THE GO-BETWEEN - L.P. Hartley (Penguin Modern Classics)

"The Go-Between" is a novel by L.P. Hartley, first published in 1953. It's considered a classic of 20th-century English literature and is best known for its famous opening line: "The past is a foreign country: they do things differently there."

The story is set in England and revolves around the experiences of Leo Colston, a young boy who spends a summer with a wealthy family at their country estate. During this summer, Leo becomes a "go-between," delivering messages between Marian Maudsley, the daughter of the estate's owners, and Ted Burgess, a local farmer. The relationship between Marian and Ted is forbidden due to the class differences, and Leo's involvement as a go-between has unintended consequences.

"The Go-Between" is a coming-of-age story with themes of love, loss of innocence, and the complexities of social class. Through Leo's perspective, the novel explores the impact of adult secrets and the tension between societal expectations and individual desires. As Leo learns more about the adults around him and their relationships, he becomes drawn into their world, leading to a tragic outcome that changes his life forever.

The book has been adapted into various formats, including films and plays, demonstrating its lasting appeal and resonance with audiences. If you enjoy classic literature with complex characters, rich descriptions, and a reflective narrative, "The Go-Between" is worth exploring.