In Kent with Charles Dickens is a fascinating look into the life and times of one of the most beloved authors in English literature. Thomas Frost provides a detailed account of Charles Dickens' life and travels in Kent, painting a vivid picture of the places and people that inspired his writing.

The book is meticulously researched and filled with interesting anecdotes and historical details. Frost does a great job of capturing the essence of Dickens' personality and his deep connection to the county of Kent. From the quaint village of Chalk to the bustling city of Rochester, readers are taken on a journey through the landscapes that fueled Dickens' imagination.

One of the highlights of the book is Frost's exploration of the real-life inspirations behind some of Dickens' most famous characters and settings. Readers will gain a deeper understanding of Dickens' creative process and the way in which he drew from his surroundings to create timeless works of literature.

Overall, In Kent with Charles Dickens is a must-read for fans of Dickens and anyone interested in the history and culture of 19th century England. Frost's engaging writing style and meticulous attention to detail make this book a truly enjoyable and enlightening read.

Book Description:

By his own admission, Thomas Frost found it hard to make a living from his writing, and no doubt he used the name of Dickens in the title of this book to boost sales. Frost tells a good tale, and the book is not only of interest to enthusiasts of Dickens and the county of Kent.

He includes some of Dickens’ own descriptions of locations, as well as regaling us with anecdotes about towns and villages which he visits, including an account of the last armed rising on British soil – the Battle of Bossenden Wood.

As well as accounts of his travels through the highways and byways of Kent in the footsteps of Dickens and his characters, he also wanders into the lanes of myth and legend, sometimes making up his own stories along the way.

After managing to forgive his cardinal sin of confusing Men of Kent and Kentish Men in the first chapter, I found this rather odd mixture of memoir, short stories and literary travelogue a most enjoyable read.