Authentic North American short stories enhance students' reading skills, language learning, and enjoyment of literature. The universal appeal of the stories in this book touches students and makes them think. Among the authors included are O. Henry, William Saroyan, Gwendolyn Brooks, Isaac Asimov, and Sandra Cisneros. Extensive pre-reading activities capture students' interest. Post-reading activities check their comprehension, increase their knowledge of grammar and vocabulary, and provide thought-provoking discussion and writing assignments. Literary term explanations and tasks enhance students' appreciation of literature.