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If you think you know The Count of Monte Cristo, think again. I thought I did. I've watched a series a couple of decades ago on TV. I enjoyed the story back then. I was reading world classics and thought I'll give The Count of Monte Cristo a try. When I was looking for a copy to read I saw that there were several translations available. To choose the best translation I read quite a bit of the reviews. In one, the reviewer (who also read the original French and several English translations) suggested that the best translation is done by Robin Buss. Turns out until Robin Buss all the translations were done when the book first came out. Meaning the English translators of the time actually butchered the original story and rewrote it to the extent of changing the number of villains to one character from the original three, turning it into a mildly interesting childish story to spare Victorian English sensibilities. When I Robin Buss's translation, I was blown away. The content, though it may not be all that sensational these days, is considerably daring for the 1800's. I don't want to give away too much, but among subjects touched (that have been cut off by Victorians) are drug use, same sex relationship, and serial killing. After reading this book I have a better understanding to why Dumas was the most popular French writer of his time. The story is interesting full of action, mystery, and excitement. It is compelling. The 1400+ pages of reading just flows by (partly due to Buss's abilities as a translator and the more modern English used) leaving you wanting more. I've read it in 10 days, nonstop. And amazingly at the end there is a moral to the story. :) If you are going to read the Count of Monte Cristo please opt for a modern translation and an unabridged copy. There is definitely noting to cut off from the original story. Anything missing would just be a loss.Read full review
Great product and the edition I needed for my daughter so she can read this wonderful book.
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: Pre-owned
Read this book years and years ago, was not on my thoughts till seeing for sale, almost finished and forgot how good of a story it truly is! Thanks so very much!
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: Pre-owned
The Count of Monte Cristo is one of the best fiction novels ever written, and justly serves as the basis for not only the famed Stephen King novel about Rita Hayworth, but the movie the novella inspired--The Shawshank Redemption. Cannot recommend a finer period piece and fiction novel in general.
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: Pre-owned
Came in a few days after being ordered online, small dent at the top right corner and very little folds on outer cover, Perfect condition on the inside and very nice packaging. :)
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: Pre-owned
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