The eighth novel from one of the English language's most important writers, Charles Dickens' David Copperfield is considered a masterpiece. Originally published in 1850, the book tells the titular character's life story as he escapes an unhappy childhood with his stepfather and strikes out on his own, encountering a memorable cast of characters. Through his life, David encounters comedy and tragedy, kindness and cruelty and grows as a character. There are many details in the book drawn from Dickens' own life, and he referred to the character of Copperfield as his "favourite child".