It's always difficult for me to review short stories because you like some of them and you don't care much about the others. I think I absolutely loved most of these, a lot of it because I loved the introduction. Some weren't necessarily for me, but I still had some appreciation for them because of their form/style etc. This collection just reminded me how much I need to go back to reading more short stories.

** Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing a digital ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review **
This year’s volume is a showcase of voices that are both timely and timeless. The stories are arranged in a way that takes you on an emotional journey—beginning with intimate portraits of daily life and building toward broader explorations of culture and identity. Several standouts explore the small but pivotal moments that shape a person’s fate. I loved the variety here: some pieces felt like quiet meditations, others like electric jolts. The introduction sets the tone perfectly, making you eager for what’s ahead. It’s a collection I know I’ll revisit for both craft and insight.

https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/7729685934

Please see review on Goodreads for more:

This series has been a literary companion of mine for years. I have been reading these since they came out. This volume was one of the best I have ever encountered. Why?

The Celeste Ng introduction clearly spelled out her criteria for a “good” short story. Her aesthetic choices jibes well with what I am looking for in the genre.

Each story contained “life in its multitudes” — characterization and an element of surprise. Each enveloped me in its particular world and delighted me with its language. I can’t recall a volume since 1998 in which each story was variously strange, ethereal, grounded, and fierce.

Amazing collection, and the first year without Heidi. Our new editor did a fantastic job of gathering many voices and gorgeous literary art. Brava!