The Best Short Stories of 1917, and the Yearbook of the American Short Story

This volume gathers a vivid snapshot of American short fiction from a single, bustling year. Readers will encounter a lively mix of voices—from the humor of Irvin S. Cobb to the quiet poignancy of Edna Ferber—each story originally appearing in the magazines and journals that shaped early‑20th‑century literary life. The selection showcases a range of settings and concerns, from bustling city streets to quiet country lanes, offering a taste of the era’s social moods and narrative experiments.

Beyond the stories themselves, the collection reflects the collaborative spirit of its time, featuring works that first graced the pages of publications such as The Atlantic Monthly, Harper’s, and The Saturday Evening Post. As an audio experience, listeners can hear the distinct cadences of these classic tales, gaining insight into the themes that resonated with readers a century ago while enjoying timeless storytelling that still feels fresh today.