Acclaimed by many as the world's greatest novel, Anna Karenina provides a vast panorama of contemporary life in Russia and of humanity in general. In it Tolstoy uses his intense imaginative insight to create some of the most memorable characters in all of literature. Anna is a sophisticated woman who abandons her empty existence as the wife of Karenin and turns to Count Vronsky to fulfil her passionate nature - with tragic consequences. Levin is a reflection of Tolstoy himself, often expressing the author's own views and convictions.
A Russian novelist and philosopher, widely regarded as one of the greatest authors of all time. His monumental works, War and Peace and Anna Karenina, are celebrated for their epic scope, psychological realism, and profound insights into human nature, society, and morality. Tolstoy's later writings explored Christian anarchist and non-violent resistance philosophies, profoundly influencing political thought. His masterful storytelling and deep philosophical inquiries solidified his enduring legacy in world literature.
by Leo Tolstoy
At a glittering society party in St Petersburg in 1805, conversations are dominated by the prospect of war. Terror swiftly engulfs the country as Napoleon's army marches on Russia, and the lives of three young people are changed forever. The stories of quixotic Pierre, cynical Andrey and impetuous Natasha interweave with a huge cast, from aristocrats and peasants, to soldiers and Napoleon himself. In War and Peace (1868-9), Tolstoy entwines grand themes - conflict and love, birth and death, free will and fate - with unforgettable scenes of nineteenth-century Russia, to create a magnificent epic of human life in all its imperfection and grandeur.
Set in the rich farmland of the Salinas Valley, California, this powerful, often brutal novel, follows the interwined destinies of two families - the Trasks and the Hamiltons - whose generations hopelessly re-enact the fall of Adam and Eve and the poisonous rivalry of Cain and Abel. Here Steinbeck created some of his most memorable characters and explored his most enduring themes- the mystery of indentity; the inexplicability of love, and the murderous consequences of love's absence.
Set in the decadent summer of 1922, this masterpiece follows mysterious millionaire Jay Gatsby's obsessive pursuit of his former love, Daisy Buchanan. Through the eyes of narrator Nick Carraway, the story unfolds in a world of lavish parties and empty morality, exploring themes of wealth, love, and the corruption of the American Dream. As Gatsby's facade crumbles, the novel reveals the hollow heart of the Jazz Age.
by Yaa Gyasi
Spanning 300 years and two continents, Homegoing traces the divergent fates of two half-sisters—one sold into slavery, the other married to a British colonizer. Each chapter follows a descendant, capturing the rippling effects of slavery, racism, and resilience through generations. Gyasi’s powerful debut is an ambitious, emotionally rich exploration of identity, heritage, and the enduring scars of history.
by Jane Austen
This beloved classic follows the spirited Elizabeth Bennet as she navigates love, marriage, and social status in Georgian-era England. When the wealthy and proud Mr. Darcy enters her life, their mutual prejudices create a complex dance of misunderstanding and growth. Through razor-sharp wit and social commentary, Austen crafts a timeless romance while critiquing class, marriage, and gender roles in 19th-century society.