You've Got to Read This: Contemporary American Writers Introduce Stories That Held Them in Awe

I thought at first that this would be some kind of gimmick to try to get you to read stories that you normally wouldn't, but it actually was nothing like that. The referrals from established writers were short and to the point and, in a very short blurb, explained the type of story that would follow and why they had liked it so much. I very interesting read.

Architects and contractors can usually spot a good house; engineers and mechanics know good cars. So too with stories. Want to read some good ones? Ask the people that create them. This concept makes sense to me and I don't think you'll be disappointed. I did not like all the stories in this collection, but I think 90% are striking. Many are memorable. A few seem so original in conception they form a palpable presence in the mind. Of the 35 stories, I was familiar with 21 of the authors, though I had previously read only a couple of the stories. Of the selectors/introducers, I had only heard of a dozen. Dead white males do not seem to dominate this volume. If anything, there are a few too many chick stories that have no action beyond moving lips and go on interminably about feelings and relationships. Thankfully, the polar opposites are not represented here. (Those would be pure action stories peopled by brainless, unreflective stick men.) Happily, there are quite a few tales by the best who can strike a balance. Leo Tolstoy did this better than anybody and he does have an entry. I will not further bore you with my favorites. Everybody takes up stories in their own way. Interestingly, I remember almost none of the introducers praise or criticism. But, collectively they pulled it off- this is a great anthology.

Ashley Hammond: Thanks for liking "Paper Garden"!--Jerome Wilson

I read this in a writing seminar class I took with the author Wally Lamb (She's Come Undone, I Know This Much is True)at University of Connecticut three years ago. It impacted my appreciation for short stories and led me on the path to read many of the authors represented in this book. I bought complete short story collections of several of my favorite authors represented. I loved the idea of reading about other author's feelings about the stories and how they were influenced in their own writing. If you have an interest in writing, this book gives invaluable insight. I am purchasing it for my brother-in-law who is currently taking a creative writing course. My favorite story was "A Paper Garden" it captured my imagination and delighted me with description of the main character and her charm. Enjoy!

A beautiful concept, having writers expose us to other writers. There are some jewels in here, if you've already read some of them, be proud of yourself, if not, the sheer randomness may turn you on to something you haven't been turned on to before. I loved "The Star Cafe", and discovered a new writer in the process.

I really enjoyed this book. Even if I disliked one story, I knew the next would be a refreshing start. I suggest reading the essays before the introductions to form your own opinions.