Strange Stories from a Chinese Studio (Volumes 1 and 2)

"Strange Stories from a Chinese Studio" by Songling Pu is a collection of fantastical stories from 17th century China that mix together folklore, fantasy, and lessons about right and wrong. The stories are full of different characters, from clever scholars to mysterious spirits, and they explore ideas about being good, getting what you deserve, and the power of the supernatural. These characters find themselves in unbelievable situations that teach valuable lessons. The first story introduces Mr. Sung, who goes on a strange journey in his dreams to become a guardian angel, but he struggles with his duties to his family. The stories that follow continue to explore themes of change, difficult moral choices, and interactions with beings from another world, all while showing the author's skill and interest in deep philosophical ideas, inviting readers to think about what it means to be human through amazing and thought-provoking tales.