Dostoyevsky is one of my favorite authors and this book is an easy read with fascinating biographical information blended with literary criticism fit for all readers: The ones well acquainted with the work and life of Fyodor Dostoevsky as well as the ones who might want a first, basic introduction to the author's life and work (probably more fit for the later). Even though I knew quite a lot about Dostoyevsky's life prior to reading this book, there were still a lot of details and events, especially about that time period that I didn't know and learned from this book. My main criticism is that the writing structure, at least to me, felt quite unorganized and at times unfocused, like it was all over the place. Also, it ended weirdly abruptly, as if the author stopped in the middle of writing, got up, and left, and someone picked it up and published it unfinished.
Nevertheless, I think it is an interesting introductory book for anyone who has read or wants to read Crime and Punishment by Fyodor Dostoevsky and wants to read about his life and work, but doesn't want to read something heavy or overly scholarly. Note: There are things that could be considered spoilers of The Crime and Punishment and of his other works, so if that bothers you, you might want to read it after you read the novels.