The Card: a Story of Adventure in the Five Towns - A Deep Dive Review

by Arnold Bennett (Author) Wombrook Publishing (Editor)

Updated at: 09/02/2025

In Arnold Bennett's delightful comic novel, The Card, meet Denry Machin, a charismatic and audacious young man navigating the social landscape of the fictional Five Towns. Published in 1911, this timeless classic follows Denry's improbable ascent from humble clerk to influential figure, fueled by wit, ingenuity, and sheer audacity. Bennett's sharp satire skewers societal norms and class distinctions, while Denry's charm and resourcefulness make him a truly memorable protagonist. A fast-paced and humorous tale of ambition and perseverance, The Card offers a vibrant glimpse into early 20th-century England and a captivating story that resonates with readers even today.

The Card: a Story of Adventure in the Five Towns

4.1 / 457 ratings

Review The Card

I recently finished reading Arnold Bennett's The Card: A Story of Adventure in the Five Towns, and I have to say, it was a delightful surprise! Going in, I knew it was a classic, but I wasn't entirely sure what to expect. What I found was a charming, witty, and surprisingly relevant story about ambition, social climbing, and the enduring spirit of the underdog.

The protagonist, Denry Machin, is a real character. He's not exactly a hero in the traditional sense; he's more of a lovable rogue, a bit clumsy and often hapless, yet possessing an uncanny ability to wriggle his way out of trouble and into increasingly advantageous situations. His journey from humble beginnings to a position of influence in the fictional Five Towns is both hilarious and engaging. Bennett's writing is packed with humor, often subtly poking fun at the social conventions and class structures of early 20th-century England. It’s the kind of satire that makes you chuckle without feeling preachy or condescending. He perfectly captures the spirit of the time and place, bringing the bustling industrial world of the Five Towns vividly to life. I found myself completely immersed in Denry's world, rooting for him even when his schemes went awry (which they often did!).

What struck me most, though, was the timelessness of the story. While the setting and social context are specific to a bygone era, the themes of ambition, perseverance, and the pursuit of success are as relevant today as they were when the book was first published in 1911. Denry's relentless pursuit of self-improvement, his unwavering determination to better himself and his family, resonated deeply. It’s a story about seizing opportunities, taking calculated (and sometimes wildly impulsive) risks, and never quite giving up on your dreams, even when those dreams seem utterly outlandish.

Beyond Denry, the supporting characters are equally memorable. His mother, a strong and opinionated woman clinging to her familiar ways, adds a delightful layer of complexity. And his romantic interests, while perhaps a bit stereotypical for the time, are charming in their own right, further enriching the narrative.

One reviewer mentioned a comparison to Leacock, and I can see the resemblance. There's a similar lightheartedness and a dry wit that permeates the narrative, making it an exceptionally easy and enjoyable read. It’s the kind of book you can easily pick up and put down, yet you’ll find yourself eagerly anticipating your next opportunity to return to Denry’s world. It’s a perfect blend of lighthearted comedy and insightful social commentary, making The Card a truly satisfying and memorable reading experience. I wholeheartedly recommend it to anyone looking for a fun, engaging, and thought-provoking read. It's a classic for a reason!