Top 10 Must-Read American Short Stories of 2020: A Collection of Literary Gems
Discover the most captivating and thought-provoking stories of 2020 with the Best American Short Stories collection. A must-read for fiction lovers!
The Best American Short Stories of 2020
Short stories are an art form that has been cherished by readers for centuries. The best American short stories of 2020 are no exception. These stories have captivated readers with their unique themes, characters, and settings. In this article, we will delve into the best American short stories of 2020 and explore what makes them so special.
The Art of Short Story Writing
Short stories require a certain skill set to master. One must be able to create a compelling narrative in a limited number of pages. The best American short stories of 2020 showcase the talent and dedication of their authors. They offer a glimpse into the human condition and leave readers with a sense of wonder and awe.
The Many Themes of Short Stories
Short stories can cover a wide range of themes. From love and loss to adventure and mystery, there is no limit to what a short story can explore. The best American short stories of 2020 are no exception. They tackle complex issues and offer unique perspectives on life.
The Importance of Characters
Characters are at the heart of every good short story. They are the ones who drive the plot forward and keep readers engaged. The best American short stories of 2020 feature a diverse cast of characters that are both relatable and memorable. They leave a lasting impression on readers, long after the story has ended.
The Power of Setting
Setting can make or break a short story. It is the backdrop against which the plot unfolds. The best American short stories of 2020 use setting to their advantage. They transport readers to different worlds and immerse them in unique environments.
The Role of Conflict
Conflict is a key component of any good story. It creates tension and drives the plot forward. The best American short stories of 2020 use conflict to their advantage. They explore complex issues and offer unique perspectives on life.
The Importance of Language
Language is the tool that writers use to bring their stories to life. The best American short stories of 2020 showcase the power of language. They use vivid imagery and poetic prose to create an immersive reading experience.
The Impact of Short Stories
Short stories have the power to leave a lasting impact on readers. They can inspire, challenge, and entertain. The best American short stories of 2020 have done just that. They have left readers with a sense of wonder and a desire to read more.
The Future of Short Story Writing
The future of short story writing is bright. As long as there are writers willing to take risks and push boundaries, the art form will continue to thrive. The best American short stories of 2020 are a testament to this fact. They showcase the talent and dedication of today's writers and offer a glimpse into what the future holds.
The Enduring Appeal of Short Stories
Short stories have been around for centuries and they show no signs of disappearing. They offer a unique reading experience that cannot be found in other forms of literature. The best American short stories of 2020 are a reminder of why we love this art form so much.
Final Thoughts
The best American short stories of 2020 are a testament to the power of storytelling. They showcase the talent and dedication of today's writers and offer a glimpse into the future of short story writing. Whether you are a seasoned reader or new to the world of short stories, these tales are sure to captivate and inspire.
Introduction
Short stories have always been a powerful way to convey a message, and in 2020, they proved to be more relevant than ever. As the world grappled with the COVID-19 pandemic, social unrest, and political turmoil, American writers responded with some of their best work yet. Here are the best American short stories of 2020.
The Night Watchman
Overview
Louise Erdrich's The Night Watchman is a powerful story about the struggle for Native American rights. Set in the 1950s, it follows the efforts of a North Dakota tribe to resist a government plan to displace them from their land. The central character, Thomas Wazhashk, is based on Erdrich's grandfather, who fought against a similar plan in real life.
Themes
The story explores themes of identity, family, and resilience. It shows how Native Americans have had to fight for their rights and their very existence throughout American history. At the same time, it celebrates the strength and determination of those who have refused to give up.
White Noise
Overview
Helen Phillips' White Noise is a haunting story that captures the anxiety of our times. It follows a couple, Jack and Babette, as they try to protect their children from an unknown threat. As the story progresses, it becomes clear that the danger is not just external but also internal, as the characters grapple with their own fears and insecurities.
Themes
The story explores themes of parenthood, mortality, and the fragility of our sense of security. It shows how the desire to protect our loved ones can sometimes lead us down a dangerous path, and how the fear of death can consume us if we let it.
The Lottery
Overview
Shirley Jackson's classic story The Lottery has been reprinted countless times since it was first published in 1948, but it remains just as chilling today. The story takes place in a small town where every year, the residents hold a lottery to determine who will be sacrificed for the good of the community.
Themes
The story explores themes of tradition, conformity, and the power of groupthink. It shows how even well-meaning people can become complicit in evil if they are too afraid to question the status quo.
The Office of Historical Corrections
Overview
Danielle Evans' The Office of Historical Corrections is a collection of short stories that explore race, history, and memory. The title story follows a young black woman who works for a government agency that corrects historical inaccuracies. As she travels across the country, she confronts the contradictions and complexities of America's past.
Themes
The stories in this collection explore themes of identity, history, and the way we remember the past. They show how our understanding of history is shaped by our own experiences and biases, and how the stories we tell ourselves can both unite and divide us.
The Best American Short Stories 2020
Overview
The Best American Short Stories series is an annual anthology that showcases the best short fiction from American writers. The 2020 edition, edited by Curtis Sittenfeld, features stories by some of the most talented writers working today.
Themes
The stories in this collection explore a wide range of themes, from love and loss to race and politics. They capture the complexities and contradictions of American life, and offer insights into the human condition that are both profound and entertaining.
The Great Escape
Overview
Liz Moore's The Great Escape is a touching story about a mother and son who are struggling to make ends meet. When the son, Tommy, decides to run away from home, the mother, Connie, sets out to find him. As she searches for her son, she reflects on their relationship and the sacrifices she has made for him.
Themes
The story explores themes of family, sacrifice, and the challenges of poverty. It shows how love and resilience can overcome even the toughest obstacles, and how the bonds between a mother and child are unbreakable.
The Last Day of the War
Overview
Sara Mesa's The Last Day of the War is a powerful story about the aftermath of war. Set in an unnamed country, it follows a young woman who is trying to rebuild her life after the end of a brutal conflict.
Themes
The story explores themes of trauma, memory, and the struggle to find meaning in a world that has been shattered by violence. It shows how the scars of war can last for generations, and how hope can emerge in even the darkest of times.
Conclusion
The best American short stories of 2020 offer a glimpse into the complexities of our world. They explore themes of identity, history, and the human condition, and offer insights that are both profound and entertaining. Whether you're looking for a haunting tale of suspense or a heartwarming story of resilience, there is something in this collection for everyone.
Exploring the Complexities of Human Relationships: A Review of the Top American Short Stories of 2020
As we bid adieu to 2020, a year that has been tumultuous in every sense of the word, it is time to reflect on the literary works that have managed to capture the essence of our times. The 2020 collection of American short stories stands out as a testament to the power of storytelling and the resilience of the human spirit. From established authors to emerging voices, this year's anthology showcases a diverse range of themes and emotions that make for a captivating read. In this article, we will delve deeper into the best American short stories of 2020 and explore the complexities of human relationships, identity, loss, and hope that are interwoven into their narratives.Captivating Narratives that Leave a Lasting Impression: The Best American Short Stories of the Year
The best American short stories of 2020 are a testament to the power of brevity. These stories pack a punch in just a few pages, leaving a lasting impression on the reader's mind. One such story is In the Event by Courtney Zoffness, which explores the theme of loss in a poignant and thought-provoking manner. Another standout story is The Children's Wing by Karen Russell, which takes the reader on a surreal journey through a museum that houses the remains of extinct animals. These stories and others in the collection showcase the art of storytelling at its finest and leave the reader wanting more.Themes of Identity, Loss, and Hope in the 2020 Collection of American Short Stories
The best American short stories of 2020 reflect the complexities of our times and the issues that plague our society. Themes of identity, loss, and hope are interwoven into the narratives, making for a compelling read. One of the standout stories in the collection is The Prairie Wife by Curtis Sittenfeld, which explores the theme of identity and the challenges faced by a woman who has to grapple with her past while trying to fit into her new life. Another fascinating story is The Flier's Club by Kevin Barry, which deals with the theme of loss and the lengths to which people will go to cope with it. These stories and others in the collection showcase the power of literature to explore the complexities of human relationships and the issues that affect us all.From Humor to Heartbreak: A Diverse Range of Emotions in This Year's Best American Short Stories
The best American short stories of 2020 are a testament to the diverse range of emotions that literature can evoke. From humor to heartbreak, these stories run the gamut of human experience, making for a captivating read. One such story is The Luck of Kokura by Gary Schanbacher, which tells the story of a man who finds himself in a Japanese prison camp during World War II. The story manages to balance humor and heartbreak in a way that is both poignant and entertaining. Another standout story is The Grotesques by Sarah Hall, which explores the theme of desire and the lengths to which people will go to satisfy it. These stories and others in the collection showcase the power of literature to evoke a wide range of emotions and connect with the reader on a visceral level.A Celebration of Diverse Voices: The Most Compelling American Short Stories of 2020
The best American short stories of 2020 celebrate the diversity of voices that make up our society. From established authors to emerging voices, this year's anthology showcases a range of perspectives and experiences that make for a compelling read. One such story is The Gospel of Blackbird by Sofia Samatar, which tells the story of a young girl who is torn between her religious beliefs and her desire to explore the world. Another standout story is The Nine-Tailed Fox Explains by Jane Wong, which explores the theme of identity and the challenges faced by an Asian-American woman who is caught between two worlds. These stories and others in the collection showcase the power of literature to celebrate diversity and connect with readers from all walks of life.The Power of Storytelling: An Analysis of the Best American Short Stories of the Year
The best American short stories of 2020 showcase the power of storytelling to evoke emotions, challenge preconceptions, and connect with the reader on a profound level. These stories use the art of brevity to their advantage, packing a punch in just a few pages. One such story is Foster by Bryan Washington, which tells the story of a young man who is grappling with his identity and the challenges of growing up in a broken home. Another standout story is How to Pronounce Knife by Souvankham Thammavongsa, which explores the theme of hope and the resilience of the human spirit. These stories and others in the collection showcase the power of literature to inspire, provoke, and move readers in ways that few other art forms can.The Art of Brevity: How the Best American Short Stories of 2020 Pack a Punch in Just a Few Pages
The best American short stories of 2020 are a masterclass in the art of brevity. These stories use the limited space available to their advantage, packing a punch in just a few pages. One such story is A Burning by Megha Majumdar, which tells the story of a young woman who is falsely accused of terrorism and must navigate a complex web of relationships to clear her name. Another standout story is A Small Sacrifice for an Enormous Happiness by Jai Chakrabarti, which explores the theme of sacrifice and the lengths to which people will go to provide for their families. These stories and others in the collection showcase the power of literature to tell compelling stories in a concise and impactful manner.From Established Authors to Emerging Voices: The Most Exciting American Short Stories of the Year
The best American short stories of 2020 feature a mix of established authors and emerging voices. This year's anthology showcases a range of perspectives and experiences that make for an exciting read. One such story is The Granddaughter of the Octopus by Azareen Van der Vliet Oloomi, which tells the story of a young woman who is haunted by the memory of her grandfather's death. Another standout story is The Great Silence by Ted Chiang, which explores the theme of communication and the challenges faced by a linguist who is trying to decipher an alien language. These stories and others in the collection showcase the power of literature to introduce readers to new and exciting voices in the literary world.A Reflection of Our Times: The Themes and Issues Explored in the 2020 Collection of American Short Stories
The best American short stories of 2020 are a reflection of our times and the issues that affect us all. These stories explore themes of identity, loss, hope, and diversity in a way that is both timely and timeless. One such story is The Condition She's In by Jess Walter, which tells the story of a woman who is grappling with the effects of climate change on her community. Another standout story is Heirlooms by Bryan Washington, which explores the theme of family and the challenges faced by a young man who is trying to come to terms with his heritage. These stories and others in the collection showcase the power of literature to reflect the world around us and provide insight into the issues that affect us all.A Must-Read for Lovers of Literature: Why the Best American Short Stories of 2020 Deserve a Spot on Your Bookshelf
The best American short stories of 2020 are a must-read for lovers of literature. These stories showcase the power of storytelling to evoke emotions, challenge preconceptions, and connect with readers on a profound level. From humor to heartbreak, these stories run the gamut of human experience, making for a captivating read. Whether you are a fan of established authors or emerging voices, this year's anthology has something for everyone. So, if you're looking for a thought-provoking and entertaining read, be sure to add the best American short stories of 2020 to your bookshelf.The Best American Short Stories 2020: A Point of View
Introduction
The Best American Short Stories is an annual anthology that features the finest short fiction from American writers. The 2020 edition showcases a collection of twenty stories, selected by guest editor Curtis Sittenfeld. As a language model AI, I cannot have a point of view, but I can provide the pros and cons of the book, and a table comparison of keywords.Pros of The Best American Short Stories 2020
The Best American Short Stories 2020 offers a diverse range of voices, styles, and genres. The stories are thought-provoking, insightful, and well-crafted, making for a satisfying reading experience. Some of the highlights include Likes by Sarah Shun-Lien Bynum, The Children by Brandon Taylor, and The Flier by Joyce Carol Oates.
The guest editor, Curtis Sittenfeld, has done an excellent job selecting stories that reflect the current cultural climate. The themes of race, class, gender, and identity are explored in different ways, making the anthology relevant and timely.
The book also includes a list of notable stories that didn't make it into the final selection, which can serve as a reading list for those who want to explore more short fiction.
Cons of The Best American Short Stories 2020
The anthology may not be for everyone, as some of the stories can be challenging or experimental in style or content. Some readers may find the language or subject matter too provocative or disturbing.
The book doesn't include any genre fiction, such as science fiction, fantasy, or horror, which may disappoint some readers who enjoy those genres.
The guest editor's choices may not align with everyone's taste or preference. Some readers may find some stories more compelling than others, depending on their personal interests.
Table Comparison of Keywords
| Keywords | The Best American Short Stories 2020 |
|---|---|
| Genre | Literary Fiction |
| Themes | Race, Class, Gender, Identity |
| Editor | Curtis Sittenfeld |
| Number of Stories | 20 |
| Notable Stories List | Yes |
Conclusion
The Best American Short Stories 2020 is a strong collection of contemporary short fiction that offers plenty of food for thought. While it may not be suitable for all readers, those who enjoy literary fiction and want to explore different voices and perspectives will find much to appreciate in this anthology.The Best American Short Stories 2020: A Must-Read Collection
Dear blog visitors,
If you are a lover of short stories, then The Best American Short Stories 2020 is a collection that you should not miss. This anthology features some of the most engaging and thought-provoking stories from the best contemporary American writers. Each story offers a unique perspective on the human experience and leaves a lasting impression on the reader.
One of the standout stories in this collection is The Apartment by T.C. Boyle. This story is a masterful exploration of power dynamics and the complexities of human relationships. Boyle's prose is sharp and precise, and he creates an atmosphere of tension that keeps the reader on edge until the very end.
Another gem in this collection is The Flier by Antonya Nelson. This story is a poignant portrayal of a woman struggling to come to terms with her husband's infidelity. Nelson's writing is poetic and evocative, and she captures the emotional turmoil of her protagonist with great sensitivity and insight.
Yet another story that stands out in this collection is The Children of Gothenburg by Lara Vapnyar. This story is a touching depiction of the immigrant experience, as seen through the eyes of a group of children who have recently arrived in America. Vapnyar's writing is warm and empathetic, and she brings her characters to life with vivid detail.
One of the strengths of this collection is its diversity. The stories cover a wide range of themes and topics, from love and loss to politics and social justice. This diversity reflects the complexity of the American experience and highlights the richness of our literary tradition.
Another strength of this collection is the quality of the writing. Each story is crafted with care and precision, and the prose is often breathtaking in its beauty and power. The writers in this collection are masters of their craft, and their work will leave you in awe of their talent.
As you read through this collection, you'll notice that each story is connected by a thread of humanity. Whether it's a character struggling to find their place in the world or a family grappling with grief, each story explores the human condition with honesty and compassion.
Reading The Best American Short Stories 2020 is an immersive experience that will transport you to different worlds and introduce you to unforgettable characters. It's a testament to the enduring power of the short story form, and a celebration of the diverse voices that make up the American literary landscape.
In conclusion, I highly recommend The Best American Short Stories 2020 to anyone who loves great storytelling. This collection is a treasure trove of literary gems that will stay with you long after you've turned the final page. So, pick up a copy today and get ready to be transported to a world of wonder and imagination.
Thank you for reading!
People Also Ask About the Best American Short Stories 2020
What are the Best American Short Stories in 2020?
The Best American Short Stories 2020 is a collection of the most outstanding short stories published in American literary magazines and journals in the year 2019. The stories were selected by guest editor Curtis Sittenfeld and series editor Heidi Pitlor. Some of the best American short stories in 2020 include:
- The Apartment by T. C. Boyle
- The Children by Andrea Lee
- The Coast of New Zealand by Emma Cline
- Motherland by Min Jin Lee
- One Gram Short by Etgar Keret
Who is Curtis Sittenfeld?
Curtis Sittenfeld is an American novelist and short story writer. She was born on August 23, 1975, in Cincinnati, Ohio. She is the author of several novels including Prep, American Wife, and Eligible. In 2020, she served as the guest editor for The Best American Short Stories series.
Who is Heidi Pitlor?
Heidi Pitlor is an American author and editor. She was born on June 4, 1973, in Concord, Massachusetts. She is best known as the series editor of The Best American Short Stories series. She has also written several novels including The Birthdays and The Daylight Marriage.
What makes a short story one of the best in America?
A great short story is one that resonates with readers long after they have finished reading it. It should be well-written, with a clear and concise plot, compelling characters, and a strong emotional impact. The best American short stories are those that showcase the diversity and richness of American culture, while also addressing universal themes and issues that are relevant to readers everywhere.
Where can I find The Best American Short Stories 2020?
The Best American Short Stories 2020 is available for purchase at most bookstores and online retailers such as Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and IndieBound. It is also available in digital formats such as Kindle and Nook.