After killing her mother with a carving knife, Mary Lamb spent the rest of her life in and out of madhouses; yet the crime and its aftermath opened up a new life. Freed to read extensively, she discovered her talent for writing and, with her brother, the essayist Charles Lamb, collaborated on the famous Tales from Shakespeare. This narrative of a nearly forgotten woman is a tapestry of insights into creativity and madness, the changing lives of women, and the redemptive power of the written word.

The Works of Charles and Mary Lamb is a seminal collection that spans the full breadth and depth of these sibling authors' literary careers, encompassing essays, letters, poetry, and children's literature. This anthology showcases the remarkable diversity of their contributions to English literature, highlighting their ability to blend wit, sentiment, and a deep humanism across a variety of styles. The inclusion of Charles Lamb's 'Essays of Elia' and the collaborative effort on 'Tales from Shakespeare' stand out as pivotal works that underscore the siblings' literary versatility and creative harmony. The Lambs were integral figures in the Romantic and early Victorian literary scenes, their works reflecting the intellectual and cultural currents of the time. This collection draws from the rich tapestry of the period, providing insight into the shifts in literary taste and the evolution of the essay and children's literature. Their friendship with key literary figures, including Wordsworth, Coleridge, and Hazlitt, placed them at the heart of a dynamic literary community, influencing and enriching their work. This anthology is an invitation to explore the depth and diversity of Charles and Mary Lamb's contributions to English literature. It offers readers a unique lens through which to understand the historical and cultural context of early 19th-century Britain, making it an invaluable resource for students, scholars, and anyone with an interest in the evolution of literary forms and themes. The collection serves not only as a testament to the talents of the Lambs but also as an engaging entry point into the wider conversations and literary movements of their time.

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