* Character Development: Tom Sawyer is a prominent character in *Huckleberry Finn*, and understanding his background, personality, and relationships from *The Adventures of Tom Sawyer* provides valuable context for his interactions with Huck.
* Setting and Themes: Both novels share the same setting, time period, and explore similar themes of childhood, freedom, and societal expectations. Reading *The Adventures of Tom Sawyer* provides a familiar foundation for the reader to delve deeper into these themes in *Huckleberry Finn*.
* Narrative Connection: *Huckleberry Finn* is a direct sequel to *The Adventures of Tom Sawyer*, picking up where the previous novel left off. While the plot is relatively independent, knowing the events of *Tom Sawyer* creates a stronger connection between the two stories.
However, if you're pressed for time or simply don't have the interest, you can still enjoy *The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn* on its own. The novel is a masterpiece in its own right and can be appreciated without prior knowledge of *The Adventures of Tom Sawyer*.
Ultimately, the decision is yours! If you have the time and inclination, reading *The Adventures of Tom Sawyer* first will undoubtedly enrich your experience with *Huckleberry Finn*. However, if you're eager to dive into *Huckleberry Finn* right away, you can certainly do so without feeling lost.