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Rating(3.9 / 5.0, 99 votes)
5 stars
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99 reviews
July 15,2025
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There is so much to say about this amazing novel! It was truly a great choice for our book club's theme, which was a book from Russia. Gorky is an absolute genius. His writing style is captivating and his ability to bring the characters and the story to life is remarkable. I was completely immersed in the world he created from the very first page.


This novel not only provides an interesting and engaging story but also offers deep insights into the Russian society and culture of that time. It makes you think about the human condition, the struggles and joys of life, and the importance of family and friendship.


After reading this book, I am left with a strong desire to read his other works. I can't wait to explore more of Gorky's literary masterpieces and discover the unique perspectives and emotions he has to offer. I highly recommend this novel to anyone who loves literature and wants to experience the beauty and power of Russian literature.

July 15,2025
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If you look at the novel as the path of the downtrodden people in taking their rights and the most important thing is that in achieving awareness and the struggle against fear, then it is also generally so.

And you can also look at it as the author intended it, as a practical explanation of the principles of socialism, so the educational melody in it is very clear and high.

Actually, I expected it to be better, but I think that what distinguishes this novel the most is that its author wanted it to serve the era in which it was written and for the people to benefit from it.

The dialogues ❤ ❤ flow from the ruling. With their suitability to the nature of each character.

His style in description is wonderful. I remember that I read a while ago the memoirs of a blind Russian woman who said that reading Maxim Gorky was one of the means that helped her to transfer her feelings and thoughts from the tangible to the meaningful.

All the characters are beautiful in their different goodness, humor, or anger. But what would their efforts have been without the spirit that the mother added with her love, tears, and tender feelings.

And how Maxim was sensitive in perceiving the mother's hidden feelings. For example, how she secretly rejoiced when her son's friends told her that her son always talked about her. And his observation of her feelings in the most beautiful transformation possible that a woman can go through, a journey that transforms her from a silent, submissive woman to a woman who makes the future.

I read it in the translation of Dar Raduga. I think it is better than the other common translation. Also, the name "Bafil" is more beautiful than the name "Boul" in the other translation. ^^
July 15,2025
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The attraction of the book was good, but its end was clear from the beginning. I don't really enjoy stories like the subject of this book very much, but it was a gift and I had to read it :)).


This book had its own charm, yet the predictability of its conclusion was somewhat of a drawback. While the premise might have seemed interesting to some, it failed to fully engage me. However, since it was a gift, I felt obligated to give it a read.


As I delved into the pages, I couldn't help but notice the lack of excitement and surprise. The story unfolded in a rather straightforward manner, leaving little room for anticipation. Despite this, I persevered, hoping that there might be some hidden gems or unexpected twists along the way.


In the end, although the book didn't meet my personal expectations, I still appreciate the thought that went into giving it to me as a gift. It served as a reminder that different people have different tastes in literature, and sometimes it's worth exploring new genres and styles, even if they don't initially appeal to us.

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