TOLSTOY: THE DEATH OF IVAN ILYICH & MASTER AND MAN

Some of history’s finest fiction is brought to riveting life by reader Simon Vance. Brilliantly performed, saturated with real emotional depth, this is an unforgettable listen. Tolstoy on death is a vital addition to any audiobook collection, and these classic tales work both as entertainment and inspiration. Only the hardest heart would fail to be moved by these incisive stories of human dignity and death. Few writers reveal the human soul as well as Tolstoy, and few readers could provide such a worthy voicing of this work. Vance manages to transcend translation and ear to make Tolstoy very current indeed. Worthy of not only listening, but relistening over the years, this refined recording is full of nuance and wisdom, wit and sorrow. D.J.B. Winner of AudioFile Earphones Award © AudioFile 2006, Portland, Maine [Published: AUG/ SEP 06]