I think this is the best annual compilation of short stories I've ever read. Thank you, Amor Towles!

Top 5:

1. The Home Visit by Morris Collins, about an ailing cat and marriage
2. Hiding Spot by Caroline Kim, about a son battling addiction
3. The Paper Artist by E.K. Ota, about an unforgiving father
4. The Dark by Jess Walter, about a man returning to dating after the death of his wife—hilarious, heartbreaking, and with a truly great ending
5. Roy by Emma Binder, about a black sheep uncle

Honorable mention:

• Didi by Amber Caron, about an aunt and her troubled niece
• Serranos by Francisco Gonzalez, about an immigrant community in California
• The Castle of Rose Tellin by Kate DiCamillo, about an abusive father
• Marital Problems by Robin Romm, a funny story about a couple and their contractor
• The Last Grownup by Allegra Goodman, told from the perspective of a recently divorced mom
• The Honor of Your Presence by Dave Eggers, a joyful story about coming back to life after covid
• The Room-Service Waiter by Tom Crewe: I especially loved the author note for this one