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

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

A doctor attempts to befriend his most interesting patient.

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.