First published in the late 1700s, 諧鐸 (Harmonious Admonitions) is a classic of Chinese supernatural fiction that feels fresh today. Shen Qifening was a master of the short tale, and this book is his greatest hit.

The Story

There's no single plot. Instead, think of it as a dozen or so brilliant little parables. In one, a greedy man makes a deal with a fox spirit and loses everything. In another, a pompous scholar is humbled by a ghost who outwrites him. A lazy farmer gets schooled by a talking cricket. Each story is a self-contained world where the normal rules don't apply, and the supernatural is just a vehicle for exposing very human flaws.

Why You Should Read It

What I love is how playful and sharp it is. Shen isn't just telling ghost stories for scares. He's using them as a mirror. The ghosts and animals are often wiser and more moral than the people they encounter. It makes you laugh, then makes you think, 'Wait, have I ever acted like that fool?' The writing is vivid and economical—every detail matters.

Final Verdict

Perfect for anyone who loves clever short stories with a twist, fans of global folklore, or readers curious about classic Chinese literature but want something accessible and entertaining. If you enjoy the moral puzzles of The Twilight Zone or the folkloric charm of stories by writers like Neil Gaiman, you'll find a kindred spirit in Shen Qifeng. It's a slim volume that packs a lasting punch.