“A Sequel to the Brothers Karamazov”

by Sumirasko

• Publisher ‏ : ‎ Cyberwit.net 
• Language ‏ : ‎ English
• Hardcover ‏ : ‎ 261 pages
• ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 8119228731

Review by LB Sedlacek

Sumirasko delves deep to tackle writing a sequel to the classic masterpiece, “The Brothers Karamazov.”  This is an audacious literary undertaking which Sumirasko seems to handle with ease.

I have heard of the classic book, but have never read it.  This sequel of Sumirasko’s, though, embarks on an intricate journey in the exploration of the Karamzov’s tumultuous family saga.

Sumirasko seamlessly blends both tales making this an homage worth of its predecessor.  He captures the uniqueness of the original work as well.

The author’s narrative vision gives a sense of familiarity.  Sumirasko reacquaints readers with the characters from Dostoevsky’s universe skillfully breathing a new life into each one. 

He seems to thrust these characters into the modern day world or perhaps one that is evolving into the current modern day landscape. 

From Chapter IV – IVAN:

““She didn’t dare answer his query either way. She sensed it would

disillusion his already sick soul. She kept quite trying to appear descent,

balanced before his eyes. She was too fearful of losing him so she

could not leave him alone. She thought about Alyosha “Another

Catastrophe”, she gasped thinking where it will end? Poor Alexi against

brutal fate, Can it be really happening? Is life so cruel ..........”

The book unfolds through interwoven perspectives.  Each chapter presents an insight into internal character struggles and external conflicts.

Throughout these pages, though, Sumirasko is able to maintain the essence of the depth of Dostoevsky’s story depths while introducing contemporary elements connecting all of it together.

Sumirasko’s prose is rich with carefully thought out nuances.  He carries on the tradition well of Dostoevsky’s timeless story.

Sumirasko’s sequel shows strength in his preservation of the literary legacy while also presenting his own narrative which adeptly stands all on its own.  He weaves a complex tale of choices these characters make ultimately showing us what impact they have on their world.

This book can be read stand alone even if you haven’t read “The Brothers Karamazov.”  Or, it can be read as a sequel.  Sumirasko is able to present both options to a reader equally well. 

It is admirable that Sumirasko had this vision to write a sequel and expertly did so.  This sequel is a must-read.

~LB Sedlacek is the author of several books of poetry including “Unresponsive Sky,” “Chasing Sunsets,” and “I’m No Robot.”  Her short stories books include “The Jackalope Committee & Other Stories” and her poem novel is “The Blue Eyed Side.”