Broučci

Originally published anonymously in 1876 as Broučci pro malé i velké děti (Fireflies for Small and Big Children),[3] the first edition received very little acclaim.

He published an unsigned review in the magazine Čas (Time), and started an unusual and long-lasting wave of popularity for the book.

Along with Karafiát's poetic and imaginative style, the work contains elements of moralistic conservatism, caused by the conviction of the author - a Calvinist clergyman - of a necessity to spend a life "in obedience and resignation to the will of God".

[3] It has been acclaimed for its imaginative storyline and natural lyricism, connected with humanity and poetic interpretations of an imaginary world seen through children's eyes.

[8] During World War II, the inmates of the Nazi Theresienstadt concentration camp dramatized and performed their own version of the book.