A chronology is a biography in brief. This new chronology examines relevant letters written by Elizabeth Gaskell and others written to her, as well as summarising her domestic and literary concerns, indicating the strains and stresses of her interactive lives, the family joys and sufferings (three of her children died), and insights into her relationship with her husband. It also usefully gives publication dates for her works, including the lesser known ones, and indicates the contemporary opinions of them. Gaskell's friends, philanthropic activities are also stressed, and the volume includes helpful reference features. The book provides the reader with a fascinating snapshot into the day-to-day life of one of the nineteenth century's most enduring women writers, and will appeal to any Gaskell scholar, student or general enthusiast.