Any advice for reading Tolstoy's 'War and Peace'?

Question

I've never read a book quite like this before and it looks quite daunting.

Answer 1

I've read it! and it took me a long time to say the least, but perserverance is the key. Some bits (quite a bit actually) are very heavy, but take it slow, and avoid the temptation to read and not actually take the words in. It may be better to read a few pages a day- that way you will probably be able to take in everything thats going on so your read will be much more worthwhile and engaging. Remember it's not a race. Read at your own speed and what is more....enjoy it. It's a great achievement reading it.

Good luck x

Answer 2

It is a great read that suffers due to it's reputation, if like,  me you enjoy an epic read the tale will grab you..Please don't be put off by the old stories regards the length etc,

Answer 3

Get a good translation and persevere.

When the book was first published (in Russian) it was criticised for having too many words and too many of them were French. (French being the language often used by the Russian aristocracy at the time).

It's well worth reading.