Short Fiction
Read this book freeEvery sentence translated, natural audio, one-tap dictionary
This collection showcases Nikolai Gogol's mastery of the short story form, delving into the absurdities and eccentricities of Russian provincial life. The stories often feature characters grappling with mundane realities that spiral into surreal and darkly humorous situations. Gogol's keen observation of human foibles and his unique narrative voice create unforgettable portraits of a society teetering on the edge of the bizarre. Gogol's vivid descriptions and often theatrical dialogue make his stories an engaging read for English learners looking to expand their vocabulary and understanding of narrative pacing.
Learn English with Short Fiction
- Suits learners around level B2: you read the original, not a simplified retelling.
- 11,931 distinct words, each one a tap away from your personal vocabulary list.
- Read in English, glance at the translation under any sentence you are unsure of, and listen to natural read-aloud voices to train your ear.
How it works
- Open the book: no installation, it reads in the browser on any device.
- Read a sentence in English. Its translation sits right under it, so you never lose the thread.
- Tap a word for its meaning and save it; listen to the chapter read aloud.
Create a free accountRead full books, save your progress and vocabulary, upload your own books.
Questions about this book
Can I read Short Fiction in English for free?
Yes. The first chapters of Short Fiction open without an account, with the translation, audio and dictionary included. A free account unlocks the rest of the book.
How much English do I need?
The text is estimated at level B2. Because every sentence has its translation underneath, lower levels can follow along too.
Is there audio?
Yes. Each chapter can be read aloud by a natural-sounding voice while the current sentence is highlighted.
