The Best American Short Stories 1999 : Book Review

"The Best American Short Stories 1999" is a captivating collection of diverse and impactful narratives selected by renowned author Amy Tan. This anthology showcases the talent and creativity of American writers, offering an engaging and thought-provoking reading experience for fans of the short story genre.

One standout story in this collection is "The Five-Forty-Eight" by John Cheever. This suspenseful tale follows the protagonist as he becomes entangled in an unexpected encounter with a woman he mistreated in the past. Cheever's skillful characterization and intense atmosphere create psychological depth and tension, highlighting the power of the short story format.

Readers will also encounter other unforgettable narratives in this anthology, exploring themes such as family dynamics, identity, and the human condition. With contributions from established authors and emerging talents, Tan ensures a rich and diverse reading experience. Whether it's delving into the complexities of love and marriage in Alice Munro's "Save the Reaper" or unraveling the struggles of cultural assimilation in ZZ Packer's "Brownies," this collection showcases the breadth of American storytelling.

Tan's introduction to the collection offers valuable insights into her selection process and the significance of the short story as a literary form. Her passion for the craft shines through her eloquent and illuminating commentary, deepening readers' appreciation for the stories they are about to embark on. Tan's curation demonstrates her keen eye for quality storytelling, presenting a cohesive and compelling collection that keeps readers engaged from beginning to end.

Overall, "The Best American Short Stories 1999" is an exceptional anthology that highlights the diversity and richness of American literature. With Amy Tan's expert curation and an impressive selection of stories, readers are in for an immersive and satisfying literary journey. This collection is a must-read for fans of the short story genre and those seeking an introduction to the works of talented American authors.

What are readers saying?

The collection of The Best American Short Stories 1999, edited by Amy Tan, has received a mix of reviews from readers. While some readers applauded the compilation for its wide range of stories and captivating writing, others expressed disappointment with certain selections and felt that the collection lacked coherence.

One aspect that readers appreciated was the diversity of stories included in the collection. They praised Amy Tan's selection process, noting that the stories covered a broad spectrum of themes, genres, and writing styles. This diversity allowed readers to explore different viewpoints and encounter a myriad of emotions, resulting in a thought-provoking and entertaining collection.

The quality of the writing was also praised by many reviewers. They found the stories to be skillfully crafted with rich descriptions and engaging narratives. The authors' ability to create distinct and memorable characters, as well as the depth and resonance of the stories themselves, were highly regarded.

However, some readers were let down by certain selections in the collection. They felt that some stories lacked impact and failed to capture their interest. Additionally, reviewers pointed out a lack of coherence, with certain stories disrupting the overall flow of the collection and not fitting well with the others.

Furthermore, a few readers mentioned that while they appreciated some of the stories individually, they did not feel that the collection as a whole was as strong as previous editions of The Best American Short Stories. They expressed a desire for more consistency and a stronger overarching theme to tie the stories together.

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