There are many great ones. For example, some stories might explore the complex human relationships in the English society. They often have well - developed characters and interesting plot twists.
Sherlock Holmes short stories by Arthur Conan Doyle are very well - known. They are full of mystery and brilliant deductions. For example, 'A Scandal in Bohemia' where Holmes is outwitted by Irene Adler in a very clever way.
One of the most famous is 'The Gift of the Magi' by O. Henry. It's a heartwarming story about a young couple who sacrifice their most precious possessions for each other.
One of the main benefits is that it can boost your confidence in English. As they are short, you can finish them relatively quickly and feel a sense of accomplishment. This positive feeling can encourage you to read more. Also, short stories often contain cultural references, which can help you learn about different English - speaking cultures.
It has had a great influence. It has preserved and promoted many classic short stories. By collecting these works in one book, it has made them more accessible to readers and students, thus helping to keep the tradition of short - story writing alive.
One that stands out is 'The Garden Party' also by Katherine Mansfield. It shows the contrast between the upper - class world of a garden party and the poverty and death that exists just outside. And then there's 'The Open Window' by Saki. It's a brilliant short story with a great twist at the end that keeps readers on their toes.
The 'Oxford Book of English Short Stories' is remarkable for its editorial choices. The editors have carefully curated stories that not only engage the reader but also educate. The stories range from the classic to the more contemporary, allowing readers to compare and contrast different literary approaches. It also has stories that can appeal to different age groups and reading levels, making it a very inclusive collection.
Reading a book of short stories is beneficial for English learners. You can learn idiomatic expressions easily. In short stories, characters use everyday language which often includes idioms. Also, short stories are usually self - contained, so you can practice your comprehension skills without getting overwhelmed. You can focus on one story at a time and really understand the plot, characters, and themes, which in turn enhances your overall English ability.