In this study Deborah Vlock shows that characters, dialogue, and plots from many of Charles Dickens' novels can be traced to the Victorian stage, and that contemporary readers and writers of fiction were strongly influenced by what they saw at the theater. Through an examination of theatrical and popular-cultural sources--including accounts of noted actors and actresses, and of popular theatrical characters of the time--Vlock uncovers unexpected precursors for some popular Dickensian characters, and throws new light on the conditions in which Dickens' novels were initially received.

In this study Deborah Vlock shows that characters, dialogue, and plots from many of Charles Dickens' novels can be traced to the Victorian stage, and that contemporary readers and writers of fiction were strongly influenced by what they saw at the theater. Through an examination of theatrical and popular-cultural sources--including accounts of noted actors and actresses, and of popular theatrical characters of the time--Vlock uncovers unexpected precursors for some popular Dickensian characters, and throws new light on the conditions in which Dickens' novels were initially received.

Written by a mother, expressly for other parents, this book focuses on the various life "hurdles" every mom or dad must guide their children over--but which loom higher and more frightening when a child's mental or emotional disorder is thrown into the mix. These hurdles include life at home, school, friendships and relationships, and more.

Written by a mother, expressly for other parents, this work supports parents as they help their kids manage life with mental illness. It offers insight into the various life "hurdles" every mom or dad must guide their children over-but which loom higher and more frightening when a child's emotional disorder is thrown into the mix.