War and PeaceRecommendations
About the book
"War and Peace" by Leo Tolstoy is a monumental work that delves into the complexities of human life, society, and history. Set against the backdrop of the Napoleonic Wars, this epic novel weaves together the lives of several characters, each grappling with their own struggles and aspirations. Tolstoy’s profound insights into love, duty, and the impact of war make this book not just a historical narrative, but a reflection on the human condition. Reading "War and Peace" is an invitation to explore deep philosophical questions and to understand the intricate web of relationships that define our lives. It's a timeless exploration that resonates with readers seeking both entertainment and enlightenment.The recommendations for "War and Peace" come from a diverse group of influential figures, including activists, authors, and historical figures. Notable names like Mahatma Gandhi and Martin Luther King Jr. suggest that the book speaks to those who are engaged in social justice and change. Additionally, voices from the arts, such as actors and filmmakers, indicate its cultural significance. This eclectic mix of recommendations highlights the book's appeal across different spheres—intellectual, artistic, and political—demonstrating its lasting impact and relevance to various audiences.
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, 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.
For more than seventy years, Penguin has been the leading publisher of classic literature in the English-speaking world. With more than 1,700 titles, Penguin Classics represents a global bookshelf of the best works throughout history and across genres and disciplines. Readers trust the series to provide authoritative texts enhanced by introductions and notes by distinguished scholars and contemporary authors, as well as up-to-date translations by award-winning translators.
People recommending War and Peace
What readers say about ‘War and Peace’
Christopher Hitchens on War and Peace
"At the age of twelve I had summoned the nerve to borrow from the headmaster, and to read [this book]."
Jordan Peterson on War and Peace
Recommended on Jordan Peterson's website.
Larry King on War and Peace
Larry King mentioned this book on "The Tim Ferriss Show" podcast.