A Child's History of England - Hardcover

"'In A Child's History we see Dickens near the height of his powers: combining a mastery of plain language, sharp if sometimes heavy irony, and the keenest eye for evocative detail... Dickens had no interest in serving up the bland fare that others may have felt more suitable for a child's palate - and less threatening to the status quo. His is sectarian history: radical, opinionated, and, to most readers, all the better for it.' David Starkey"

This is a captivating history of England for children from one of the best-loved novelists of all time. Written just after David Copperfield, at the same time as "Bleak House", and in the engaging and conversational style typical of his most celebrated fiction, Dickens' "History of England for Children" is an undiscovered treasure trove of a book. This carefully selected, lightly abridged version shows traditional storytelling at its best. Dickens' lovable theatricality, witty observations and compelling narrative give children access to one of England's greatest writers, and to some of the most powerful stories from its past. For adults, it offers an engaging reminder of the English history we ought to know: who was Hereward the Wake, how was it that Thomas a Becket was murdered in Canterbury Cathedral, and was Canute really trying to stop the tide? Interesting, informative and accessible, "A Child's History of England" takes its reader on a fascinating journey, from Ancient England and the Romans to Victoria's reign and Dickens' own lifetime. Full of sensational plots, gallant heroes and brutal villains, high adventure and terrible tragedy, it will appeal to anyone who enjoys a good story and some horrible history!