As well as being a popular author Dickens worked for social reform to improve conditions for children and poor people.

Telling ghost stories was a popular form of fireside entertainment, and this one is written in a style that makes it suitable for reading aloud.

Social changes, the rapid growth of cities and government legislation resulted in poverty, hunger and hardship for many people in England during the 1840s.

The traditions associated with this Christian festival developed during the nineteenth century, and the ways in which people celebrated it were influenced by the royal family.

The Christian principles of love for one’s neighbours, repentance and forgiveness are present throughout the novel.