The Tolstoy Library

In which the tender and complicated affection of childhood is quietly unveiled through the narrator’s admiration for the bold and charismatic Seriosha Iwin, whose presence both enchants and intimidate...

28 Feb 14min

In which the household is transformed by diligent preparations for an evening fête, as the arrival of guests brings a mixture of youthful charm and social awkwardness into the familiar rooms. Among th...

28 Feb 8min

In which a stately and venerable prince, marked by both distinction and a kindly disposition, visits Grandmamma and engages in thoughtful discourse about family and the varying fortunes of those withi...

27 Feb 8min

In which a visit from the spirited and somewhat disagreeable Princess Kornakoff reveals contrasting views on child-rearing and the delicate sensibilities of youth within the drawing-room of an old fam...

27 Feb 7min

In which a child, inspired by a desire to honour his Grandmamma, embarks on the earnest task of composing verses for her name-day, wrestling with the peculiar challenges of rhyme and sentiment. Yet, a...

26 Feb 11min

In which the tender recollections of childhood are gently unfolded through the loving presence of a mother and the innocent soul of a young child, wrapped in dreams and prayers filled with hope and af...

26 Feb 6min

In which a family prepares to depart their home amid the bustling activity of servants and animals, with the narrator quietly observing the tender and sorrowful farewells that are given and received. ...

25 Feb 10min

In which the faithful Natalia Savishna emerges as a figure of devoted care and self-sacrifice, her life entwined with the fortunes of her young charge amidst the strictures of serfdom, embodying stead...

25 Feb 8min