The Karamazov Brothers by Fyodor Dostoevsky (Grade A)

Wow! The "Oxford" edition I read was translated by Ignat Avsey (all 1,012 pages) is on absolutely amazing reads. I saw Russia in a new, fresh light, that added my understanding of the culture of my Russian friends.

This is one of the greatest Russian authors of all time! It is full of personality studies that make it as fresh as if it were written yesterday. The Dialogue between Alyosha (the youngest brother) and his atheistic big brother, Ivan is so powerful. There is such honest exchange about doubt and trust, God and the lack of one.

In spite of the Dostoevsky writing in the context of the Russian Orthodox Church there is such a portrayal of mercy, grace, that you would think you were reading the gospel as told by Billy Graham.

The book has intrigue and depth - I simply loved this book - Oh Wow!