The Penguin Book of the Modern American Short Story

The Penguin Book of the Modern American Short Story cover
Good Books rating 4.0
Technical
  • ID: 3750
  • Added: 2025-10-20
  • Updated: 2025-10-20
  • Reviews: 3
Reviews
Kirkus Reviews · 2025-10-20
good 4.00

The anthology is noted for its well-selected stories that span a wide range of styles and lengths. The introduction is particularly useful for those new to the genre.

Kirkus Reviews commends the editor for compiling a well-curated anthology that includes a variety of short fiction styles, from long to flash fiction. They find the introduction especially helpful for readers who are not familiar with the short story format. The reviewer appreciates the breadth of the collection, which covers the last half-century of American literature, making it a valuable addition to any bookshelf.


Quick quotes

    A well-selected anthology of short fiction, ranging from long to flash, representing the last half-century.

    Freeman writes in his introduction, providing context and insight that enhances the reading experience.

    This collection is a testament to the richness and diversity of American short fiction.

Cannonball Read · 2022-05-31
excellent 4.00

The collection is highly rated for its representation of modern American short stories from 1970 onwards. It is seen as an important and enjoyable read.

The reviewer at Cannonball Read gives this anthology a high rating, emphasizing its significance as a collection of modern American short stories starting from 1970. They find the stories well-chosen and representative of the genre, making it both an important and enjoyable read. The reviewer appreciates the variety and quality of the stories, which together provide a rich tapestry of American literary talent over the past fifty years.


Quick quotes

    Its important to emphasize that this is a collection from about 1970 on, showcasing the best of American short fiction.

    The stories are well-chosen and representative, making it a must-read for any literature enthusiast.

    This anthology is both important and enjoyable, offering a comprehensive look at modern American short stories.

Goodreads · 2021-05-04
excellent 4.00

The collection is praised for its diversity and representation of contemporary American short fiction. It is considered a valuable resource for both casual readers and students of the genre.

This anthology is celebrated for its wide-ranging selection of short stories, showcasing the best of American fiction from the past few decades. The reviewer appreciates the thoughtful curation and believes it offers a comprehensive overview of the genre. They highlight how the collection is not only enjoyable for casual reading but also serves as an excellent educational tool for those studying literature.


Quick quotes

    A selection of the best and most representative contemporary American short fiction.

    This book is a must-read for anyone interested in the evolution of American short stories.

    The diversity of voices and styles makes this collection a standout.