We've got your back. With the Tough-O-Meter, you'll know whether to bring extra layers or Swiss army knives as you summit the literary mountain. (10 = Toughest)
(6) Tree Line
You might think that this Tough-o-Meter rating is too low for a book published in 1874, but the fact is that Hardy's writing is very, very readable. Not only that, but Far from the Madding Crowd is a totally plot-driven book with lots of twists and turns. And not a moldering old fusty plot, but one that has stayed relevant enough to inspire a 2005 graphic novel (and 2010 film) called Tamara Drewe. You know a plot is interesting when it's still being recycled.
Sure, you might need to have a cup (or two) of coffee to keep yourself alert during some of the bar scenes in which characters talk about nothing important, but on the whole, this is a fast-paced, book. And if you have trouble following what's happening, just read the titles of the chapters—they straight up tell you what's happening.