The Moonstone (Penguin Classics)

A delightful read. I love the way Wilkie Collins tells stories and I enjoyed reading the different narratives from the perspectives of various characters. I gave it 4 stars instead of 5 for one main reason. I recently read The Woman in White (another of his books) and it instantly became one of my top 5 favorite books; thus, my bar for this one was set high. I liked it very much but not quite as much as TWIW, therefore it has one less star. That said, I had recently watched a television adaptation of The Moonstone and knew the ending already when I read this one, which also affected my reading experience a bit. I suspect that if I read it again in a year or two, I may rate it higher then. The 2016 BBC adaptation is worth watching; just read the book first to avoid spoiling the ending. :)

someone tell betteredge robinson crusoe isn't the only book

A classic. A wonderful and remarkable read, and completely evident why it's the beginning and standard for mysteries.

The moonstone is one of the oldest written crime books I've read and although there is no real detective work inspite of a detective presence in the book, the book keeps the reader occupied throughout. Most characters recive a basic back story with sufficient character depth. I must admit though that the book might take some time up to finish.

I love the multiple-narrative, thriller gothic novel. This didn't disappoint! (I was horrified by Miss Clack, btw. What an awful woman!!)

The Moonstone is said to be the first published detective novel. It certainly belongs to the best in the genre and deserves its place on the 1001-books list and on Bloom’s Western Canon. As the title suggests, the story is centered around the Moonstone, a valuable yellow diamond. The Moonstone has been taken from its Indian home and brought to England, where it is given to Miss Verinder as a birthday present. Unfortunately the Moonstone is viewed as a holy object in India and thus three Indians attempt to attain the Moonstone - by any means, even murder if necessary. In the night after her birthday party the Moonstone is stolen from Miss Verinder’s rooms. The story is told through different narrators who relate their experiences. This gives the story depth and evolves it in a logical way that keeps the reader riveted. The mystery of who took the stone and where it is now and whether it can be recovered is not easily solved. The story lead me on different wrong paths until the solution was presented. Mystery at its best. I listened to the unabridged audiobook narrated by Robert Langton, which I can also recommend. I’d always listen to another book read by him. He is generally quite a good narrator; although he is not the best at female voices (but there was only one of his voices that I actually disliked).

read for school

What a glorious mid 19th century Victorian 600 page mystery. If you're a fan of Sherlock Holmes, pick up Wilkie!

Wilkie Collins is my favorite author now!

Loved the pacing of the book and the use of different perspectives, very satisfying ending