Tales grotesque and curious
Read this book freeEvery sentence translated, natural audio, one-tap dictionary
A collection of Akutagawa's short stories, blending psychological insight with elements of the grotesque and the supernatural. Stories like 'Rashomon' and 'In a Grove' explore human nature and moral ambiguity. The concise narratives and vivid imagery offer learners a manageable length and rich vocabulary, while the themes provoke thought and discussion.
Learn English with Tales grotesque and curious
- Suits learners around level B2: you read the original, not a simplified retelling.
- 4,580 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.
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Questions about this book
Can I read Tales grotesque and curious in English for free?
Yes. The first chapters of Tales grotesque and curious 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.



