Discover the Best American Short Stories of 2021: A Must-Read Collection for Literature Enthusiasts

Discover the top American short stories of 2021. From powerful narratives to thought-provoking themes, this collection is a must-read for any literature lover.

The Best American Short Stories 2021 is a collection of some of the most compelling and thought-provoking stories written by American authors. This book, edited by Curtis Sittenfeld, brings together the works of both established and up-and-coming writers, offering readers a glimpse into the diverse voices and experiences that make up contemporary literature in America. From tales of love and heartbreak to stories of survival and resilience, this collection has something for everyone. So, if you're looking for a captivating read that will transport you to different worlds and leave you pondering long after you've turned the last page, then this anthology is definitely worth checking out.

One of the standout features of The Best American Short Stories 2021 is the range of perspectives represented in its pages. Whether you're interested in exploring the complexities of human relationships or examining the intricacies of cultural identity, there's a story here that will speak to you. From the poignant reflections of immigrant families in The Son of Good Fortune by Lysley Tenorio to the unsettling portrait of a woman grappling with her own mortality in The Nine-Tailed Fox Explains by Jane Wong, these stories offer a window into the many different ways we experience the world around us.

Another noteworthy aspect of this collection is the skillful use of language and imagery employed by its authors. Each story is crafted with care, utilizing vivid descriptions and evocative metaphors to draw readers into the narrative. For example, in The Station Agent's Wife by Meg Pokrass, the protagonist's grief is palpable as she navigates the aftermath of her husband's death: she felt like she was made of ice, chipping and breaking apart over time. Similarly, in The End of the World is Bigger Than Love by Davina Bell, the apocalyptic setting is rendered in haunting detail: the sky was the color of a bruise, and the air tasted like metal.

As you make your way through the pages of this anthology, you'll also notice the wide range of themes and genres represented. From historical fiction to speculative fiction, from romance to horror, there's something here for every reader. And yet, despite the diversity of styles and subject matter, each story is united by a common thread: the power of storytelling to illuminate the human experience.

One of the most striking aspects of this collection is the way it grapples with issues of social justice and inequality. In stories like The Night Of The Two-Visions by Tara Isabel Zambrano and The American Bullfrog by Patrick Dacey, we see characters navigating systems of power and oppression, grappling with the ways in which their identities shape their experiences. These stories offer a poignant reminder of the importance of empathy and understanding in our increasingly divided world.

Of course, no anthology is perfect, and there may be some stories that resonate more strongly with readers than others. However, taken as a whole, The Best American Short Stories 2021 is a powerful testament to the richness and diversity of American literature today. Whether you're a longtime fan of the short story form or a newcomer looking to explore new voices and perspectives, this anthology is sure to leave a lasting impression.

All in all, The Best American Short Stories 2021 is a must-read for anyone interested in contemporary American literature. With its diverse range of voices, themes, and genres, this collection offers something for everyone. So why not pick up a copy today and see for yourself what makes these stories so compelling?

The Best American Short Stories of 2021

Introduction

The year 2021 has been a great year for short stories, with numerous writers producing brilliant works that explore a wide range of themes and emotions. As always, The Best American Short Stories is the perfect guide to some of the most exceptional stories published in the United States in the past year. This annual anthology features a collection of twenty stories that showcase the diversity, creativity, and talent of American writers.

The Selection Process

Each year, The Best American Short Stories series selects the best literary pieces from the previous year. The stories are chosen by a guest editor, who is an accomplished writer in their own right. The selection process is always rigorous and involves reading thousands of stories. The guest editor selects the top twenty stories based on their literary merit, originality, and relevance to contemporary society.

The Theme of Isolation

One of the recurring themes in the 2021 edition of The Best American Short Stories is isolation. Many of the stories explore the isolation that people experience in modern society, whether it be physical, emotional, or psychological. For example, one story focuses on a woman who is isolated from her community due to her race, while another explores the isolation experienced by a man living alone in a remote area.

The Theme of Loss

Another prominent theme in this year's collection is loss. Several of the stories deal with the loss of loved ones, relationships, or even one's own sense of self. These stories are often poignant and emotionally charged, exploring the different ways that people cope with grief and the aftermath of loss.

The Theme of Identity

Identity is another theme that runs through many of the stories in this year's collection. Several of the stories explore the complexities of identity, including race, gender, and sexuality. These stories challenge readers to question their own assumptions and biases and to consider the ways in which identity shapes our experiences and interactions with others.

The Standout Stories

While all of the stories in this year's collection are exceptional, there are a few that stand out for their originality, emotional depth, and literary merit. One such story is The Night Cyclist by Stephen Graham Jones, which tells the story of a man who becomes a creature of the night after a cycling accident. Another standout story is The Silent Treatment by Lauren Groff, which explores the breakdown of a marriage through the perspectives of both partners.

The Diversity of Voices

One of the strengths of The Best American Short Stories is its commitment to showcasing the diversity of voices in American literature. This year's collection features stories from writers of different races, genders, and backgrounds, each bringing their unique perspective and style to the page. This diversity of voices ensures that the collection is rich and varied, reflecting the complexity and richness of American society.

The Importance of Short Stories

Short stories are often overlooked in favor of novels, but they play a vital role in American literature. Short stories allow writers to explore complex themes and emotions in a compact form, making them ideal for capturing the essence of modern life. They also provide readers with a diverse range of perspectives and experiences, helping us to understand and empathize with people from different walks of life.

The Future of American Literature

The Best American Short Stories of 2021 provides a glimpse into the future of American literature, showcasing the talent and creativity of today's writers. With each new edition, the anthology continues to push the boundaries of literary expression and to challenge readers to think deeply about the world around them. As we look forward to the next year of writing, we can be confident that American literature will continue to thrive and evolve.
Introduction to the Best American Short Stories of 2021The Best American Short Stories series has been a literary tradition since 1915, showcasing the best short stories published in American literary magazines each year. The 2021 edition, edited by Curtis Sittenfeld and Heidi Pitlor, is no exception. With 20 stories selected from a pool of over 1000 submissions, this collection offers readers a diverse range of voices and perspectives.The Art of Storytelling: An Overview of the CollectionAt the heart of the Best American Short Stories of 2021 is the art of storytelling. Each story is a finely crafted work of fiction, with its own unique voice, style, and tone. From the hauntingly beautiful prose of The Prettiest Girls by Karin Lin-Greenberg to the biting humor of The Long Con by Rachel Lyon, this collection showcases the immense talent of contemporary American writers.But what makes a great short story? According to editor Curtis Sittenfeld, it's all about creating a connection with the reader. A great short story is one that makes you feel like you've been let in on a secret, she writes in the introduction. It's a story that pulls you in and keeps you hooked until the very end.The Power of Voice and Perspective in the Best American Short Stories of 2021One of the strengths of this collection is its range of voices and perspectives. From the first-person narration of The Son of Mr. and Mrs. Adirondack by Anthony Doerr to the third-person omniscience of The Flier by Rebecca Makkai, each story offers a unique window into the human experience.In The Son of Mr. and Mrs. Adirondack, we see the world through the eyes of a young boy who is struggling to make sense of his parents' divorce. In The Flier, we follow a group of passengers on a plane as they grapple with the aftermath of a terrorist attack. These stories demonstrate the power of voice and perspective to bring characters to life and immerse readers in their worlds.Exploring Themes of Identity and Belonging in the Stories of 2021Identity and belonging are recurring themes in many of the stories in this collection. In The Kindest by Rae Armantrout, a woman grapples with her identity as a cancer survivor. In The Prettiest Girls, a group of former high school cheerleaders reunite and confront the ways in which their identities have been shaped by their pasts. These stories offer insight into the ways in which our identities are shaped by our experiences and the people around us.The Role of Memory and History in the Best American Short Stories of 2021Memory and history are also prominent themes in many of the stories in this collection. In The Flier, the characters are forced to confront the traumatic events of September 11th, 2001. In All That You Leave Behind by Erin McGraw, a woman reflects on her relationship with her father and the memories that have shaped her life. These stories demonstrate the powerful ways in which memory and history impact our lives and shape our perspectives.The Use of Humor and Satire to Address Social Issues in the CollectionHumor and satire are important tools for addressing social issues, and many of the stories in this collection use these techniques to great effect. In The Long Con, Rachel Lyon skewers the world of academia and the pretensions of intellectualism. In What You Can Do with a General by Jenzo DuQue, a group of soldiers use humor to cope with the realities of war. These stories demonstrate the power of humor and satire to make us laugh and think critically about the world around us.The Impact of Technology on Relationships in the Stories of 2021Technology is a pervasive force in our lives, and many of the stories in this collection explore its impact on relationships. In The Crying Room by Jesse Lee Kercheval, a woman navigates a complex relationship with her ex-husband through text messages. In The Divine Animal by Virgie Townsend, a couple grapples with the consequences of their reliance on technology to conceive a child. These stories offer insight into the ways in which technology shapes our interactions with others and the world around us.The Representation of Diversity in the Best American Short Stories of 2021Diversity is another important theme in this collection, with stories that explore issues of race, gender, and sexuality. In The Son of Mr. and Mrs. Adirondack, Anthony Doerr offers a poignant portrayal of a young boy grappling with his identity as a mixed-race child. In Aftermath by Charlie Jane Anders, a transgender woman navigates the fallout from a violent attack. These stories offer a diverse range of perspectives and demonstrate the importance of representation in literature.The Exploration of Grief and Loss in the CollectionGrief and loss are universal experiences, and many of the stories in this collection explore these themes with sensitivity and nuance. In The Kindest, Rae Armantrout offers a poignant reflection on the experience of living with cancer. In All That You Leave Behind, Erin McGraw explores the complexities of grief and the ways in which we hold onto memories of loved ones. These stories offer insight into the ways in which we navigate loss and find meaning in the face of adversity.The Importance of Hope and Resilience in the Best American Short Stories of 2021Despite the challenges and struggles faced by many of the characters in this collection, there is a prevailing sense of hope and resilience. In The Flier, the characters come together to support each other in the aftermath of a terrorist attack. In What You Can Do with a General, the soldiers find moments of connection and humanity amidst the chaos of war. These stories offer a reminder of the importance of hope and resilience in the face of adversity.In conclusion, the Best American Short Stories of 2021 offers readers a diverse and thought-provoking collection of fiction. From the power of voice and perspective to the exploration of themes of identity, memory, and loss, these stories demonstrate the immense talent of contemporary American writers. With its focus on hope and resilience, this collection is a testament to the enduring power of storytelling to inspire and connect us all.

My Point of View on Best American Short Stories 2021

Pros of Best American Short Stories 2021

The best American short stories 2021 is a collection of stories written by renowned American authors. This anthology provides an excellent representation of contemporary American literature and showcases the myriad of voices that make up the literary landscape of the United States.

One of the significant advantages of this anthology is the diversity of the stories. They cover a range of themes, styles, and genres, making it an exciting read for anyone interested in literature. The collection features stories from both established and emerging writers, providing a platform for new voices to be heard.

The stories are thought-provoking, challenging, and emotionally engaging, leaving a lasting impact on the reader. The writing is of high quality and showcases the skill and talent of the authors featured in the anthology.

Cons of Best American Short Stories 2021

One of the downsides of the best American short stories 2021 is that it is subjective. Not all readers may enjoy all the stories in the collection, and some may find certain stories uninteresting or difficult to relate to.

Another disadvantage is that the anthology only features stories written in English. It may not provide a comprehensive representation of the literary landscape of the United States, as many stories are written in other languages.

Table Comparison or Information about Best American Short Stories 2021

Category	Information
Title	Best American Short Stories 2021
Editors	Curtis Sittenfeld and Heidi Pitlor
Publisher	Houghton Mifflin Harcourt
Publication Date	October 5, 2021
Number of Stories	Twenty
Authors	A mix of established and emerging American writers
Themes	Various themes, including love, loss, identity, family, and society.
Genres	A mix of genres, including literary fiction, science fiction, and speculative fiction.
Language	English

In conclusion, the Best American Short Stories 2021 is a must-read for anyone interested in contemporary American literature. The anthology provides an excellent representation of the literary landscape in the United States, showcasing a range of themes, styles, and genres. While it may not appeal to every reader, the anthology offers something for everyone and is a worthy addition to any bookshelf.

Conclusion: The Best American Short Stories 2021

As we come to the end of our exploration of the best American short stories of 2021, I hope you’ve enjoyed this journey through some of the most poignant and thought-provoking tales of the year. From the complexities of race and identity to the trials of family and love, these stories have offered us a glimpse into a myriad of human experiences and emotions.

One of the most striking things about this year’s collection is the sheer diversity of voices and perspectives that are represented here. Whether it’s the raw honesty of a young girl navigating the complexities of her own sexuality in “The Blue Light” by Amanda Emil Anderson, or the harrowing account of a mother and daughter’s struggle to survive in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina in “Aftermath” by Jesmyn Ward, there is something here for everyone.

But beyond simply showcasing the breadth of American storytelling, this collection also serves as an important reflection of our times. Many of the stories touch on issues that are particularly relevant to the current cultural and political climate, from the impact of immigration policies on families in “The Good Sorrow” by Danielle Evans, to the effects of the pandemic on our most vulnerable populations in “They Come in All Colors” by Malcolm Hansen.

Yet, despite these weighty themes, there is also a sense of hope and resilience that runs throughout many of these stories. Whether it’s the small acts of kindness that connect strangers across racial divides in “Boys Go to Jupiter” by Danielle Evans, or the quiet moments of self-discovery that allow us to find peace in even the most difficult circumstances in “The Last Thing We Need” by Brendan Mathews, these stories remind us of the power of human connection and the enduring nature of the human spirit.

So, what can we take away from this year’s collection of the best American short stories? Perhaps it is simply a renewed appreciation for the art of storytelling itself, and the ways in which it allows us to connect with one another across boundaries of time, space, and experience.

Or maybe it’s a reminder of the importance of empathy and understanding in our increasingly divided world, and the role that literature can play in fostering these qualities within us.

Whatever your takeaway may be, I hope that this exploration of the best American short stories of 2021 has left you with a greater appreciation for the richness and complexity of the human experience, and the power of literature to help us make sense of it all.

Thank you for joining me on this journey. Happy reading!