By: Sophia Vaughan
Sports Editor
In the early nineteenth century, Leo Tolstoy penned one of his most famous novels: Anna Karenina. Now, over one-hundred years later, Jenny Lee brings that classic back to life in an exciting new way with her latest novel, “Anna K: A Love Story.”
Lee brings the tale into the twenty-first century, mixing in elements of “Gossip Girl” and “Crazy Rich Asians” with Tolstoy’s classic “Anna Karenina”, keeping readers captivated until the very last page. With headstrong female leads and a cast of characters featuring Manhattan’s wealthiest elites, the story manages to provide a refreshing new take on a classic.
The plot centers around the willful and beautiful Anna K, the daughter of a wealthy Korean magnate and an American socialite. Known for her demure nature and sharp intelligence, she has long dated Alexander W., a wealthy boy from old money with the most respected reputation in Greenwich. However, when Anna K meets known Manhattan playboy Alexia Vronsky, things take a turn, as Anna must decide between her head and her heart.
In her debut Young Adult novel, author Jenny Lee manages to make a splash. As a former television writer and producer of Disney Channel’s “Shake it Up” and “Freeform’s Young and Hungry,” Lee manages to craft an entertaining story for younger viewers, while also incorporating subtle nods to the current social issues which American youth faces today.
Lee gives the novel a brilliant and intriguing setting, switching between Anna K’s lavish Manhattan penthouse and her elite boarding school in Greenwich, Connecticut. Lee’s stunningly vivid descriptions of designer stores and Manhattan’s most exclusive social events capture the reader’s attention, portraying the exuberant tastes of Manhattan’s uber-rich, and providing a similar feel to that of the highly popular book and television series, “Gossip Girl.”
The novel also follows a fascinating set of supporting characters, providing a series of subplots that only enhance the book’s dramatic storyline. Steven K, Anna K’s cheating and partying brother, deals with problems with his socialite girlfriend, Lolly. Lolly’s younger sister and former figure skating star Kimmie also deals with romantic drama, and problems of her own. Dustin, Steven’s friend, provides an outsider’s perspective, being adopted and a far cry from running in Manhattan’s most elite social circles. Lee’s fantastic characterization weaves together seamlessly, mirroring the plot of “Anna Karenina” whilst adding an air of mystery.
Besides its fantastic descriptions of the lives of Manhattan’s wealthiest, Lee also addresses the uglier side of Manhattan society, incorporating social constructs that plague today’s society. Lee details the challenges that Anna K and her family face because her parents are an interracial couple. She also describes the problems that come along with the K family’s disagreement on gender roles. Kimmie’s character battles with mental illness, and Dustin’s brother fights drug addiction. Lee’s decision to incorporate the imperfections of these seemingly untouchable characters only adds to the novel’s allure, making the characters relatable.
The book’s 474 pages are divided into parts, following a similar format to Tolstoy’s original “Anna Karenina.” It is also told from the third person, allowing Lee to explore the different feelings and backstories of each of the character’s throughout the novel. This structure fits the novel to a tea, giving the reader context and necessary separation as the many simultaneous plot lines play out.
Overall, Lee brilliantly adds her own fresh spin to the timeless character’s of Tolstoy’s “Anna Karenina.” Though it mirrors Tolstoy’s work, it is hardly a retelling, and it’s lively characters and stunning setting make “Anna K: A Love Story” a worthwhile read.
“Anna K: A Love Story” was published on March 3rd, and is available online nationwide.
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