Fathers and Sons

Turgenev's masterpiece about the generation gap gives us endless philosophizing in the Russian style and endearing, unforgettable characters. British actor David Horovitch wonderfully impersonates the dramatis personae, communicating their full dimension. As in the novel, Bazarov, the arrogant, young nihilist with a heart of gold, steals the show. Anyone intrigued but daunted by those weighty Russian novels should start with this tape. Y.R. (c) AudioFile, Portland, Maine

The latter half of the nineteenth century was a time of turmoil in Russian politics and society. As modernization and industrialization took place, the new generation challenged traditional society. Against this backdrop Turgenev presents a generational conflict through a cast of richly crafted characters and delicate prose. The narrator does not give his characters assertive voices, but portrays them thoughtfully, especially the extraordinary protagonist, Bazarov. Little is needed to convey the chilling intellect and compassionate heart of this complex character. This book about life and relationships will evoke a thoughtful mood in the listener. J.K.R. (c)AudioFile, Portland, Maine

Deftly weaving nineteenth-century mannerisms and pace with contemporary theater's rhythms and naturalism, a fine collection of Hollywood actors presents this story of an aristocratic university student who returns home to grapple with three generations of family. Although Irish playwright Brian Friel and Russian novelist Ivan Turgenev were born more than a century apart, their concerns for their country's landless poor and collapsing gentry had much in common. So it's no surprise that in 1987 Friel adapted one of Turgenev's best-known novels to the stage. This performance is easy with itself--focused and full of life, just like the two great writers who brought the epic masterwork to bear. B.P. © AudioFile 2017, Portland, Maine