Charles Dickens Charles Dickens was a friend and admirer of the Danish fairytale writer Hans Christian Andersen. They met first time in 1847 when HCA came to England. Dickens gave him a signed book saying: "Your friend and admirer C D". In 1857 HCA came to stay at Dickens' country house, but left after some days due to complication with the rest of the family. Dickens came to say goodbye when HCA left England. The year of 2005 is the 200-year anniversary for Hans Christian Andersen's birth. Due to this there will be a global celebration to remember and honour the Danish author.