Review: Cranford by Elizabeth Gaskell

Cranford

by Elizabeth Gaskell

In this classic novel, Elizabeth Gaskell introduces us to the small village of Cranford. Largely dominated by lower class women, we read the stories of life in a small impoverished hamlet in Victorian England. Such stories include the women of Cranford entertaining visitors, going about their daily lives, losing dear friends, and losing their life savings. As the women of Cranford endure such things, their neighbors offer all they have to give in order to help their friends.

I really loved this book. I love the Victorian era, and this book gave some insight into what life was like for those Victorians that were not born into royalty. It was a lighter read than books like Jane Eyre and Wuthering Heights. I really liked how the Cranford women were there for one another. When one hit a rough patch, the others were there to help and support her in any way they could. It’s a nice message to read about and one that I think ought to be portrayed more in literature.

This was a wonderful novel. Any fan of classic literature should read Cranford.

I give this book 5 out of 5 stars.