Reviews

The Best American Short Stories 2016 by Heidi Pitlor, Junot Díaz

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meliagelinas's review against another edition

4.0

Only read various stories throughout, not the entire book, but this has some really good stories in it. Good if you're looking to experience some short stories. I especially liked the Great Silence and Cold Little Bird.

redporchinverter's review against another edition

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slow-paced

Plot- or character-driven? Character
Strong character development? N/A
Loveable characters? It's complicated
Diverse cast of characters? Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus? N/A

3.0

This had a decent assortment of stories with different writing styles, lengths, settings and perspectives, but there weren't any that absolutely blew me away. The standouts: "Wonders of the Shore," "The Bears," "The Suitcase," "Cold Little Bird," "The Prospectors," and "The Politics of the Quotidian."

lizzderr's review against another edition

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4.0

This is a particularly strong iteration of this annual collection, shaped by Díaz’s quirks and willingness to look beyond the usual lit fic darlings.

amycrea's review against another edition

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4.0

Much more diverse lineup of writers than usual, and some truly wonderful stories.

bentohbox's review against another edition

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4.0

It's a "best" collection, so of course it's well done. The stories were emotionally raw and immediate, in a way that leaves you in desire. Some of them meandered a bit longer than I would have liked, but the scope and range of the collection are incredible.