O. Henry Memorial Award Prize Stories of 1921

A collection of short stories compiled in the early 20th century. The anthology features works that have been recognized for excellence in American short fiction, highlighting a diverse range of narratives from various authors. Thematically, the collection is likely to explore human experiences, societal complexities, and moral dilemmas, as illustrated through compelling characters and engaging plots. At the start of the collection, the opening story ''The Heart of Little Shikara'' introduces readers to a young boy named Little Shikara, who is captivated by a revered hunter named Warwick Sahib in the backdrop of a lush, perilous jungle. As Shikara awaits Warwick's return from a hunt, his admiration for the man grows, showcasing his aspirations to become a tiger hunter himself. The narrative vividly portrays Shikara’s childlike wonder and determination, weaving in themes of hero worship and the intertwined fates of man and nature, particularly as tensions escalate between humans and the lurking dangers of the jungle. The rich descriptions and the boy’s adventures promise an intriguing exploration of courage and fantasy against the stark realities of the wild.