A young woman struggles to assert herself within a regrettable marriage.A boy learns about life on an epic summer’s journey to a new school.A doctor attempts to befriend his most interesting patient.A young man tries to figure out the best way to live.This riverrun edition presents a selection of Chekhov’s longer stories – novellas, effectively – in Constance Garnett’s timeless translations. These four stories, The Wife, The Steppe, Ward No. 6 and My Life, tell of characters attempting to create meaning through work, connection with others and art; they deal with misunderstandings and loss; they celebrate brief joys, sudden passions and unsatisfied longings, all underscored by Chekhov’s gentle wit and great humanity. This unique collection – selected and introduced by the celebrated Janet Malcolm – is unmissable for the enthusiast and a brilliant introduction to one of the nineteenth century’s greatest writers.