Story Matters offers students an inspiring and insightful approach to writing short fiction with 21 short stories and in-depth, in-person conversations with their accomplished authors. Each writer describes his or her source of ideas, motivation, and writing strategies, to give a personal perspective on the book's narrative of the elements of short fiction. Throughout the book, writing prompts offer ideas, advice, and jumping-off points for workshop or individual writing exercises. The writers, from Dave Eggers to Jamaica Kincaid, explain and explore the intent, technique, and meaning of their fiction, offering expert insight into the craft of writing stories.</p>

Part One: Writing Matters: This series of brief chapters provides an introduction to writing short fiction, from the spark that starts a story to the finishing touches of revision.

Part Two: Stories and Conversations: A showcase for 21 acclaimed writers, this section combines a short story, a conversation with that story's author, and related writing prompts. By reading the stories and listening to the writers talk about the joys and frustrations of the creative process, students come to understand the challenge and satisfaction of writing well.

Appendices include a set of questions a writer may want to ask when approaching a short story; a list of favorites of the authors interviewed in this book; and a bibliography of further resources in creative writing.