Book excerpt: Admired by his contemporaries, and a hugely celebrated writer of his day, Charles Dickens is now remembered as one of the greatest English novelists and an influential spokesman for the conscience of Victorian England. His work has inspired, enthralled and entertained millions across the globe, and his social commentary remains as relevant in the modern day as ever. The Wicked Wit Of Charles Dickens explores and reveals aspects of the author's personal and professional life, whilst celebrating his flair for witty and satirical observations about society and human nature. Containing lengthy extracts from scenes of great amusement in his novels, as well as pithy remarks uttered by his unique characters, this is a wonderful collection which can be enjoyed by Dickens' legions of fans, as well as those readers who are new to his writing. Also available in the series are collections from Shakespeare, To Be or Not To Be, and Oscar Wilde, I Can Resist Everything Except Temptation.