Charles and Mary Lamb were English writers and siblings born in the late 18th century. Charles was born in 1775, and Mary followed in 1764. They are best known for their collaboration on the book Tales from Shakespeare, which retells the plays of William Shakespeare in a way that is accessible to children. Their work has been influential in introducing young readers to classic literature. Both Charles and Mary faced personal challenges, including mental health issues. Mary struggled with depression, while Charles dealt with the aftermath of a family tragedy. Despite these difficulties, they maintained a close bond and supported each other's literary endeavors throughout their lives.