The Possessed

In The Possessed, Elif Batuman explores the profound and often whimsical connections between her life and the Russian literary giants, weaving together a tapestry of true stories that reflect both absurdity and beauty. From investigating a possible murder at Tolstoy's estate to tracing Pushkin's journeys, Batuman’s narrative is rich with humor, irony, and a deep love for literature. As she traverses locations like Stanford and St. Petersburg, she engages with themes of love, history, and the personal impact of these classic authors, all while delivering her unique and captivating voice.