a list of best short stories

Well, a list of the best short stories could include 'The Necklace' by Guy de Maupassant, which is known for its twist ending, and 'A Sound of Thunder' by Ray Bradbury, famous for its science fiction elements.

One characteristic is their ability to convey a powerful message in a short span. For example, many use concise language but still manage to explore deep themes like love, death, and society. Another is that they often have memorable characters, even if we only get a brief glimpse of them, like in 'The Necklace' where Mathilde's vanity and subsequent downfall are vividly portrayed.

Most of them have a strong sense of place. They are set in the western landscapes, with descriptions of deserts, mountains, and small western towns. The characters are often cowboys, outlaws, or settlers. For example, in 'The Outcasts of Poker Flat', the setting of the town is crucial to the story.

Many of them often have complex characters. For example, in some stories, the characters may seem ordinary at first but as the story unfolds, their true natures are revealed, like in 'The Lady with the Dog'. Also, the settings are well - crafted, whether it's a dreary English countryside or a bustling city street. They also tend to deal with deep themes such as love, loss, and morality.

You can start by checking your local library's website. Most libraries have a section dedicated to recommended reading, and they often include lists of great short stories. Another option is to look at online book communities like Goodreads. There, users often create and share lists of their favorite short stories.

One of the most well - known is 'The Nose' by Nikolai Gogol. It's a rather strange and satirical story about a man whose nose detaches and takes on a life of its own. It's a unique look at society and self - identity.

Sure. One of the best is crime. It can have an interesting plot with a crime, an investigation, and a resolution in a short span. Another is historical. You can give a snapshot of a particular historical period through a short story. And fable. Fables are short and often carry a moral lesson, which makes them great for short - story form.

One is the theme of friendship. A short story can show how friends support each other through thick and thin, like two friends who are going through a tough time at school or work but manage to get through it together because of their strong bond.

Well, 'The Body' is quite notable. It has a strong sense of coming - of - age. It's about a group of boys on a journey to see a dead body. It's filled with King's signature ability to create vivid characters and a sense of place.