Just then, Prince Andrei rocked up to Anna's joint. He was the pregnant sheila's hubby. Like his missus, he was pretty good looking himself. These comedic lines come from a new and audacious interpretation of Leo Tolstoy’s epic novel, 'War & Peace'. The 'bogan' version, crafted by Ander Louis—an IT worker from Melbourne who writes under the name Andrew Tesoriero—takes the high-society narrative of 19th-century Russia and repackages it with Australian slang and humor. Initially started as a joke in 2018, the version turns Russian nobles into 'drongos' and princesses into 'sheilas', infusing the classic with a fresh, amusing twist. Louis remarks, It's how you'd tell it down the pub, indicating his aim to entertain while exploring serious themes. The project began on a whim and has now blossomed into a possible book deal after gaining unexpected popularity—partly attributed to a rising interest in Australian culture abroad. Louis believes the distinctive, informal nature of 'bogan' language makes it a fitting medium for storytelling, bridging the gap between ancient aristocracy and contemporary Australian identity. His work evokes laughter and accessibility, inviting readers to engage with Tolstoy's profound themes through a distinctly Australian lens.
Aussie Translator Gives 'War & Peace' a Hilarious Twist with 'Bogan' Version

Aussie Translator Gives 'War & Peace' a Hilarious Twist with 'Bogan' Version
Melbourne's Ander Louis reinterprets Tolstoy's classic in a uniquely Australian style, transforming characters into 'sheilas' and 'drongos' while maintaining the essence of the original story.
In a bold and humorous twist on Leo Tolstoy's 'War & Peace', Melbourne-based writer Ander Louis, under the pen name Andrew Tesoriero, has crafted a 'bogan' version of the classic novel. His translation adapts the narrative to Australian slang, making characters relatable to a modern audience while preserving the core themes of the original work. Louis's playful rendition has gained traction, leading to unexpected recognition and a potential book deal.



















