In later works, such as 'Bleak House' (1852-3) and 'Little Dorrit' (1855-7), Dickens's social criticism became more radical and his comedy more savage. This and 'David Copperfield '(1849-50) were more serious in theme and more carefully planned than his early novels. During 1844-6 Dickens travelled abroad and he began 'Dombey and Son' (1846-8) while in Switzerland. 'Martin Chuzzlewit' (1843-4) did not repeat its predecessors' success but this was quickly redressed by the huge popularity of the Christmas Books, of which the first, 'A Christmas Carol,' appeared in 1842. His experiences are recorded in 'American Notes' (1842). After finishing 'Barnaby Rudge' (1841) Dickens sets off for America he went full of enthusiasm for the young republic but, in spite of a triumphant reception, he returned disillusioned. He began 'Oliver Twist' in 1837, followed by 'Nicholas Nickleby' (1838-9) and 'The Old Curiosity Shop' (1840-41). Part of the secret of his success was the method of cheap serial publication which Dickens used for all of his novels.

He received little formal education, but taught himself shorthand and became a reporter of parliamentary debates for the 'Morning Chronicle.' He began to publish sketches in various periodicals, which were subsequently republishes as 'Sketches by Boz.' 'The Pickwick Papers' was published in 1836-7 and after a slow start became a publishing phenomenon and Dickens's characters the centre of a popular cult. Dickens's childhood experiences were similar to those depicted in 'David Copperfield.' His father, who was a government clerk, was imprisoned for debt and Dickens was briefly sent to work in a blacking warehouse at the age of twelve. CHARLES DICKENS was born at Portsmouth on 7 February 1812, the second of eight children.

Great expectations barnes and noble