With its historical thrust, chronological organization, and attention to "classic" works,American Short Stories offers a discriminating collection of both canonical and recent stories in a brief anthology made all the more flexible by its streamlined apparatus. Enriched Selection of Stories and Authors: more contemporary authors and an increased representation of ethnically diverse writers, with two stories per major author. The introductions of the five time periods clarify the two-hundred year history of the American short story, its developing forms, and enduring themes. Head notes introduce each writer. New author quotes, commentary, and biographical information help readers place the authors in relation to his/her time period, in relation to other writers, and to American literature in general. For anyone interested in fiction or American literature.