The Diary of a Madman and Other Stories Author:Nikolai Gogol, Priscilla Meyer (Translator), Andrew R. MacAndrew (Translator) This 19th-century author created "some of the most colorful and haunting fiction of his century" (Kirkus Reviews). And with his special blend of comedy, social commentary, and fantasy, he paved the way for Tolstoy and Dostoyevsky.
The diary of a madman -- The nose -- The carriage -- The overcoat -- Taras Bulba
I bought this book after I read The Namesake. I was intrigued to read the Overcoat since it was such a large part of the Namesake's plot. I liked these stories, but they are not my favorites. I think they're worth a read.