A young woman struggles to assert herself within a regrettable marriage.

A boy learns about life on an epic summer''s journey to a new school.

A doctor attempts to befriend his most interesting patient.

A young man tries to figure out the best way to live.

This riverrun edition presents a selection of Chekhov''s longer stories - novellas, effectively - in Constance Garnett''s timeless translations. These four stories, The Wife, The Steppe, Ward No. 6 and My Life, tell of characters attempting to create meaning through work, connection with others and art; they deal with misunderstandings and loss; they celebrate brief joys, sudden passions and unsatisfied longings, all underscored by Chekhov''s gentle wit and great humanity.

This unique collection - selected and introduced by the celebrated Janet Malcolm - is unmissable for the enthusiast and a brilliant introduction to one of the nineteenth century''s greatest writers.