A Book of Short Stories 1: Perspectives in Literature

by Holt, Rinehart and Winston, Inc.

Librarian's Note: A paperback edition also using ISBN 0030384427 / 9780030384424 can be found here: A Book of Short Stories 1: Perspectives In Literature

Volume One

Genres: Short Stories, Fiction

Paperback

Published January 1, 1991

Reviews

[Terri · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read this when I was in second grade. My brother was a sophomore in high school it was one of his textbooks. It's one of the best critical analysis books I've ever read in my life.

[Jean Carlton · Rating 5 out of 5]

I picked up this book for $.50 at a book sale last winter just because I'm into short stories. I found it to be the most helpful book of short stories I've ever read for two reasons. Probably written as a textbook, the introduction lists and defines Elements of the Short Story to better understand the genre. This information really enhances the reading, and a story does not just end. Each is followed by a section prompting the reader to analyze the story in various ways: Meaning, Method and Language, discussion questions and finally, interesting suggestions for writing your own composition. ( In addition, the twenty-two stories were really fascinating.)
I especially liked Thurber's " The Secret Life of Walter Mitty", O. Henry's "The Ransom of Red Chief"
Langston Hughes "Thank you, M'am" and Saki's "The Story Teller".
Secondly, currently focusing on short stories in my own writing, I read each story with an eye toward the above elements. The exposure will surely have a positive influence on my own work.
A keeper.