Hide and Seek The Mystery of Mary Grice Author:Wilkie Collins The novel is the first by Collins to explore the positive aspects of physical handicap. It is also one of his least sensational, laying emphasis on domestic affections. The quieter atmosphere may in part be attributed to the influence of Dickens, and also to the use of autobiographical material in the first half of the book. Th... more »e ebullient and rebellious Zack shares many of Collins's early experiences as well as some of his characteristics. The description of Valentine Blyth's studio was taken from that of William Collins at Devonshire Terrace, Bayswater.
Collins was already careful to carry out background research; the experiences of the deaf-mute Madonna are closely modelled on examples in Dr John Kitto's 1845 The Lost Senses. The character of Mat Marksman was probably influenced by the novels of Fenimore Cooper.« less