Naguib Mahfouz (1911 - 2006) is an outstanding Egyptian writer, the founder of modern Arabic literature, a Nobel Prize winner, and the author of three dozen novels and twelve collections of short stories. In 1988, Naguib Mahfouz was awarded the Nobel Prize “for the realism and richness of the nuances of the Arabic story, which are significant for all mankind.” A “Great Egyptian” and a true humanist, close to both ordinary people and intellectuals, Mahfouz was not only a brilliant writer, but also amazing person. Having never owned a car, this humble man spent a lot of time walking the streets of his native Cairo. Countless passers-by who wanted to shake his hand or ask him about this or that work not only did not irritate him, but, on the contrary, brought him joy - communication with ordinary Egyptians was a necessity for Mahfouz. “My fellow citizens have the right to greet and talk to me if they so desire. Don't forget that their support and reading of my work is what brought me the Nobel Prize." This collection includes stories that have already been published previously and new translations.