This was my first time of reading a book of Tolstoy. This novel is set against the drawbacks of Russian-French war that happened in 18th century. It is about the famine, and the problems that happened in Russia during the war time. Tolstoy wrote totally four volumes under this title.

This novel is a historical one and it discusses the cultural, economical and social changes that happened because of the war. Napoleon established his rule all over Europe in the beginning of 18th century and planed to attack Russia in 1812. Russian soldiers followed the Scorched earth policy and defeated Napoleon in the war.

Though there are more than 580 characters in the books, the most notable character in the whole story is General Grekov. He is a man of good-understanding and led Russia in the war.

Though this novel is a lengthy one, Tolstoy set this novel with a simple message, in any condition, war will bring destruction to anyone and it is not matter whether he will win or lose.