Dickens: His Work and His World Book

What the Dickens is all the fuss? Take a lively look at an author whose indelible characters live on in our language and culture — and whose legacy shapes our literature to this day.

Join award-winning author, critic, and anthologist Michael Rosen for a spirited tour of the life and work of one of our greatest novelists. With stunning illustrations by Robert Ingpen, this accessible, child-friendly book vividly re-creates the world of Charles Dickens, from the author's childhood in London to his early career, his performances, and, of course, the great social and political upheavals of the time, which inspired so much of his work. Michael Rosen's vibrant discussion covers some of the best-known novels by Dickens, describing OLIVER TWIST, A CHRISTMAS CAROL, and DAVID COPPERFIELD, and providing a fascinating detailed analysis of GREAT EXPECTATIONS.

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Dickens's biography includes his father's profligate ways leading to debtors' prison, his own interrupted education, early work experience, lifelong poor health, and his keen observations of London and the downtrodden. Four of Dickens's works are highlighted: A Christmas Carol, Oliver Twist, David Copperfield, and Great Expectations. The plots are briefly summarized and the main themes and characters presented, although Rosen is careful to entice readers to finish the stories for themselves. He goes into more detail in his discussion of Great Expectations, making his readers want to finish the story for themselves. Rosen's book is enhanced by evocative illustrations from Robert Ingpen, who captures perfectly the people and places in the novels. This is an excellent introduction to Dickens, written in a chatty, intimate tone. Reviewer: Janet Julian