A Sicilian writer of local plays and stories steeped in tradition, Verga (1840-1922) was a realist storyteller who embraced hardship, lust and crime. The eight stories in this handsome paper edition include the well-known "Rustic Honor" and "She-Wolf," both dramatized as operas. Translated by J.G. Nichols, who has also translated D'Annunzio, Leopardi and Casanova for Herperus Press.  (ITL471, $13.00)