Read War & Peace

I started this in November, and figured it would take 4 months! So I finished it ahead of schedule!
I enjoyed the book quite a lot, although I have to admit the last 60 pages were not the best. It is more of a phylosophical discussion of the nature of historical writting and free will relating to power. Very dry reading, and rather difficult concepts. Instead, I wanted to read about what became of the characters later on, until they died. He never tells us about Boris and Julie, we never learn what becomes of Denislov (I wanted him to die in the war, but no luck), and I’m not so certain Anotole died – his leg was amputated, and he had it held up so he could look at it while he whimpered, but he could have survived.
There are scenes in this book that will stick with me forever. Well worth the months….

I have a meer 550 pages left!
Napoleon is pressing on to Moscow.
Old prince Bolkonski has just died.
Petya is joining the war (even though he’s only 14).
Natasha Rostov has realized that Pierre loves her. Pierre realizes that he must never visit the Rostovs again because he doesn’t love his unfaithful wife Helene.
Prince Andrew has managed to submerse himself in the war, and successfully been able to stop thinking about his betrayal from Natasha, whom he had been betrothed to.
Nicholas Rostov has captured a French officer, but has realized there is no real glory in combat.
Kutuzov has been made comander of the Russian army, but he will not succeed in uniting the separated Russian forces. Ironically, this will ensure the defeat of Napoleon.
There is a lot going on, and I am anxious to see how it all comes out!

I started reading this 3 weeks ago (roughly), and I’m 250 pages in.
Calculating what I’m going to have for “free” (reading) time, I am thinking I’ll finish this book in February! As long as I stick to it.
Actually, that shouldn’t be too hard. This really is a good book.