The Count of Monte Cristo: Alexandre Dumas (Penguin Clothbound Classics)

This is one of the great stories by Alexandre Dumas, written I believe between 1844/5. Much of the fiction written around this time is considered dated but this particular story has stood the test of time and is as fresh as the day it was written. It is a story that I have returned to many times over the years, often prompted by the release of a film or TV series, none of which come close to the drama and energy of the book. Anyone reading it for the first time cannot fail to be impressed by the storyline and the writing style of Dumas. Many of the "classics" are somewhat dry and stilted to the modern taste but this tale is anything but dry. It is vibrant and exciting from the first page to the last. It is an epic story by any standards, one thousand pages plus but holds the reader throughout, never boring or superflous in any way. Why did I feel the need to buy another copy, having already said that I have read and reread the story in the past. Well the saying "Never judge a book by its cover" has just flown out of the window. Yes, I was seduced by the appearance and description of the book. The book is very tactile with its blue bonded leather binding, covered in graphics that relate to the story and these are a joy in themselves, not least the large sailing ship depicted in gold on the back cover. The satin ribbon bookmark is just another nice touch and finally the gilt edged pages give the book an opulent look, that amazingly is not reflected in the price. Plus, best of all I know that when I have finished handling and enjoying the appearance and feel of the outside of the book, there is an amazing piece of writing waiting for me on the inside. My only criticism is that I cannot understand why the publisher has not given the same lavish treatment to the Three Musketeers by the same author. If and when they do I will have a space ready and waiting in the bookcase. There are a number of classic books by these publishers (Barnes & Noble) virtually all with leather bindings and unique front covers. These are definitely worth a look by people who are searching for something special and out of the ordinary for that special place in the bookcase, or even as a gift for other discerning bibliophiles.

I really enjoyed this kindle English translation of Alexander Dumas, The Count of Monte Cristo. It is an epic, but what a classic! Yes, at times it ponders along and even goes down a few rabbit holes as the author strings us along, but this is understandable as it was originally written as a serial. I went from cover to cover in a very short time, and found it compelling, indeed I could not put it down! I was particularly interested in the conjoined themes of justice & revenge. Edmund Dantes moves from depression to attempted suicide and eventually vows revenge after years of false imprisonment. Upon becoming the inheritor of a vast fortune he believes himself to be the ‘hand of God’ and sets about wrecking the lives of his betrayers. However, I felt Edmund Dantes is a character in conflict. He wants revenge (or is it justice) but at one point upon seeing the devastation of his plotting the author remarks, “Men who are truly generous are always ready to be compassionate when the misfortune of their enemies surpasses the limits of their hatred”. Of course all this internal conflict makes for excellent story-telling! Probably the best part of the novel and certainly the most uplifting was the deliverance of Morrel from public shame, bankruptcy and even suicide. It really is a wonderfully convoluted cliff-hanger, but what a piece of writing. The film versions just cannot capture the intensity of moments like this. In fairness, the film versions cannot include everything and have to leave so much out. The 2003 DVD release starring Gerard Depardieu is easily the best film version, as it sticks closest to the original plot. As for Depardieu, superb! Dumas, sublime.

Feel bad even giving a 4 - would say its more like a 4 and a half There is a huge following out there for Penguin 'Cloth-Bound Classics'. Like many other people, I absolutley love the collection. Its beautiful and for non-English titles the translations are usually good. But, if this is your first time purchasing a Cloth-Bound Classic there is something you need to be aware of so you wont be disappointed. When you peel the barcode label off the back cover it can often remove some of the surface print and depending on the colour palette, can also leave a noticable rectangular mark. Also you will need to make sure your hands are DRY when reading, or again the surface print may either flake or come off. Personally I don't see this as a fault or flaw - its just the natural state of the materials used to make these lovely cloth-bound books combining with an understandable need to manage inventory and dispactch logistics with low-tac stickers Just wanted to provide the info so anyone new to this collection can make an informed purchase. Enjoy your Cloth-Bound Classics, once you buy one, you will want to build your collection :) On this title specifically........................................................ Can't recommend The Count of Monte Cristo enough!! And this is a comfortable read translation-wise. Its an epic tale that will draw you in and keep you turning pages... As it was orininally circulated in serialised form, the plot layers and characters develop at a pace that will keep you engaged and excited to keep turning pages. Don't let the number of pages put you off - This is one brick of a book that is definitely worth time invested Whether you choose to approach this in one long cover to cover unbroken read, or pace yourself over some months by using it as a companion to your other core reading, I'm sure you will enjoy it :)

This novel is my all-time favorite, and I've been searching for the perfect hardcover edition. I'm so glad I found this one - the design is beautiful and the quality is exceptional

Alles bestens gerne wieder

This is about the clothbound edition by penguin. It is the only version I could find with the Robin Buss translation. It is the most modern and most readable translation in English. Highly recommended. I hope that one day Penguin will publish a bit more elaborate edition of this version. I think this book deserves it.

A edição que posso comentar é a edição Barnes & Noble, em inglês, com encadernação em couro. Este livro tem mais de mil páginas e o inglês é da época de uns 200 anos atrás. Alguns capítulos são bem chatos de ler, mas são importantes para entender a relação posteriormente. Quando faltaram 200 páginas, inventei de assistir ao filme, edição de 2002, sob direção de Kevin Reynolds. O filme é desastrosamente decepcionante; foi um completo fracasso na tentativa de resumir o livro. Nem se fizerem o trabalho de seguir a obra no final. Faltaram tantas personagens e tantos detalhes. Mas recomendo assistir para valorizar a escrita.

The Count of Monte Cristo" is an unforgettable masterpiece brimming with revenge, suspense, and adventure. Alexandre Dumas has created a gripping tale that keeps you on the edge of your seat from start to finish. What I particularly loved about this book is the complexity of Edmond Dantès' character, whose journey from betrayal to triumph is both thrilling and deeply moving. The historical backdrop and vivid settings transport you straight into the heart of 19th-century France. Each plot twist is masterfully crafted, making it impossible to put down. If you’re a fan of epic tales of justice and redemption, this classic is a must-read. Prepare to be captivated!