Tolstoy

Simon Vance is perfectly matched to this classic fiction by one of history's greatest writers. Vance's sensitive and lively performance preserves all of Tolstoy's wry humor and insight into human nature, as well as the breadth and sparkle of these spiritually uplifting, inspiring tales. Though these pieces are meant to instruct, they also maintain full color and presence, thanks to Vance's wise and restrained delivery. The timelessness of the stories is brought into stark relief as we are pulled deeply into each nuanced reading. The recording quality is clean, the narration transparent, so that Tolstoy speaks through the reader as if the author himself is present in the room. D.J.B. (c) AudioFile 2006, Portland, Maine


Some of history's finest fiction is brought to riveting life by reader Simon Vance. Brilliantly performed, saturated with real emotional depth, this is an unforgettable listen. Tolstoy on death is a vital addition to any audiobook collection, and these classic tales work both as entertainment and inspiration. Only the hardest heart would fail to be moved by these incisive stories of human dignity and death. Few writers reveal the human soul as well as Tolstoy, and few readers could provide such a worthy voicing of this work. Vance manages to transcend translation and ear to make Tolstoy very current indeed. Worthy of not only listening, but relistening over the years, this refined recording is full of nuance and wisdom, wit and sorrow. D.J.B. Winner of AudioFile Earphones Award (c) AudioFile 2006, Portland, Maine