Sooo... Les Mis.
Due to the upcoming movie (which I plan to see with my mom), I gave in to my slow-burning interest in reading Les Miserables. Upon receiving the hold at the library, I was pretty much floored by the sheer size of this book. It's the size of my dad's The City of God, for goodness' sakes!
At this point, I'm on Section iii of Book V of Part 1 - roughly 1/8th of the way through the book. The first bit, when the Bishop is introduced, was rough going. I think I understand the reasons behind such an elaborate introduction; even though he's only involved right at the beginning, that man's actions precipitate so much of the following plot. Also, his awesome kindness and righteousness needed to be believably established prior to his meeting Jean ValJean. (Am I missing anything?) But to be honest, I can't help feeling part of the reason for it all was to winnow out the weaker readers! : P
Since getting past that first roadblock, I have been enjoying the tale. I keep wishing for an annotated edition, though. So much historical detail cropping up, of which I am ignorant.
On I forge.
At this point, I'm on Section iii of Book V of Part 1 - roughly 1/8th of the way through the book. The first bit, when the Bishop is introduced, was rough going. I think I understand the reasons behind such an elaborate introduction; even though he's only involved right at the beginning, that man's actions precipitate so much of the following plot. Also, his awesome kindness and righteousness needed to be believably established prior to his meeting Jean ValJean. (Am I missing anything?) But to be honest, I can't help feeling part of the reason for it all was to winnow out the weaker readers! : P
Since getting past that first roadblock, I have been enjoying the tale. I keep wishing for an annotated edition, though. So much historical detail cropping up, of which I am ignorant.
On I forge.