The First Distiller   By: Leo Tolstoy (1828-1910)

The First Distiller by Leo Tolstoy is a captivating historical novel that takes readers on a journey through time, immersing them in the fascinating world of ancient civilizations and the art of distillation. Set in the ancient land of Mesopotamia, the story follows the life of Eitar, a young alchemist who becomes known as the first distiller in history.

Tolstoy's masterful storytelling grabs the reader's attention from the very first page with vivid descriptions and a strong sense of time and place. The author effortlessly transports us back to a time when the inhabitants of Mesopotamia lived a life deeply connected to nature and governed by religious beliefs. Through Eitar's eyes, we witness the intricacies of daily life, the complexity of social structures, and the richness of ancient traditions.

Eitar's character is exceptionally well-developed, allowing readers to fully invest in his journey. From his humble beginnings as an apprentice to a renowned alchemist, Eitar's passion and dedication shine through. While his sole goal is to perfect the art of distillation and create the elixir of life, he encounters numerous obstacles and setbacks along the way, including religious resistance and political unrest.

What sets this novel apart is the seamless interweaving of historical events and fictional narrative. Tolstoy demonstrates an impressive knowledge of ancient civilizations, seamlessly incorporating accurate historical details into the story. From the construction of the Hanging Gardens of Babylon to the rituals of Babylonian religious ceremonies, each page is filled with fascinating, educational content.

The themes explored in The First Distiller are equally compelling. Tolstoy delves into the dichotomy between progress and tradition, as well as the struggle between science and religion, providing readers with valuable insights that still resonate in our modern world. Additionally, the novel raises profound philosophical questions about the pursuit of immortality and the consequences of tampering with the natural order of life.

While the book is rich in historical and philosophical depth, it does, at times, feel overly descriptive and slow-paced. Some readers may find themselves longing for a slightly faster narrative flow in certain parts of the story. However, Tolstoy's exquisite writing style and meticulous attention to detail more than compensate for this minor quibble.

In conclusion, The First Distiller is an enthralling historical novel that blends history, fiction, and philosophy in a way that only Leo Tolstoy can achieve. With its well-crafted characters, rich historical backdrop, and thought-provoking themes, this book is sure to captivate both fans of historical fiction and those interested in the origins of ancient practices. Tolstoy reaffirms his status as a literary master, leaving readers hungry for more of his profound storytelling.

First Page:

PEASANT [ploughing. Looks up] It's noon. Time to unharness. Gee up, get along! Fagged out? Poor old beast! One more turn and back again, that will be the last furrow, and then dinner. It was a good idea to bring that chunk of bread with me. I'll not go home, but sit down by the well and have a bite and a rest, and Peggy can graze awhile... Continue reading book >>