Rachel G answers “I gave up on this book awhile ago because...”

Cindy asked this question about The Brothers Karamazov:

I gave up on this book awhile ago because I disliked every single character and didn't care to find out what happened to them. I'm thinking about going back to it now because I don't like unfinished books. Will someone tell me if any likable characters show up? I'm not very far in and will probably have to start over (gah), but I need someone to like in this book.

Rachel G I loved Crime and Punishment, which I read in high school, and thought this would be a good second Dostoyesvky read, but I, too, found it insufferable…moreI loved Crime and Punishment, which I read in high school, and thought this would be a good second Dostoyesvky read, but I, too, found it insufferable. Something about it was just too protracted and meandering. I put myself on a timer for an hour a day to read it, thinking, like many other long Russian/classic novels, that this would eventually take off. I finally gave up about 2/3 of the way through, and like you, keep feeling guilty for not finishing it. I even talked a good friend into reading it with me, one who I consider at least as smart, if not smarter, than I am and she gave up even earlier. (less)

flag

More questions about The Brothers Karamazov…

The Brothers Karamazov

by Fyodor Dostoevsky

Rate this book

Clear rating

1 of 5 stars 2 of 5 stars 3 of 5 stars 4 of 5 stars 5 of 5 stars

About Goodreads Q&A

Ask and answer questions about books!

You can pose questions to the Goodreads community with Reader Q&A, or ask your favorite author a question with Ask the Author.

See Featured Authors Answering Questions

Learn more