What is the Charles Dickens Challenge?
What is the Charles Dickens Challenge?
In early November of 1843, Charles Dickens had an idea for a story. Six weeks later, one of the greatest Christmas books ever written was published, just in time for Christmas.
This November and December, I'm seeking to imitate the process, time crunch, and accountability that Dickens used to write A Christmas Carol. That book, which went from idea to publication in only six weeks, was written under extreme pressure and impulsively, without the support of a publisher or any guarantees that it would sell. Dickens started penning it without knowing his main character's name, and the first few chapters were already off at the printer's before he knew how the story ended. There was no time for spell-checking, outlining, or a second draft. Yet somehow, it worked. On December 19, 1843, Dickens distributed his new novel out into the world. The first printing round sold out by Christmas Eve, six days later.
So, are you ready to step into the shoes of one of the greatest authors of the past two centuries and try out the challenge for yourself? Here's how it works:
Starting on November 7, 2024, dream up a Christmas story. It can be any genre of your choosing, reflecting any themes, faith backgrounds, or traditions that you'd like! Brainstorm, outline your chapters, and get in the Christmas spirit!
The word count goal is 32,500. Why? Because that's the length of A Christmas Carol. This does not have to be a novel, simply a novella, but you are welcome to write as few or as many words as you envision for your story.
Since Dickens was being held accountable by his printer and illustrator throughout the writing process, we’ll hold ourselves (and each other) accountable, too! Each week of the challenge, you are encouraged to post your latest chapters/scenes/segment for the world (or just a few friends) to see! I will be posting my chapters on my website, but you are welcome to use ao3, WordPress, Tumblr, Instagram, Facebook, etc. If you want it to be a bit less public, challenge yourself to share your writing with a close friend or family member, instead.
We'll be finishing up our stories just in time for Christmas! Enjoy the sense of accomplishment (and the relief at one less thing on your to-do list). I hope that writing these stories, whether you finish the challenge or not, will help get you in the mood for the most joyous time of the year!
Thursday, November 7: Get started plotting, writing, daydreaming, etc.
Thursday, November 14: Publish your first chapter. Note that this chapter does not have a specific word length, and your story itself does not even have to be broken up into chapters. You're encouraged to share whatever you have written so far!
Thursday, November 21: Publish your second chapter.
Thursday, November 28: Publish your third chapter.
*Note: Since this Thursday falls on Thanksgiving Day, feel free to post early or late, or skip this deadline altogether! Enjoy time with your family instead!
Thursday, December 5: Publish your fourth chapter.
Thursday, December 12: Publish your fifth (penultimate) chapter.
Thursday, December 19: Publish your final chapter!! You did it!!!!!!
Since this is my first year hosting this challenge, I am still figuring it out as I go! If you have any questions about how it works, feel free to reach out. Also remember that if these dates, word counts, or publishing goals don't work for you, don't stress! You are still welcome to have fun following along with us and writing a Christmas story of your very own. Feel free to alter the challenge in whatever way that suits your needs in this busy time of year!