The History of Tom Jones A Foundling (Unabridged) (Wordsworth Classics)

Finished at last. An interesting read, although I would query whether it is really the funniest book every written. I quite liked the intro sections to each part, and the way Fielding helps you to remember what has gone on previously. As one of the first ever novels, he was offering his readers a helping hand to get the most from it. It is a fun story despite always knowing how its going to end,...more

Finished at last. An interesting read, although I would query whether it is really the funniest book every written. I quite liked the intro sections to each part, and the way Fielding helps you to remember what has gone on previously. As one of the first ever novels, he was offering his readers a helping hand to get the most from it. It is a fun story despite always knowing how its going to end, there are lots of twists and turns along the way. Also shows how little society has moved on in over 200 years: who you are seems more important than how you act, except, of course, to Tom.   hide

Henry Fielding , in his preface urges the reader not to look for perfection in the work. In reality, there is very little wrong with the work, indeed so little that it falls ever so short of that status. Tom is lovable, Sophia is sweet, Squire Western, Partridge and Mrs Western are ludicrous and Blifil is diabolical. There are plenty more unforgettable characters and the plot itself is so well...more

Henry Fielding , in his preface urges the reader not to look for perfection in the work. In reality, there is very little wrong with the work, indeed so little that it falls ever so short of that status. Tom is lovable, Sophia is sweet, Squire Western, Partridge and Mrs Western are ludicrous and Blifil is diabolical. There are plenty more unforgettable characters and the plot itself is so well woven and complicated that you will have a problem retaining various incidents as you progress. Apart from this are Fielding's fine command of the language and biting observations throughout the work , particularly in the eighteen introductions where he is merciless ,sarcastic and witty. There are numerous references , in fact more than any other work I have read which can get tedious if you aren't in a mood to halt your reading and turn to the back. Also , Fielding's sentences can get a little difficult to comprehend , being long and nearly always complex. A brilliant book, and absolutely deserving of.. 4.5 stars.   hide

A lively romp of a book if ever there was one. A man terrifically good in bed and a pure-hearted sweetie pie to boot? That's Tom Jones in a nutshell. I ask you, what's not to love?

hilarious