Poor Folk

Upon its first publication in 1846, "Poor Folk" was an immediate critical triumph. The influential critic Vissarion Belinsky wrote that "the novel reveals secrets about life and character-types in Russia of a kind never dreamt of by anyone else," and the unknown twenty-five-year-old author was hailed as "the new Gogol." Composed entirely of an exchange of letters between a middle-aged copy clerk and a young seamstress who live on opposite sides of a Petersburg tenement courtyard, the novel explores the emotional and psychological effects of a threatening urban environment on the psyches of poor people struggling to survive. "Poor Folk" is the natural beginning point for anyone who discovers Dostoevsky, and the present translation corrects numerous errors and inaccuracies of previous English language editions. The novel occupies a position of particular interest in both the history of Russian literature and Dostoevsky's work as a whole. Several lines of development in Russian prose interest: sentimentalism, naturalism, the physiological sketch, and the phenomenon of Gogol, with whom Dostoevsky maintains a dialogue throughout the novel.

Public Domain (P)2023 W. F. Howes Ltd

it was kind of depressing yet oddly relatable.

It show an interesting view on to poverty. interesting in that you see the same issues in modern poverty. There are clear societal differences yet poverty hasn't changed.

A Must for Fans of Dostoevsky

I only give 4 stars for the story because this was Dostoevsky’s first work.

It shows signs of a first work.

BUT, if you love Dostoevsky, it’s a must - particularly the closing chapters, which show signs of excellence in what’s to come.

The performance is very good.

Great first novel from the master

I would also suggest The Injured and Insulted. In that book they reference this one quite a lot. Also, Gogol and Pushkin both are excellent as the tie ins suggest.

Great book, great narration

One of the most well narrated audiobooks in my library. The actors, particularly the male one, have captured the characters well, making for an impactful experience.