Richard Wilson's The Russian Story Book is a gateway to a legendary world. He collected and translated tales from the epic song-cycles of Kievan Rus', the medieval state that was the birthplace of Russia, Ukraine, and Belarus.

The Story

There isn't a single plot, but a series of adventures centered on legendary bogatyrs—knight-like heroes of immense strength and virtue. You'll meet Ilya of Murom, a peasant's son who becomes the greatest defender of the land. You'll follow the cunning Dobrynya as he outwits a fiery dragon. The stories swing from massive battles against invading armies to quiet, magical encounters in deep forests. It's a world where a hero's word is his bond, where giants and witches are real, and where the fate of cities rests on a single duel.

Why You Should Read It

What grabbed me was how different these heroes feel. They're not flawless princes. They argue, they get tricked, and their strength often comes with a quiet, stubborn wisdom. The magic feels old and rooted in the earth—in talking rivers, shape-shifting animals, and spirits that guard the thresholds of homes. Reading this, you get a sense of the vast landscape and the values that shaped a culture: hospitality, loyalty to the land, and a deep, often humorous, respect for sheer cleverness.

Final Verdict

Perfect for fantasy lovers looking for the roots of the genre beyond Western Europe, or for anyone who just loves a good adventure story. It’s also a great pick for history-curious readers who want to understand the myths that built a nation. Wilson tells these tales with clear, direct prose, making these ancient epics feel immediate and exciting. Think of it as a thrilling compilation of Russia's original superhero stories.