Book Review: Wives and Daughters by Elizabeth Gaskell

Title: Wives and Daughters
Author: Elizabeth Gaskell
Publisher: Wordsworth Classics
Publication Date: 1999 (1865)
Pages: 596
Format: Paperback
Genre: Classics
Source: Gift

  

Gaskell's last novel, widely considered her masterpiece, follows the fortunes of two families in nineteeth century rural England. At its core are family relationships - father, daughter and stepmother, father and sons, father and step-daughter - all tested and strained by the romantic entanglements that ensue.

Despite its underlying seriousness, the prevailing tone is one of comedy. Gaskell vividly portrays the world of the late 1820's and the forces of change within it, and her vision is always humane and progressive. (Goodreads Synopsis)


Earlier this year I watched a TV adaptation of Wives and Daughters and realised I'd never read the book. One of the best things about this read was seeing how closely the TV version followed the original text. The plot is engaging and the characters ensnare your interest right from the start. A wonderful classic that beautifully stands the test of time. North and South is still my favourite of Gaskell's works, but Wives and Daughters comes in a close second.