Modern Short Stories: A Book for High Schools

"Modern Short Stories: A Book for High Schools" by Frederick Houk Law et al. is a collection of contemporary short stories curated specifically for high school students, likely written in the early 20th century. The compilation aims to engage students with modern themes and authors, contrasting with older literature that often dominates school curricula. The editor emphasizes the importance of short stories as a vital component of literary education, fostering an appreciation for concise storytelling and diverse narrative forms. The opening of the anthology presents a preface that outlines the rationale for creating the collection, discussing the commonality and relevance of short stories in modern society. Law argues that these narratives are more appealing to high school students than lengthy novels, advocating for a curriculum that incorporates dynamic, contemporary stories to better prepare students for their post-school reading lives. He emphasizes the necessity for educators to guide students in their literary journey, promoting a thoughtful approach to reading and understanding the short story form. Additionally, the introduction sets the stage for the stories to follow, highlighting their modernity and potential for inspiration and discussion.