Charles Dickens: A People's Person

Charles Dickens was once described as the first global literary celebrity, and as one of the greatest humourists that England has produced. He was also a passionate advocate of justice for the poorest and most vulnerable in society, and had a lasting influence on political reform and economic justice in Britain. In this detailed but lucid book, Michelle Cottam explores the life, times, and works of Charles Dickens. By charting the course of his life, and examining the major historical forces shaping his childhood, the city of London and Britain, this book sheds new light on the meaning of his work, as well as why he continues to be such an enduring and adored writer.

Michelle Cottam is a Londoner, historian and a tourist guide. She has had a keen interest in history for as long as she can remember. It was her visit to the Tower of London at a young age that was the beginning of her love for history. Her journey of writing this book happened by chance. It all began when she was organising the scripts of her bespoke guided walks. As the months passed, she realised that she was fulfilling her lifetime ambition of writing a book.