Charles Dickens: The Man, the Novels, the Victorian Age (Compact Guides)

This biography, written by a direct descendant of Charles Dickens, is the definitive illustrated guide to the author and his work.

Written by Charles Dickens’ great-great-great granddaughter, this illustrated biography—with more than 20 images from his personal archive—delves deeply into the author’s private life, and reveals how he created some of the world’s most beloved novels. It follows Dickens from early childhood, including his time as a child laborer, and his journey to becoming the greatest celebrity of his age. Lucinda Dickens Hawksley takes an intimate look at what he was like as a husband, a father, a friend, and an employer; his longing to be an actor; his travels across North America; his year living in Italy; and his great love of France. In addition to Dickens himself, readers meet his fascinating family and his astonishing circle of friends—and will discover how real-life events and personalities were woven into his art.