A dog's heart (A Monstrous Story) / Собачье сердце (Чудовищная история). Книга для чтения на английском языке

«A Dog's Heart (A Monstrous Story)» by Mikhail Bulgakov: a review

«A Dog's Heart» by Mikhail Bulgakov is a satirical novella that has been translated into English, providing readers with an opportunity to explore the author's unique style and biting social commentary. The book is a powerful critique of the Soviet society and its ideology, presented through the lens of a bizarre and unforgettable story.

The protagonist of the story is Professor Philip Филиппович Преображенский, a brilliant but eccentric scientist who performs a daring experiment on a stray dog named Sharik. The other significant character is Poligraf Poligrafovich Sharikov, the result of the professor's experiment, who becomes a symbol of the new Soviet man. Through these characters, Bulgakov explores themes of science, morality, and the human condition.

Bulgakov's writing style is both captivating and thought-provoking. His use of irony and satire is particularly effective in highlighting the absurdity and hypocrisy of the Soviet system. The author's ability to blend humor with serious social commentary makes «A Dog's Heart» a compelling read.

One of the strengths of the book is its vivid and memorable characters. Professor Преображенский is a complex and multifaceted figure, whose intelligence and arrogance make him both admirable and repulsive. Sharik, the dog, is a lovable and sympathetic character, whose transformation into Sharikov is both shocking and tragic.

The translation of the book into English is commendable, as it manages to capture the essence of Bulgakov's original style. The language is clear and concise, making it accessible to readers who may not be familiar with the Russian language or the historical context of the story.

Overall, «A Dog's Heart» is a powerful and thought-provoking book that offers a unique perspective on the Soviet era. Bulgakov's satirical style and memorable characters make it a must-read for anyone interested in Russian literature or social commentary.