"An indispensable volume . . . a colossal book that contains not only classics by the greats but also perfect stories by lesser known writers." -- Philip Hensher 'Ford's introduction is as complete and persuasive an introduction to post-war American writing as one could hope for' "The Times" 'An indispensable volume ... a colossal book that contains not only classics by the greats but also perfect stories by lesser known writers' Philip Hensher, "Mail on Sunday" 'Ford's choice of stories is exemplary ... there's wonderful reading here' "Washington Post" 'This is a rich collection' "Guardian" 'A carefully wrought compilation that does credit to its rich subject' "Literary Review" 'Ford treats us to some stunning stories' "Nation"