
A lively anthology of Russian folk narratives, this collection brings the charm of picture‑book storytelling to the ear. The translator captures the rhythmic cadence and playful dialogue that have delighted children for generations, while preserving the earthy humor of the original verses. Listeners will be drawn into a world where everyday creatures embark on absurd quests that reveal deeper cultural values.
One tale follows a boastful cock who, after swallowing a stray bean, finds himself unable to breathe and sets off a chain of barter that sweeps through a cow, hay‑makers, an oven, wood‑cutters, and even a smith. The story’s circular logic and escalating requests showcase a witty take on communal interdependence and the lengths one will go to solve a simple problem. Another episode introduces a goat and a ram expelled from their farm, who stumble upon a wolf’s head and a perilous dinner invitation, blending suspense with clever wordplay.
Together, these stories offer a snapshot of Russian folklore’s wit, moral nuance, and vivid imagination, making the collection perfect for listeners who enjoy humor, rhythm, and timeless lessons told in a delightfully animated voice.
Language
en
Duration
~36 minutes (34K characters)
Publisher of text edition
Project Gutenberg
Credits
Produced by Janet Blenkinship and the Online Distributed Proofreading Team at http://www.pgdp.net (This file was produced from images generously made available by The Internet Archive/American Libraries.)
Release date
2007-11-12
Rights
Public domain in the USA.
Subjects

1869–1942
Best known for lively retellings of Russian and Ukrainian folktales, this Russian-born illustrator and writer brought old stories to life with humor, movement, and memorable pictures. After the Russian Revolution, he settled in Norway, where his work continued to reach young readers in translation.
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