This isn't a single story, but a treasure chest of them. Folk Tales from the Russian is a collection of traditional stories gathered by Verra de Blumenthal in the late 1800s. You'll meet characters like Baba Yaga in her chicken-legged hut, clever animals outsmarting hunters, and simple folk winning against all odds through wit or kindness. The plots are classic folk tale fare: a hero must complete three impossible tasks, a cursed prince needs breaking from a spell, or a poor soldier finds a magical helper.

Why You Should Read It

These stories have a different flavor than the polished fairy tales we know today. They feel direct, earthy, and surprisingly fresh. You can almost hear the voice of the storyteller. The morals aren't always simple—sometimes cunning wins over brute strength, and the endings can be delightfully strange. Reading them, you get a real sense of the people who created them: their fears of the deep woods, their respect for cleverness, and their dry humor.

Final Verdict

This book is a gift for anyone who loves mythology, folklore, or just a good story. It's perfect for readers looking for the roots of modern fantasy, for parents wanting to share tales beyond the usual classics, or for anyone who enjoys a quick, imaginative read before bed. If you liked the vibe of Russian Fairy Tales by Afanasyev or just enjoy exploring different cultural stories, this collection is a fascinating and charming deep dive.