Charles Dickens, the author of A Christmas Carol and David Copperfield, was born on February 7th, 1812.

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Although a bit older than 102—his actual age would be 208—he is still one of the most important literary figures of the 21st century.

He created some of the world’s best-known characters, Mrs. Havisham, Ebenezar Scrouge, and countless others, and is regarded as one of the greatest novelists of the Victorian Era.

Born in Portsmouth, Dickens ended up leaving school to work in a factory when his father went to debtors’ prison. Despite his lack of formal education, he edited a weekly journal for 20 years, wrote 15 novels, five novellas, hundreds of short stories and non-fiction articles, lectured and performed readings.

His first story The Pickwick Papers was a serial publication in 1836. Within a few years, he had become an international literary celebrity, famous for his humor, satire, and observation on society and character. He went on to write Oliver Twist, Dombey and Son, Bleak house, and many other works.

On June 8th, 1870, Dickens suffered another stroke, which he never regained consciousness; the next day he died.

Not only his Dickens still read to this day, but many of his stories have been adapted into movies, TV programs, musicals, and plays.

So, throw in a ha’penny, brew a cup of tea, and select one of the many Dickens books/movies in our library collection and celebrate a literary genius.

791.45 C475 COL.2 V.1-4 (Located against the West wall)

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