Five Great German Short Stories: A Dual-Language Book : Book Review

"Five Great German Short Stories" by Stanley Appelbaum is a captivating anthology that brings together a selection of classic tales from renowned German authors. This collection offers readers a wonderful opportunity to experience the brilliance of German literature, showcasing the rich traditions and storytelling prowess of the country.

The first story in the anthology is "The Hussar" by Theodor Storm. Through themes of love, duty, and sacrifice, Storm takes us on an emotional journey, immersing readers in a different time and place with his masterful storytelling and vivid descriptions.

Jacob and Wilhelm Grimm's "Little Red Riding Hood" is another gem in the collection. This beloved fairy tale, expertly translated, retains its charm and intrigue, providing readers with a touch of nostalgia and familiarity.

Nikolai Gogol's "The Nose" is a satirical masterpiece that ventures into the realms of absurdity and the grotesque. Gogol's biting social commentary and his skillful blend of humor and horror make this story a highlight of the collection, leaving readers pondering the deeper meanings hidden within its bizarre plot.

Heinrich von Kleist's "The Duel" is a gripping and suspenseful tale that explores themes of morality, honor, and identity. Kleist's ability to create complex characters and build tension effectively draws readers into the narrative, keeping them intrigued until the very end.

What are readers saying?

Five Great German Short Stories is a compilation of translated German literary works by Stanley Appelbaum, which has received generally positive reviews. Readers have praised the collection for its diverse selection of stories that represent various themes and writing styles. Appelbaum's translation skills have been highly regarded, as he has successfully made these classic German stories accessible and enjoyable for English-speaking readers.

The writing style of the translated stories has been praised for being engaging and thought-provoking. Reviewers have found the prose to be captivating, and they appreciate how Appelbaum skillfully captures the essence of the original German texts while preserving the distinct voices of the authors.

The collection is also commended for its detailed introductions to each story. Readers have found this background information to be helpful in understanding and appreciating the narratives, as it provides historical and cultural context. Appelbaum's careful curation of the stories and insightful introductions have been well-received by reviewers.

Although some readers have mentioned that the translations can be challenging at times, they acknowledge that this may be due to the complexity of the original German language. Nonetheless, many readers still appreciate Appelbaum's dedication to preserving the authenticity of the texts, even if it sacrifices some degree of readability.

Overall, readers highly recommend Five Great German Short Stories for those interested in German literature or looking to expand their literary horizons. They applaud Appelbaum for his meticulous translation work and his ability to select a diverse range of stories. This collection is considered an excellent resource for both casual readers and students of German literature.

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