This selection was specially compiled by the author shortly before his death for publication in English. The reader will also find an introduction entitled Some Random Reflexions written by Paustovsky, which appeared in the second collection of his works published in Russian (1967-69) in eight volumes. Konstantin Paustovkys life (1892-1968) was a long and highly productive one. Over a period of some fifty years passionately devoted to literature this great Soviet writer produced many delightful works. His talent and profound humanism won him world-wide fame and popularity.