Although I studied the novel Jean Valjean in Grade 7, I just finished reading the complete, unabridged novel Les Mis�rables in early 1997, and it truly is one of the most wonderful books I've ever read. The characters are absolutely unforgettable. It took me over an hour to read the last ten pages because I was sobbing so hard!!

"The night was starless and intensely dark. Without doubt, in the darkness, some great angel with outspread wings stood waiting for his soul."

My favorite character in the novel was probably that of Jean Valjean. He is the one who is revealed to the reader in the most detail, and by the end of the book I'd come to regard him almost as a friend. I also adored the character of Enjolras, perhaps even more so than in the musical. His unwavering determination and belief in his dream is incredible, and to see it destroyed is heart-breaking.

"A National Guard who aimed at Enjolras lowered his musket, saying, 'I feel as if I were going to kill a flower.'"

First on the list of characters I *didn't* like would have to be Marius!! He really started to annoy me after a while! And I much prefer the Eponine of the musical to the one in the novel, who is much more manipulative and cunning. And, of course, the Th�nardiers in the novel are truly despicable people as opposed to their comic relief purpose in the musical.

Have you taken the plunge and read this novel too? Try my Hugo quiz!

There are obviously changes between the novel and the musical. Even if the show is over three hours long, it still can't cover the whole 900 pages of Hugo's novel! :-) The most noticeable contrast is the omission of certain characters from the stage show, namely the Th�nardier's other children and Marius' grandfather.

"Le supreme bonheur de la vie, c'est la conviction qu'on est aim�."

Regardless, I would definitely tell ANYONE to read this novel, especially if you have seen and loved the show. It will only make you appreciate it all the more!!

My friend Melanie would like to include her favourite quote from the novel:

"If no one loved, the sun would go out."


Back to Les Mis�rables Index