Charles Dickens

Charles Dickens (1812-1870), the author, was the most popular English writer of the mid-nineteenth century and among history's greatest writers. While many of his novels are considered literary classics, these novels were often published in serialized form, much like comic books are today. The books therefore developed a young and excited audience for whom Dickens became an able communicator. Dickens' most famous works are Oliver Twist, A Christmas Carol, David Copperfield, A Tale of Two Cities and Great Expectations. The Life of Our Lord, however, was not intended to be part of the historical Dickens canon.

The Life of Our Lord was written by Dickens for his children's theological and ethical education. The book, composed in 1846, is a brief condensation of the Gospels of the New Testament, Matthew, Mark, Luke and John. Dickens's writing is clear and aimed at simplifying the often important subtleties and complexities of...