Nothing But Reading Challenges discussion
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A Gentleman in Moscow by Amor Towles (Anything Goes BOM); Starts May 12, 2017****REVISIT informal buddy reads starts August 3, 2018
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At NRBC we use a more structured approach to our BOMs. We have a discussion leader and a reading date is set to start the book. A reading schedule is posted prior to the start date and discussion questions are posted each day regarding that section of the book.
More info under spoiler
(view spoiler)
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Date Chapters Pages PPQDs
May 12 June 5, 1922 - An Assembly 1 - 76 Suzanne
May 13 Archeolgies - 1924/Anonymity 77 - 145 Joy
May 14 1926/Adieu - Addendum 146 - 228 Alison
*****BREAK DAY*****
May 16 1938/An Arrival - Addendum 229 - 317 Brittany
May 17 1950/Adagio.. - Achilles Agonoistes 321 - 394 Karen
May 18 Arrivedreci - And Anon 395 - 462 Teddie
(view spoiler)
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Book of the Month
~ Ruby Coin How to Earn:
1 Ruby Coin for half DQ participation 1 Ruby Coin for Writing Disscussion Questions 1 Ruby Coin for completing ALL days DQs within month of BOM startExample of ways to Earn Ruby Coins: (view spoiler)
Learn about Gem coins here
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Writing a day's worth of discussion questions = 40 points
Participating in a current BOM (participating in discussion) = 20 points
NOTE: We will accept one team member per book per team for writing a days DQs. If, by three days prior to the BOM starting, we don't have enough volunteers to write all DQs, then we will let more than one team member per team write questions. If we have more people than days sign up (prior to 3 days before start date) we will randomise the volunteers to determine those who can write
just bought this book in town. the UK cover is so pretty I had to take a picture and text it to my friends. I'm an adult. anyway I'll join the BOM and answer questions for Return of the Jedi team point too. I don't want to ask the questions cos I'm never done it and I'm frightened I'll muck it up
I'd be happy to write daily questions (Team Palpatine). Tori - you are right - the UK cover is beautiful!
I would be happy to write DQ for team Return of the Jedi
I'd like to write daily questions for Team K-2SO.
Yay.. I can't believe my nomination actually won. That has got to be a first. I suppose that means I should really participate :D and I'll volunteer to write DQ's (Team Rogue One)
Yay! I have an excuse to read this one! I'll do DQ if there is room.
I volunteer for writing DQs for Team Count Dooku.
megan wrote: "Yay! I have an excuse to read this one! I'll do DQ if there is room."Cheers Megan! That is awesome, team C2-B5 thanks you. 8-)
Team Millennium Falcon - I can do DQs.
Team Attack of the Clones, I could write DQs if needed and participate
Team Luke Skywalker
I'll participate in a discussion! I just picked up my copy and i'm very excited to get into it!
team X-Wing by the way..oy! haven't even started and already messing it up hahaha
Could I do DQ's please Team X wing
Signs me up for DQ's!Team Empire Strikes Back
I will volunteer for DQs if you still need people. Team The Force Awakens.
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Team Luke Skywalker"
teehee
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lol not at all
Did you want to volunteer for writing DQs also?
Moderators of NBRC wrote: "Chales wrote: "team X-Wing by the way..oy! haven't even started and already messing it up hahaha"lol not at all
Did you want to volunteer for writing DQs also?"
hmm i'm not sure i understand how! it seems a daunting task to me..
I would like to participate in the discussion by way of participating in all days of DQ.Team : Empire Strikes Back (TT V)
I'd like to volunteer to write DQs for the team Phantom Menace.
I just picked this book up from the library, so I think I'll join in on this discussion :) Already have a DQ volunteer from my team (Millennium Falcon), but I wouldn't mind being a back up!
Please sign me up for DQ volunteers.Team Darth Vader
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There were 15 volunteer requests to write DQs, and several back-up team members/volunteers. Those 15 volunteers were put in a randomizer to determine who would be writing DQs. The results from the randomizer are shown under the spoiler. The top 6 were chosen to write the DQs.
Glad to see the reading schedule is up! Thanks!
Moderators of NBRC wrote: "Brittany wrote: "What are the 15 items?"There were 15 volunteer requests to write DQs, and several back-up team members/volunteers. Those 15 volunteers were put in a randomizer to determine who w..."
Oh ok awesome! I was wondering if we were needing to find words in the book related to the group names haha
Mod
Christine is on holidays and unable to do DQs on the 16th. Seeing that you were next on the list, we have allocated you in her place. Please yell out if that doesn't work!
Day 1 Discussion QuestionsSection: June 5, 1922 - An Assembly pages: 1 - 76
1. Do you have much previous knowledge of Russian history and politics in the early 1900s? How does that affect how you feel at the start of the book?
(Note: Wikipedia states there was a Russian civil war in 1917 followed immediately by a Revolution from 1917 to October 1922 - which is the year our book starts.)
2. I got a bit of a "Little Princess" vibe when the count was banished to the attic of the hotel. And there is a great section on saying goodbye to people vs. saying goodbye to possessions. "We carry them from place to place, often at considerable expense and inconvenience;...all the while allowing memories to invest them with greater and greater importance....But, of course, a thing is just a thing." What do you think of the possessions he elected to take with him to the attic? If you were in a similar situation, what is one thing you would for sure take with you?
3. What do you think about the Count and his reading habits? Specifically - how he is struggling with the Essays and how he likes to tilt back his chair. Can you relate to either or both of those?
4. The Count has to decide how he will handle his confinement. He thinks of favorite literary characters, and finally decides he will commit to practicalities. What do you think that means, and is there anything he does in this early stage that you particularly admire?
5. Why do you think it is called "A Gentleman in Moscow" instead of "A Count in Moscow"? Just because it sounds better, or do you think there is a reason? Do you find him an appealing character so far?
6. Nina (the little girl in yellow) seems to be an important distraction. What is your impression of her so far? Do you think she will be an important character?
Day 1 Discussion QuestionsSection: June 5, 1922 - An Assembly pages: 1 - 76
1. Do you have much previous knowledge of Russian history and politics in the early 1900s? How does that affect how you feel at the start of the book?
(Note: Wikipedia states there was a Russian civil war in 1917 followed immediately by a Revolution from 1917 to October 1922 - which is the year our book starts.)
I do not know much about Russian history which was one of the reasons I chose to read this book (on the basis of the synopsis).
The transition of St.Petersburg as Kremlin has been beautifully brought out. The aftermath of any political revolution involves stark reality.
2. I got a bit of a "Little Princess" vibe when the count was banished to the attic of the hotel. And there is a great section on saying goodbye to people vs. saying goodbye to possessions. "We carry them from place to place, often at considerable expense and inconvenience;...all the while allowing memories to invest them with greater and greater importance....But, of course, a thing is just a thing." What do you think of the possessions he elected to take with him to the attic? If you were in a similar situation, what is one thing you would for sure take with you?
The Count is able to deal with his changed circumstances and all the things he chose to take to his attic quarters have memories tagged to them of people important to him in his life. If I were in a similar situation, I would definitely elect to take the desk (of course, money is very important despite all changed political situations!)
3. What do you think about the Count and his reading habits? Specifically - how he is struggling with the Essays and how he likes to tilt back his chair. Can you relate to either or both of those?
The first essay he reads is named 'By Diversity we arrive at the Same End' which reflects the then existing circumstances. One's reading depends on what books are available at a given point of time. I could relate to it but I could not imagine myself reading from a titled chair - I am always flat on my back while reading!!hahahaha!
4. The Count has to decide how he will handle his confinement. He thinks of favorite literary characters, and finally decides he will commit to practicalities. What do you think that means, and is there anything he does in this early stage that you particularly admire?
I loved the way he organized his tiny (by comparison to his earlier status in life) living quarters to suit his needs and at the same time away from prying eyes - improvising a study behind his jackets and hanging the portrait of Helena above the bookcase. Just as he contemplates in the book - (view spoiler)
I also admire the way he handles Nina and his willingness to learn from her!
5. Why do you think it is called "A Gentleman in Moscow" instead of "A Count in Moscow"? Just because it sounds better, or do you think there is a reason? Do you find him an appealing character so far?
A Count need not always be a 'gentleman'. By the way the Count conducts himself, 'A Gentleman in Moscow' is more appropriate. Further, the then authorities did not want him to be even addressed as a 'Count' or 'Excellency'.
I find him very appealing so far.
6. Nina (the little girl in yellow) seems to be an important distraction. What is your impression of her so far? Do you think she will be an important character?
Nina tries to make the best out of her circumstances and very self reliant and resilient. While she is very intelligent and resourceful, she has a thirst to learn about things and also has a mind of her own. She does not always agree with the Count's explanations or suggestions and offers her ideas/opinions at a contrary angle! So far, she is an important character as she makes the Count look at life in a different perspective. I have to wait to see if she develops into a more important character in the pages ahead.
Day 1 Discussion Questions1. Do you have much previous knowledge of Russian history and politics in the early 1900s? How does that affect how you feel at the start of the book?
(Note: Wikipedia states there was a Russian civil war in 1917 followed immediately by a Revolution from 1917 to October 1922 - which is the year our book starts.)
I don't have any knowledge of Russian history in the early 1900's. I did feel a little lost in the beginning. The information you provided is much appreciated!
2. I got a bit of a "Little Princess" vibe when the count was banished to the attic of the hotel. And there is a great section on saying goodbye to people vs. saying goodbye to possessions. "We carry them from place to place, often at considerable expense and inconvenience;...all the while allowing memories to invest them with greater and greater importance....But, of course, a thing is just a thing." What do you think of the possessions he elected to take with him to the attic? If you were in a similar situation, what is one thing you would for sure take with you?
I agree his thoughts on saying goodbye to people versus possessions were eloquent. This was likely the moment he fully realized the impact of his situation. Before this he seemed a bit cavalier at his trial. The things he took had sentimental value, I think. Possessions to remind him of his family members. I did find it funny that he had to get rid of some of his things because his room was too small. I can definitely relate to this. I could not tolerate a cluttered space.
My one thing would not be so sentimental but practical. I would take my iPad. Don't know what I'd do without it! LOL
3. What do you think about the Count and his reading habits? Specifically - how he is struggling with the Essays and how he likes to tilt back his chair. Can you relate to either or both of those?
I think we all have our preferred ways of reading. I like relaxing on my couch with a cup of tea. As far as his struggle with the book of essays, after hearing some of the passages, I would find it too difficult to get through myself! LOL Seriously, though, being in the right mindset is key to enjoying different types of books. I read a variety of genres for this reason. Sometimes I want something light or sometimes a little more serious.
4. The Count has to decide how he will handle his confinement. He thinks of favorite literary characters, and finally decides he will commit to practicalities. What do you think that means, and is there anything he does in this early stage that you particularly admire?
He is trying to make his circumstances a little more bearable, I think. Sometimes little luxuries can make a situation better. For me, I'd buy some Godiva chocolates. :) I don't think this will work in the long haul. We need more than luxuries to live a fulfilling life.
5. Why do you think it is called "A Gentleman in Moscow" instead of "A Count in Moscow"? Just because it sounds better, or do you think there is a reason? Do you find him an appealing character so far?
I am not sure. I know the titles of books are very important, so there is likely a good reason. I will be interested in what others have to say!
I am still on the fence with my feelings for the Count. So far he just seems like an aristocrat without purpose. I usually have trouble connecting with stories about the rich and privileged.
6. Nina (the little girl in yellow) seems to be an important distraction. What is your impression of her so far? Do you think she will be an important character?
I hope she will continue to be part of the story. I enjoy the interaction between the girl and the Count. Humorous and charming. I think she will be good for the Count.
Viji wrote: "Day 1 Discussion QuestionsSection: June 5, 1922 - An Assembly pages: 1 - 76
1. Do you have much previous knowledge of Russian history and politics in the early 1900s? How does that affect how you..."
Your answer for 5 was enlightening. The title does reflect the changing times. When titles are to be abandoned.
Day 1 Discussion QuestionsSection: June 5, 1922 - An Assembly pages: 1 - 76
1. Do you have much previous knowledge of Russian history and politics in the early 1900s? How does that affect how you feel at the start of the book?
I felt a little lost at the start of the book, but one of the reasons I wanted to read it is to learn more. I kind of feel like it's assumed we know about the revolution already and that aristocrats lack power. And all I know is from Anastasia!
2. I got a bit of a "Little Princess" vibe when the count was banished to the attic of the hotel. And there is a great section on saying goodbye to people vs. saying goodbye to possessions. "We carry them from place to place, often at considerable expense and inconvenience;...all the while allowing memories to invest them with greater and greater importance....But, of course, a thing is just a thing." What do you think of the possessions he elected to take with him to the attic? If you were in a similar situation, what is one thing you would for sure take with you?
I did get a thrill when he said "all the books!" I'd want plenty of books, and boy these days I'd want my computer (and internet access)
3. What do you think about the Count and his reading habits? Specifically - how he is struggling with the Essays and how he likes to tilt back his chair. Can you relate to either or both of those?
I thought this part was funny - I loved how he made deals with himself like "I won't look up til I've finished Essay 16. I have totally done that. I also loved how he went back to reading and couldn't remember anything til he went back several pages - I've also done that!
4. The Count has to decide how he will handle his confinement. He thinks of favorite literary characters, and finally decides he will commit to practicalities. What do you think that means, and is there anything he does in this early stage that you particularly admire?
I liked how he transformed his little space to be welcoming.
5. Why do you think it is called "A Gentleman in Moscow" instead of "A Count in Moscow"? Just because it sounds better, or do you think there is a reason? Do you find him an appealing character so far?
I think some of the insights from above answerers are better than mine. I was thinking maybe it was because of how polite he is - even to the guy who cut of half his mustache.
6. Nina (the little girl in yellow) seems to be an important distraction. What is your impression of her so far? Do you think she will be an important character?
I hope we see lots of Nina - she is feisty! She asks for information then forms her own opinions. I also love how she is taking him in her hotel explorations - I think that is really saving his sanity.
Day 1 Discussion QuestionsSection: June 5, 1922 - An Assembly pages: 1 - 76
1. Do you have much previous knowledge of Russian history and politics in the early 1900s? How does that affect how you feel at the start of the book?
(Note: Wikipedia states there was a Russian civil war in 1917 followed immediately by a Revolution from 1917 to October 1922 - which is the year our book starts.) studied Russian History in school, so I have some background. I stayed at the Metropole in 1968 on a school trip, so I found this read very exciting.
2. I got a bit of a "Little Princess" vibe when the count was banished to the attic of the hotel. And there is a great section on saying goodbye to people vs. saying goodbye to possessions. "We carry them from place to place, often at considerable expense and inconvenience;...all the while allowing memories to invest them with greater and greater importance....But, of course, a thing is just a thing." What do you think of the possessions he elected to take with him to the attic? If you were in a similar situation, what is one thing you would for sure take with you? Having just downsized, I get what he was going through. The difference between what you need and what you think you need is amazing. I'd have taken as many books as possible (view spoiler)
3. What do you think about the Count and his reading habits? Specifically - how he is struggling with the Essays and how he likes to tilt back his chair. Can you relate to either or both of those?I guess we all find a comfortable way to read or think - I know I have my favorite spots.
4. The Count has to decide how he will handle his confinement. He thinks of favorite literary characters, and finally decides he will commit to practicalities. What do you think that means, and is there anything he does in this early stage that you particularly admire? I admired that he faced it with equanimity - no whining.
5. Why do you think it is called "A Gentleman in Moscow" instead of "A Count in Moscow"? Just because it sounds better, or do you think there is a reason? Do you find him an appealing character so far? I think the whole point is that he is a gentleman. They aren't mutually exclusive, but not all counts are gentleman...
6. Nina (the little girl in yellow) seems to be an important distraction. What is your impression of her so far? Do you think she will be an important character? She seems to give him purpose. I'm not sure who is teaching whom.
Day 1 Discussion QuestionsSection: June 5, 1922 - An Assembly pages: 1 - 76
1. Do you have much previous knowledge of Russian history and politics in the early 1900s? How does that affect how you feel at the start of the book?
(Note: Wikipedia states there was a Russian civil war in 1917 followed immediately by a Revolution from 1917 to October 1922 - which is the year our book starts.)
I really don't much about Russian history in any time period besides the basics. I suppose it lets me go into this book with an open mind about politics and such. It does make me eager to look things up, too.
2. I got a bit of a "Little Princess" vibe when the count was banished to the attic of the hotel. And there is a great section on saying goodbye to people vs. saying goodbye to possessions. "We carry them from place to place, often at considerable expense and inconvenience;...all the while allowing memories to invest them with greater and greater importance....But, of course, a thing is just a thing." What do you think of the possessions he elected to take with him to the attic? If you were in a similar situation, what is one thing you would for sure take with you?
I liked the fact that he took as much as was reasonably possible because I would have done the same thing! Also, I think the things he decided to take reflect on who he is. He has an attachment to the past, though he is still capable of living in the present. And there was a practical reason for a few of his choices beyond sentimentality (the desk with it's hidden gold) and he strikes me as a practical man. I would have definitely brought books, though I don't think I would have brought along quite so much furniture. I can make due with the bare minimum.
3. What do you think about the Count and his reading habits? Specifically - how he is struggling with the Essays and how he likes to tilt back his chair. Can you relate to either or both of those?
I'm with him on the essays... they sound dull as heck. I remember vividly forcing my way through some books like that in college. Booooring. I liked his chair tilting quirk. I feel like everyone has a preferred reading posture/place and this was his. I like to have my legs tucked under me in my armchair. I also used to get in trouble all the time as a kid for tilting my chair like that, lol.
4. The Count has to decide how he will handle his confinement. He thinks of favorite literary characters, and finally decides he will commit to practicalities. What do you think that means, and is there anything he does in this early stage that you particularly admire?
I'm not 100% sure what he means by practicalities. I suppose he had planned on filling his days with practical task, like getting his cut or having dinner at a certain time. That seems like it would get tedious fast, though, and he seemed pretty bored before he ran into Nina. I don't think there's one particular thing that he does that I admire, but I must say that I'm liking the Count overall as a person and a character.
5. Why do you think it is called "A Gentleman in Moscow" instead of "A Count in Moscow"? Just because it sounds better, or do you think there is a reason? Do you find him an appealing character so far?
I think because, first and foremost, he is a gentleman. He even agrees to having the staff stop using the customary honorifics. I think the fact that he is a gentleman defines him more than the fact that he is a count. As I said above, I'm really enjoying his character so far.
6. Nina (the little girl in yellow) seems to be an important distraction. What is your impression of her so far? Do you think she will be an important character?
Nina seems very grown up for being all of nine years old! But I think she's important for him. I think he would have gone crazy if she wasn't around to ask him questions and drag him off on adventures. I do think she will be an important character.
Day 1 Discussion QuestionsSection: June 5, 1922 - An Assembly pages: 1 - 76
1. Do you have much previous knowledge of Russian history and politics in the early 1900s? How does that affect how you feel at the start of the book?
(Note: Wikipedia states there was a Russian civil war in 1917 followed immediately by a Revolution from 1917 to October 1922 - which is the year our book starts.)
I hardly know anything about Russian history in this time period.
2. I got a bit of a "Little Princess" vibe when the count was banished to the attic of the hotel. And there is a great section on saying goodbye to people vs. saying goodbye to possessions. "We carry them from place to place, often at considerable expense and inconvenience;...all the while allowing memories to invest them with greater and greater importance....But, of course, a thing is just a thing." What do you think of the possessions he elected to take with him to the attic? If you were in a similar situation, what is one thing you would for sure take with you?
I'm not sure what you mean with the "little princess vibe".
I think he took some impractical objects with him. I guess he is attached to the items and of surrounding himself by beautiful objects he doesn't need. I'd have taken all the books too.
3. What do you think about the Count and his reading habits? Specifically - how he is struggling with the Essays and how he likes to tilt back his chair. Can you relate to either or both of those?
The essays sound so dull. Why does he even keep trying? I'd have given up earlier, even if they would be the only thing I had I still would not read them. It's a silly habit to read on a tilted chair. Maybe it just helps him relax and get into the right mindset to read. It seems to remember him of the past, mainly happy memories of reading to his sister.
I can't really relate to either of them.
4. The Count has to decide how he will handle his confinement. He thinks of favorite literary characters, and finally decides he will commit to practicalities. What do you think that means, and is there anything he does in this early stage that you particularly admire?
I think this are just words. I can't see how he can do as he says, because I'm sure thing will start to turn tedious and boring. Especially since he is confined to the hotel for the rest of his days.
I'm not really admiring him. If I have to name anything, than it is the calm way he accepts his new circumstance.
5. Why do you think it is called "A Gentleman in Moscow" instead of "A Count in Moscow"? Just because it sounds better, or do you think there is a reason? Do you find him an appealing character so far?
A gentleman in Moscow has got a better ring to it. It also could be a reference to acting as a gentleman. The count does act like a real gentleman. I like his character so far, especially how he interacts with Nina.
6. Nina (the little girl in yellow) seems to be an important distraction. What is your impression of her so far? Do you think she will be an important character?
Nina has got a mind of her own and is very curious about her surroundings. I like how she has explored every inch of the hotel and that she asked the count to come along with her. She must be quiet lonely and is in need of a friend. The count needs her as much as she needs him. It's good that Nina is there, because it gives him something to do.
I think she will be important for now, but once she moves out of the hotel I don't think he will ever see her again.
Suzanne, thank you for the good questions. They do make you think about the book.At first I was unsure if I wanted to read this book. I was afraid it would be boring. Now that I started reading, I'm glad that I picked up this book. The writing style makes the book entertaining, even though there is not a lot of action.
I am tempted to keep reading, but will try to stick to the 75 pages each day. I am a fast reader and I can already tell I really have to be strict and not allow myself to read more. While I usually read 1 book at a time, I think it will help me to read another book beside this one.
It's hard for me stopping too instead of keeping going. I felt the same way about reading it - I didn't think it looked very exciting. But I do like the writing so far.
Suzanne, one of my friends read it and said it was a very good book. Other people loved the book too. So I got curious and wanted to see for myself.
Day 2 Discussion QuestionsSection: Archeolgies – 1924: Anonymity, pgs. 77-145
(TW: question 13 addresses attempted suicide)
7. A Gentleman in Moscow references a lot of famous Russian literature (War and Peace, The Brothers Karamazov, Anna Karenina, etc.) and famous Russian authors (Leo Tolstoy, Fyodor Dostoyevsky, etc.). Have you read any Russian literature/any of the books the author cites? How is this novel similar or different to these works?
8. The Count met a large cast of colorful characters in this section. Which encounter, vignette, or flashback was your favorite? Which one struck you the most?
9. What do you think of Anna Urbanova? Do you think she will reappear in the story later?
10. The Count believes Anna has cast a sort of spell on him that is turning him more ghost-like. Is there evidence to support this? The Count vividly describes friendship in the last chapter of this section, Anonymity (on page 134). By his description, do you think the Count has any remaining friends?
11. The wine cellar seems to be a turning point in the Count’s perspective on his imprisonment. What did you think of his description of the wines? What are your thoughts on the Bishop? Do you think that he really orchestrated this change out of spite, or was it higher officials that brought this to pass?
12. The narrator has a couple of lively footnotes in these chapters. Do you think the narrative voice is the Count, or someone else? How are the narrator and the Count similar or different? Do you think the Count is as happy or vivacious as the narrator seems to be?
13. The chapters in this section foreshadow the Count attempting suicide. We were left on quite a cliffhanger! What do you think has driven him to this point? As we are getting more of a window into his past, do you have any theories as to why the Count returned to Moscow in the first place? How do you like the Count as a protagonist thus far?
Nothing But Reading Challenges
Books mentioned in this topic
War and Peace (other topics)The Brothers Karamazov (other topics)
Anna Karenina (other topics)
Crime and Punishment (other topics)
The Idiot (other topics)
More...
Authors mentioned in this topic
Leo Tolstoy (other topics)Fyodor Dostoevsky (other topics)
This topic is open to discuss A Gentleman in Moscow by Amor Towles. Be prepared for spoilers!
Synopsis:
From the New York Times bestselling author of Rules of Civility—a transporting novel about a man who is ordered to spend the rest of his life inside a luxury hotel
With his breakout debut novel, Rules of Civility, Amor Towles established himself as a master of absorbing, sophisticated fiction, bringing late 1930s Manhattan to life with splendid atmosphere and a flawless command of style.
A Gentleman in Moscow immerses us in another elegantly drawn era with the story of Count Alexander Rostov. When, in 1922, he is deemed an unrepentant aristocrat by a Bolshevik tribunal, the count is sentenced to house arrest in the Metropol, a grand hotel across the street from the Kremlin. Rostov, an indomitable man of erudition and wit, has never worked a day in his life, and must now live in an attic room while some of the most tumultuous decades in Russian history are unfolding outside the hotel’s doors. Unexpectedly, his reduced circumstances provide him a doorway into a much larger world of emotional discovery.
Brimming with humor, a glittering cast of characters, and one beautifully rendered scene after another, this singular novel casts a spell as it relates the count’s endeavor to gain a deeper understanding of what it means to be a man of purpose