This is a truly fantastic compilation that offers a great deal of entertainment and value.

However, like any collection, it's not without its flaws. There are only a few clunkers here and there that might slightly detract from the overall experience.

But don't let that discourage you. The vast majority of the content is top-notch and will keep you engaged and entertained from start to finish.

Whether you're a fan of music, movies, or any other form of media, this compilation is sure to have something for you.

So sit back, relax, and enjoy the ride. Just be prepared to skip over those few less-than-stellar items along the way.

Overall, it's a great addition to any collection and well worth checking out.

Certainly, Tobias Wolff truly knows how to select short stories. In this particular volume, I came across one that belongs to "The Ten Best Short Stories I've Ever Read", namely: "All the Way in Flagstaff, Arizona" by Richard Bausch. This story has a certain charm and allure that immediately grabs the reader's attention. The way Bausch crafts the narrative, the vivid descriptions he uses, and the engaging characters he creates make it a truly remarkable piece of literature. It takes the reader on a journey to Flagstaff, Arizona, and makes them feel as if they are right there in the midst of the events unfolding. The story explores themes such as love, loss, and the human condition in a profound and thought-provoking way. It is a must-read for anyone who appreciates great short fiction.

We read numerous short stories from this collection for my Fiction workshop class.

Every single one of them was truly captivating. However, my absolute favorite was “River of Names” by Dorothy Allison.

She is an incredibly talented writer, and her story had me completely hooked from start to finish.

The way she crafted the narrative, developed the characters, and painted the vivid pictures in my mind was simply outstanding.

I found myself completely immersed in the world she created, eagerly turning the pages to see what would happen next.

“River of Names” is not just a story; it is a work of art that left a lasting impression on me.

I can't wait to explore more of Dorothy Allison's writing and see what other masterpieces she has in store.

So many amazing stories in this collection.

When I read Mona Simpson's "Lawns," I knew I'd never get over it.

The story is a masterpiece that beautifully captures the essence of human relationships and the power of memory.

Simpson's writing is so细腻 and evocative that I could vividly imagine the characters and their surroundings.

The way she describes the lawns, the houses, and the people living in them makes the story come alive.

It's a story that makes you think about the choices we make in life and the consequences that follow.

It also makes you appreciate the simple things in life, like a well-manicured lawn or a quiet moment with a loved one.

"Lawns" is a story that will stay with you long after you've finished reading it.

It's a must-read for anyone who loves great literature.

I do truly understand that this is a compilation of short stories. However, when looking at the stories as a whole, I find myself not particularly liking them.

The plots may not be engaging enough, or perhaps the writing style doesn't resonate with me. There are many other excellent works out there that can offer a more fulfilling reading experience.

Therefore, I would suggest that you save your money and time. This collection of short stories simply isn't worth turning the pages for.

You might be better off exploring other literary treasures that can captivate your imagination and leave you with a sense of satisfaction and enlightenment.

This article presents a collection of stories that are considered solid and "should-read."

It adheres to a rather traditional style, which may appeal to those who appreciate the classic narrative structure and themes.

However, it might lack the element of surprise that some readers seek.

The stories are likely to be well-written and engaging, but perhaps not as innovative or unexpected as some might hope.

Overall, it offers a reliable source of entertainment for those who enjoy a more conventional approach to storytelling.

While it may not break new ground, it still has its charm and can provide a satisfying reading experience for the right audience.

Whether you're a fan of traditional literature or simply looking for a good read, these stories are worth considering.

I was truly looking forward to this collection.

I'm not typically a short story reader, unless I have a copy of the New Yorker in my hand. So, please bear that in mind.

Overall, I felt that there was a lack of variety. Were there amazing authors? Without a doubt. Were there different stories? That was also true. However, they all seemed to focus on human faults, and that was the part that seemed to grate - alcoholism, abuse, crime, grief. Is this contemporary writing?

For me, the favorite was "Moonwalk" by Susan Power. Without giving away any spoilers, there is the juxtaposition of a dying Indian grandmother and her beliefs, a young grandson, and the first moment we watched men walk on the moon. Second was "The Things they Carried" by Tim O'Brien. I read his full novel and was awestruck. So, how is it possible that I think I liked the short version even better?

Who knows.

Is this collection worth reading? Absolutely. Could I have used a bit of a pick-me-up? Absolutely.

PS: I'm reading "Grapes of Wrath" at the same time...maybe not the wisest choice. HAH!

Best short stories ever!! Loved it!

These short stories are truly remarkable. Each one is a gem that takes the reader on a unique and captivating journey. The characters are vividly brought to life, and the plots are engaging and full of surprises. Whether it's a story of love, loss, adventure, or mystery, there is something for everyone in this collection.

The writing style is simple yet powerful, making it easy for readers of all ages to enjoy. The authors have a great ability to convey complex emotions and ideas in a concise and effective manner. The stories are also very well-paced, keeping the reader on the edge of their seat until the very end.

Overall, I highly recommend these short stories to anyone who loves to read. They are a great way to escape from reality and immerse yourself in a world of imagination and creativity. I can't wait to read more from these talented authors!

I only had a strong desire to read the short story by Raymond Carver titled Cathedral. Lately, Carver has been emerging as my favorite and go-to author. His writing style has a unique charm that draws me in every time. The way he crafts his stories, with their simple yet profound themes, is truly remarkable. I am eager to explore the world that Carver creates in Cathedral, to get to know the characters and their experiences. I have a feeling that this short story will be yet another masterpiece from his pen. I can't wait to immerse myself in its pages and discover the beauty and depth that lies within.

I had to pick up this book for a creative writing class. It has turned out to be an absolute gem. My favorite stories from it are "Testimony of a Pilot" by Barry Hannah, which takes you on a thrilling journey through the eyes of a pilot. "Moonwalk" by Susan Power is another captivating piece that explores unique themes. And then there's "Emergency" by Denis Johnson, which is simply outstanding. This collection is full of great models that have truly been a huge help to me with my writing this semester. The diverse styles and engaging narratives have inspired me in countless ways. I would highly recommend it to anyone who has a passion for short fiction. It's a must-read for anyone looking to improve their writing skills or simply enjoy some excellent literary works.

Realism is not always my first choice when it comes to literature. There are so many other genres that can offer excitement, escapism, and flights of fancy. However, there is one book that I keep going back to, time and time again.

This book, which I won't name here, is a masterpiece of realism. It tells the story of ordinary people living ordinary lives, but it does so with such depth, nuance, and authenticity that it becomes truly extraordinary.

The characters in the book are fully realized, with their own hopes, dreams, fears, and flaws. They feel like real people, not just cardboard cutouts or stereotypes. And the plot, while not overly dramatic or action-packed, is engaging and thought-provoking.

Perhaps what I love most about this book is the way it makes me see the world around me in a different light. It reminds me that there is beauty and meaning in the simplest of things, and that every person has a story worth telling.

In a world where so much of our entertainment is focused on the fantastical and the extreme, this book is a refreshing reminder of the power of realism. It shows that sometimes, the most interesting stories are the ones that are closest to home.

Most of these are good/ great.

However, when it comes to 20th century American authors, a few should never have put the pen to paper.

The 20th century was a time of great literary innovation and experimentation in America. Many authors emerged during this period, producing works that have become classics.

However, not all of these authors were equally talented or successful. Some produced works that were poorly written, unoriginal, or simply not interesting.

While it is easy to be critical of these authors in hindsight, it is important to remember that writing is a difficult and subjective art form. What one person may consider a bad book, another may consider a masterpiece.

Nevertheless, it is fair to say that there were a few 20th century American authors who simply did not have the skills or the vision to produce great literature.