MARTIN THE COBBLER BY LEO TOLSTOY ANIMATED

Martin the Cobbler Leo Tolstoy
Martin the Cobbler is a short story by Leo Tolstoy, originally published in 1885 under the title “Where Love Is, God Is” (sometimes translated as “Where Love Is, There God Is Also”). The story revolves around an elderly shoemaker named Martin Avdeitch who, after experiencing the loss of his family, turns away from God and falls into despair. One day, a missionary advises Martin to read the Gospels daily, which gradually brings peace and hope back into his life. The next day, Martin sees various people in need and helps them, eventually realizing that his acts of kindness are manifestations of God’s presence. Tolstoy regarded this story as one of the most important of his works, highlighting how love and service can restore hope to those who have lost it.

The story has been adapted into various forms, including a 1977 claymation short film directed by Will Vinton, a made-for-TV movie titled “Winter Thaw” in 2016, and a children’s book by Brigitte Hanhart.