War & Peace is among the most boring novels on the subject that I have ever read. The book is far too long and the film, which followed the book closely enough was also one of the most boring pieces of film I have ever seen. Despite a stellar cast and director, they couldn't pull it off on screen either. The are far more interesting books which tell the story of Russian society and struggles as well as Napoleon's reign against any backdrop, both of which are interesting in their own right. It is, as Anna Karenina was, a masterpiece in literature. The language of Tolstoy and Shakespeare cannot be compared to one another since both are unique, however, they are important pieces of literature that should be required reading at the earliest high school level.

There are many classics and neo-classics that show sadness, happiness, love. cruelty and religion. You ask what more a book needs? Nothing other than readability and the desire to continue reading that book. In "War & Peace" Tolstoy does not create that atmosphere. As good as it is it is pure drudgery to read by its sheer volume and continued layering of person and place.

You mention twice that it is a book that makes people think. What do you consider the great thought provocation of this book is? Why is this book good for the "aggrandizement" of a young mind? Books that are required reading in high school and in college are not always among the best ever written. Think of it, there have been hundreds of thousands books written since the time of Tolstoy. Are we to believe that only a few or none of these qualify? If you were going to major in English Literature there would be a plethora of books you would read during your tenure at school. One should have a very well rounded experience in different styles of writing and subject matter.

For me, "War & Peace" is as stale as five day old bread, and most especially since it was written as fiction. It is my sole opinion that it has not stood the test of time. I'd take "Anna Karenina" over it any day for its content, passion, personal struggles and readability any time.

:)

Good point. And as demonstrated on this site, neither reading nor writing seem to be a priority anymore.