TOM JONES, by Henry Fielding in 1749, is considered by many people to be one of the best novels in the English langauge. For me, it's a great story that deserves to be read!

Poor Tom is adopted by a wealthy man who finds the orphan child in his home one night, after coming home from a business trip. Tom grows up and almost becomes one of the family -- his adoptive aunt and cousin live there, too. Tom quickly outshines his less-talented cousin as they grow up and Tom eventaully and sets his sights on marrying the lovely girl in the neighboring mansion.

But word gets out about Tom's lowly birth and adventure ensues as both he and his true love away from home -- separately. Is Tom a lowly cad who will sleep with just about any woman, or is he an innocent victim in all this? Are his charms and talents simply irrestible to all women??

This book is not appropriate for children, since there are a few adult situations. Everything is tastefully explained, but there is one section where it appears that Tom may have been seduced by the woman who is his mother! As it turns out, she is NOT his mother -- but it makes for some interesting reading.

It's fun to read about all the country inns where Tom stays on his journey and to meet the colorful characters that were around in England at the time. TOM JONES is a fascinating slice of history and a very entertaining story. In the end, Tom's goodness of heart ensures a "happily ever after" that will make the reader smile with contentment.

FYI -- This story was made into a film in 1963. It won 4 Oscars including "Best Picture" and "Best Director".