ORIGINALLY PUBLISHED IN DE MODE
Article Published on: 10 MAR 2023 | www.demodemagazine.com
The art of short story writing has long been a beloved form of expression, offering writers the opportunity to explore a range of themes and emotions in a compact format. Each year, new collections of short stories are released, showcasing some of the best and brightest voices in the field. In this article, we will explore the five best short story collections of the year, highlighting the unique perspectives and styles of each author.
"How to Pronounce Knife" by Souvankham Thammavongsa
"How to Pronounce Knife" is a powerful and poignant collection of short stories that explores the experiences of immigrants and refugees in North America. Thammavongsa, the daughter of refugees from Laos, offers a deeply personal and intimate look at the struggles and triumphs of those who are often marginalized in society. From a young girl grappling with the death of her sister to a man trying to make a new life for himself after fleeing war, each story in this collection is a beautifully crafted portrait of resilience and hope in the face of adversity.
"The Office of Historical Corrections" by Danielle Evans
"The Office of Historical Corrections" is a collection of stories that tackles some of the most pressing issues facing America today, including racism, sexism, and the legacy of slavery. Evans, who is known for her sharp and incisive writing, delivers a collection that is both timely and timeless, offering a searing commentary on the state of the nation. From a young woman struggling with her identity in the wake of her mother's death to a historian who discovers a long-hidden truth about a famous Civil War battle, each story in this collection is a masterful exploration of the complexities of the human experience.
"Likes" by Sarah Shun-lien Bynum
"Likes" is a collection of stories that explores the themes of identity and connection in the age of social media. Bynum, a National Book Award finalist, offers a series of interconnected stories that follow a group of characters as they navigate the complexities of modern life. From a woman who becomes obsessed with her Instagram feed to a teenager who discovers a hidden talent for dance through TikTok, each story in this collection is a thoughtful and nuanced examination of the ways in which social media shapes our lives.
"The Secret Lives of Church Ladies" by Deesha Philyaw
"The Secret Lives of Church Ladies" is a collection of stories that explores the lives of Black women who find solace and strength in the church, even as they grapple with the complexities of their own desires and identities. Philyaw, who is known for her powerful and evocative prose, offers a collection that is both deeply personal and universal in its themes. From a woman who engages in a secret affair with a pastor to a girl who discovers the truth about her mother's past, each story in this collection is a beautifully crafted exploration of the power of faith and the resilience of the human spirit.
"Milk Blood Heat" by Daniel W. Moniz
"Milk Blood Heat" is a collection of stories that explores the intersections of race, class, and gender in America. Moniz, a rising star in the literary world, offers a collection that is both haunting and beautiful, exploring the ways in which our identities shape our experiences and our relationships with others. From a young girl who befriends a ghost to a woman grappling with her mother's death, each story in this collection is a masterful exploration of the complexities of human experience.
In conclusion, these five short story collections showcase the power and beauty of the form, offering readers a glimpse into the lives and experiences of a diverse range of characters.