Azazel

Azazel is a collection of short, clever, and ironic stories written by Isaac Asimov, centered around a tiny red demon just two centimeters tall, summoned (more or less accidentally) by the talkative and opportunistic George. Each story is narrated by an unnamed character — a clear stand-in for Asimov himself — who listens, often bewildered, to the tragicomic outcomes of George’s poorly worded wishes and Azazel’s magical interventions.

Though the initial intentions are always noble or beneficial, the supernatural solutions inevitably lead to hilarious disasters. Through these tales, Asimov delights in mocking human vanity, ambition, and well-meaning but misguided efforts, all with a lively style and humor reminiscent of P.G. Wodehouse.

A light and brilliant work, Azazel stands apart from Asimov’s more traditional science fiction, showcasing the full range of his narrative talent.