musical rendition suggested.

"There’s still something alive and interesting about him in a way that I just didn’t want to let go of," Epstein shares (02:38). To create a believable backstory, she immerses herself in historical research, focusing on the Jewish enclaves in London's slums, such as Stepney. "I was just really in love with that idea of a small culture kind of keeping its own sense of togetherness," she notes (03:10).

Building Jacob Fagan's Story

In "Fagin the Thief," Epstein reimagines Fagin as Jacob Fagan, starting from his troubled childhood in the grimy London slums. A pivotal moment occurs when young Jacob witnesses the hanging of his father for thievery, a common fate in that era. "It seemed like it was a fate that was coming for my character of Fagan sort of from the moment he was born," Epstein explains (03:53). This traumatic experience, coupled with the loss of his mother, forces Jacob into a desperate struggle for survival, steering him towards a life of crime.

"What do I have to do today to make sure that I am alive to see tomorrow?" Epstein articulates Jacob's internal conflict (04:56). This mindset drives him to establish a criminal network, not merely out of malice but as a means to protect himself and others from the harsh realities of their environment.

Addressing Anti-Semitism in Dickens' Portrayal

A significant aspect of Epstein's novel is her response to the anti-Semitic undertones in Dickens' Fagin. Epstein discusses how Dickens, initially resistant, eventually recognized the problematic nature of his portrayal. "Dickens is such a wonderful hero and champion of the oppressed. But at the same time, he seems to have no particular sympathy for the character of Fagan," Epstein recounts (05:06). This critique serves as a foundation for Epstein's effort to humanize Jacob Fagan, providing depth and empathy where Dickens left Fagin as a flawed caricature.

Creating a Multifaceted Refuge

Epstein redefines Fagin's lair not just as a criminal hub but also as a refuge for vulnerable children. "It's a different way because, of course, in Dickens's portrayal of Fagan, he's always kind of portrayed as a child snatcher and an opportunist," she explains (06:05). While maintaining Fagin's survival instincts, Epstein adds layers to his character, emphasizing his identification with the children and his desire to prevent them from facing the same dire circumstances he did.

Reflections on Dickens as a Writer

Towards the end of the interview, Epstein reflects on Dickens' strengths and limitations as a storyteller. "I am repeatedly impressed by how strong Dickens is of a storyteller and how much of a picture he can paint of the world that his readers both knew and didn't know," she praises (07:37). However, she also critiques the pedestal on which Dickens is often placed, suggesting that this elevation can hinder contemporary writers from offering fresh perspectives. "There are things I disagree with in his writing, things I would do differently," Epstein admits, advocating for a balanced appreciation that acknowledges both Dickens' genius and his flaws.

Conclusion

Allison Epstein's "Fagin the Thief" offers a compelling reinterpretation of a classic literary antagonist, providing depth and humanity to a character historically marred by anti-Semitic stereotypes. By exploring Jacob Fagan's origins, struggles, and motivations, Epstein not only addresses the problematic aspects of Dickens' portrayal but also enriches the narrative with contemporary insights on survival, identity, and compassion. This episode of NPR's Book of the Day underscores the enduring relevance of classic literature and the power of thoughtful reimagining to foster understanding and empathy.

Notable Quotes:

• “What counts as fan fiction versus what is a literary reimagining?” — Andrew Limbong (00:02)

• “There’s still something alive and interesting about him in a way that I just didn’t want to let go of,” — Allison Epstein (02:38)

• “I was just really in love with that idea of a small culture kind of keeping its own sense of togetherness,” — Allison Epstein (03:10)

• “What do I have to do today to make sure that I am alive to see tomorrow?” — Allison Epstein (04:56)

• “Dickens is such a wonderful hero and champion of the oppressed. But at the same time, he seems to have no particular sympathy for the character of Fagan,” — Allison Epstein (05:06)

• “There are things I disagree with in his writing, things I would do differently,” — Allison Epstein (07:37)

This comprehensive summary encapsulates the essence of Allison Epstein's "Fagin the Thief" as discussed in the NPR podcast, highlighting the key themes, Epstein's creative approach, and her critical engagement with Dickens' original work.