Though I do not absolutely love the book but it is a must-read for classic literature lovers (although it is not for all tastes) and it is certainly a unique and interesting read. I was amazed with the book's explicitness and boldness (at all levels: violence as well as sexual as well as political as well as ethnic)....Voltaire has managed to offend everyone .....from prudes to Christians to Muslims to Europeans....and imagine all of this almost 250 years ago. How did he got away with it.....? Anyways I was also able to read the lesser known second part of this book. And I suggest all of you Candide lovers to find that part II and read it as it further fleshes the poor Candide's philosophy and there are some really astonishing character developments (which I will not tell and you people should find for yourself). Only quibble: this second part is a bit less funny/ironic and consequently less interesting.