Best Short Story Collections

A curated list of the best collections of short stories, featuring both anthologies and single-author compilations.

Cover of Dear Life

Dear Life

4.4

A young soldier's life takes an unexpected turn when he steps off the train at the wrong stop, leading to a journey of love, loss, and self-…

Cover of The Illustrated Man

The Illustrated Man

4.2

A mesmerizing collection of 16 tales brought to life through the living tattoos of a mysterious stranger, each story unfolding with vivid im…

Cover of Unaccustomed Earth

Unaccustomed Earth

4.2

The stories of Unaccustomed Earth focus on second-generation immigrants making and remaking lives, loves and identities in England and Ameri…

Cover of Pastoralia

Pastoralia

3.5

George Saunders' acclaimed collection of stories blurs the line between the absurd and the profound, offering a hypnotic and original take o…

Cover of Dubliners

Dubliners

4.5

James Joyce's iconic collection of short stories captures the essence of Dublin life with vivid, unforgettable characters and profound insig…

Cover of Different Seasons

Different Seasons

4.2

Stephen King's masterful collection of four novellas explores the depths of human nature through tales of hope, corruption, innocence, and s…

Cover of Night Shift

Night Shift

4.2

Stephen King's chilling debut collection of short stories delves into the darkest corners of the imagination, featuring tales that have insp…

Cover of Selected Stories

Selected Stories

4.4

A captivating collection of stories from a renowned author, spanning from 1968 to 1994, showcasing the evolution of their literary prowess.

Cover of Open Secrets

Open Secrets

4.4

Eight linked stories of unconventional women defying societal norms in small Ontario towns, spanning from the 1850s to the present.

Cover of The Arabian Nights

The Arabian Nights

4.2

A timeless collection of enchanting tales that saved a queen's life, featuring mischief, valor, and romance, now presented in a classic tran…

Cover of Nine Stories

Nine Stories

3.9

Delve into the captivating and often enigmatic short stories of J.D. Salinger, each offering a unique glimpse into the human condition.

This list showcases the best collections of short stories, curated from both anthologies featuring multiple authors and compilations by a single author. Short stories offer a unique literary experience, allowing readers to explore diverse narratives in a concise format. Whether you're a fan of classic literature or contemporary fiction, this list includes a variety of genres and styles to suit every taste. From timeless classics like James Joyce's 'Dubliners' to modern masterpieces like Jhumpa Lahiri's 'Interpreter of Maladies,' these collections are celebrated for their literary merit and enduring appeal. Dive into these captivating stories and discover the richness and depth that short fiction can offer.

Source: https://www.goodreads.com/list/show/787.Best_Short_Story_Collections