After a childhood blighted by poverty, commercial success came early to Charles Dickens (1812–70). By the age of 24, he was an international sensation whose new novels were eagerly anticipated. Two centuries later, Dickens' popularity endures as readers revel in the warm humanity and rollicking humor of his tales of self-discovery. Arthur Rackham (1867–1939) was an English artist and a leading figure in the early 20th century's Golden Age of Illustration. He interpreted scenes from fairy tales, opera, and Shakespearean comedy with whimsical and romantic images that continue to enchant children and adults alike.

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