Reviews

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

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meliagelinas's review

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

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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

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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

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4.0

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

bentohbox's review

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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.