28 Best Dostoevsky Books of All Time [Ranked for 2024] (2024)

Fyodor Dostoevsky, a master storyteller from Russia, transformed his turbulent life experiences, including harsh imprisonment and a brush with death, into rich, intricate narratives.

His works, famed for their exploration of psychology, morality, and the human condition, delve into the darkest corners and the most illuminating heights of the human soul, often set against 19th-century Russian society.

With his stories, the mundane becomes extraordinary, and the simplest of stories reveal universal truths. Every word invites you to look deeper into the essence of what it means to be human.

Best Dostoevsky Books

Best Overall: Crime and Punishment

Most Underrated: The Insulted and Humiliated

Most Inspirational: The Brothers Karamazov

Editor’s Pick: A Gentle Creature

1. Crime and Punishment

Genres: Classics, Fiction, Russian Literature, Philosophy

The plot centers around Raskolnikov’s plan to murder a pawnbroker for her money. He believes this act is justifiable to escape poverty and use the stolen money for good deeds. But it’s not the crime itself that’s the focus of this book, but the aftermath of it.

You’ll find yourself inside Raskolnikov’s conflicted mind, grappling with guilt, fear, and philosophical dilemmas, exploring the darkest corners of the human psyche and society.

This novel is a psychological drama at its best, laying bare the complexities of the human soul. It delves into philosophical questions that are still relevant today. It’s a profound exploration of the struggle between good and evil within us all, making it a must-read.

2. The Brothers Karamazov

Genres: Classics, Fiction, Russian Literature, Philosophy

Imagine yourself in a small Russian town, getting to know the Karamazov family. There’s the father, Fyodor Pavlovich, a morally dubious figure, and his three sons—the intellectual Ivan, the passionate Dmitri, and the saintly Alyosha.

Each brother represents different aspects of human nature, from the carnal to the spiritual. The plot thickens when their father is found dead under mysterious circ*mstances. Suspicion falls on Dmitri, but the truth is far more complex.

As you follow the story, it challenges you to question, reflect, and perhaps even understand a little more about the complexities of life and faith. This book is an essential read for anyone who seeks to explore the depths of human nature and morality.

3. Notes from Underground

Genres: Classics, Fiction, Philosophy, Russian Literature

Meet the Underground Man, a unique and complex character. As a retired civil servant in St. Petersburg, he’s far from your average hero. Alienated and self-aware, he embodies the complexities and contradictions of being human.

“Notes from Underground” unfolds in two parts. In the first, he challenges common views on society, rationality, and freedom with his deep, sometimes bitter reflections. He questions the essence of human freedom and individuality.

The second part shifts to his awkward and conflict-ridden interactions with others, underscoring his deep sense of isolation from society.

This book is a profound exploration of the human experience, delving into themes of isolation, freedom, and the search for meaning. It’s a book that invites you to question and reflect on your beliefs and values.

4. The Idiot

Genres: Classics, Fiction, Russian Literature, Philosophy

In “The Idiot,” you meet Prince Myshkin, an almost supernaturally innocent and honest character. After returning to Russia from a Swiss clinic, Myshkin gets caught in love, betrayal, and social schemes.

As you read, you’ll see Myshkin trying to find his way into the complex 19th-century Russian society. His simplicity and kindness starkly contrast with the ego-driven, greedy characters around him.

This explores love, morality, and the fine line between sanity and insanity. Myshkin’s interactions with Nastasya Filippovna and Aglaya Yepanchin make the story emotionally intense and deeply thought-provoking.

What makes “The Idiot” stand out is Dostoevsky’s challenge to the reader: he makes you question the real meaning of goodness in a world that often values the opposite.

5. White Nights

Genres: Classics, Fiction, Russian Literature, Russia, Short Stories, Romance

You’ll follow the story of a young, solitary man whose life changes when he meets Nastenka, a charming and equally lonely young woman.

As you delve into the pages, you’ll be captivated by their nightly conversations. The narrator, whose life was once isolated, finds a kindred spirit in Nastenka. Their bond deepens as they share their innermost thoughts under the light of the white nights.

“White Nights” reflects the human condition, the search for connection, and the bittersweet nature of unrequited love. The book portrays the inner turmoil of characters caught between their dreams and the harsh realities of life.

6. The House of the Dead

Genres: Classics, Fiction, Russian Literature, Novels, 19th Century

“The House of the Dead,” drawn from Dostoevsky’s own experiences, gives you an unfiltered look into 19th-century Russian prison life. You’ll follow Aleksandr Petrovich Goryanchikov, a nobleman serving hard labor for his wife’s murder.

As you read, you’ll experience the brutal conditions and the intense struggle to survive in the prison camp. Through Goryanchikov’s eyes, you’ll navigate the camp’s complex social world, meet various characters, and ponder over crime and punishment.

This novel offers a rare insight into a world few have seen. Challenging readers to understand and empathize with the plight of these prisoners.

7. The Grand Inquisitor

Genres: Classics, Fiction, Philosophy, Russian Literature, Short Stories

You’ll be plunged into a fictional world where Christ returns during the Spanish Inquisition, only to be arrested by the Grand Inquisitor. As you delve into the story, you’ll witness a gripping dialogue between Christ and the Grand Inquisitor.

The Inquisitor argues that humanity needs to be guided and controlled, while Christ’s message is freedom and faith. This intense exchange will challenge you to think deeply about the human desire for freedom versus the lure of authority.

This book is a profound exploration of freedom, faith, and the nature of power. Whether you’re a fan of philosophical literature or just looking for a story that makes you think, this work stands out as a must-read in Dostoevsky’s work.

8. The Best Short Stories of Fyodor Dostoevsky

Genres: Short Stories, Fiction, Classics, Russian Literature, 19th Century

In this collection, you’ll find a diverse range of tales, each brimming with psychological depth and insight.

From the intense emotional drama of “White Nights” to the philosophical depths of “Notes from the Underground,” each story invites you into a different aspect of human experience.

Dostoevsky’s characters are complex and multifaceted, grappling with existential dilemmas, moral crises, and the often harsh realities of 19th-century Russian society.

What makes these stories stand out is they explore themes like redemption, suffering, and the quest for meaning with a depth that is both unsettling and enlightening—making you question and reflect on the deeper aspects of life.

9. Letters of Fyodor Dostoevsky to his Family and Friends

Genres: Nonfiction, Literature, Biography, Russia

In these pages, you’ll discover Dostoevsky’s personal side—his hopes, fears, joys, and sorrows. He writes to his family and friends with the same intensity and depth he brings to his novels.

His letters reveal his struggles with financial difficulties, his experiences in Siberian exile, his insights into human nature, and his deep love and concern for his family. Each letter is a piece of the puzzle that makes up this literary genius.

What sets this collection apart is the unguarded honesty and raw emotion that Dostoevsky pours into his writing. It starkly contrasts the polished prose of his novels, offering a more direct and personal connection to the man behind the celebrated works.

10. The Gambler

Genres: Classics, Fiction, Russian Literature,19th Century, Novels

Meet Alexei Ivanovich, a tutor working for a Russian family in a German town. The twist? Alexei has a gambling addiction.

As you follow him, you’ll experience his intense addiction to roulette, his turbulent romance with the Polina, and his desperate attempts to understand and navigate the intricacies of luck, chance, and love.

It’s a captivating and insightful look into the human obsession with luck and risk. This novel isn’t just for those interested in gambling; it’s for anyone who’s ever faced the thrilling yet dangerous allure of taking a chance.

11. The Insulted and Humiliated

Genres: Classics, Fiction, Russian Literature,19th Century

You will journey alongside Ivan Petrovich, a young writer drawn into the turbulent lives of the Ikhmenev family, the heartbroken Natasha, and the scheming Prince Valkovsky.

As you navigate the twists and turns of the plot, you’ll find yourself deeply involved in the characters’ struggles with societal norms, personal betrayals, and the pursuit of redemption.

The book doesn’t shy away from the complexities of emotions like pride, despair, and forgiveness. His portrayal of the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity and humiliation is inspiring and deeply reflective, making it a read that shouldn’t be missed.

12. The Possessed (also known as The Devils / Demons)

Genres: Classics, Fiction, Russian Literature, Philosophy, Novels

Set in a provincial Russian town, the novel is centered on the young revolutionaries led by the charismatic and manipulative Pyotr Verkhovensky. Next to him is Nikolai Stavrogin, a complex and troubled aristocrat whose nature drives the novel’s tension.

These characters become embroiled in a plot to overthrow the existing social order, leading to a series of tragic events that shake the very foundations of their community.

The book challenges you to think deeply about the nature of ideology, freedom, and the consequences of political extremism. It’s for anyone interested in understanding the complexities of human society and the dangers of unchecked ideological fervor.

"Do you believe in a future everlasting life?""No, not in a future everlasting but in an everlasting life here. There are moments, you reach moments, and time comes to a sudden stop, and it will become eternal."

13. The Adolescent (also known as An Accidental Family or Raw Youth)

Genres: Fiction, Russian Literature, Novels, Classics, 19th Century

Meet Arkady Dolgoruky, the protagonist, an illegitimate son eager to establish his own place in society. Raised in a rural area and later moving to St. Petersburg, Arkady’s story is about ambition, struggle, and the search for a father’s recognition.

Arkady’s journey involves intense relationships and moral choices. His interactions with characters like his self-absorbed aristocrat father and his nihilist half-brother add depth to his story of conflict and self-discovery.

This novel highlights the universal challenges of growing up and connecting with readers across generations. It gives readers a glimpse of Russian society during a period of significant change while touching on timeless themes that are still relevant today.

14. A Gentle Creature (also known as A Gentle Spirit or A Meek One)

Genres: Classics, Fiction, Short Stories, Russian Literature, 19th Century

The story revolves around a pawnbroker and his young wife, the ‘gentle creature.’ The narrative unfolds through the pawnbroker’s perspective after a tragic event. He reflects on their relationship, filled with misunderstandings and emotional distance.

The young wife, despite her quiet demeanor, holds a depth of emotion and inner turmoil, which the pawnbroker fails to comprehend until it’s too late.

The story is set against the backdrop of a society where material concerns often overpower deeper emotional needs. It’s a concise yet moving piece that resonates with the universal human experience of trying, sometimes failing, to connect with others.

15. Poor Folk

Genres: Fiction, Russian Literature, Novels, Classics, 19th Century

“Poor Folk” unfolds through letters between Makar Devushkin, a humble clerk, and Varvara Dobroselova, a young woman in St. Petersburg. Their correspondence shares their daily challenges and aspirations, revealing a life marked by poverty but rich in joy.

The book vividly depicts the harsh realities of poverty and social injustice in 19th-century Russia. Despite their struggles, Makar and Varvara’s resilience and dignity in adversity are both moving and inspiring.

This novel offers deep insights into the lives of society’s marginalized, highlighting the enduring dignity and humanity found even in the most challenging situations.

16. Uncle’s Dream

Genres: Classics, Fiction, Russian Literature, Novels, 19th Century

Prince K., an aging and somewhat senile nobleman, is known affectionately as ‘Uncle.’ The town’s social climbers, particularly the scheming Maria Alexandrovna and her daughter Zina, see the Prince’s visit as an opportunity to secure a prosperous marriage.

What ensues is a comedy of manners filled with misunderstandings, manipulations, and the ridiculousness of societal pretensions. The characters are vividly drawn, representing different facets of society’s obsession with status and appearance.

What sets “Uncle’s Dream” apart is its blend of comedy and social commentary. The book uses humor and satire in a story that still resonates with modern audiences, highlighting the timeless nature of societal absurdities.

17. A Writer’s Diary

Genres: Non-fiction, Biography, Russian Literature, Classics, Writing, Essays

Spanning from 1873 to 1881, this work is a compilation of Dostoevsky’s articles, essays, and notes. He reflects on a wide range of topics, from everyday events to critical social and political issues of his time.

His commentary on Russian society, literature, and personal anecdotes provide an invaluable perspective on 19th-century Russia. This diary is a vibrant and living text that offers a deeper understanding of one of literature’s greatest minds.

Through his diary, you’ll experience Dostoevsky’s world as he saw it, making it a uniquely personal and insightful addition to your understanding of this literary giant. It’s an excellent read for those interested in Russian literature, history, or the human condition.

18. The Eternal Husband

Genres: Classics, Fiction, Russian Literature, Novels, Short Stories

The plot centers around the character of Velchaninov, a middle-aged man leading a life of indulgence. His world is turned upside down with the sudden appearance of Trusotsky, the husband of his former lover, now deceased.

The arrival of Trusotsky and his young daughter in Velchaninov’s life brings a series of psychological confrontations and revelations, unveiling a tangled web of past emotions and resentments.

“The Eternal Husband” delves into the darkest corners of the human heart, exploring themes of obsession, guilt, and the inescapable past. It’s a concise but powerful read that will leave you contemplating the intricate dynamics of human relationships.

19. Netochka Nezvanova

Genres: Classics, Russian Literature, Fiction, Literature, Novels, 19th Century

Netochka Nezvanova takes you on a journey from her troubled childhood to adolescence. Orphaned at a young age and raised by a stepfather who is both talented and troubled, her life is a tapestry of emotional ups and downs.

Netochka’s story is one of resilience and determination in the face of adversity as she navigates a world that often seems cold and unfeeling.

The book offers an intimate and touching exploration of growth, resilience, and the enduring strength of the human heart. It is a must-read for anyone who appreciates literature that touches the soul.

"You sensed that you should be following a different path, a more ambitious one, you felt that you were destined for other things but you had no idea how to achieve them and in your misery you began to hate everything around you."

20. The Village of Stepanchikovo

Genres: Classics, Fiction, Russian Literature, 19th Century, Novels

In “The Village of Stepanchikovo,” Sergei visits his uncle, Colonel Yegor Rostanev, only to find him under the thumb of the manipulative Foma Fomich Opiskin. This pseudo-intellectual has taken over the Colonel’s household and estate.

The story unfolds with humorous incidents as Sergei and other vivid characters try to liberate the Colonel from Foma’s clutches.

This novel mixes humor with sharp commentary on the absurdities and pretensions of manipulative social figures like Foma. It showcases comedy’s power to shed light on serious matters.

21. The Double

Genres: Classics, Fiction, Russian Literature, 19th Century, Novels

Yakov Petrovich Golyadkin, a low-level clerk in St. Petersburg, faces a bizarre situation when he meets a man who is his doppelgänger. This man not only looks exactly like him but also shares his name.

This encounter sets off a series of increasingly strange and disturbing events as Golyadkin struggles with the reality of his double, who begins to take over every aspect of his life.

“The Double” is a pioneering work in psychological fiction, vividly portraying the complexities and inner turmoil of the human mind. It’s an intriguing exploration of identity, duality, and the darker sides of human nature, making it a compelling read.

22. The Crocodile

Genres: Classics, Fiction, Russian Literature, 19th Century, Novels

You’ll meet Ivan Matveich, a civil servant who, during a visit to a shopping arcade with his wife and a colleague, is swallowed whole by a crocodile. Rather than being a tragic event, this absurd situation turns comical and surreal.

Remarkably, Ivan remains alive inside the crocodile, able to communicate from within. The story then unfolds around the reactions of his wife, the public, and authorities, each displaying varying degrees of concern, opportunism, and absurdity.

You shouldn’t miss “The Crocodile” because it offers a lighter, insightful side of Dostoevsky’s writing. It’s a perfect example of how literature can use humor to reflect on serious issues, making it a unique and entertaining read.

23. Mr. Prokharchin

Genres: Classics, Fiction, Russian Literature, 19th Century, Novels

“Mr. Prokharchin” is about a solitary and eccentric man living in poverty in St. Petersburg. Obsessively frugal, he hoards every penny and lives in a run-down room despite having a hidden stash of money.

This paradoxical life highlights themes like loneliness, mental instability, and the false sense of wealth. The story delves deeply into his psyche, making you feel his isolation, paranoia, and the odd comfort he finds in his secret wealth.

It’s a compelling read that offers insight into human nature’s complexities and the irrational behaviors caused by fear and isolation.

24. Bobok

Genres: Short Stories, Classics, Fiction, Russian Literature, 19th Century, Fantasy

Ivan Ivanovich, a disillusioned writer, finds himself at a cemetery. Here, he overhears the dead conversing beneath the ground. These conversations are absurd, scandalous, and oddly insightful, revealing the deceased’s unfiltered thoughts and past lives.

The dead, unaware of how much time has passed since their demise, engage in discussions that range from the trivial to the philosophical, revealing their most intimate secrets and desires.

He uses the conversations of the dead to critique societal norms, exposing the hypocrisy and pettiness of human nature. “Bobok” is a fascinating exploration of what remains of us after death—our thoughts, regrets, and the unspoken truths of our lives.

25. The Christmas Tree and the Wedding

Genres: Short Stories, Classics, Fiction, Russian Literature, Christmas, 19th Century

In this tale, you’re taken to a festive New Year’s Eve party where children and adults celebrate. The story focuses on the interactions between the guests, particularly the wealthy and influential Julian Mastakovich and a poor young girl.

As the party unfolds, Julian’s interest in the girl is revealed not in her as a person but in her future dowry. The story contrasts the pure, joyous world of the children with the calculated, materialistic concerns of the adults.

It’s a timeless commentary on societal norms and the innocence of childhood. It’s a short but impactful read that resonates with Dostoevsky’s keen insight into the human condition.

26. The Landlady

Genres: Short Stories, Classics, Fiction, Russian Literature, Christmas, 19th Century

Meet Vasily Mikhailovich Ordynov, a young man who moves into a new lodging in St. Petersburg. There, he becomes infatuated with his mysterious and alluring landlady, Katerina.

As Ordynov delves deeper into her world, he becomes entangled in a web of passion, mysticism, and a haunting past. The landlady and her previous lodger, Murin, share a strange and possibly supernatural bond that Ordynov struggles to understand.

“The Landlady” offers a unique blend of psychological thriller and Gothic horror. This story showcases Dostoevsky’s talent for exploring the human condition in extreme circ*mstances.

27. An Honest Thief

Genres: Short Stories, Classics, Fiction, Russian Literature, Christmas, 19th Century

The tale unfolds through the eyes of the narrator, who recounts the story of Emelyan Ilyitch, an impoverished drunkard. Emelyan is taken in by Astafy Ivanovich, a kind-hearted tailor. The crux of the story revolves around a stolen overcoat.

When Astafy discovers that Emelyan is the thief, the story turns poignant. Emelyan’s shame and subsequent actions paint a complex picture of a man struggling with his sense of morality and his dire circ*mstances.

What sets “An Honest Thief” apart is its exploration of the moral complexities in everyday life. Dostoevsky presents a touching story that challenges readers to consider the nature of honesty, guilt, and the potential for redemption.

To my thinking there is no vermin in the world worse than a thief. Another takes what you can spare, but a thief steals the work of your hands, the sweat of your brow, your time.

28. A Nasty Story

Genres: Short Stories, Classics, Fiction, Russian Literature, Christmas, 19th Century

“A Nasty Story” features Ivan Ilyich Pralinsky, a high-ranking official who impulsively visits a subordinate’s wedding party while drunk.

His attempt to seem kind and superior backfires, leading to a series of awkward and embarrassing incidents. Pralinsky’s effort to mingle with ordinary people turns into a night of uncomfortable and humorous events.

This story stands out for its mix of humor and social commentary. Dostoevsky skillfully blends entertaining storytelling with an insightful critique of societal norms and behaviors.

Final Thoughts

So, there you have it—a sneak peek into the world of Fyodor Dostoevsky, where every story is a journey into the heart and mind—intense, unpredictable, and absolutely unputdownable.

Each book is a maze of the human condition, asking questions that don’t always have answers. So, if you’re up for a mind-bending adventure into the depths of human nature, Dostoevsky’s your ticket.