Phiz: The Man Who Drew Dickens

by Valerie Lester

Hablot Knight Brown—known as “Phiz”—was the greatest illustrator of Charles Dickens’ fiction. In a collaboration that lasted for a quarter of a century, Phiz’s drawings brought to life a galaxy of immortal characters. Fittingly, Phiz himself—from the mystery of his birth onwards—led a life as rich as any novel. In this lively memoir, Phiz’ great-great-granddaughter traces his path to fame in a tale bustling with color and adventure. Based on a wealth of unpublished material and brimming with Phiz’s delicious illustrations, this is the perfect book for all who love Dickens and the hidden byways of Victorian life.

288 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 2004

About the author

Valerie Lester is the author of the biographies Phiz: The Man Who Drew Dickens (Chatto & Windus, 2004), Giambattista Bodoni: His Life and His World (Godine, 2015), and Marvels: The Life of Clarence Bicknell, Botanist, Archaeologist, Artist (Troubadour, 2018). She is also the author of the history, Fasten Your Seatbelts! History and Heroism in the Pan Am Cabin (Paladwr, 1994), and the translator of Alain-Fournier's Le Grand Meaulnes (Vintage, 2009).

Reviews

[Jamie · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was an enjoyable read for those who love Dickens and the illustrations of books of that era. I am now on the hunt for a Phiz etching, watercolor, oil or drawing.

[Gary Rigby · Rating 4 out of 5]

A wonderful labour of love, a fascinating book meticulously researched and beautifully written.