This book is long and dense, but compelling and an emotional read. ( )

The Classics Illustrated version of Victor Hugo’s Les Miserables is a fantastic way for a junior high or high school student to appreciate this incredible novel. Set in France, Les Mis is the story of Jean ValJean, a thief who escapes prison and changes his identity. He rises to some fame as the mayor, but is constantly wary of Javert, the policeman who pursues him relentlessly. He adopts the orphan girl, Cosette, daughter of Fantine, whom he takes pity upon. He raises Cosette as his own, and tries to protect her as she grows and falls in love with Marius, a revolutionary.
The illustrations of this graphic novel truly add to this famous work of fiction that few students bother to read. Translations of Hugo’s famous work are many and varied. The novel has been made into a musical that is breathtaking, but still, middle and high school students are often put off by its length, and the strange French names. The story has many twists and turns, and this is also off-putting to students. The beauty of the graphic novel is in its short length, and beautiful illustrations.
The novel also comes with a bio about Victor Hugo and historical information about the time period in which the novel was set. This gives the reader some context for the work.
This book is appropriate for ages 12 and up, but I find it very appropriate for high school students with low reading skills. Most students will never bother to pick up the original, but many will be engaged by the graphics and abridged story. This was a wonderful addition to our library. Three stars.