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One book has occupied my free moments this week.
A Gentleman In Moscow, by Amor Towles.
This book received rave reviews from a few people whose book opinions I really trust. It did not fail to disappoint, though I suppose it’s only fair to admit that I was almost ready to give up on page 50 (the book has 480 pages or something crazy like that). It felt really wordy and slow and had a ton of Russian history, which (I’m sad to admit) I know almost nothing about. I felt more than a little out of my element as I read.
But really, isn’t that why we read? To be taken to new places and times and cultures and shown glimpses of humanity we haven’t previously experienced? I kept reading, which was totally the right decision.
I feel it’s a gross understatement to say I loved the main character in this book (the Count), because it’s impossible to read this book and NOT love him. I’ve spent some time trying to put into words what it is about him that is so lovely and I think another character said it best when she described the Count as “a man inclined to see the best in all of us.” Kind. Relatable. Friendly. Comforting. I want to be a person like that, but so often I’m not. And that’s probably why I loved this book. Here’s to books that inspire us to be what the world needs more of.
What are you reading this week?
I love Russian History! I just put a hold on this ebook at my library 😊
Oh awesome! You will love it. 🙂