Charles John Huffam Dickens was an English novelist, journalist, short story writer, and social critic. Born on 7 February 1812 in Portsmouth, he is regarded as one of the greatest novelists of the Victorian era. Dickens created some of literature's most iconic characters and is noted for his keen observation of character and society.

Dickens's literary success began with the 1836 serial publication of The Pickwick Papers, which was a publishing phenomenon. His novels, often published in serial form, featured cliffhanger endings that kept readers in suspense.

He was a tireless letter writer and campaigned vigorously for children's rights, education, and other social reforms. A Christmas Carol remains especially popular, and many of his works, such as Oliver Twist and Great Expectations, are frequently adapted for theatre and film.

Despite leaving school at age 12 to work in a boot-blacking factory when his father was incarcerated in a debtors' prison, Dickens went on to edit a weekly journal for 20 years, write 15 novels, five novellas, and hundreds of short stories and nonfiction articles.

The term "Dickensian" is used to describe situations reminiscent of his works, such as poor social conditions or comically repulsive characters.