A review by tienno22
The Brothers Karamazov by Fyodor Dostoevsky

challenging dark emotional funny hopeful inspiring reflective tense fast-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Plot
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? No

5.0

An amazingly nuanced book. Amazingly complex character, and even when you think you hate one Dostoevsky will prove that your preconceived perceptions were wrong. Most importantly, the story of the onion declares how a single simply minor good act (a single drop in the ocean per say) can ripple out and positively affect others. One good act and trigger a ripple affect that saves countless lives. Dostoevsky explores the powerful effects of attention. How seeing someone beyond their surface can be a profound act of goodness and salvation. To be seen is powerful. These characters are incredibly complex. Dostoevsky states the difference between active love and love in dreams. Active love is selfish, not done for the stage or even a dimple thank you. A profound exploration of harsh active love. Beautifully and gracefully, Dostoevsky claims the beauty of life. There is something holy in indulging in the joys of life and that it was not designed for endless suffering (though it may feel that way sometimes).

Profound themes, amazing characters, fast-paced plot, great relevance to life.