Despite all my best intentions, I read much less than you’d expect from someone surrounded by stacks of books every day. Pulled in different directions by hobbies, interests, and a never-ending film and television watchlist, I find it hard to be intentional with free time sometimes, never mind giving a book the attentiveness it deserves.
For this February–the shortest month of the year–I’ve decided to build up my reading habits by picking up an anthology or two and reading one short story a day (or more self-awarely, every few days). Anthologies and short story collections are a fantastic way to enjoy writers new and old and get a taste for their style. They are also great avenues for exploring genres and themes.
Here’s a preview of some recent arrivals to the library’s teen collection as well as a few notables from 2023. For more short stories, explore the library catalog or submit a PPLBookMatch request for a personalized recommendation from staff. With the leap year, there’s even an extra day to pick one up!
“Out of Our League: 16 Stories of Girls in Sports” edited by Dahlia Adler and Jennifer Iacopelli
Full of heart and determination, this newly published work collects over a dozen entries that center around teenage athletes. Featuring an inclusive cast of characters and a diverse array of sports, from soccer and basketball to powerlifting and sport climbing, “Out of Our League” is fast-paced and inspiring.
“My Big, Fat Desi Wedding” edited by Prerna Pickett
These eight stories from desi authors well-known and new are filled with romance, meddling family, and whirlwind celebrations. With different approaches and tone and featuring different traditions, regions, and countries, this genre-bending collection is a festive celebration. An unnamed auntie ties each story together.
“All These Sunken Souls: A Black Horror Anthology” edited by Circe Moskowitz
Ten delightfully chilling stories are collected in this teen horror anthology that takes on beloved tropes. With unsettling twists on zombie apocalypses, haunted Victorian houses, immortal beings, ancient traditions, and more, there’s something for every horror fan.
“The Collectors” edited by A.S. King
This 2024 Printz Award-winning book features entries centered around the idea of collections and collectors from some of YA’s most beloved writers. Quirky and eclectic, not only is this the first anthology to be awarded this medal for “the best book written for teens,” editor A.S. King is the first to win this accolade twice.
Photo by Glen Carrie on Unsplash