Take a photo of a barcode or cover
3.97 AVERAGE
3.97 AVERAGE
I DNF’d “one of the greatest novels of all time.” Perhaps I’ll revisit it at another time- better informed or with a guide. Using old high school techniques in order to be informed enough in time for a book club discussion, I watched one of the movie adaptations. I did find the story to be very interesting and even moving, but the 8% of the novel that I got through was with great difficulty. Was it the translation or the time period of the writing that made it clunky? Is it my inexperience with Russian literature that made me question whether parts were meant to be satirical or serious?
I don't usually review books, but I think that if I took the time to read this large novel, I must have formed an opinion on some aspect. I feel as though I went through this journey as I read this book. I mean, I went through periods where I hated reading it, I mean there were passages that I found unbearable, but I survived. Having said that, there were also passages that I found beautiful. Tolstoy has managed to create vivid pictures of these beautiful people, all while shining the light on how horrible they also can be. Oddly, my two least favourite sections involved Levin, while my two favourite sections also involved him. Overall, this novel is beautiful, but when recommending it to someone I would have to warn them that yes it's true, a long book contains many dry areas. I am definitely glad that I have read this, and one day when I feel adventurous enough, I will venture into some more Tolstoy.
emotional
hopeful
lighthearted
reflective
slow-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
No
Flaws of characters a main focus:
No
A monumental novel that masterfully explores passion, societal pressure, and personal tragedy. Anna’s struggle for love is both captivating and devastating. With profound character depth and sharp observations of Russian society, Tolstoy has crafted a true masterpiece.
challenging
emotional
reflective
sad
slow-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Character
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Complicated
Diverse cast of characters:
No
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
slow-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Loveable characters:
No
challenging
dark
emotional
reflective
sad
tense
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Character
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Complicated
Diverse cast of characters:
N/A
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Complicated
challenging
emotional
inspiring
slow-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Character
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Complicated
Diverse cast of characters:
No
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
This book took me around a year to finish 🫣. However, I’m still glad that I did, because Anna Karenina is a classic that, if you’re into classics, is a must-read. Even though the story is not the most captivating, it is still enjoyable and really gives a great look into 19th century’s Russia’s views and interests. The main problem, for me, was the complexity . Tolstoy describes the story really thoroughly and adds a great deal of details and characters without a proper introduction. At some points (especially Levin’s farming chapters 🫠🫠🫠), these details make the story dreadful. However, I think that’s also what gives the book its charm. The reader gets a bird’s-eye view into the life of Tolstoy’s characters.