A collection of many of Hamsun's stories that are from early in his career. While providing a commentary on some of his early novels they also contain echoes of his later work. The psychological insights and variety of emotions are typical of this fascinating author. ( )

Hamsun is a reliable writer, able to absorb me effortlessly. Several of these stories are memorable, though some of them are less significant than others. A few pastiches and plenty of journeys by train. Hamsun's personality shines through, especially when referring to gambling, lack of literary appreciation by passersby and the woes of traveling. A compelling addition to Hamsun's strong body of work, but not quite on the same level of chilling brilliance as Growth of the Soil and Hunger. ( )

These 20 short stories are fascinating companions to Hamsun’s classic novels and contain echoes of the greater works he would later write and for which he was ultimately awarded the Nobel Prize. Alive with humor, melancholy, tenderness, and lawlessness, as well as sparkling with psychological insights, these stories have never been published in the United States until now.