Charles Dickens

Charles Dickens was one of the greatest English novelists. He was born in Portsmouth, England, in 1812. He wrote beloved stories like A Christmas Carol and Oliver Twist. His books brought attention to the problems of poverty and injustice.

Early Life

Dickens had a hard childhood. When his father went to prison for debt, young Charles had to work in a factory. This experience shaped his writing. He later became a journalist and started writing stories.

Big Achievements

Dickens wrote 15 major novels. A Christmas Carol helped create many modern Christmas traditions. Oliver Twist showed the terrible conditions of workhouses and orphanages. His books were so popular that crowds gathered at docks to get the latest installments shipped from England.

Fun Facts

• Dickens always slept with his bed pointing north because he thought it helped his writing.
• He walked up to 20 miles a day for exercise and inspiration.
• He gave dramatic readings of his books that were like one-man shows.

Did You Know?

Dickens published many of his novels in weekly or monthly installments. Readers in America would crowd at the docks waiting for ships carrying the next chapter. His story of A Christmas Carol helped make Christmas the holiday we know today.