Russian Gypsy Tales

by Yefim Druts (Editor), Alexei Gessler (Editor), James Riordan (Translator)

Book by

Genres: Russia, Short Stories, Folklore, Folk Tales, Nonfiction, Fairy Tales

160 pages, Paperback

First published May 1, 1989

Reviews

[Amanda · Rating 3 out of 5]

Nice collection of folk tales, especially centered on the supernatural and tricksters getting themselves out of scrapes (sometimes even against the supernatural ;) ). I liked the author's introduction as it gave a bit of extra insight and context, as well as the use of some traditional words to keep the feel of the original tales intact.

[Hannah Lulu · Rating 1 out of 5]

In an effort to read global folk literature, I was hoping to read folktales that Roma people may pass to their children from one generation to the next. I don't understand where or how the stories were collected, but rather than Roma folktales these seem more likely to be a collection of tales that feature "gypsies" (perhaps the title should have been a giveaway of the content)--usually in unsavory roles, committing acts of theft, trickery, and wife beating. Therefore I cannot recommend. Interestingly, some of the stories I'd read other versions of in other books that did not include "gypsy" as a character, and now I wonder which version came first.

[Danielle · Rating 5 out of 5]

A wonderful collection of stories! They gave me a flavor of the Russian gypsy culture and make me want to know more. I truly enjoyed the writing style- I could easily imagine being told these stories sitting by a campfire and a glass of vodka. Come to think of it, this book is coming along on my next camping trip!

[Margit · Rating 3 out of 5]

An interesting collection of folk tales. A lot about gypsies tricking and fooling non-gypsies and devils. Some stories of undead. I was hoping for inspiration for my next novel, but nothing struck me immediately. Perhaps after stewing around in my subconscious for a while, something will pop up eventually.

[Jeremy Brooks · Rating 3 out of 5]

A fun little collection of Gypsy folk tales. Gives great insight into Rom thinking and how verbal (they don't like writing anything down) storytelling has carried their mores and principles for thousands of years.

[Risica · Rating 4 out of 5]

The many folk tales in this book are all interesting in their own rite. Some are funny, ironic, sad, or just a plain good story. If I had children, I would read these stories aloud. This book is a wonderful and eye-opening read for adults, and can be entertaining for kids as well.

[Kldeighton]

More about gypsies by Gorjer than tales by Gypsies