| These stories are not meant to
please you; they are meant to challenge you. They were not chosen
simply on the basis of their content. They were chosen
because (1) they can be reached with a click of the mouse; (2)
they have been published in literary markets that hold to high
standards; (3) they (with a few exceptions) are written by living
writers who are hard at work publishing today, and (4) they represent a
variety of styles and approaches to story. That, I believe, makes
them more valuable to you than any number of "how to write"
manuals Yes, I like these stories, but liking is not the point. I believe you can learn from them. Don't be afraid. Plunge right in. .(The links below take you to other people's web sites. While you are visiting, take the time to look around and see what else they have to offer. |
| Violet
(from the
Night That Edith Didn't Die by Jennifer Dickenson publishd in Blackbird Excerpted from a novel, this passage stands up as a strong and disturbing story Read about Jennifer Dickenson |
read about Helon Habila |
The High
Stool by Abha Iyengar from Gowanus A disturbing little story from one of the best internation web zines. Read about AbhaInengar |
Easy Lay by Joyce Carol Oates from PLOUGHSHARES Joyce Carol Oates is one of America's best living writers. (some say the best) Read about Joyce Carol Oates |
| Big
Me, by Dan Chaon from the Gettsyburgh Review I liked this one so much I went right over to Amazon and bought the book. (Among the Missing) I also forgave the editors of the Gettysburgh Review for every rejection slip they ever sent me. Read about Dan Chaon |
Debarking,
by Lorrie Moore from The New Yorker Archives |
Sea Oak, by
George Saunders from the Barcelona Review X-Rated? Yes. Porno? I don't think so! I went out and bought this guy's book too! Read about George Saunders |
Polar
Arms, by Leon Rooke from the archives of Blackbird What happens when an elephant takes up residence in a high rise. Read about Leon Rooke |