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)
(4) Base Camp
We're dealing with two stories, one set in 1916 and told by one narrator and the other set in 1861 and told by a different narrator. For the most part, though, the stories stay out of each other's way—there's no switching back and forth, for example—but it might take a minute to adjust to each part of the book.
Additionally, Tilly's story is written in mid-19th century rural dialect, which may take some getting used to. Once we figure out when and where we are, though, along with who is speaking, we're rolling down the river like a steamboat—slowly and with a few pauses, but it's generally smooth sailing.