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Ratings: ★★★★★ (5/5)
Genre: Literature, Fiction, Short Stories, Critical Edition, Modernist Literature

Book Review:
This Norton Critical Edition of ''Kafka's Selected Stories,'' masterfully translated and edited by Stanley Corngold, is the definitive English-language edition for both students and general readers seeking a deep engagement with the work of Franz Kafka. As W. H. Auden famously observed, Kafka stands in the same relation to his century as Shakespeare does to his, and this collection confirms that his voice remains as urgent and relevant as ever.

The volume brings together thirty of Kafka's best-known stories, including classics like ''The Metamorphosis,'' ''A Hunger Artist,'' and ''In the Penal Colony,'' presented in Corngold's clear and nuanced translations. What sets this edition apart is the wealth of critical apparatus it provides. The detailed annotations illuminate the complexities of Kafka's writing, while the ''Backgrounds and Sources'' section offers a fascinating glimpse into his creative process through his letters and diaries. The ''Criticism'' section, featuring ten essays from leading scholars, provides a range of interpretive perspectives that enrich the reading experience.

This is an indispensable resource for anyone interested in understanding the depth and breadth of Kafka's genius. It is perfect for academic study, book clubs, or any reader who wants to explore the mind of one of the twentieth century's most important literary figures .