Anna Karenina, a Russian lady moving in elite circles, embarks on a self-destructive path after her encounter with the gregarious Count Vronsky. The other main character, wealthy landowner Levin, struggles with his feelings towards women, society and religion.
What I Think
I reluctantly picked up this book (and only did so because I was reading it for my book club), but found myself really enjoying it. Despite its size, a hefty 940 pages, it was mainly a light read with plenty of amusing moments. Set in Russia in the 19th century, Tolstoy depicts a detailed account of the characters and the world they move in. Anna's slow decline in society is mirrored by Levin's gradual success in life.
This year will see a modern screen adaptation of Anna Karenina. The screenplay, written by Tom Stoppard (known for classics as Shakespeare in Love and Empire of the Sun), has apparently chosen a non-traditional route; the main action takes place on a stage. I'm looking forward to seeing the results of this. It is directed by Joe Wright (Atonement and Sense and Sensibility) and stars his favourite leading lady, Keira Knightley, as Anna Karenina, as well as Jude Law and Aaron Taylor-Johnson.
About the Author
Lev Nikolayevich Tolstoy, known as Leo Tolstoy (9th September 1828 - 20th November 1910) was a Russian writer of novels, short stories, plays and essays. His two most famous novels are War and Peace (1869) and Anna Karenina (serialized: 1873-1877).
I read Anna Karenina several years ago because it was one I felt like I "should have read." I ended up really enjoying the story, even though some of the characters are frustratingly flawed at times. What's up next for your book club?
ReplyDeleteYes, I was happy enough as you feel it should be on your 'to read' list and am now very pleased I've got through it. Might even try War & Peace in the future! Next we're reading: Far Eastern Tales by W. Somerset Maugham. You're more than welcome to come if you like? Will send you the details!
DeleteQuite an impressive list of people. Remember reading book many years ago and enjoying it. Am looking forward to the new film.
ReplyDeleteThe film certainly has all the ingredients to be really good! Fingers crossed!!
DeleteI tried reading this a couple years ago in high school and I don't think I got past page 80. I commend you on reading such a doorstopper and reminding me about the film! I'll have to give this one ago sometime in the future.
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-Kimberly @ Turning The Pages
I had tried reading it in the past, but not even got past page 8!! I'm pleased I persevered as it was worth it. If you skim over the slightly boring bits, it's definitely worth a read!!
DeleteThanks for being a new follower - much appreciated! :)
So excited for the film it's unreal! That and your review has definitley interested me in the whopper of a book :)
ReplyDeletehttp://thehouseofliterarymirrors.blogspot.co.uk/
Fingers crossed it'll be good! Don't be put off by the size, the style is very easy to read! :)
DeleteI was surprised by the lightness of this book when I read it too. I saw the film at the weekend (it's already released in the UK) and I'm sorry to say it really disappointed me. It was all style and no substance.
ReplyDeleteOh no!!! How upsetting! I might try it anyway, because I'm curious...
DeleteHello Everybody,
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