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.

Reissue, with previously removable documents now printed on the page.