Charles Dickens was an English writer and social critic. The Life and Adventures of Nicholas Nickleby, his third novel, was published in 1839. The narrative follows Nicholas as he escapes from the influence of his villainous uncle and the wicked schoolmaster Wackford Squeers. Then he stumbles into a theatrical career, and pursues his fortune through numerous adventures. Upon its original publication, the set was hailed as "one of the most glorious publishing achievements of our time."