Don Quixote

by Cervantes

This classic has been repeatedly hailed as both the first and best novel of all time. As the reader follows the naive knight errant, such critics are obviously true. This book is as exquisite as all the critics make it out to be. Having been interpreted as a comedy, drama, and tragedy, this book has elements of all three.

In the first half of the book, we are introduced to what is perhaps the most naive character in all of fiction. Our hero is an old man who finds great pleasure and satisfaction in the actions of knights. He nearly gets himself killed yet remains a parody of living out his dreams despite what normal people tell him.

Once the second half ensues, the lightheartedness of the beginning has left and all that remains is an image that cries out for the reader's sympathy. The people around him seem to be more anxious to pursue adventures than Don Quixote himself, yet this fall from innocence keeps the reader drawn in until the final demise of our beloved main character.

Despite the drastic transformation we see in Don Quixote, the journey is amazing and vivid in every twist and turn.

Verdict: Read