I had a little reward money to use from Borders so I made my second book purchase of the year yesterday. Granted, it was a little purchase but it’s one more book that’s found it’s way to my shelves.
Being that I want to continue reading more short stories (last year I read three short story collections), I decided to get 50 Great Short Stories. I have probably only read one or two of the stories in this collection so it’ll be great to discover the stories by Dorothy Parker, Carson McCullers, Flannery O’Connor, and many others.
I like this short note from the Editor on “What makes a great short story.”:
“The sudden unforgettable revelation of character; the vision of a world through another’s eyes; the glimpse of truth; the capture of a moment in time. All this the short story, at its best, is uniquely capable of conveying, for in its very shortness lies its greatest strength.”
And, how timely that I should get this book now as Eva’s post reminded me of Short Story Monday. I know I’ve heard of it but because I don’t read many short stories I’ve never participated. Maybe, this book will change that.
I have some Borders Bucks too that I’m trying desperately to ignore, lol. That anthology sounds great! And if you read one a week, it’ll last all year!
I used up my Border Bucks last week when I made a quick stop at the bookstore. They sure do add up if I’m not careful. I probably won’t have as many this year since I’m cutting back.
I’ve really grown to appreciate the short story more in recent years. I hope you enjoy your new book!
Can’t beat a good short story!
Looks like a great one to add to your shelves.
Flannery O’Connor is my fave. My students will be forced to read two of her stories this semester. They usually like them because they’re weird and sort of shocking. That’s why I liked them at their age. Now they’re just fun to pick apart and the writing is excellent.
Enjoy your purchase!
I’m a fan of Flannery O’Connor, and as Andi says, her stories are weird. I like the note form the editor.
Sounds like a good choice. I might have to pick it up too.
So many good authors in that anthology!
I love short story collections. I bet I would like this collection. Looking forward to hearing about your favorites.
If you get a chance, check out the Best American Short Stories and/or Mystery Stories series. A new set comes out every year, usually around October. I LOVE these books, and have been collecting them for almost ten years now. They feature some brilliant new authors and also old favorites who have written new material.
I love reading short stories. I had no idea that Virginia Woolf wrote a short story titled Haunted House. I will be interested to see what you think about this collection.
Ali Smith’s Hotel World has some very interesting short stories. One of my favorite short stories is by H.E. Bates – A Month by the Lake.
Eva – My Borders Bucks were only good through January so check yours so they don’t expire! And, good point – a story a week and the book would last all year 🙂
Literary Feline – I hate having to cut back on book purchases but I’m on a bit of a budget this year too, well until I get a job! And, I totally understand learning to appreciate short stories more. I used to not like them much but really liked the collections I read last year – one even made my top books of the year!
Tiffany – So true! 🙂
nik – I can’t believe I didn’t have a good anthology of short stories either so this is a good addition to my shelves!
Andi – I haven’t read any O’Connor – can you believe that?! I really need to remedy that and I’m intrigued by what you’ve said about her 🙂
jenclair – I know I’ve seen your posts on her before so I’m very excited about finally reading one of her stories!
Linda – And, it was a great price 🙂
Nymeth – I know, and to think I’ve hardly read any of them – good stuff ahead 🙂
Care – I’ll keep you posted as I read along! Do you have a favorite collection?
Lexi – Ooh you are right… I’m going to see if my library carries either of those. I’m especially curious about the mystery one. I read so many mysteries I should definitely try that one out.
christine – I have to tell you, when I saw that story listed that’s what made the decision for me. I like the title and would love to read a short by Woolf. I still have yet to read Ali Smith. I saw another collection of hers but I wasn’t sure if it was essays or short stories. I’ll have to send you the link.
Are you thinking of “Book Lover” by Ali Smith? I just saw this at Three Lives and Company a few weekends ago. It looks good as well!
I’ve intentionally read more short stories in the past year; I think it has to do with stepping outside my comfort zone (and giving the short story the respect it deserves).
I just reviewed Elizabeth Stout’s *Olive Kitteridge*, a collection of linked short stories. It reads like a novel, but any one of the stories would stand strong on its own … highly recommended.
I’ve never been able to get into short stories…I always feel…I don’t know, cheated?? I always want more…lol. Maybe I should make more of an effort.
I am always surprised when I got to borders and find I’ve earned borders bucks to use. LOL Great choice for the borders bucks…
Christine – Actually it’s “The Book Lover” and I just saw that it’s a collection of essays on her own love of reading & books. Sounds like one to check out for bookworms 🙂
Dawn – That’s me too. I don’t turn to short stories but last year I definitely read more than I’ve had before and I was really moved by some of them so I think I need to be more open to searching for them. And, I’ve had that Strout novel on my wish list for a while!
Zoe – I totally understand. That’s pretty much how I’ve always felt too but I guess my reading tastes are expanding a bit 🙂
Serena – A nice surprise right? Good to see you and totally know what you mean about trying to catch up on blogging 🙂