Best Famous Short Stories to Read in 2025
Exploring the world of famous short stories opens up a treasure trove of wit, charm, and breathtaking narratives. We carefully selected seven standout collections, focusing on captivating storytelling, vibrant characters, and the ability to leave a lasting impact. Each book promises a unique perspective, offering both seasoned readers and newcomers unforgettable literary experiences. So, grab your favorite reading spot and journey with us through this collection of masterful tales.
On this list:
7 The Lottery and Other Stories by Shirley Jackson
Shirley Jackson’s stories make us look over our shoulder. She writes creepy tales that are hard to forget.
6 Nine Stories by J.D. Salinger
Nine Stories has humor and emotion. Salinger gets you to feel every word.
5 Dubliners by James Joyce
Joyce captures early 20th-century Dublin in a way like you’re there. Each story leaves a mark.
4 Interpreter of Maladies by Jhumpa Lahiri
Lahiri paints Indian-American lives with warmth. Each story is full of real emotion.
3 The Complete Short Stories of Ernest Hemingway by Ernest Hemingway
Hemingway’s stories are short but they pack a punch. He’s the master of saying a lot with a little.
2 The Collected Stories of Katherine Mansfield by Katherine Mansfield
Mansfield’s stories are lively and real. She makes the ordinary extraordinary.