The Master and Margarita | Paperback

I know its a classic, and probably deserving of a better score, but for me this was a tough read. Surreal literature is not something I am used to and I know very little of Stalin & 20th Century Russian history. I gather this book was deeply satirical and indeed highly contraversial at the time of writing (it wasn't officially published until after the authors death for this reason), but without a detailed understanding of the subtext, to me it simply becomes a rather odd story about Satan and his henchmen- oh and Pontius Pilate of course. Cleverly crafted and enjoyable on that level- but if someone who doesn't have a clue about Stalinist Russia tells you they love this book, they're probably showing off.

This book is a great read. A fantastic series of events sparked off by an amazing opening chapter. Some ingenius commentary on society, which when related to self-interest and money has not altered after all these years.

The format sees the book skip around a little, which will better suit those who read often rather than a casual book read from week to week.

Of course, if you are a scholar of Russin politics or subversive literature, then you may enjoy the thinly veiled references to Stalinsim and the general Moscovite mentality of the day - but this is not essential in enjoying the book.

I'm not a fan of books that are trying to be 'big and clever' or show off. Although I know there is lots of satirical meaning underlying this modern classic don't let that put you off. It's a brilliant read that you can enjoy just for its own sake.