Heart of a Dog
Heart of a Dog
Book Brief
123
Novel • Fiction
Moscow, Russia • 1920s
1925
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
In Mikhail Bulgakov's novel Heart of a Dog, a stray dog named Sharik in 1924 Moscow is transformed into a primitive human being after a surgeon implants human organs into him. The surgeon and his assistant attempt to teach the being, now called Sharikov, but he causes chaos, eventually ending in a debilitating conflict between Sharikov and his creators. The novel contains instances of animal cruelty and physical assault.
Mysterious
Dark
Humorous
Fantastical
Suspenseful
Reviews & Readership
63,246 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Bulgakov's Heart of a Dog is praised for its sharp satire and rich prose, capturing the absurdities of Soviet society through a unique genre blend. Critics highlight its humor and poignant social commentary as strengths. However, some view its allegorical elements as heavy-handed, potentially alienating those unfamiliar with early Soviet history. Overall, it's a compelling, if occasionally dense, read.
Who Should Read Heart of a Dog?
Heart of a Dog by Mikhail Bulgakov will appeal to readers who enjoy satirical science fiction and political allegory, similar to George Orwell's Animal Farm or Aldous Huxley's Brave New World. Ideal for those fascinated by dystopian narratives criticizing totalitarian regimes, blending humor with profound social commentary.
63,246 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Heart of a Dog by Mikhail Bulgakov was initially banned in the Soviet Union and was not published in its original form until 1987, more than 60 years after its creation.
Written in 1925, the novella satirizes the New Soviet man concept and critiques the Soviet regime through its allegorical narrative and characters.
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The book is widely celebrated for its influence on Russian literature and has inspired numerous adaptations, including stage productions, films, and radio plays.
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123
Novel • Fiction
Moscow, Russia • 1920s
1925
Adult
18+ years
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