Short Stories

I enjoy hand selling my favorites in the bookstore a lot.  Yet so many people say "no" to short stories as soon as I mention the word.  On the other hand, many people say how hard it is to find the time to read.  What better solution than a book of 10 or so short '"novels," as I think of a literate collection of short stories.  Each story/novel has a kick powerful enough to stay with you, just like a good long novel!  The intense power of a well told story is thrilling and strong whether short or long.  And it takes so much less time to read, and then you still have the savoring time afterward.....think about it---I know you will be so happy when you finish any of the books I am about to list, as they are all by brilliant authors.

Both Ways is the Only Way I Want It  by Mailie Meloy is a prize winning jewel on everyone's best of 2009's list.

In Other Rooms, Other Wonders by Daniyal Mueenuddin is a related collection of short stories based in Pakistan.

Too Much Happiness by Alice Munro just came out and it is a stunning collection. Anyway, start with these 3, and I promise you, a whole new genre will open up for you!