I got this handsome Barnes and Noble Collector's Library edition hardcover (complete with gilt edges and a ribbon bookmark) from the charity-sale shelves at a local Hannaford's, and as I love the story I was glad of another release copy.

I've read and enjoyed the book many times over the years. (I've also seen several of the film adaptations; the 1945 film is a favorite of mine.) The story is, of course, a classic - a tale of "be careful what you wish for", among other things. An incredibly beautiful and unspoiled young man is given some eye-opening hints by a bored aristocrat who wants to see what he can make of this beauty, and Dorian promptly exceeds his every expectation - with the help of a very special painting...

In my most recent re-reading of the book I was struck by a couple of things - first, I didn't have as much sympathy for Dorian as I did the first time or two that I read the book, as he seemed to give in to temptation far too easily. Second, there are some long descriptive passages about Dorian's explorations into the life of the senses, involving page after page of descriptions of jewels, costumes, paintings... I found these dull the first time I read the book, and now I find I can practically swim in them. Interesting... It's also interesting to me that Lord Henry's first step in influencing Dorian is to give him... a book!

[The "Unshelved" web-strip has a weekly book-club feature; here's their Dorian Gray strip! And the TV Tropes page may be of interest - but beware of spoilers...]

I left this book in the Little Free Library at around 3; hope the finder enjoys it! (I was pleased to find that this is among the few local LFLs that isn't completely obstructed by snow...)

*** Released as part of the 2015 Movie release challenge. ***