Ilia Tolstoy (1866–1933)

The author illuminates aspects of Leo Tolstoy's life, yet his focus remains on
stories of his children, extended family, and friends. Odd.

"Papa was the cleverest man in the world." Not many contenders for that!

In the early years at Yasnaya Polyanna, Tolstoy taught Math, Latin, and Greek to both his older children
(having no interest or patience with babies or toddlers)
and the children of the nearby village.
He showed a great sense of humor, with an occasional mild touch of meanness.

A favorite show more time was at night when The Count read to his kids (Jules Verne and Dumas) and entertained visitors with stories
of his life adventures.

Anticipating later political developments, he hated what was "...essentially German stupidity."

(Hunting scenes were awful - his Vegetarian conversion was truly welcome.Proud, then humble.
"Inmates of the Asylum" was pretty boring.) show less