This was Tolstoy's first novel, although each section of the book was originally written separately to create a biography. Some say this book documents Tolstoy's own life, although there are obvious differences in some of the biography, a reader feels that a lot of the feelings and actions are resonant to Tolstoy's own experiences. Similarly to Doyles Paddy Clarke hahaha, the first part documents the more run-of-the-mill instances of life as the main character as he moves from care under his mother, to hunts with this father and brother, to life in Moscow. All of this is characterised by first loves, the illness of his mother and new friendships. The second two sections of the book document his education, friendship with his brother and entrance to university.
I found this book different to the typical Russian novel, it didn't have the same dramatics that books like Dostoyevsky's Crime and Punishment. Despite this, it is based on the same view of society - that is with an emphasis on the upper aristocracy. The main character in this book is also not paticularly likeable, although his attitude given his upbringing is understandable. At various times throughout the book, Nikolai shows himself to be self-centred, arrogant and his actions often seem to be performed out of spite. In trying to follow the hefty footsteps of his brother. There is something about Nikolai though which shows a slightly nicer side of his personality, usually when he is being himself rather than acting up to the expectation of his family and friends.
I enjoyed this book although I wouldn't rate it in my favourites. It is fairly unexciting and there is no real plot to follow but it exposes a side of high class society and its effect on someone growing up in that atmosphere. I will need to read Tolstoy's more famous works before I come to a final decision on my opinion of Tolstoy.
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