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A review by kelhutch68
Les Misérables by Victor Hugo
challenging
emotional
hopeful
informative
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
4.5
Very, very, very long…. but make the time commitment. This is a very well-written classic that pulls you into the world of the oppressed in France from 1815 – 1832.
This book had been on my TBR forever and I finally went all in because I had tickets to the theatrical performance. Over the last month, I listened to the audiobook, watched two movies, and saw the play. I highly recommend reading the book before viewing movies or play to understand the backdrop of the story and the intertwined relationships of the characters. It will make you appreciate the other media so much more.
Though the story was a heart wrenching discussion of the immense suffering of the lower class in France during the time, it is also a beautiful story of love, sacrifice, and hope. And, as a bonus, a history lesson that includes politics, religion, social structure, fashion, and architecture. (Though I could have done without the hour plus on the discussion of the sewer system.)
The cast of characters was a diverse mix of heroes and villians. I loved the characters of Jean Valjean, Fantine, and Javert--Jean Valjean for his struggle and redemption, Fantine for her sacrifice, and Javert for his unbending moral code. I did not like Cosette as she seemed trite, and I thought Marius was too much of a follower. I really disliked the Thénardiers in the book and movies but loved them in the play as they were comedic.
The book was emotionally exhausting and there were times I almost threw in the towel due to the detail, but I am really glad I pushed through. When I finished, I really appreciated all that Victor Hugo put into this book. His compassion for the lower classes and his knowledge of a variety of subjects shone through.