I'm not sure exactly which was his very first published story. However, he has many well - known works. You might need to do some in - depth research in literary databases or by exploring his early works anthologies.
George Saunders' first novel, 'Lincoln in the Bardo', is set in a sort of liminal space. It focuses on the time when Abraham Lincoln's son has died. The narrative is made up of multiple voices, which gives the reader a complex and rich view of the story. It's a very creative exploration of death, grief, and the idea of what comes after life.
George Saunders' first story might stand out because it was the origin of his distinct voice. In this initial story, he could have started to develop his ability to tell stories that are both humorous and deeply poignant. It might have been a foundation for his later works that often blend satire and empathy. He may have experimented with different narrative techniques that would later be refined and perfected in his subsequent stories, making this first story a significant step in his writing journey.
Well, it's hard to definitively say which is his best as different people have different preferences. However, 'A Swim in a Pond in the Rain' is another notable work. It's not a traditional novel but more of a collection of essays on Russian short stories. Through this, Saunders imparts his wisdom on writing and literature, which is really valuable for both aspiring writers and avid readers.
One of the highly regarded George Saunders novels is 'Lincoln in the Bardo'. It's a unique and imaginative work that weaves together different voices and perspectives in a really engaging way.
I'm not sure specifically which one is George Saunders' first short story as he has a body of work. But generally, his short stories are known for their unique blend of humor and deep insights into the human condition.
It might have his unique sense of humor. Saunders is known for using humor to tell serious stories, so this could be present in his first short story as well.