The Selected Letters of Charles Dickens

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What was it like to be Charles Dickens? His letters offer vivid snapshots of a life lived at maximum intensity, serving as a near-autobiography. This selection is drawn from the twelve-volume British Academy Pilgrim Edition of his letters, featuring over fourteen thousand, with four hundred carefully chosen to capture the essence of 'the Sparkler of Albion.' Dickens possessed an extraordinary energy, seemingly having twice the hours in his day, and he approached letter-writing with the same fervor as all his pursuits. This eagerly awaited collection takes readers to the heart of his life, showcasing him as a novelist, journalist, magazine editor, social campaigner, traveler, and family man. For Dickens, reading and writing letters were integral to his daily rhythm; he once remarked to a friend, "I walk about brimful of letters," claiming to write at least a dozen each day. While sometimes a chore, it was often a source of joy, reflecting his high spirits, sparkling wit, and keen observations. Whether you dip in or read through, this selection re-creates the brilliance of being Dickens and the sheer pleasure of his company.