Some of these stories are worth every penny - trust me!

I was blown away by some of the stories in this collection - they're like old friends I hadn't seen in years, like 'The Troll Bridge', which I recognized the moment I started reading.

But what really hooked me was the detective story about Shalta-Boltai - it's a masterclass in noir, and I'll definitely be re-reading it multiple times.The story about Galahad and the Holy Grail, which he found in an old lady's attic, is another standout - each tale has its own unique character and references that really add depth.

Here's the full list:

'The Case of the Twenty-Four Thrushes' (translated by E. Kononenko).'The Troll Bridge' (translated by N. V. Ivanova).'Don't Ask Jack' (a micro-story, translated by N. V. Ivanova).'How to Sell the Pontian Bridge'.'October in the Chairman's Chair' (translated by N. Gordeeva).'Chivalry' (translated by N. V. Ivanova).'The Price' (translated by N. V. Ivanova).'How to Talk to Girls at Parties' (translated by A. Arakelov).'The Firebird' (translated by A. Arakelov).'A Witch's Tombstone' (translated by E. Kononenko).'Instructions' (a poem, translated by N. Eristavi).I want to make it clear that these stories aren't for kids - they deal with mature themes and ideas that might be too much for younger readers. I'd say they're best suited for readers who have some life experience under their belt.

As for the edition, I have the paperback, and it's held up pretty well over the years - although, in hindsight, I probably should've gotten the hardcover. But I bought it for the road, and it's been a great companion for commutes and travel.