From the reminiscences of Private Ivanov and other stories /

For a few years before his death by suicide, Vsevolod Garshin (1855-88) was the brightest star in the firmament of Russian literature. A talented, somewhat derivative writer who was obviously influenced by Tolstoy and Dostoievsky, Garshin was previously known to English-speaking readers only through "The Red Flower," "Four Days," and "The Signal." This collection of 16 of his stories published in London should make Garshin better known and appreciated on both sides of the Atlantic. It reflects his wide-ranging experience and sensibility. Among the themes represented are scenes of combat from the Russo-Turkish War of 1877-78, the horrors of insanity, art and its problems, and the sufferings of common folk in an unjust society. An 18-page introduction by Peter Henry (University of Glasgow) provides a brief sketch of Garshin's life and art in terms of the context of his times. Useful notes to each story appear at the end of the book. The four translators have produced accurate and highly readable English versions of the Russian originals. Naturally, their choice of style and vocabulary favors British, rather than American, usage. Highly recommended for undergraduate and graduate courses and for college, university, and public libraries. V. A. Woodbury College of William and Mary