Thursday, September 6, 2012

North and South by Elizabeth Gaskell


SYNOPSIS:  Margaret Hale returns to her parents after her wealthy cousin and companion is married.  She is happy to return home, but is devastated when her father uproots them and moves to Milton, an industrial town, because he feels he can no longer support the leaders of the church, which is his occupation.  They are thrust into near poverty, and find themselves in a town with different ideals.  Work is valued over education, and wealth is considered more powerful than birthright.  Industry is valued over religion.  Margaret finds herself at odds with a powerful mill owner, John Thornton.  However, as the story progresses, she finds herself drawn to him, as well.

AUNT SHARON'S TAKE:  After Wives and Daughters, I think I expected something different from this novel and was somewhat disappointed.  However, it's a good account of the time period, and is a dramatic, although dark story.

RATING:  PG

AUDIENCE:  Young adult and Adult

STARS:  3

BOOKS LIKE THIS:  Wuthering Heights, Jane Eyre

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