Join the 2026 'War and Peace' Slow Read

Introduction and welcome pack to the Footnotes & Tangents read-along

Hello, friends and fellow readers!

It’s Simon Haisell here, the host of slow read-alongs at Footnotes & Tangents, and I would like to invite you to join the 2026 slow read of Leo Tolstoy’s War and Peace, a chapter a day.

Over the last three years, I have run a series of worldwide book groups exploring some of my favourite novels at a gentle pace with rich resources and a fantastic reading community. The first slow read was Leo Tolstoy’s War and Peace, and every year since, I have re-run this read-along.

This post serves as your introduction and welcome pack, containing everything you need to decide if this slow read is right for you. There are also lots of quotes from readers who have joined me this year. For more reviews of our slow reads, check out the testimonials page on the website.

In a nutshell: War and Peace has 361 chapters. We read a chapter a day, and every Wednesday, I send out a link to a post that discusses the last seven chapters. These posts contain chapter summaries, my reflections, paintings, music, useful videos, and links to continue your reading. These posts are also available as a podcast. In the comments, you can connect with fellow readers and discuss the week’s reading. There is also a chat thread for each chapter, linked to from these posts and from the reading schedule.

New in 2026: Next year, you’ll also be able to sign up for a daily post/email that will include a chapter summary, my footnotes and tangents, and a link to the daily chat thread.

Also running next year: a bunch of new slow reads starting with Midnight’s Children in January, and Wolf Crawl, our year-long slow read of Hilary Mantel’s Cromwell trilogy.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Why read War and Peace?

I first read War and Peace in 2007. I went backpacking in South America and took the biggest book I could find. All I knew was that it was a classic, and it was very big – 1,358 pages! To my surprise and delight, I discovered a deeply humane novel – sharp, funny and wise – about life’s struggle for peace and happiness amid war and misfortune.

Tolstoy drops you in the middle of a soirée in nineteenth-century St Petersburg, a party packed with truly awful people. You think to yourself: Surely I have nothing in common with these rich Russian aristocrats from another era. There’s no way I would want to spend a year in their company!

But then Tolstoy does something remarkable. This strange world starts to feel very familiar. We recognise the characters in ourselves and in the people we know. Our first impressions give way to a greater understanding, and we start to care about these people as though they were friends and family.

And all this is told with an unerring clarity and compassion. It is like looking into still, clear waters. You see life reflected back at you in the novel. And it’s all here. Within these pages, characters grow up, fall in love, encounter fear, hatred, and despair, and care for and grieve each other. They learn how to live and how to die. They ask big questions, and sometimes they find answers.

“If life could write, it would write like Tolstoy.” – Isaac Babel

It’s also a great story, full of twists and turns, high drama and heartache. And first-time readers are often struck by how readable, entertaining and even funny it is. But it’s more than just a great story. It’s a good one. It has a good heart. A rich soul. And the world feels a little better, a little truer, for having read it.

“This year, on the “Happier with Gretchen Rubin” podcast, we challenged ourselves—and readers—to read for 25 minutes a day in 2025, and the War and Peace slow read was a highlight of my own reading year. I know so many people joined in—and absolutely loved it. Thank you, Simon, for being our guide.” — Gretchen Rubin

2. Why read War and Peace slowly?

Slow reading is an opportunity to really savour a book. We miss so much when we race ahead. Slowing down not only allows us to notice more, but it also makes us more patient and mindful readers. It can enliven our curiosity, sending us off on adventures we did not anticipate.

Slow reading is also a great way to get back into the habit of reading. Many of the readers I meet here have rediscovered their love of books through these slow reads. As with all habits, the key is to start small and slow. A few pages a day with the support of a friendly community of readers. You may be surprised by the difference it makes.

Some reasons people join the War and Peace slow read:

• It’s been on your list forever, and you finally want to say you’ve read it!

• You used to love reading and want to get back into it.

• You want to be more confident about reading classics and ‘difficult’ books.

• You want to build a daily reading habit.

• You want to create a reading refuge from the world.

• You tend to rush books and want a reason to slow down.

• You want the companionship of fellow readers who are on the same reading journey.

“I just want to thank you for making me fall in love with the classics. I’ve always been a lover of reading, but growing up in a family of non-readers, I didn’t really read many classics. Earlier this year, I decided to finally pick one up and went big with War and Peace (they say go big or go home, right?). While looking for a guide, I stumbled upon Simon’s slow read of War and Peace, and honestly, I wouldn’t have been able to get through it without his daily notes and wonderful weekly guides.” — Neeti K

3. How does the read-along work?

War and Peace has 361 chapters. So, it’s the perfect book to read a chapter a day over the course of a year. We start on Thursday, 1 January 2026, and continue to the end of the year, with one day off at the end of each of the four volumes.

Each day, I publish a chapter summary with additional footnotes and tangents, along with a link to the daily chat thread. These posts link to plot summaries for all the characters to help you keep track of who’s who.

Every Wednesday, I will link to a weekly compedium post that compiles all these resources together with an introduction exploring the week’s main theme. These posts have voice-overs and are available as podcasts to download.

You can choose to sign up for the daily email and/or the weekly post. You can chat with readers in the daily chat threads linked to from these posts and from the reading schedule. Alternatively, you can comment on the weekly posts and join the discussion there.

The rest is up to you! This is your slow read, and you should make it your own. You can chat with other readers and arrange to meet up, online or offline. You can keep a private journal of reflections or share your thoughts with us in your own posts. Some readers are inspired to create: to draw, paint or knit their way through the book.

Be inspired. There is no right way to read a book.

“I’m reading along with the War and Peace slow read from Auckland, New Zealand. It has been remarkable. Simon’s approach is brilliant, and I love the comments from other readers, too. I choose to read the weekly overviews at the same time as I’m listening to Simon’s beautiful voice read them, it really helps as the content is so dense! I owe Simon a huge debt and can’t recommend this highly enough!” — Kirsten Taylor

4. Which translation of War and Peace should I read?

We have people reading in many languages and different translations. There is no definitive translation in English, and this will ultimately be a matter of personal taste.

My best advice is to sit down in a bookshop and read a few pages from a couple of translations. You will have an instinctive preference. Go with your gut.

Note that if you pick up a free translation online, it will almost certainly be the out-of-copyright version by Louise and Aylmer Maude. This is an excellent choice. However, it is worth noting that some chapters are divided slightly differently from those in the reading schedule. These are not major, and I flag the discrepancies in the schedule, but it is worth keeping in mind.

In the original version, Leo Tolstoy wrote some passages and dialogue in French. Some editions have translated everything into English; others have provided translations in footnotes.

There are seven English translations in print. I am familiar with the three most recent versions, and they all have the same chapter divisions as the read-along:

Anthony Briggs (Penguin Classics)

This was the first translation I read in 2007. It feels very modern and uses British English. I loved it, and it is how I fell in love with War and Peace. It’s a great translation for first-timers, especially those not used to reading classics.

Some non-British readers find the dialogue occasionally jarring, especially the ‘cockney’ soldiers, but the modern style makes it exceptionally easy to read. It’s a solid choice and the firm favourite for many readers.

In this translation, French is translated in the text without footnotes.

Richard Pevear and Larissa Volokhonsky (Vintage Classics)

This version is often pitched as the most faithful translation with a precise word-for-word translation of the original. I personally find it a little pedantic and flat-footed in places, but you may have a better experience.

If authenticity is important to you (and hey, it was very important to Tolstoy), you may value this serious and scholarly version. It is a popular choice among Literature students, and it is the copy you will probably first find in a bookstore, especially in the United States.

In this edition, French is translated in the footnotes.

Louise and Aylmer Maude (Oxford World’s Classics)

The Maudes were friends of Tolstoy, and he personally approved this translation. In 2010, it was revised and updated by Amy Mandelker.

I have listened to the original version twice, and this updated version is my preferred translation for the read-along. The language can feel a little old-fashioned compared to Briggs, but I find it a smoother read than the more literal translation by Pevear and Volokhonsky.

In this version, the French is translated in the footnotes as well.

If you would like to dive deeper into the differences among all the translations, I recommend this detailed article on the We Love Translations website.

“I really love great literature and I’m not a great reader. My brother is and suggests I start small. He hasn’t read War and Peace and soon I can tell him I have. Reading a chapter a day, has been a manageable pace, and given space to capture the nuance and subtle humor of a true classic. I’ve missed a lot but by reading what other readers experienced in the forum, and daily summaries by Simon Haisell, I have kept on track and digested a true literary experience.” — Ian Ghent

5. How do I keep track of all the characters?

There are a lot of them! More than 500 characters with over 200 real historical figures, and a character may be referred to by their title, a diminutive, their patronymic, or even a French version of their name.

This is where I am here to help.

I have created a full list of characters. This links to plot summaries for all the major characters. My weekly posts link to these plot summaries and will help you keep the Denisovs and Dolokhovs straight in your head.

The slow read and the daily chat will also really help the names sink in. After that, you should have no problem keeping track.

“As the year winds down, I want to thank you, Simon, for your impeccable guidance through a fascinating year-long slow-read of War and Peace! It’s been such a rewarding experience. Each week, I look forward to your poetic chapter summaries, relevant ‘Footnotes’ of historical artwork, and enlightening ‘Tangents’ all of which enhance the weekly readings and bring 19th century Russia to life. Heartfelt thanks for this memorable journey!” — Marissa DeMatteo

6. How long are the chapters in War and Peace?

War and Peace is around 1,300 pages long. That sounds long, but it means each chapter is only about 3-4 pages. If you are listening, that’s about 10 minutes.

This is the perfect length to read during a coffee break, first thing in the morning or last thing at night.

If you want to develop the habit of reading daily, this is an excellent way to do it. For others, it leaves plenty of time to read more books alongside War and Peace.

“If you are perched on the “should I, shouldn’t I” section of the proverbial fence, jump off and join us in 2026! This is my first year at Footnotes & Tangents, and I have found the experience very rewarding. I doubt I would ever have tackled War and Peace but for this Substack. Simon does a staggering amount of work preparing, presenting and responding.” — Mercedes S Carey

7. Can I read at my own pace?

Of course! The reading schedule is a guide only and don’t let it cramp your style. We’re not at school, and this is not homework.

Find your rhythm. If you want to race ahead or saunter behind, if life gets in the way, or your curiosity gets the better of you, do what works for you. My posts and our discussion will always be here when you need them.

“The 2025 slow read of War and Peace was worth every penny. Simon’s weekly updates have brought a richness to my reading experience that would have taken more hours to prepare than I have to spend. I look forward to hearing Simon’s voice and thoughts every Tuesday. The art and social references he’s sprinkled into the weekly updates are sometimes historical, sometimes silly, and always delightful! I’m so grateful to Simon for all he’s done to enhance my reading life this year!” — Jennifer Randel

8. Can I skip the ‘war parts’?

No.

OK, you can. People do. But I don’t recommend it. The themes of war and peace are so closely entwined in this story, and you will get less than half of what this book has to offer by skipping the battles.

In fact, I’d go further. The title is misleading. It gives the impression that the book is divided into war sections and peace sections. In reality, there is peace on the battlefield and war in the ballroom.

And you may surprise yourself. My best advice is to read without expectations and with curiosity for every page. You never know what may resonate with you, and some of Tolstoy’s most beautiful and important writing describes events in the most frightening of circumstances.

“I joined Footnotes and Tangents for the War and Peace slow read. I already thought it would be good, but I didn’t think it would be THAT good! What an amazing place on the internet, with a great community, thoughtful discussions and information I can actually trust! The experience of slow reading something has been very valuable to teach me how to sit with something and process it with time and patience. This has been a great experience not just for the literary me, but also for anxious me in general. Thank you so much, Simon!” — Tary

9. Can I listen instead of read?

Yes! There is no reading snobbery here, and these slow reads are designed to be accessible to those with visual impairments or who prefer listening to reading.

I recommend Thandie Newton’s narration of the original Maude translation. Here’s a review. As I mentioned above, it has the slight disadvantage of the occasional difference in chapter divisions. But Newton’s reading is superb.

All my posts are released as podcasts. You can listen to these on the Footnotes & Tangents website, on the Substack App, or download and listen to them on your favourite podcast app.

“What I love most is the steady, satisfying rhythm of a slow read. It anchors my days and blends beautifully with the other books I pick up throughout the year. Staying on track with the big read has become such a fun part of my routine, and being part of a lively group keeps me motivated. Plus, Simon’s weekly updates always add that perfect touch of extra insight.” — Josh D

10. Great, I’m in. When does it start?

Thursday 1 January 2026. The reading schedule is straightforward: we read a chapter a day through the whole of next year, with a day off between each of the four volumes.

In 2025, Rhea Forney and Shari Dragovich ran a War and Peace read-along on their Substack, The Reader & The Writer. They have kindly shared their bookmarks to use with this slow read. You can download them here:

• Jan-Mar War and Peace bookmark

• Apr-June War and Peace bookmark

• July-Sept War and Peace bookmark

• Oct-Dec War and Peace bookmark

I absolutely loved Simon’s slow read of War and Peace. I never would have read that book without Simon’s accompaniment. I’m astounded, really, by the amount of time and research he put into the read. The best literature paired with the best literature instructor! Worth every penny!” — mary g.

11. How do I join?

There are two ways to get the read-along resources. You can sign up for either or both of them.

2026 War and Peace Daily

A daily post/email with a plot summary, additional footnotes and tangents, and a link to the daily chat thread. To sign up to this…

1. Subscribe to Footnotes & Tangents, and then

2. Turn on notifications for “2026 War and Peace Daily” in the subscription settings.

2026 War and Peace Weekly

A weekly email that links to the full discussion post for the last seven chapters. This has the same content as “War and Peace Daily” + a section on the weekly theme + voice-over/podcast version + comments section. To sign up to this…

1. Subscribe to Footnotes & Tangents, and then

2. Turn on notifications for “2026 War and Peace Weekly” in the subscription settings.

If you get stuck, I have included a tutorial video below.

“I am so grateful to you, Simon, for this slow reading adventure and community. I certainly would not have completed War and Peace without you, and although I read a lot of fiction, slow reading has been a revelation. To my surprise and delight, the War and Peace slow read has been a highlight of my year, providing a moment of calm reflection and constancy during more challenging days and weeks. Thank you!” — Taryn Harding

12. How much does it cost?

The first weekly post is free. After that, you’ll need a paid subscription to Footnotes & Tangents of £5/month or £50/year. This includes:

• 361 daily posts with plot summaries, footnotes, tangents, and further links

• 50 detailed weekly posts with discussion, resources, artwork, videos and further links

• A podcast version of these posts to download and listen to on your favourite app

• Chat threads for each chapter and a friendly, insightful and inclusive discussion space in the weekly posts.

• Access to all my other book guides, including Hilary Mantel’s Cromwell trilogy, and the 2026 guides: Midnight’s Children, Regeneration, The Inheritors, Treacle Walker, and The Children’s Book.

13. Is there a discount for group subscriptions?

Yes. Two or more people can get 20% off an annual subscription here.

14. Can I gift a subscription?

Definitely, you can give someone a monthly or annual subscription here. You can also schedule a gift so they receive it at the perfect time.

15. Is there support for readers on a low income?

Yes! I would like everyone to enjoy slow reading with us, and I don’t think personal circumstances should be a barrier to great literature. Paying subscribers help me support readers with low or no income by offering complimentary subscriptions to those who need them. So if that’s you, please get in touch.

“We have greatly enjoyed our participation in Simon’s impeccably prepared slow read of War and Peace this year, and it has become a welcome start to our days as we read a chapter, drink our morning coffee and join in on the discussions. Not only has this slow read generated fun and engaging conversation between my partner and me at home, but thanks to Simon, we’ve also gained an international, online community of fellow readers with whom to share the journey.” — Diana and Matt

16. What other books are running next year?

Here is the full lineup for 2026:

• War and Peace by Leo Tolstoy (all year)

• Wolf Hall, Bring Up the Bodies, & The Mirror and the Light by Hilary Mantel (all year)

• Midnight’s Children by Salman Rushdie (Jan–Mar)

• Regeneration by Pat Barker (Apr–May)

• The Inheritors by William Golding (June)

• Treacle Walker by Alan Garner (July)

• The Children’s Book by AS Byatt (Sep–Dec)

Read more about these slow reads here. Read about Wolf Crawl here.

“I started a slow read for the first time this year, and there’s no going back for me. Simon has brought War and Peace to the top of my list of favourite books. Like everyone else, I have a busy life, and my aspirations to do things like read War and Peace often demand more time than I have. But a slow read is a perfect way to savour a book. When I have too little time, the daily ask is never too much. And when I have more time, I can relax into luxuriating in the text, knowing that with Simon, I don’t have to rush to get to the end – he’ll get me there.” - Lisa McNulty

17. What is Substack? How do I use it? Help!

If you are new to Substack, don’t panic!

You don’t need the Substack App to read my posts or participate in the read-along. In fact, I recommend avoiding the app if you are not already familiar with it. It may confuse and complicate an otherwise straightforward experience!

Substack is the platform that runs the Footnotes & Tangents website, delivers the emails and manages subscriptions. Don’t think about it as another social media platform, but the behind-the-scenes stuff that makes things go.

Here is a video tutorial for using the website, managing your subscription settings, and finding all the slow read resources.

“Simon has completely changed my approach to reading both classic and modern literature. I’m someone whose natural instinct is to devour a book in a few sittings, but Simon has helped me to slow down and appreciate those books that really need that extra processing time. His guides are brilliantly researched, and the podcast format suits my accessibility needs wonderfully!” — Emma Jane Grey

18. Who on earth is Simon Haisell anyway?

Good question! I’m still trying to figure that one out. I am a writer living in Newcastle, UK, with a passion for slow, curious and creative reading. If you would like to know more about me and the brief history of Footnotes & Tangents, I recently did an interview for Matthew Long 📚⚓, which you can read here.

I will also be going live on Substack with Sarah Stewart Holland on Wednesday, 3 December at 5PM GMT. Sarah joined us for Wolf Crawl this year, and will be hosting her own slow read of Stephen King’s The Stand next year with Laura Tremaine. We will be talking about slow reading and how we organise and host these read-alongs. If you miss it, the recording will be available on the website afterwards.

Update: Watch that conversation with Sarah Stewart Holland

19. Any further questions?

If you have a question that I haven’t answered here, please leave a comment, hit reply, or send me a message on Substack. And if you know someone who might love this slow read, please share this post with them. Thank you!

Thank you

As always, I am overwhelmingly grateful for the enthusiasm and insight everyone brings to these read-alongs. It really is something special, and I couldn’t do it without all of you!

Next month, there will be a new welcome post to introduce Footnotes & Tangents and me to new subscribers, and where new and seasoned readers can introduce themselves in the comments.

Until then, best wishes and adventurous reading,

Simon