Written in France toward the end of his career, these stories are Chekhov's only attempt at the linked collection. "A Man in a Shell" is a grotesque Gogolian comedy; "Gooseberries" a narrator's impassioned response; and "About Love" a poignant story of failed relationships. Translated by the impeccable David Helwig and fabulously illustrated by Seth, About Love is essential for any Chekhov enthusiast.

David Helwig is the author of twenty volumes of fiction and fourteen volumes of poetry, an Officer of the Order of Canada, and former poet laureate of Prince Edward Island.