Discover the Top 10 Best American Short Stories of 2020: A Must-Read Collection for Every Literature Lover
Discover the finest American short stories of 2020, featuring a diverse range of voices and compelling narratives that will leave you spellbound.
The Best American Short Stories 2020 is a collection of some of the most captivating and thought-provoking short stories written by American writers over the past year. This anthology showcases the diversity and creativity of contemporary American literature, covering a wide range of genres and themes. From stories that explore the complexities of human relationships to those that delve into issues of race, identity, and social justice, this collection has something for everyone.
One of the standout stories in this collection is The Night in Question by Tobias Wolff. This haunting tale follows a group of teenagers who break into a wealthy couple's home and are confronted with unexpected consequences. Wolff's writing is masterful, drawing the reader in with vivid descriptions and subtle hints at what's to come.
Another must-read story in this anthology is The Prairie Wife by Curtis Sittenfeld. This clever and witty story explores the life of a woman who becomes obsessed with a fellow mom at her child's school. Sittenfeld's sharp prose and keen observations make for a delightful read.
For those who enjoy a bit of magical realism, The Land of the Purple Ring by Téa Obreht is sure to please. This lyrical and mysterious story follows a young girl as she searches for a lost ring that holds a powerful secret. Obreht's writing is enchanting, weaving together elements of folklore and mysticism to create a truly unique reading experience.
One of the most powerful stories in this collection is The Children by Donika Kelly. This heartbreaking tale explores the effects of mass incarceration on families, told through the eyes of a young girl who visits her father in prison. Kelly's writing is raw and emotional, capturing the pain and resilience of those impacted by the criminal justice system.
For fans of historical fiction, The Grotesques by Sarah Hall is a must-read. This evocative story takes place in 19th century England and follows a group of women who work in a pottery factory. Hall's writing is rich and atmospheric, transporting the reader to a different time and place.
Another standout story in this collection is The Flier's Club by Elizabeth McCracken. This touching and humorous tale follows a group of misfits who bond over their shared love of flight. McCracken's writing is both poignant and funny, capturing the joys and sorrows of human connection.
The Night of the Satellite by T.C. Boyle is another highlight of this anthology. This satirical and surreal story explores the absurdity of modern life, as a couple tries to navigate a world where technology has taken over. Boyle's writing is sharp and incisive, poking fun at our society's obsession with screens and gadgets.
One of the most experimental stories in this collection is The Black Square by Lauren Groff. This enigmatic and dreamlike tale follows a woman as she navigates a strange and unsettling landscape. Groff's writing is poetic and atmospheric, creating a sense of unease that lingers long after the story ends.
Overall, The Best American Short Stories 2020 is a stunning collection of contemporary American literature. Whether you're a fan of realism or magical realism, historical fiction or satire, there's something here for you. These stories are a testament to the power of storytelling and the enduring relevance of the short form.
Introduction:
The year 2020 has been a challenging year for everyone worldwide. However, the literary world has been able to produce some of the best works of art that have left readers in awe. In this article, we will be discussing some of the best American short stories that made it to the top of the list in 2020. The authors of these stories have demonstrated their excellent writing skills and creativity, making it difficult to put down their books once you start reading them.
The Best American Short Stories 2020:
The Night of the Fireflies by Karen E. Bender
Karen Bender’s story “The Night of the Fireflies” is a simple yet profound story about a family's camping trip gone wrong. Bender captures the essence of family dynamics and how one mistake can cause an entire family to unravel. The story is a reflection of how life can change in an instant and how families cope with unexpected situations. Bender's writing style is gripping, and her characters are relatable, making it easy for readers to connect with them.
The Necessary Grace to Fall by Gina Ochsner
Gina Ochsner's The Necessary Grace to Fall is a beautiful story about love, loss, and redemption. The story follows a woman who has lost her husband and is struggling to come to terms with her grief. Ochsner's writing style is poetic and evocative, drawing readers into the character's world and emotions. The story is an exploration of human emotions and how we cope with tragedy.
White Girls by Nafissa Thompson-Spires
Nafissa Thompson-Spires' White Girls is a brilliant satire that explores race, gender, and identity in America. The story is a collection of vignettes that follow different characters and their experiences with race and identity. The stories are funny, poignant, and thought-provoking, making it a must-read for anyone interested in exploring the complexities of race and identity.
The Flier by Jonathan Lethem
Jonathan Lethem's The Flier is a gripping story about a man who is trying to find his place in the world. The story follows the character as he navigates through life, trying to make sense of his past and present. Lethem's writing style is captivating, drawing readers into the character's world and emotions. The story is an exploration of human nature and how we search for meaning in our lives.
Don't Look Now by Kristen Roupenian
Kristen Roupenian's Don't Look Now is a captivating story about a woman who is haunted by her past. The story follows the character as she tries to move on from her past and start a new life. Roupenian's writing style is suspenseful, keeping readers on the edge of their seats. The story is an exploration of human emotions and how we cope with trauma.
The Apartment by T.C. Boyle
T.C. Boyle's The Apartment is a brilliant story about a man who is struggling to come to terms with his past. The story follows the character as he tries to make sense of his life and his relationships. Boyle's writing style is captivating, drawing readers into the character's world and emotions. The story is an exploration of human nature and how we come to understand ourselves.
The Language of Sycamores by Lisa Ko
Lisa Ko's The Language of Sycamores is a beautiful story about family, love, and loss. The story follows a woman who is trying to make sense of her mother's death. Ko's writing style is poetic and evocative, drawing readers into the character's world and emotions. The story is an exploration of human emotions and how we cope with loss.
The Gift by Louise Erdrich
Louise Erdrich's The Gift is a poignant story about a mother's love for her son. The story follows the character as she tries to protect her son from the harsh realities of life. Erdrich's writing style is beautiful, drawing readers into the character's world and emotions. The story is an exploration of human nature and how we come to understand the people we love.
Good Boys by Elizabeth Strout
Elizabeth Strout's Good Boys is a heartwarming story about a mother's love for her son. The story follows the character as she tries to navigate through life, trying to do what is best for her son. Strout's writing style is captivating, drawing readers into the character's world and emotions. The story is an exploration of human nature and how we come to understand the people we love.
The Second Coming of the Invisible Man by Nafissa Thompson-Spires
Nafissa Thompson-Spires' The Second Coming of the Invisible Man is a brilliant satire that explores race and identity in America. The story follows a man who is struggling to come to terms with his identity and his place in the world. Thompson-Spires' writing style is humorous and thought-provoking, making it a must-read for anyone interested in exploring the complexities of race and identity.
Conclusion:
The above stories are just a few among the many excellent works of literature produced in America in 2020. These stories demonstrate the power of storytelling and how writers can use their craft to explore the complexities of human nature. They are a reflection of our society and how we navigate through life. Reading these stories will not only entertain but will also leave you with a renewed appreciation for the art of storytelling.
Best American Short Stories 2020: Exploring the Multicultural Landscape of AmericaThe year 2020 has been a challenging one for the world, with the COVID-19 pandemic causing widespread disruption. However, it has also been a year of great creativity, particularly in the realm of literature. The Best American Short Stories 2020 is a collection that showcases the best fiction written by American authors over the past year. This collection contains a wide range of stories that explore the complexities of human experience, from love and family to social issues and the environment. In this article, we will delve into the themes and styles that make this collection such a compelling read.Diverse Voices: Exploring the Multicultural Landscape of AmericaOne of the most striking features of this collection is the diversity of voices represented within its pages. In recent years, there has been a growing awareness of the need to include a wider range of perspectives in literature, and this collection is a testament to that. The authors featured in this collection come from a variety of different backgrounds, and their stories reflect the rich cultural tapestry that makes up America.There are stories that explore the experiences of immigrants and refugees, such as The Map of the Known World by Lisa Sandlin, which tells the story of a young girl who flees war-torn Kosovo with her family. There are also stories that examine the lives of marginalized communities, such as The Drowning by Rachel Heng, which portrays the struggles of a young woman living in poverty in Singapore.The Art of Flash Fiction: Mastering the Art of Condensed StorytellingAnother feature of this collection is the prevalence of flash fiction - stories that are typically no more than 1,000 words long. Flash fiction is a challenging form of storytelling, requiring authors to distill complex ideas and emotions into a few short paragraphs. However, when done well, it can be incredibly powerful.One standout example of flash fiction in this collection is The Geometry of Despair by Lily Tuck. In just a few hundred words, Tuck manages to convey the sense of loss and grief that comes with the death of a loved one. Similarly, The Good Mother of Marseille by Christopher Castellani tells the story of a woman grappling with the complexities of motherhood in just over 500 words.Unconventional Narratives: Breaking the Mold of Traditional Story StructuresThe Best American Short Stories 2020 also features a number of stories that break free from traditional narrative structures. These stories challenge readers' expectations and offer fresh perspectives on the art of storytelling.For example, Ways to Hide in Winter by Sarah St. Vincent is told through a series of letters between two characters, offering a unique insight into their relationship. Meanwhile, A Small Sacrifice for an Enormous Happiness by Jai Chakrabarti is written entirely in the second person, immersing the reader in the protagonist's experience.Dark and Twisted: Pushing the Boundaries of Horror and SuspenseFor readers who enjoy stories that are dark and twisted, there are plenty of options in this collection. From supernatural horror to psychological thrillers, the stories in Best American Short Stories 2020 will keep you on the edge of your seat.One particularly chilling example is The Night in Question by Tobias Wolff, which tells the story of a group of friends who become embroiled in a murder investigation. Another standout story in this vein is The Children by Megan Hunter, which explores the unsettling relationship between a mother and her young children.Love in the Time of COVID: Capturing the Pandemic Experience in FictionThe COVID-19 pandemic has affected every aspect of our lives, and it was inevitable that it would find its way into literature. The Best American Short Stories 2020 features several stories that capture the experience of living through a pandemic.One standout story in this vein is The Great Escape by Elizabeth McCracken, which tells the story of a couple who are forced to quarantine together after one of them is exposed to COVID-19. Meanwhile, The Beach Trip by Julie Orringer follows a group of friends as they navigate the challenges of planning a vacation during a pandemic.Coming of Age: Portraying the Complexities of Youth in AmericaMany of the stories in Best American Short Stories 2020 focus on the experiences of young people as they navigate the complexities of growing up in America. These stories offer a poignant insight into the challenges and joys of youth.One example is Girlie by Joshua Ferris, which tells the story of a teenage girl who becomes embroiled in a complex sexual relationship with her best friend's father. Another standout story in this vein is The Words That Make Us by Jhumpa Lahiri, which explores the relationship between a mother and daughter as the latter comes of age.The Power of Family: Examining the Bonds That Hold Us TogetherFamily is a powerful force in our lives, and many of the stories in this collection explore the bonds that hold us together - for better or for worse. There are stories of dysfunctional families, such as Ghost Dance by Louise Erdrich, which portrays the aftermath of a family tragedy. There are also stories of families that are bound by love and loyalty, such as The Gospel of Lazarus by Richard Bausch, which tells the story of a man trying to reconnect with his estranged brother.Social Commentary: Tackling Contemporary Issues Through FictionFiction has the power to shine a light on contemporary issues and offer readers a new perspective on the world around them. Many of the stories in Best American Short Stories 2020 tackle social issues head-on, from racism to gender inequality.One standout story in this vein is You Are The Light by Keisha Bush, which explores the experiences of a Black woman living in America and the challenges she faces on a daily basis. Another powerful story is The Crying Book by Heather Christle, which delves into the emotional impact of gun violence in America.The Human Condition: Exploring the Depths of Human Emotion and ExperienceAt its core, fiction is about exploring the human experience - our hopes, fears, dreams, and desires. The stories in Best American Short Stories 2020 offer a rich and varied exploration of the human condition.One example is The Grotesques by Sarah Hall, which tells the story of a group of friends grappling with the complexities of love and loss. Another standout story is Anima by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, which explores the relationship between a mother and daughter as they navigate the challenges of cultural differences.The Beauty of Nature: Celebrating the Natural World Through FictionFinally, many of the stories in Best American Short Stories 2020 celebrate the beauty of nature and the natural world. These stories offer a reminder of the importance of preserving and protecting our environment.One standout story in this vein is The Great Barrier by Rachel Heng, which explores the impact of climate change on the world's oceans. Another powerful story is Horseman by Brando Skyhorse, which tells the story of a young boy who finds solace and connection in the natural world.ConclusionThe Best American Short Stories 2020 is a collection that offers something for everyone. Whether you are looking for dark and twisted tales of horror, poignant coming-of-age stories, or powerful explorations of contemporary issues, this collection has it all. Featuring diverse voices, unconventional narratives, and a celebration of the natural world, this collection is a testament to the power of fiction to capture the complexities of human experience.My Point of View on Best American Short Stories 2020
Pros of Best American Short Stories 2020
There are several pros to the Best American Short Stories 2020. Firstly, it provides readers with a collection of the best and most thought-provoking short stories written by American authors. This allows readers to experience a range of writing styles and genres, from literary fiction to science fiction and everything in between.
Secondly, the anthology is edited by a different editor each year, giving readers a fresh perspective and approach to the selection process. This year's editor, Curtis Sittenfeld, is a renowned author herself, bringing a unique perspective to the collection.
Lastly, the Best American Short Stories 2020 provides a platform for emerging writers, giving them the opportunity to showcase their work alongside established authors. This helps to promote diversity and inclusivity within the literary world.
Cons of Best American Short Stories 2020
While there are several pros to the Best American Short Stories 2020, there are also a few cons to consider. Firstly, due to the nature of anthologies, some readers may not enjoy every story in the collection. This is subjective and dependent on personal taste.
Secondly, while the anthology promotes diversity and inclusivity, there are still limitations as to how many stories can be included. Some readers may feel that certain voices or perspectives are underrepresented.
Lastly, some readers may find the price of the anthology to be a downside, as it can be more expensive than purchasing a single book by an individual author.
Table Comparison of Best American Short Stories 2020
| Category | Best American Short Stories 2020 | Individual Author Book |
|---|---|---|
| Price | Approximately $15-20 | Varies depending on author and book format |
| Range of Writing Styles and Genres | Yes | Dependent on individual author |
| Editor | Changes annually | N/A |
| Promotes Diversity and Inclusivity | Yes | Dependent on individual author |
| Platform for Emerging Writers | Yes | Dependent on individual author's publishing history |
The Best American Short Stories 2020: A Must-Read Collection
Welcome, dear readers! If you are a lover of short stories, then you have come to the right place. Today, we are going to talk about one of the best collections of short stories ever published, The Best American Short Stories 2020. This book is a perfect blend of diverse voices, themes, and styles that will take you on a journey through the depths of human emotions.
The collection was edited by Curtis Sittenfeld, a celebrated author known for her witty and insightful writing style. Sittenfeld has done an excellent job of selecting stories that reflect our current times while also highlighting some timeless themes that have been around for centuries.
One of the standout stories in the collection is Mermaid River by Alexia Arthurs. This story tells the tale of two sisters who visit their father in Jamaica after his sudden death. The story explores themes of grief, family, and identity, and Arthurs' writing style is both lyrical and engaging.
Another excellent story is Likes by Sarah Shun-Lien Bynum. This story takes a satirical look at our obsession with social media and how it affects our relationships. Bynum's writing is sharp and witty, and the story is both hilarious and thought-provoking.
If you are a fan of historical fiction, then you will love The Grotesques by Sarah Hall. This story is set in 19th century England and follows the life of a young woman who works as a sculptor's model. The story explores themes of class, gender, and beauty, and Hall's writing is both vivid and atmospheric.
For those who enjoy more experimental writing styles, The Crying Book by Heather Christle is a must-read. This story is a collection of vignettes that explore the various ways in which people cry. Christle's writing is poetic and evocative, and the story is both unique and emotionally resonant.
One of the most powerful stories in the collection is The Flier's Club by Lou Mathews. This story tells the tale of a group of WWII veterans who gather at a bar to reminisce about their experiences. The story explores themes of trauma, memory, and brotherhood, and Mathews' writing is both raw and honest.
The Best American Short Stories 2020 is a collection that will make you laugh, cry, and everything in between. The stories are diverse and thought-provoking, and they will stay with you long after you have finished reading them.
Whether you are a seasoned reader of short stories or just starting, this collection is a must-read. It showcases some of the best writing of the year and reminds us of the power of the short story form. So, go ahead and pick up a copy today. You won't be disappointed.
Thank you for taking the time to read our blog post. We hope you found it informative and enjoyable. If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to leave them below. And as always, happy reading!
What Are People Also Asking About Best American Short Stories 2020?
1. What is the Best American Short Stories 2020?
The Best American Short Stories 2020 is a collection of the year's best short fiction stories in the United States, edited by Curtis Sittenfeld and Heidi Pitlor.
2. How Many Short Stories are in the Best American Short Stories 2020?
The Best American Short Stories 2020 features twenty stories written by different American authors.
3. Who are Some of the Authors Featured in the Best American Short Stories 2020?
The anthology features a diverse group of American writers, including Charles Yu, Bryan Washington, Kelli Jo Ford, and Danielle Evans among others.
4. What Makes the Best American Short Stories 2020 Stand Out?
The Best American Short Stories 2020 is a must-read for any lover of short fiction. The collection features a mix of established and emerging voices, with each story providing a unique perspective on the human experience. The editors have done an excellent job of selecting stories that are both timely and timeless, making this anthology a standout in the genre.
5. Where Can I Get a Copy of the Best American Short Stories 2020?
The Best American Short Stories 2020 is widely available in bookstores and online retailers. You can also purchase a digital copy through Kindle or other e-book platforms.
6. Are There Any Similar Books to the Best American Short Stories 2020?
Yes, there are several similar anthologies of short fiction, including The O. Henry Prize Stories, The Pushcart Prize: Best of the Small Presses, and The Best American Nonrequired Reading.