The Awakening is a novel by Kate Chopin that was published in 1899. It tells the story of Edna Pontellier, a young woman who struggles with the expectations and limitations placed upon her as a wife and mother in the late 19th century. The book is often considered a feminist work and is known for its portrayal of the inner thoughts and desires of its protagonist.

Selected Short Stories is a collection of short stories by various authors. It is likely that the specific stories included in the collection were chosen for their literary merit or for the themes they explore. Reading a collection of short stories can be a good way to expose oneself to a variety of writing styles and themes, and can be a enjoyable and rewarding reading experience.