Dickens' first and most famous novel is widely regarded as the best pre-Victorian novel. Originally serialized in monthly installments, its sales reached 40.000 by the 15th number. In the 170 years since the book's first publication, the characters of Mr. Pickwick, Sam Weller, and all Pickwickian crew have entered the consciousness of all who love English literature in general and the works of Dickens, in particular.