(1812-1870) A famed English novelist and the most notable author of the Victorian period, Dickens enjoyed more fame and distinction than any author before him. His stories and novels remain popular and have never gone out of print to this day. Dickens helped popularize the serialization of novels, and as such, his writing is characterized by cliffhangers and dramatic touches; although the 18th century gothic style was already being parodied, Dickens enjoyed and used this literary device to great effect. He is best known for his novels Great Expectations, A Tale of Two Cities, and A Christmas Carol.
Varla Ventura is the author of Fairies, Pookas and Changelings; Banshees, Werewolves, Vampires and Other Creatures of the Night; Among the Mermaids; The Book of the Bizarre; and Beyond Bizarre. She can often be found lurking about the deep dark woods and lakes of Minnesota on the hunt for mushrooms, magical herbs, and the elusive little men of legend. Visit her at www.varlaventura.net.