Reviews

Fifty-Two Stories by Larissa Volokhonsky, Richard Pevear, Anton Chekhov

jonathanlibrarian's review against another edition

emotional funny reflective slow-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Strong character development? No
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes

4.0

Some great stories. Some forgettable. 

n_rida's review

funny lighthearted relaxing medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes

4.5

readsbyw's review against another edition

challenging slow-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Plot
• Strong character development? N/A
• Loveable characters? N/A
• Diverse cast of characters? N/A
• Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

3.0

sarapalooza's review against another edition

5.0

Chekhov. The master of observation, of empathy, of weaving tapestries of characters’ lives. This compilation of his works was wonderful. Some “deep cuts” that aren’t often included in English editions.

I’m such a fan of his writing, its range and depth. Fully wholeheartedly recommend.

papa_egg's review against another edition

funny reflective fast-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.5

Fantastic stories - Chekhov is so good at capturing the underlying tumult of being a person, and how much our life is shaped by small, completely random moments which can shape us slowly or change us completely in an instance. 

wallsc's review against another edition

emotional funny lighthearted reflective sad slow-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Strong character development? It's complicated
• Loveable characters? It's complicated
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? N/A

4.0

Explores the dark sorrow and humour of 19th century life. I enjoyed the lighthearted and farcical commentary on power and prestige. 

biiancaco's review against another edition

adventurous emotional funny hopeful informative inspiring lighthearted reflective relaxing sad medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

4.5

itismebruna's review against another edition

lighthearted reflective medium-paced

4.5

darwin8u's review

5.0

Nearly perfect. Seriously. Love P&V. And Chekhov is a master. I've nibbled on his stories here and there, but have never devoted so much bandwidth JUST to Chekhov. I think I was saving him for the Rona. He is both a mirror and a diamond. He reflects humanity and dazzles us with his style and simplicity.

I'd write more, but I don't want to give the stories away OR try to give answers to the hows, whys, etc., without a clue. If you've read him, read more. If you haven't start now. If you need a place to start, P&V's translation is pretty damn good.