Famous Works Translated (Illustrated Edition) -- The Adventures of Tom Sawyer

Author: Mark Twain (USA)
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Features: The Adventures of Tom Sawyer draws its material from the social life in the United States before the Civil War and reflects the author's memories of his childhood. Through the eyes of a child, the work observes the reality around and exposes the, dull, and rigid life of the Southern United States in the 1850s and 1860s. It delivers merciless satire and critique against the deformed education system, the hypocrisy and absurdity of religion, as well as the greed and folly of petty bourgeoisie. Through Tom's words, the author expresses: "I would rather be a rough hero in Sherwood Forest for a year than be a U.S. President for a lifetime," reflecting his extreme aversion to and stagnant social life and his yearning for a world of freedom and ideals. The growth of a child from adolescence to adulthood progresses throughout the book's plot, "with childish behavior decreasing and adult actions increasing."
Taking the story of Tom and Becky as an example, from the beginning where the two children are reckless and moody to when Tom shows a sense of chivalry and takes the blame for Becky, to his later constant support and protection of her in the cave. Following the thread of Tom and Muff Potter, the story starts with children being driven by superstition to the cemetery, then Tom defies superstition, and ultimately he bravely testifies for Potter. As for the events on Jackson Island, it begins with Tom fleeing his Aunt Polly in rebellion and ends with him being so deeply grieved for his aunt that he worries about her. The complete change in his mindset between the beginning and the end demonstrates his maturation.
In the subsequent series of events involving the Indian Joe, it starts with the children searching for hidden treasure and ends with Tom demonstrating great manliness in the cave while protecting Becky, and Huck overcoming his deep fear to save the widow.