This selection of thirty-eight stories (from the nineteenth to the twenty-first centuries) illustrates diverse narrative styles, from the austere to the avant-garde, as well as a broad spectrum of human experiences. The collection comprises both recognized classics of the genre and some very interesting, less often anthologized works. Stories are organized chronologically, lightly annotated, and prefaced by engaging short introductions. Also included is a glossary of basic critical terms.

The second edition has been updated to include more recent stories, a greater selection of international authors and works in translation, and an illustrated story (Shaun Tan's "Grandpa's Story"). Several luminaries of the genre, including Alice Munro, have multiple stories included in the collection.