The Way We Live Now (Barnes & Noble Classics) (original 1875; edition 2005)

Although this book includes the required Victorian love story, The Way We Live Now focuses more on the actions of Augustus Melmotte, a foreign financier who is turning heads of London society, with his amazing wealth and ability to make money. But actually, Melmotte is swindling investors by selling shares in a non-existant railroad company. This is such a timeless classic, not only in the large cast of characters with funny and endearing personality quirks, but also in the relevance this story holds, especially with the recent global financial crisis. Definitely a enduring and enjoyable classic. ( )

Such a treat to read. Many characters. Many predicaments. But all brought together so deftly. And I never once got that compensatory urge to pitch the book against a wall in lieu of smacking the whiny little mouths within. This book also explained the recent financial crisis to me as Trollope deftly mapped out the workings of invisible money in many invisible hands. ( )

Back in grad school, I watched the BBC version, which is also excellent (David Suchet, you amazing, amazing man!). I decided to read this chunkster (1024 pages!) and I’m so glad I did. It is so rich with complex characters and wonderfully intricate-yet-gloomy plot that weaves itself into this gorgeous satirical tapestry. There are few characters that are truly likable, but each has their good and bad points, making them all very realistic, even if you don’t necessarily want any of them as friends.

Many people find books from the 19th century hard to get through, but I think Trollope is one of the most accessible. Even though the book is long, it’s not that difficult to read, and the complex plot is surprisingly easy to follow. I find Dickens’ characters to be more Good and Bad, whereas Trollope’s characters are multifaceted and intricate. One of the things I like about Trollope’s writing is how he moves from character to character — it keeps the book from being bogged down by one point of view.

The best part about this book is that the title and themes apply to 2012 as much as they did to 1875 — we live in such a similar world, full of people trying to make a fast buck at the expense of other people. Everyone looks out for themselves, makes decisions based on their immediate desires, and many pay the consequences (though…not enough to be 100% satisfying.)

Also, Paul Montague: MAN THE HELL UP.

Read my full review here: http://letseatgrandpa.com/2012/07/14/book-review-38-the-way-we-live-now-by-antho... ( )

Not one of Trollope's most funny books, and lacking in particularly lovable characters, this is still a wonderful big satire of society, and unfortunately timeless. ( )

Bought June 2012 ( )