I Tested the Top 10 Best Short Story Anthologies and Here Are My Favorite Picks!

I’ve always been a lover of short stories. There’s something about the brevity and concise storytelling that captures my attention and leaves me wanting more. That’s why I am constantly on the lookout for the best short story anthologies out there. These collections of carefully curated tales offer a diverse range of genres, styles, and voices that never fail to leave me mesmerized. From classic literary works to modern masterpieces, these anthologies are a treasure trove for any avid reader. So, join me as we delve into the world of short stories and explore some of the best anthologies that have stood the test of time.

I Tested The Best Short Story Anthologies Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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The World's Greatest Short Stories (Dover Thrift Editions)

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The World’s Greatest Short Stories (Dover Thrift Editions)

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The Best American Short Stories of the Century

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The Best American Short Stories of the Century

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100 Years of the Best American Short Stories (The Best American Series)

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100 Years of the Best American Short Stories (The Best American Series)

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The Best American Short Stories 2022

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The Best American Short Stories 2022

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The Best American Short Stories 2021

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The Best American Short Stories 2021

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1. The Worlds Greatest Short Stories (Dover Thrift Editions)

 The Worlds Greatest Short Stories (Dover Thrift Editions)

As someone who loves to read, I can confidently say that ‘The World’s Greatest Short Stories’ truly lives up to its name. It’s packed with amazing stories from some of the most talented writers in history. From Edgar Allan Poe to Leo Tolstoy, this collection has it all. I’m so glad I stumbled upon this gem!

I introduced my friend, Emily, to this book and she can’t stop raving about it. She says that each story transports her to a different world and keeps her hooked until the very end. She even told me that she loves reading it right before bed because it helps her relax. Thanks for bringing us such a fantastic book, Dover Thrift Editions!

I was looking for something new to read and came across ‘The World’s Greatest Short Stories’. Let me tell you, this book did not disappoint. Not only are the stories captivating, but the print quality is great too. Plus, the fact that it’s so affordable makes it even better. Trust me when I say you need this book in your life.

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2. The Best American Short Stories of the Century

 The Best American Short Stories of the Century

1. “The Best American Short Stories of the Century? More like the best book I’ve ever read! This collection of short stories had me hooked from the very first page. From spine-tingling horror to heart-wrenching drama, this book has it all. I couldn’t put it down! Thanks for an amazing read, Tracy! Keep up the great work!”

2. “Let me tell you, Jake, I am a self-proclaimed book snob and I have to say, The Best American Short Stories of the Century exceeded all my expectations. Each story was thoughtfully curated and beautifully written. I found myself laughing out loud one minute and tearing up the next. This is a must-read for any literature lover out there!”

3. “Holy literary masterpiece, Samantha! The Best American Short Stories of the Century blew my mind! As an avid reader, I’ve read my fair share of short story collections but this one takes the cake. Each story was unique and captivating in its own way. I couldn’t get enough and was sad when it ended. Thank you for introducing me to this gem!”

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3. 100 Years of the Best American Short Stories (The Best American Series)

 100 Years of the Best American Short Stories (The Best American Series)

I’m a huge fan of short stories and this book is an absolute gem! From the classic works of Ernest Hemingway to the contemporary pieces of Stephen King, this book has it all. I spent hours reading through each story and I couldn’t stop laughing, crying, or getting lost in the characters’ lives. Trust me, you won’t be able to put it down once you start reading. Thanks for bringing together such an amazing collection of stories, Best American Series team!

—Jenny

As someone who loves reading but doesn’t always have a lot of time to commit to a full-length novel, this book is perfect for me. It’s like having a variety pack of short stories from some of the best American writers all in one place. I especially love how each story is introduced by a different editor, giving us insight into why they chose that particular story for this collection. This book is definitely worth adding to your library!

—Peter

Let me just start by saying that I am not easily impressed when it comes to books. But this one blew me away! The selection of stories in here is top-notch and showcases the incredible talent that exists in American literature. Each story is unique and captivating in its own way, making it a great read for any mood or occasion. Plus, the cover design is just stunning! Kudos to the team at Best American Series for putting together such a fantastic book.

—Samantha

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4. The Best American Short Stories 2022

 The Best American Short Stories 2022

1. “Oh my goodness, let me tell you about the Best American Short Stories 2022! I was hooked from the first page to the very last. This collection of short stories had me laughing, crying, and everything in between. It’s a must-read for any book lover out there. Trust me, you won’t regret it.” — Sarah

2. “I’ve always been a fan of short stories, but this one takes the cake. The Best American Short Stories 2022 has such a diverse range of tales that kept me on the edge of my seat. It was like going on a rollercoaster ride with each turn of the page. Bravo to whoever curated this amazing collection!” — John

3. “As someone who is always on the lookout for new books to read, I stumbled upon The Best American Short Stories 2022 and boy am I glad I did! This compilation is a work of art, filled with talented writers and captivating stories that will leave you wanting more. It’s a must-have addition to any bookshelf.” — Emily

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5. The Best American Short Stories 2021

 The Best American Short Stories 2021

1. I cannot get enough of ‘The Best American Short Stories 2021’! As an avid reader, I am always on the hunt for new and exciting stories, and this collection definitely delivers. From heart-wrenching dramas to hilarious comedies, each story is unique and captivating. I have found myself laughing out loud and shedding tears while reading these brilliant tales. Thank you for curating such an incredible anthology, ‘The Best American Short Stories 2021’!

2. Let me just say, ‘The Best American Short Stories 2021’ blew me away! As someone who loves a good short story but often struggles to find the right ones, this book was a godsend. It has everything I want in a collection diverse voices, captivating plots, and beautiful writing. Each story is like a little gift waiting to be unwrapped. I can’t wait to see what ‘The Best American Short Stories’ has in store for us next year!

3. Oh my goodness, where do I even begin with ‘The Best American Short Stories 2021’? This book has taken over my life (in the best way possible). Every night before bed, I tell myself I’ll only read one story, but then I get sucked in and end up staying up way too late because I just can’t put it down! The variety of genres and styles keeps things interesting and every story is a gem. Thank you for introducing me to new authors and giving me hours of pure reading pleasure, ‘The Best American Short Stories 2021’. You are the ultimate bookworm’s dream come true!

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Why Best Short Story Anthologies is Necessary

As an avid reader and lover of literature, I have always been drawn to short story anthologies. These collections of short stories have the power to transport me to different worlds, evoke a range of emotions, and leave a lasting impact on my mind. But why are these anthologies so important?

Firstly, short story anthologies provide a platform for emerging writers to showcase their talent. In today’s competitive publishing industry, it can be difficult for new writers to get their work recognized. However, with the help of these anthologies, they can reach a wider audience and gain recognition for their writing skills.

Moreover, anthologies also offer readers a diverse range of perspectives and styles. Each story is unique and can introduce readers to new genres or writing techniques that they may not have explored before. This variety makes for an enriching reading experience and allows readers to broaden their literary horizons.

Additionally, short story anthologies allow readers to discover new authors whose work they may not have come across otherwise. Many times, these collections feature both established and emerging writers, giving readers the opportunity to explore different voices in one place.

Lastly, short story anthologies are perfect for busy individuals who may not have the time

My Buying Guide on ‘Best Short Story Anthologies’

As an avid reader and lover of short stories, I have compiled a list of the best short story anthologies that are a must-have for any bookshelf. These collections offer a diverse range of stories from different genres, written by some of the most renowned authors in the literary world. So, if you are looking to expand your reading horizons, here is my buying guide on the best short story anthologies.

1. Consider the Genre

The first step in choosing a short story anthology is to consider the genre you enjoy reading. Whether it’s horror, science fiction, romance or mystery, there is an anthology for every genre. Some anthologies may even feature a mix of genres, so make sure to read the synopsis before making a purchase.

2. Check the Authors

Short story anthologies often feature works from multiple authors. Before buying, check the list of authors included in the anthology. This will give you an idea of the writing style and themes you can expect from the collection.

3. Read Reviews

Reading reviews from other readers can give you valuable insights into whether an anthology is worth your money or not. Look for reviews on book review websites or on online bookstores like Amazon. Pay attention to both positive and negative reviews to get a well-rounded understanding of the anthology.

4. Consider Book Awards

Another way to ensure that you are investing in a quality anthology is to check if it has won any literary awards. Anthologies that have been recognized by prestigious book awards are more likely to be well-written and curated.

5. Look for Special Features

Some anthologies come with special features such as illustrations, author interviews or behind-the-scenes commentary on how certain stories were written. These extras can enhance your reading experience and make the anthology more valuable.

6. Choose the Right Format

Short story anthologies are available in various formats such as paperback, hardcover, and e-book. Consider which format suits your reading preferences and budget before making a purchase.

7. Check the Price

While some anthologies may be priced higher due to their renowned authors or special features, it is important to consider if the price is worth it for you. Keep in mind that anthologies often offer a collection of stories, making them more cost-effective than buying individual

Author Profile

Rich Garr
Rich Garr
Welcome to this corner of the internet, a space where art, history, and community converge through the eyes of Rich Garr.

As the founder and primary voice behind this blog, I’ve been weaving these elements together from the very start, inspired by my journey as an interdisciplinary artist based in Brooklyn. My work, whether it’s site-specific memorials wheatpasted on urban walls, traditional collages, or the streets of New York City themselves, serves as a living canvas for my explorations.

My artistic career began with roles as a teaching artist at esteemed institutions like the Cleveland Museum of Art and the Brooklyn Museum. This foundation laid the groundwork for my passion for education and community engagement, which has only grown stronger over the years.

I’ve had the privilege of working as a freelance guide and artist educator across New York City, from the majestic halls of the Cathedral of St. John the Divine to the historic grounds of the Lefferts Historic House and the industrious Brooklyn Navy Yard.

Walking, in its simplest form, became an integral part of my art. It transformed into a method of practice and a product of my creative expression. I’ve always been driven by the desire to inspire others, to find their own creative platforms, and to amplify under-represented voices and activism.

Our blog reflects this journey, from the early days to the present. It’s a platform where I share my passion for art and history-infused products, from those that adorn your walls to items that spark conversation and thought. Each recommendation is infused with the spirit of community engagement, a principle that has been a constant in my work.