Short Stories Old and New   By: C. Alphonso Smith (1864-1924)

Short Stories Old and New by C. Alphonso Smith is an exquisite collection of tales that spans across various genres, captivating readers with its diverse range of narratives. With nearly fifty stories compiled in this anthology, Smith skillfully brings together both well-known classics and hidden gems, making this book a joy for any avid reader.

One notable aspect of this collection is its thoughtful curation, as Smith includes stories from various time periods and cultures. From ancient folklore to modern tales, the anthology offers a comprehensive exploration of the short story genre. This mix of old and new provides readers with a unique opportunity to appreciate the evolution of storytelling throughout history, creating a rich and stimulating reading experience.

The stories themselves are masterfully written, showcasing Smith's keen eye for selecting captivating narratives. Each tale presents a distinct voice and theme, ensuring that every reader will find something that resonates with them. Whether it's a haunting ghost story, a heartwarming tale of love and sacrifice, or a thought-provoking exploration of the human condition, this collection has it all.

Additionally, Smith's introductions to each story offer valuable insights into the historical and literary context, providing readers with a deeper understanding of the significance of each narrative. This adds an extra layer of appreciation for these timeless stories, enhancing the overall reading experience.

Furthermore, the writing style throughout the collection is consistently engaging and vibrant. Smith's ability to capture the essence of each story, regardless of its time period or cultural background, is commendable. The prose flows effortlessly, transporting readers into different worlds with every turn of the page. The brevity of the short story format is well-suited to the anthology, allowing readers to savor each narrative without feeling overwhelmed.

While Short Stories Old and New is a captivating literary compilation, it's worth noting that due to the sheer number of stories, some may resonate more strongly with readers than others. Personal preferences play a significant role in determining which tales leave a lasting impact, and readers may find themselves favoring certain stories over others.

In conclusion, C. Alphonso Smith's Short Stories Old and New is a must-read for any lover of short fiction. With its comprehensive selection of stories from different eras and cultures, the book offers an enriching glimpse into the diversity of the genre. Smith's expert curation and thoughtful introductions, combined with the exceptional quality of the writing, make this anthology a timeless treasure for literature enthusiasts. It's a book that deserves a prominent place on the shelves of readers who appreciate the art of storytelling.

First Page:

The Setting or Background gives us the time and the place of the story with such details of custom, scenery, and dialect as time and place imply. It answers the questions When? Where? The Plot tells us what happened. It gives us the incidents and events, the haps or mishaps, that are interwoven to make up the warp and woof of the story. Sometimes there is hardly any interweaving; just a plain plan or simple outline is followed, as in "The Christmas Carol" or "The Great Stone Face." We may still call the core of these two stories the Plot, if we want to, but Plan would be the more accurate. This part of the story answers the question What ? Under the heading Characters or Character we study the personalities of the men and women who move through the story and give it unity and coherence... Continue reading book >>