Elizabeth Gaskell's North and South follows Margaret Hale, who moves from rural southern England to industrial Manchester, where she clashes with mill owner John Thornton over workers' rights and social responsibility. Through their evolving relationship and Margaret's education about industrial life, Gaskell explores class conflict, labor relations, and the human cost of industrialization. The novel becomes both social commentary and romance, proving that Gaskell understood industrial England's complexities and that some love stories require mutual growth and understanding.

WHY WE PICKED IT: Because Gaskell wrote the Victorian novel that takes workers' rights seriously, creating a heroine who challenges both southern prejudice and northern capitalism. This classic reminds us that Margaret and Thornton's arguments are as important as their attraction, that Gaskell's sympathy extends to workers and owners, and that industrial novels can be romantic.

DETAILS: • Author: Elizabeth Gaskell • Publisher: Penguin Classics • Format: Paperback • Publication Date: June 1, 1996 • ISBN: 9780140434248 • Edition: Revised • Ships direct from distributor in 3–7 business days