Leo Tolstoy is one of the greatest Russian writers, best known for his monumental novels War and Peace and Anna Karenina. His works are celebrated for their deep psychological analysis, moral dilemmas, and detailed depictions of Russian society. Tolstoy’s writing blends realism with philosophical insights, examining the relationships between individuals and society while questioning traditional values. His style is precise, detailed, and epic, focusing on the inner lives of his characters. Tolstoy is regarded as a master of psychological realism, and his works continue to influence both literature and philosophy.
A New Translation by Rosamund Bartlett, English Edition
One of the greatest novels ever written, Anna Karenina is the story of a beautiful woman whose passionate love for a handsome officer sweeps aside all other ties. This major translation conveys Tolstoy's precision of meaning and emotional accuracy in an English version that is highly readable and stylistically faithful.
One of Penguin Classics's most popular translations- now also in our elegant black spine dress
Written over a period of more than half a century, Leo Tolstoy’s stories reflect every aspect of his art and personality. They cover his experiences as a soldier in the Caucasus, his married life, his passionate interest in the peasantry, his cult of truth and simplicity, and his growing preoccupation with religion. The stories in Volume 1 of the Collected Shorter Fiction date from the period in which the young Tolstoy wrote Anna Karenina and War and Peace. Ranging from brief, masterfully sketches of military life such as “The Wood-Felling” to novellas like Family Happiness, an uneasy imagining of the idyllic possibilities of marriage by the not-yet-married writer, all feature Tolstoy’s characteristically lavish deployment of detail, shrewd observation, and imaginative power.
Malashka and Akulka, two little girls, are playing together happily when they get into a disagreement... and before you know it, the entire village is involved! This adapted classic about conflict and resolution is printed with Tara Books' vintage letterpress.
The novel intricately weaves the lives of five families against the backdrop of the Napoleonic Wars, exploring the profound impact of conflict on personal and societal levels. Tolstoy presents a vast array of characters, including historical figures, while delving into themes of love, loss, and resilience. In the epilogues, he offers a reflective philosophy on history, challenging the notion of the Great Man Theory and emphasizing the significance of small events in shaping the past. Celebrated for its depth and scope, this epic work remains a pivotal piece of world literature.
The narrative follows Efim and Elisha, two elderly men determined to embark on a pilgrimage to Jerusalem before their lives end. After extensive preparation, they set off on their journey but soon encounter a seemingly abandoned village. Their exploration leads them to a dark hut, where they uncover unexpected truths about life and humanity. The story delves into themes of faith, companionship, and the quest for meaning, highlighting the transformative experiences that arise from their pilgrimage.
Exploring themes of faith and morality, this collection features religious tales and parables by Leo Tolstoy, a literary giant known for his profound insights. Among the stories is "Walk in the Light While Ye Have Light," which narrates Pamphylius's conversion from paganism to Christianity. Other notable tales include "God Sees the Truth, but Waits" and "What Men Live By." This anthology showcases Tolstoy's ability to blend spiritual awakening with rich storytelling, solidifying his status as a master of both fiction and moral philosophy.
Focusing on the transition from adolescence to adulthood, the novel explores Nikolenka's experiences as he navigates friendship, love, and personal growth while preparing for university. Through his relationship with Dmitri and the emotional challenges he faces, readers witness his awakening to complex feelings and moral revelations. This semi-autobiographical work captures the essence of youth, nostalgia, and the bittersweet nature of memories, showcasing Tolstoy's emerging literary prowess and philosophical depth that would characterize his later masterpieces.