New Anthology Celebrates New England’s Impact on Short Fiction

New England’s literary heritage continues to shape American short fiction, as highlighted in the 2025 edition of “The Best American Short Stories.” This anthology, a prominent yearly collection, showcases the region’s significant influence on the genre, with over half of the stories featuring New England settings or authors with connections to the area. The collection is curated by Nicole A. Lamy, a former editor for the Boston Globe, and Celeste Ng, a noted novelist, further emphasizing the region’s literary prominence.

In her role as editor, Lamy expressed surprise at the depth of New England’s presence in the anthology. “As much as we say that this is an American book, it’s so funny how many of these stories, these writers, have connections to New England,” she stated. This year’s edition serves as a tribute to the region that helped establish short fiction as a respected art form.

New England’s Literary Legacy

The roots of modern short fiction can be traced back to the 19th century, with many pioneers such as Nathaniel Hawthorne, Henry James, Sarah Orne Jewett, and Herman Melville calling New England home. Lamy noted, “All of these stories feel like maps of New England,” underscoring the region’s integral role in shaping the genre.

Several factors contribute to this literary legacy. New England is home to a plethora of universities that publish literary journals, creating a vibrant ecosystem for aspiring writers. Additionally, the region’s historical significance has positioned it as a fertile ground for storytelling, as highlighted in an 1891 article by The Atlantic, which asserted that quality short stories emerge from places rich in cultural and historical narratives.

The Making of the Anthology

Lamy and Ng collaborated closely to select stories that reflect both New England’s essence and the wider American experience. Although they did not intentionally focus on regional connections, they found that many authors, even those who now reside elsewhere, have past ties to New England. For instance, writers like Elizabeth McCracken and Sanjana Thakur have previously lived or taught in the region.

In a meticulous selection process, Lamy sifted through thousands of stories over the course of a year. A collection of about 126 stories was ultimately narrowed down, with Ng choosing 20 for the anthology. Lamy personally delivered the final selections in grocery bags, a gesture that speaks to the passion behind this literary endeavor.

While this anthology prominently features New England, it also includes diverse narratives from around the world. One story recounts a family vacation gone awry in the Berkshires, while another follows a Texas artist aspiring to attend the Rhode Island School of Design. A particularly poignant tale depicts a future where Maine serves as a sanctuary for two women fleeing a devastated South.

Lamy is aware that future editions might not center on New England as prominently. The next guest editor, Viet Thanh Nguyen, is based in California, reflecting the anthology’s commitment to featuring voices from various backgrounds and locations.

In conclusion, the 2025 edition of “The Best American Short Stories” not only showcases the artistry of short fiction but also pays homage to New England’s enduring influence on the genre. As Lamy aptly put it, “Hopefully, these stories just take you there,” inviting readers to experience the richness of American storytelling through the lens of the region that has long nurtured it.