Tess of the Durbervilles (Real Reads) - Softcover

When I was reading the original Thomas Hardy version of this heart-rending classic as a teen, I wish I had had this terrifically easy-to-read and remember Real Read version by Maxine Linnell, illustrated by Ann Kronheimer. The story, which is one of today's world anywhere as well as in Europe in earlier times, is equally applicable now as it was heart-wrenching when Hardy wrote it. But the Real Reads version has terrific, unforgettable illustrations and simplifies the story to its basic, fascinating, sad elements of epic love, so you cannot forget the important details, and anyone will learn from the story the horrors and joys, foibles and grief of prejudice applied to love. It is a great tale you will remember forever.

Her new employer, Alec d'Urberville, seems charming and kind. Tess has a mind of her own, but she is vulnerable and alone among strangers. Can she trust Alec? A year later Tess meets Angel Clare, and they fall in love. If Angel discovers the truth about Tess's past, will he still love her? In this gripping story of courage, love and betrayal, Thomas Hardy asks many difficult questions. Are the expectations of women and men the same? Can we ever escape the consequences of our past actions? How much pain can one person live with?