O. Henry Memorial Award Prize Stories of 1921

In 1918, the Society of Arts and Sciences launched the O. Henry Memorial Awards to honor the finest short stories published each year with cash prizes. The year 1921 stood out as a remarkable period for short fiction, showcasing a diverse array of compelling narratives that exemplify the art of storytelling. The selection committee faced the challenge of choosing from an impressive pool of talent, but after much deliberation, they have curated a collection that promises to captivate readers. While the stories vary in length, most are substantial enough to immerse oneself in and truly appreciate. The tales are presented in a rough order based on how they were judged, yet each one shines with excellence. It’s worth noting that one featured story, Martin Gerrity Gets Even, has two credited authors, Courtney Ryley Cooper and Leo F. Creagan, but only one could be acknowledged in this format. Summary by Phil Chenevert.