Chekhov
I've been reading The Complete Early Short Stories of Anton Chekhov, Vol. 1 (1880-82). Chekhov is great. Hilarious, insightful, easy to read, and possibly the most prolific author (and playwright) of the Western canon (with more than 1000 published pieces to his name, I believe). This collection of his early work is the first time a lot of these stories have been published in English. They're originally from Russian newspapers, periodicals, and magazines of the nineteenth century. Highly entertaining and worthwhile stuff.
Like this collection of classified ads:
"A crew of theater helpers and scalpers announces that it will have its next sitting in the pub beside the theater. Because of the unexpected appearance of Sara Berhardt, we are ready to help the people."
"Dr. Chertolobov, a specialist in various men's and women's illnesses, disorders of the neck and head, accepts patients every day from 7 am to 12 pm. Three times a year he offers free medical treatment: 31 February, 31 April, and 31 June. On 29 February there is a big discount."