Prague Stories

The Golden City of Prague has long been an intellectual center of the western world, and this collection of stories, legends, and scenes from its past and present showcases the city's venerable Jewish heritage, glamour of the belle-époque period, World War II, Communist rule, the Prague Spring, the Velvet Revolution, and beyond. Writers range from Franz Kafka to Ivan Klíma to Bruce Chatwin, and include the award-winning British playwright Tom Stoppard and former American Secretary of State Madeleine Albright.

Format: Hardback
Length: 400 pages
Publication date: 10 September 2020
Publisher: Everyman

The Golden City of Prague has held a revered position as a hub of intellectual excellence throughout the western world for centuries. This collection of writers, spanning from the early nineteenth century to the present, encompasses both native Prague residents and visitors from diverse corners of the globe. Within these pages, readers are treated to a tapestry of stories, legends, and scenes from the city's past and present, ranging from the Jewish fable of the golem, a creature magically created from clay, to accounts of German and Soviet invasions. The diverse international roster of writers includes renowned figures such as Franz Kafka, Ivan Klíma, Bruce Chatwin, and the award-winning British playwright Tom Stoppard, who possesses Czech roots. Prague Stories skillfully weaves a captivating blend of fiction and nonfiction, creating a literary portrait that vividly captures the essence of this fascinating city.

Richard Bassett, a former Central European correspondent for The Times, possesses an in-depth knowledge of the city. In this remarkable work, Prague is unveiled in all its brilliance, a city steeped in both Slavic and Jewish folklore, whose history is woven with legendary tales. From the era of Jan Hus and Charles IV, renowned for their contributions to Czech history, to the dramatic events of the past, including the iconic Charles Bridge and the serial defenestrations, Prague's history is a tapestry of intrigue and drama.

Furthermore, Prague Stories delves into the darker chapters of its history, encompassing the tumultuous years of World War II and the oppressive era of Communism. It also captures the excitement and hope of the Velvet Revolution, which marked a pivotal moment in Czech history. But the book does not stop there; it also presents a vibrant portrait of contemporary Prague, a bustling cosmopolitan capital where a new generation of Czech writers is exploring and redefining the city's identity in innovative and exciting ways.

This unique collection of fiction and non-fiction is a treasure for both travelers and stay-at-homes alike. It offers a captivating journey through the city's past and present, providing insights into its cultural heritage, historical events, and the evolving spirit of its people. Whether you are a seasoned explorer or a curious seeker of knowledge, Prague Stories is a must-read that will delight, inspire, and stimulate your imagination.

Weight: 428g
Dimension: 126 x 190 x 34 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781841596280