The author seems to invite us to _____ with the tragic characters of his book.

The correct answer is: commiserate

Connive: To secretly plot or cooperate for a deceitful purpose. Not suitable as it implies involvement in the characters' misfortunes.

Ridicule: To mock or make fun of someone or something. Inappropriate as the author likely wants readers to empathize with the characters, not mock them.

Commiserate: To express sympathy or pity for someone experiencing hardship. This aligns with the idea that the author wants readers to empathize with the tragic characters.

Contemplate: To think deeply or consider carefully. While contemplating may be part of the reading experience, it doesn't capture the emotional connection or invitation to empathize conveyed by the author.