Tolstoy Together | Yiyun Li & A Public Space

Tolstoy Together: 85 Days of War and Peace with Yiyun Li

Extended Synopsis

Born out of the global online book club launched during the uncertainties of March 2020, Tolstoy Together: 85 Days of War and Peace is a profound reader's companion to Leo Tolstoy's epic novel. Author Yiyun Li discovered that in times of deep collective duress and uncertainty, the solidity and structure of War and Peace provided an essential grounding force. She invites readers to travel with her through the novel's sweeping narrative, expanding the reading experience into a rich, communal conversation about history, human nature, and the steadying clarity of classic literature.

More than just a study guide, this volume is an artifact of a shared reading journey. It combines Yiyun Li's daily reading journal with reflections from fellow readers worldwide. The book includes commentary on literary craft, technique, historical context, and character studies. With contributions from notable authors such as Garth Greenwell, Elliott Holt, and Carl Phillips, it offers a daily motivating framework that serves as both a companion for tackling Tolstoy's masterpiece and a blueprint for a lifelong, intentional reading practice.

Author Biography

Yiyun Li is the acclaimed author of Dear Friend, from My Life I Write to You in Your Life, along with numerous celebrated novels and essay collections. Known for her incisive, empathetic prose and deep engagement with classic literature, she continues to foster global literary communities and conversations about the art of reading.

Reader Targeting

• Readers tackling Leo Tolstoy's War and Peace seeking a structured, insightful companion guide.
• Book club participants and enthusiasts of literary communities.
• Fans of literary criticism, essays, and deep character studies of Russian classics.

Accolades & Key Highlights

• Communal Insights: Features diverse reflections from hundreds of readers alongside notable writers like Garth Greenwell, Carl Phillips, and Sara Majka.
• Structured Framework: Includes a comprehensive 85-day reading schedule to keep readers motivated and engaged.
• Deep Dive on Craft: Provides expert commentary on Tolstoy's narrative technique, historical context, and character arcs.

Bibliographic & Physical Specifications

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to have read War and Peace to enjoy this book?
This book is designed to be read alongside War and Peace, providing a day-by-day companion for those embarking on the epic novel, but its rich literary essays can also be appreciated by fans of literary criticism.

Does the book include a schedule?
Yes, it includes a specific 85-day reading schedule and framework to motivate and guide you through Tolstoy's work.

Are there other contributors besides Yiyun Li?
Yes, the book features contributions and reflections from notable writers including Garth Greenwell, Elliott Holt, Carl Phillips, Tom Drury, Sara Majka, and Alexandra Schwartz, as well as communal journal entries from hundreds of readers.

Bust-Down Books: More Than a Bookstore