This collection of short stories set in the crown jewel of Europe is an excellent introduction to the exceptionally rich contemporary Austrian literature spanning from the fin-de-siecle "dream-world Vienna" to more recent Nobel prize-winning authors. Vienna is not only home to historic cathedrals, formal teahouses, and a sparkling cafe culture, but it is also the birthplace of new movements of thought that cover art and the human psyche. While illustrating a century of shifting forms and styles, these stories beautifully convey the Viennese nature and spirit.