"The Key of Gold: 23 Czech Folk Tales" is a wonderful collection of stories that captures the rich cultural heritage of Czech folklore. The tales are beautifully written and full of magic, adventures, and important life lessons. Each story is unique and offers a glimpse into the traditions and beliefs of the Czech people.

The characters in the book are captivating and diverse, ranging from clever animals to brave heroes and cunning witches. The settings are vividly described, transporting the reader to a world filled with enchanted forests, mysterious castles, and magical creatures.

What I loved most about this book is how the stories are not only entertaining, but also carry valuable messages about courage, kindness, and the importance of staying true to oneself. It's a book that can be enjoyed by readers of all ages, and a great way to introduce children to the world of folklore.

Overall, "The Key of Gold: 23 Czech Folk Tales" is a delightful collection that offers a glimpse into a rich and captivating culture. It's a book that will entertain, inspire, and leave a lasting impression on anyone who picks it up.

Book Description:

Not your common fairy tales, this collection is a mixture of morals, quirkiness, and sarcasm. In it one finds ironic derivatives (if not roots) of well known fairy tales such as “The Brave Little Taylor” and “Beauty and the Beast,” as well as some more unusual settings to impart the popular fairy tale themes of justice and happily ever after. Most stories are told with wry humor and often shocking irreverence for the expected fairy tale turn out. This is NOT a book for children, but one for adults who love fairy tales, and enjoy making fun of them.

DISCLAIMER: Story 09 contains some racially offensive material in its ending. Due to the mission of reading, rather than rewriting, literature in the public domain, it has not been omitted from this anthology.