Unique in content, this anthology of 113 short stories encompasses a larger geographical range (both Western and non-western) and greater gender balance than is typical of most short-story anthologies, and includes a diverse representation of ethnic voices from within the United States as well as less-frequently-anthologized stories by well-known writers. It includes both classic and contemporary stories that reflect thematic, aesthetic, and cultural variety: diversity of styles, subjects and points of view as well as diversity of cultural, historical, and gender perspectives. Headnotes and questions for each story provide contextual enhancement and guidelines for critical thinking and reflection.