Les Miserables is probably one of the most enduring stories of all time because Hugo touches on things that are common to every human in every era: poverty, sacrifice, and faith. It is a long book, and (if you have the unabridged version) there are times it can be slow. However, if you choose the abridged version you can avoid all the chapters that refer to the political situations of Hugo\\\\\\\'s time. It\\\\\\\'s my advice that, abridged or unabridged, you give this novel a chance because it is worth the effort.