The Best American Short Stories 2006While a single short story may have a difficult time raising enough noise on its own to be heard over the din of civilization, short stories in bulk can have the effect of swarming bees, blocking out sound and sun and becoming the only thing you can think about, writes Ann Patchett in her introduction to The Best American Short Stories 2006. This vibrant, varied sampler of the American literary scene revels in lifes little absurdities, captures timely

and illuminates how gangsterism

In a masterful biography laden with new revelations

comes Morgan Jerkins' powerful story of her journey to understand her northern and southern roots

and the Great River will become nothing more than a body of lifeless water

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Analyze Shots

White's creative

Cole’s solo getaway turns into a crash course in the holiday spirit

and Outlander

But Nancy is curious to know what makes her family and friends feel fancy

the New York Times and The Best American Essays

the injustice of slavery