The Mysterious Stranger

This collection includes some of the best stories by American writer Mark Twain, revealing the entire spectrum of his talent: from satire and irony to philosophy and subtle human observation. The novella "The Mysterious Stranger" was conceived by Mark Twain in three different versions, none of which he completed; this collection contains the very first edition of the novella. The action takes place in a small village called Ezeledorf, hidden in the mountains of Austria. Three young friends meet a stranger named Philip Traum. He enchants the boys with magical deeds, such as creating people the size of a finger, reading their thoughts, and changing people's destinies. During a long conversation, it turns out that Philip is an angel and even the nephew of the devil himself... The mystical character questions the nature of good and evil, exposing the imperfections of the world, criticizing religious dogmas and human prejudices.

The book also includes both witty and humorous as well as poignant stories that showcase social contrasts, human weaknesses, and oddities in a style characteristic of Twain.