Customer Reviews

Anna Karenina

5 star:		(13)
4 star:		(2)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(1)
1 star:		(2)

 

 

Anna Karenina is the most believable and empathetic female character ever created. Tolstoy, as always, creates a complicated world of many different seductive love stories and life-stories, all of which are woven beautifully together through Anna's eyes.

The plot of _Anna Karenina_ is one that remains remarkably current, even in our changing world and distinct culture (from that of Tolstoy's turn-of-the-century Russia). More than just a classic tale though, Anna is a classic character- one whom every woman can identify with on some level. Tolstoy is a genius for being able to appropriate the minds of so many diverse characters to make everyone involved so life-like and charming.

_Anna Karenina_ is a book that must be read again and again. It is a book which will mean more and more to the reader throughout each stage in his/her life. And finally, it is a book which will never fail to entertain and move even the most jaded reader.

This review is for this version of the book, NOT the novel. This translator uses sentences which do not make a whole lot of sense. I was completely frustated when I had to re-read several sentences many times just to grasp what he was saying. I prefer the Penguin Classics version, translated by Pevear and Volokhonsky.

I was pleasantly surprised when I read this book. I set myself the task as one of those "must read when I have the time" classics. The novel is very warm. The characters are so wonderful and human without being necessarily good or bad. The gentle and respectful way these characters were presented made an enormous impression on me. Descriptions of family relations, social relations and even people's innermost feelings seemed very insightful and marvellously put. I realise this was translated from the Russian, but I have rarely read such well written prose, so perfectly crafted. I am glad to just know that such literature exists. It was a real joy to read on so many levels.

I'm not sure what moved me to take on this book as my introduction to Tolstoy, but I'm glad I did. I found the writing (partial credit to the translator) to be rich without being presumptuous. The story development was magnificent, so much more than just plot development; I loved the "background" stories that had little to do with the main plot but which added dimension to the characters. Still, about 2/3 of the way through I became bored, at which point I almost gave up the book. I'm glad I persevered, though - the ending was magnificent. (Side note: as a feminist, it was gratifying to see that the adulterous MAN paid a price for his indiscretion too, in some ways even a dearer price than Anna.)

Tolstoy spins an incredibly passionate tale about living life to the fullest, for better or worse and achieves in not only touching the reader but creating an exciting story. The parallel plots of two loves, one triumphant the other tragic, expose a real understanding character as well as the human need for love. A truly amazing piece!

I truly enjoyed this work. The sheer beauty of the writing and the characterisation make the heart burst with emotions. Do, do take the time to read this work. You will not regret it and you will be changed!

Words cannot describe Tolstoy's brilliance in creating this wonderful novel. It may take quite a while to read, but it is worth every minute! In fact, I had never felt sad at the end of a book or wished it would continue forever until I read Anna Karenina -- I wanted to cry when I finished the last page! I would recommend it to anyone who is willing to take a challenge and read a lengthy, yet fulfilling work. It is truly a masterpiece in every manner.

Absolutely enjoyed every moment of reading Anna Karenina; trying to get back into the classics can sometimes be a challenge, especially when some move like molasses. This isn't one of those slow-moving, esoteric novels...definitely famous for a reason.

most authors when writing a fiction focus on one main character: Tolstoy, in "Anna Karenina", gives you a panoramic view of society, you see the inside thoughts and motives behind every main character, as well as every minor character, with such simplicity. You are given a thorough description of every scene, every conversation... and yet it's done with such skill that it is easily noted and understood.

It is a lengthy book, but one separated by micro-chapters, the longest lasting a mere 10 pages. The average chapter is around 4 to 5 pages.
It's a great book to read if you don't have much time to read, as you can read a whole chapter in a matter of minutes.

It is a book that still applies to today's society... you can see yourself as one of the many characters, they seem to have so much in common with who we are, or, as your life changes, who you are to be.
I have read this book easily a dozen times and each time I come away with something different. Every time, certainly, I feel like I am learning more about the very nature of people: and the nature of myself. The purpose of this life.

Very worth the read. The best book in all history in my opinion. I am sure many would agree with me. a masterpiece. unparalleled in any other work.

Anna Karenina will always occupy a special place in my heart as the best ever book I ever went through. Thank you