Mariana

«Mariana» — a nostalgic coming-of-age novel by Monica Dickens, the great-granddaughter of Charles Dickens — touching, largely autobiographical, and sincere, giving faith in life and the future.
The biography of Monica Dickens is a story in itself: a girl from an aristocratic family enters a drama school, from which she is expelled for her stubbornness, then becomes a cook, a waitress, works as a nurse during World War II, labors at an aviation repair plant, and tries her hand at journalism. It was this rich experience that allowed her to find her main calling — Monica eventually became a writer, just like her great-grandfather.


«Mariana» — a bright and light novel with brilliant descriptions of daily life, customs, and characters. The main heroine, Mary, is imbued with many facts from Monica Dickens' own biography, and most importantly — her perception of the world. Anyone who remembers what they dreamed of in childhood and youth, what feelings they experienced at the very beginning of their journey when everything was ahead, will see themselves in the heroine.
Mary had to live in difficult times: her honeymoon was interrupted by the onset of World War II. But the charge of lightness, love from her loved ones, and interest in life that she received in her youth will help her overcome all obstacles and retain her sense of self.


• A classic that successfully combines autofiction and coming-of-age novel: many episodes are based on real events from the author's life, which gives the story a special sincerity.
• An interesting historical context: the book shows how global events affect the fate of an ordinary person.
• Many curious details about the daily life of English aristocrats at the beginning of the century, including descriptions of English cuisine dishes.
• The novel is equipped with detailed notes that allow for a deeper immersion in the era.
• Mary’s story resonates with many who remember their youthful dreams and first steps into adulthood.
• Monica Dickens is a well-known English writer and journalist, «the English Maxim Gorky», the author of more than 30 books for adults and over 13 children's books, the great-granddaughter of the great Charles Dickens. Her works are characterized by autobiographical elements, humor, and observance, attention to social issues, love for nature, and the ability to talk about serious topics in a light and accessible manner.
• An atmospheric cover with a drawn illustration by Olga Medvedkova.