Les misérables

Les Misérables was Victor Hugo's first literary masterpiece, and it remains one of the most thrilling novels ever written. It's also one of the most important works in French history, as well as a work of art that has influenced countless writers, artists, and musicians over the past two centuries. Les Misérables tells the story of Jean Valjean, a French peasant who is imprisoned for stealing bread to feed his starving family. After serving 20 years in prison and being released on parole, he decides to change his life and become an honorable man—but he soon finds himself pursued by Inspector Javert, who believes him guilty of another crime. The novel follows Valjean through several decades as he struggles with redemption against incredible odds: poverty, imprisonment, exile from France… even violence from those who should be closest to him. But what makes Les Misérables such an enduring classic? It's not just that Hugo wrote it (although he did) or that it's set in 19th century France (although it is). It's also because this story speaks directly to our humanity—our ability to rise above our circumstances and make ourselves into something better than our pasts would suggest possible; our capacity