Dickens: His Work and His World

Reach for this book when your child is grappling with the idea of fairness or when they wonder if their current hardships define their future. It is perfect for the young writer or history buff who wants to see how a difficult childhood can be transformed into world-changing art. This biography explores Charles Dickens's life, from the trauma of his father's time in a debtor's prison to his rise as a literary superstar. Michael Rosen masterfully balances the grit of Victorian London with the magic of Dickens's creativity. While it addresses serious themes like child labor and poverty, it remains highly accessible for middle-grade readers. Parents will value how it frames empathy as a superpower, showing how one person's voice can advocate for the vulnerable and change the laws of a nation.