After being cast out by his own brother, David Simple wanders through 18th-century England in search of a genuine friend. Driven by a desire for sincerity in a society defined by artifice and greed, David navigates various social strata to find companions who share his moral integrity. He faces betrayal, financial exploitation, and the cold indifference of those who prioritize status over human connection. The narrative employs a third-person omniscient perspective to critique the hypocrisy of the era while documenting David's encounters with individuals who test his capacity for benevolence.

Discussion often centers on the book's role as a foundational text in the development of the English novel. Readers frequently highlight the author's sharp observation of social manners and the deliberate contrast between the protagonist's virtue and the surrounding corruption. Critics note that the pacing is intentionally measured to allow for philosophical reflection on human behavior. The work is recognized for its early contribution to the domestic novel, providing a distinct perspective on the social pressures faced by individuals during the mid-1700s.