or those new to Chekhov: Reading the stories in order is a wonderful experience;

however, I recommend beginning with a few humorous stories, such as "Oh! the Pu
blic!" (39), "The Orator" (92), and "A Transgression" (124). Next try one of Che
khov's most moving stories, "Misery" (45). Among the longer stories, I suggest b
eginning with "Ward No. 6" (166), "The Duel" (160), and "The Steppe" (148), whic
h contains the most famous thunderstorm in literature. Finally, be sure to read
the famous trilogy made of "The Man in a Case" (189), "Gooseberries" (190), and
"About Love" (191).