I don't know how I missed reading some of the great literature in high school and college. Maybe it was because I dropped out of college to marry my sweetheart? Maybe I was supposed to read them and didn't? For whatever reason, I missed out on some good reading and I have been catching up lately. I was able to read Les Miserables this past summer and Anna Karenina. And that's just as well, because I think they mean so much more to me now.

My most recent classic read has been Crime and Punishment by Fyodor Dostoevsky. WOW! This is an excellent book that delves into the psyche of a murderer. The reader gets to experience the process of thinking that leads to the murder and the mental struggles that come after, first hand. The writer had an excellent grasp on the psychology of man. As I read the book, I felt as though I commited the murder and suffered the consequences right along with the main character. I also felt the pull of redemption as Sonia, a devout Christian girl whose family situation has driven to prostitution, tells him that the only way to rid himself of the deed is to tell the authorities. The main character is haunted by his guilt, feeling that everyone suspects him until he finally deals with his heart and actions.

This is one of those books not to be taken lightly. There are many very deep issues throughout. Also, since it follows the point of view of the murderer, you are often left feeling a bit insane yourself! But the truth is we are all capable of murder and if it were not for the redemption of God and his grace, where would we be?

If you are looking for a good classic to read, check this one out. I'd love to discuss it with someone else who has read it!!

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Posted by KimMurphy

Tricia,
I'm impressed that you've read all those BIG books! I missed all the classics in school as well, and have really enjoyed catching up as an adult. The problem is, I hold back trying to tackle super-long books! I can't tell you how many times I've picked up up Moby Dick but chickened out on reading it! What am I afraid of, carpel tunnel?! You've inspired me to give Anna Karenina a try...this summer! I "read" Les Miserable on tape (well, someone with a lovely French accent read it TO me!)...that was fantastic! So sad and inspiring! You know which classic really surprised me, I loved it so much? Robinson Crusoe - what a GREAT book! You always hear about the survival aspects of the book, but I was so surprised by the wonderful spiritual content! Fantastic!

Listen, I need you to check your messages, because I have a personal message for you there that I don't want to write here. Very cloak and dagger, no? Ü

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Posted by jugglingpaynes

I read The Brothers Karamazov on my own as a teenager. I've always felt I needed to be in a REAL good mood to take on this author again. Very deep and disturbing. I've read about Crime and Punishment but I've yet to take it on. I think I heard that Peter Falk's Columbo was inspired by this book. All those murderers that can't help but give themselves away.
Good to hear from you again. I'm glad your house is getting back into order. I think that's the best reason to renovate. After having things in chaos for a while, a few toys on the floor aren't as much of a bother anymore.
Peace and Laughter,
Cristina

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Posted by sockmonkey

Wait..."it's good once you can get through the first 200 PAGES!???" Waiter, check please! If I need a flow-chart to keep everyone straight...I'm in big trouble! Thanks for the heads-up!

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Posted by Titus2woman

I missed all the good stuff, too! and I'm really enjoying homeschooling for that reason~LOVE the booklists! (((((HUGS))))) sandi

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Posted by Titus2woman

I missed all the good stuff, too! and I'm really enjoying homeschooling for that reason~LOVE the booklists! (((((HUGS))))) sandi

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Posted by JenIG

i've not read les miserable, but i did love the newest version of this film with that one french guy as the main character. uma thurman was it in too. and yes, i also was affected by Crime and Punishment. I felt very smart after reading that book, because before then i had assumed my little pea brain couldn't handle the classics. now i LOVE them. speaking of... did you join the HSB Literary Club? We are going to start Ishmael by EDEN Southworth next week. It is the best book i've ever read. Here is the link :

http://www.homeschoolblogger.com/hsbliteraryclub

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Posted by bethanyrae

Hey, Thanks for heads up on this book. I think I'll read this one now. My high school experience didn't include many classics. I was in this "advanced" class, and they gave us books like "The Hobbit", "1984", "Alas, Babylon", "Grapes of Wrath" and I don't think I got to read any of the real classics until I started reading them to my own kids, then like you, just started in enjoying them on my own!
Please keep us posted on what you discover out there!

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