Lackfi János: Milyenek a magyarok? ("What Are Hungarians Like?")
Recommended level: B1–B2
This is a collection of short, humorous essays that playfully explore the Hungarian mindset, cultural quirks, and everyday absurdities – all from a native’s perspective, yet with an outsider’s sense of irony.
Lackfi’s language is casual, witty, and rich in wordplay, but generally accessible. If you can follow blog posts or news columns in Hungarian, you’ll find this book fun and digestible – and probably laugh out loud.
Why I recommend it:
Short 1–2 page essays – perfect for reading in small bursts
Light, funny tone but with cultural insight
Everyday language, idioms, and expressions
Great for learning how Hungarians talk and joke
“Hungarians already suspect in the morning that their day will turn out badly. And by evening, they’re proven right.”
Tip:
Don’t worry if you don’t catch every pun – the general message will still come through. Try writing down some typical Hungarian expressions you come across.
Bonus suggestions if you liked this:
Lackfi János: Apám kakasa – fun, pun-filled poems for adults and children alike
Térey János: Boldogh-ház, Kétmalom utca – more advanced level, but a great contemporary urban novel
Looking for more reading tips or language boosting activities based on these books? Do you have a great recommendation of your own? Don’t hesitate to leave a comment!
Recommended level: B1–B2
This is a collection of short, humorous essays that playfully explore the Hungarian mindset, cultural quirks, and everyday absurdities – all from a native’s perspective, yet with an outsider’s sense of irony.
Lackfi’s language is casual, witty, and rich in wordplay, but generally accessible. If you can follow blog posts or news columns in Hungarian, you’ll find this book fun and digestible – and probably laugh out loud.
Why I recommend it:
Short 1–2 page essays – perfect for reading in small bursts
Light, funny tone but with cultural insight
Everyday language, idioms, and expressions
Great for learning how Hungarians talk and joke
“Hungarians already suspect in the morning that their day will turn out badly. And by evening, they’re proven right.”
Tip:
Don’t worry if you don’t catch every pun – the general message will still come through. Try writing down some typical Hungarian expressions you come across.
Bonus suggestions if you liked this:
Lackfi János: Apám kakasa – fun, pun-filled poems for adults and children alike
Térey János: Boldogh-ház, Kétmalom utca – more advanced level, but a great contemporary urban novel
Looking for more reading tips or language boosting activities based on these books? Do you have a great recommendation of your own? Don’t hesitate to leave a comment!