So, what’s this old German book actually about? Let’s break it down.

The Story

Rübezahl is the ruler of the Giant Mountains (the Riesengebirge). He’s not a typical fantasy hero or villain. He’s a force of nature with a personality. The book follows him through various tales. Sometimes he’s helping a poor but kind-hearted person, turning leaves into gold or scaring off cruel landlords. Other times, he’s the source of the problem, summoning storms to punish arrogance or leading boastful hunters deep into the wilderness until they’re hopelessly lost. He has a famous soft spot for a princess named Emma, which shows a more tender side, but he’s quick to rage if anyone tries to trick him or disrespect his domain. The plot isn’t one continuous thread, but a series of episodes that paint a full picture of this complex, ancient being.

Why You Should Read It

I picked this up thinking it would be a dry, historical footnote. I was wrong. Reichhardt’s writing has energy. He makes Rübezahl feel real. This isn’t a generic fairy tale sprite; he’s grumpy, clever, sentimental, and terrifying by turns. You get the sense that the mountain itself is alive. The themes are timeless: human greed vs. nature’s power, the consequences of broken promises, and the idea that wild places have their own guardians. Reading it, you feel the chill of the mountain air and the unease of being watched from the treeline. It’s a powerful reminder of the old stories that shaped how people saw the natural world around them.

Final Verdict

This is a gem for anyone who loves folklore, mythology, or classic fantasy. If you enjoy the original, pre-Disney versions of fairy tales where magic is unpredictable and often dangerous, you’ll feel right at home. It’s also a great pick for readers curious about German cultural history, but who want an engaging story rather than a textbook. Just be ready for a character who is as likely to help you as he is to turn you into a tree for annoying him. A truly memorable escape into a wilder world.