Book Club Pages

This month’s Book Club Book was - A Gentleman in Moscow by Amor Towles.

‘Imagine Lockdown for 32 years’

The book is set in the beginning of 20th century Russia and follows the story of Count Alexander Ilyich Rostov and his life in the Hotel Metropol, where he is under house arrest for thirty-two years. He has ‘the run’ of the hotel and can visit the barber shop and restaurants within the hotel but finds his circumstances constantly being eroded. His original suite is taken and he is given a small room on the top floor, he is no longer allowed to be called ‘your excellency’ and he eventually becomes (a very good) waiter at the hotel. He remains surprisingly upbeat as he navigates his way through challenging circumstances with good cheer.

The 20th century was a turbulent time in Russia. Old political systems were deemed obsolete and people wanted change and rights for all, not just for the wealthy. In the Russian Empire ‘old and new’ clashed in blood, violence, and death. Being noble was not popular and Communists slowly gained more trust from the people. Since their agenda blamed several groups of people for every misfortune that happened, being a Count became very dangerous.

Filled with historical segments and events of the time, A Gentleman in Moscow is more than just a story of one man, it’s a story of survival and uncertainty in dire times.

At the start of January, due to overseas absences and Omicron, a very reduced group of 3 met at Delina’s to discuss the book, with feedback E mailed in by many more members.

All loved the main character and his stoic (but calculating and patient) way of dealing with his circumstances in a humerous and engaging manner. Many liked the historical angle of the book and the unusual location of The Metropol Hotel, as well as the way the story unfolded in a reflection of life at that time.

While for some this was their ‘favourite book’ and others were inspired to go back and read again, not all loved it, with some finding this was not the book for them!

There is an excellent final section where the count ‘escapes’ Russia and many incidents previously encountered in the book are pulled together. However, it would have been interesting to know what happened to the Count and Anna afterwards? What happened to Nina, and also Sophie? Should the book have had an epilogue to tie up a few loose ends?

The novel was very well received and enjoyed. An average score of 8/10 but with a few giving 9/10 and comments on the unique and brilliant writing style of the author.

Next month - ‘The House by the Sea’ by Louise Douglas for discussion on Tuesday 1st February.