Les Miserables Paperback – January 1, 2001

I was looking for a good abridgment of Les Miserables that I could donate to the local prison, since many of the inmates have a lower reading level than classical literature would require. I bought this version based on reviews here on Amazon, and when I received the book I looked through it to see if it had all the vital important parts. It did. :) I've read Les Miserables unabridged, and it took me a year, with a bit of a slog through some tangential (though interesting) parts. This book is accessible to a reader that is unfamiliar with the plot of the novel, without insulting their intelligence or being too choppy or opaque. And it includes some of the most moving and inspiring scenes in all literature, which is why I wanted it to be available to this "captive audience." I'm glad I was able to find a version that kept the heart of Les Mis intact.

A classic, of course, but teaches again, there is good in all, a "bad " person can turn around and be a shining example of humbanity if we let them. The flip some people who think they are good in their benevolence can be bad when the getting gets tough when the way life as they see it is not up to their expectations. A good novel to be read by all, to learn to appreciate the progress we have made in our America, but how much more we need to go.

Well done!

I read this adaptation of Hugo's classic in two days. It is a very easy read but oh so remarkable! I loved every page!! I have not read the original, but I can say this was fantasic.

Amazing! This has become my favorite book! I love this story of redemption and reconciliation. It is truly a timeless classic.

I really, really like the story of grace in Les Miserables. This modern English translation makes the novel accessible to a new generation.

Best edition of the best story every written in my opinion. I would give it ten stars if I could.

I am a bit of a literary purist, so, in general, I'm not a fan of abridged versions. However I knew it would be many years before my 12-year-old son who has fallen in love the music of Les Mis, would be ready to tackle all 1200 pages of the original. Although I miss some of my favorite parts from the original, I am pleased with the abridged version for its purpose, and it does definitely give a lot of the important back story to the musical.

Better than the film. This is extremely well written and tells the story in great detail. A good classic read.