Charles Dickens and the Great Theatre of the World (Paperback) (ISBN-13: 9780345803238)

A short biography of Charles Dickens by acclaimed actor and writer Simon Callow that offers a fresh perspective on one of the greatest novelists in the English language in a lively, highly readable account. "It has all the gusto that a popular biography of Dickens--a man who "could do nothing by halves"--should possess. . . . The best biography for Dickens newcomers and a wonderful read for all."--Library Journal

Dickens was one of the first true celebrity authors. Thousands of fans in Britain and America eagerly awaited each new installment of his stories and flocked to see him on his legendary speaking tours. Not only did he create an incredible cast of characters on the page, but he was also a dazzling mimic and storyteller, and he wrote, stage-managed, and acted in plays for the public. Throughout his life, from his childhood performances in pubs to his legendarily powerful reading tours, Dickens was fanatical about the stage. Callow reveals Dickens's genius on and off the page and offers a compelling insight into a life that was driven as much by performance and showmanship as by literature.

Author: Simon Callow
ISBN-10: 034580323X
ISBN-13: 9780345803238
Publisher: Vintage
Language: English
Published: 08/07/2012
Pages: 384
Format: Paperback
Weight: 0.50lbs
Size: 7.90h x 5.10w x 0.90d

Review Citation(s):
Kirkus Reviews 06/01/2012
Library Journal 06/15/2012 pg. 80
Booklist 07/01/2012 pg. 12