Books by O. Henry

Introducing Little Clothbound Classics: irresistible, mini editions of short stories, novellas and essays from the world's greatest writers, designed by the award-winning Coralie Bickford-Smith.A Penguin Classic HardcoverO. Henry is one of the most popular American writers of the twentieth century and a true master of the short story. This selection of tales ranges from Christmas in New York to the cattle-lands of Texas, taking in con men, clerks, shop assistants, tramps and tricksters. They all highlight O. Henry's comic eye, his gift for evoking speech and setting, and his unique approach to life's quirks of fate.

Whirligigs (1910) is a collection of short stories by American writer O. Henry. Inspired by his experiences as a fugitive and in prison, these stories address themes of poverty and provincial life with humor and abundant empathy. "The Ransom of Red Chief," the most notable of the collection's twenty-four stories, is considered one of Henry's finest works and has been adapted numerous times for television and film. "The Ransom of Red Chief" follows two petty criminals named Bill and Sam, who devise a plan to hold an influential citizen's son for ransom. They kidnap Johnny Dorset, a ten-year-old boy who soon takes a liking to the pair and gives himself the name "Red Chief." As Bill and Sam attempt to collect their ransom money, the Red Chief subjects them to tiring games and pranks, causing the two criminals to regret their hasty decision. In "The Whirligig of Life," a story set in a frontier settlement near the Cumberland Mountains, a Justice of the Peace officiates a divorce between two quarreling settlers. He charges them five dollars for the ceremony, but when the husband realizes he has no money left for alimony, the judge looks for ways to hold onto his hard-earned wages. Whirligigs is a collection of humorous stories by O. Henry, an icon of short story writing. With a beautifully designed cover and professionally typeset manuscript, this edition of O. Henry's Whirligigs is a classic of American literature reimagined for modern readers.

The Trimmed Lamp (1907) is a collection of twenty-five short stories by American writer O. Henry. Inspired by his experiences as a fugitive and prisoner, these stories address themes of poverty and city life with humor and abundant empathy. Its focus on the regular, working class people of New York City makes The Trimmed Lamp a sequel of sorts to Henry's The Four Million (1906), perhaps his most important collection. In "The Trimmed Lamp," two friends discuss work, love, and money while standing on a city street-corner. They both came to New York in search of work, and though Nancy enjoys her low paying job as a shop girl at a department store, Lou brags about her employment as an ironer at a laundry and encourages her friend to look for something else to do. While they wait for Lou's boyfriend Dan, Lou asks Nancy about the wealthy men who frequent her store, and secretly wonders what it would be like to marry into money. "The Last Leaf" is a story of two artists living in Greenwich Village. While Sue lies bedridden from pneumonia, each day growing closer to death, she watches from her window a vine across the street. As fall turns to winter, its leaves drop one by one, until nothing remains but one last leaf. In another apartment, an old artist named Behrman watches the vine as well, painting the leaf with a renewed sense of purpose and a lifetime of skill and precision.Since our inception in 2020, Mint Editions has kept sustainability and innovation at the forefront of our mission. Each and every Mint Edition title gets a fresh, professionally typeset manuscript and a dazzling new cover, all while maintaining the integrity of the original book. With thousands of titles in our collection, we aim to spotlight diverse public domain works to help them find modern audiences. Mint Editions celebrates a breadth of literary works, curated from both canonical and overlooked classics from writers around the globe.

Roads of Destiny (1909) is a collection of short stories by American writer O. Henry. Inspired by his experiences as a fugitive and in prison, these stories address themes of crime, poverty, and fate. "A Retrieved Reformation," perhaps the most notable of the collection's twenty-two stories, is semi-autobiographical in that it explores the life of a criminal and fugitive who maintains a moral identity while struggling to adjust to life outside of prison. "Roads of Destiny" is the story of a French poet and shepherd named David Mignot. After fighting with his lover Yvonne, he decides to leave his home village of Vernoy in search of fame and adventure. The dreamlike narrative follows him down three paths: one takes him to the home of a wealthy Marquis, where he falls in love with his young daughter; the next leads him to the halls of the king, where he is recruited to act as a body double during a visit to the nearby cathedral; the final one finds him turning back toward home, where he struggles to balance a life of marriage with his poetic calling. In "A Retrieved Reformation," a safecracker named Jimmy Valentine attempts to lead a quiet life following his release from prison. Using an assumed identity, he settles in Arkansas, where he marries the beautiful daughter of a local banker. Despite his best efforts, however, his criminal past threatens to resurface at every turn. Roads of Destiny is a collection of stories exploring themes of fate and identity by an icon of American literature. With a beautifully designed cover and professionally typeset manuscript, this edition of O. Henry's Roads of Destiny is a classic of American literature reimagined for modern readers.

'The Trimmed Lamp & Other Stories' is a short story collection that explores the themes of the human condition and the often mysterious nature of human relationships. Veering on the verge of ordinariness but never becoming so. O. Henry’s stories have a knack for transforming the expectations of the reader before the narrative has a chance to grow dull.Replete with sharp wit and a celebration of the English language incorporating unique spins on existing words and expressions. These playful and humourous stories represent a New York-ish social experiment that stands the test of time. American short story master O. Henry is best known for his pithy, witty scores and surprise endings. In doing so he made commonplace experiences extraordinary and memorable. His work has been immortalised in the popular 1952 film 'O. Henry's Full House' starring Fred Allen, Anne Baxter, Marilyn Monroe and Jeanne Crain.William Sidney Porter (1862-1919), known simply as O. Henry, was a prolific American author of humorous literary pieces. His fame came exceptionally quickly and he became a bestselling author of short story collections. Perhaps the most famous of these are, 'Cabbages and Kings,' 'The Voice of the City' and 'Strictly Business.' The immensity of O. Henry's impact on the American short story genre for time to come is evidenced by the fact an annual award in his name is given out each year in the United States. O. Henry's work is a must read for fans of Hemingway, Guy de Maupassant and Anton Chekhov.

O. Henrys "Das Geschenk der Weisen" ist eine der bekanntesten und schönsten Weihnachtsgeschichten. Eva Mattes liest diese wundervolle Geschichte über ein junges, verliebtes Paar mit wenig Geld, das sich zu Weihnachten aber dennoch ganz besondere Geschenke macht.

"e;Rolling Stones"e; is a collection of 23 short stories, 12 poems, and letters by O. Henry providing a general overview of his literary career. The collection is important for it provides some deep insight into the author's later life. Filled with humorous, ironic remarks, and biting, though predominantly funny takes on life, society and its people, many of the collection's short stories were unfortunately left incomplete or without a proper ending. Some of the stories included are "e;The Dream"e;, "e;A Fog in Santone"e;, "e;The Prisoner of Zembla"e;, and the laughable spoof "e;A Snapshot at the President"e;, where a reporter from Texas gets an interview with president Grover Cleveland. "e;Rolling Stones"e; provides a wondrous collection of thought provoking and vivid stories for reading or relaxation, perfect for a commute home or a cozy night by the fire.-

From the king of short stories comes another wonderful collection of twenty two tales. "e;Roads of Destiny"e; takes us on a globe-trotting adventure, visiting exotic locations and places dear to O. Henry's heart. His passion for life is imbued in these tales, lending it a wonderful air of authenticity and creativity. The humorous, often satirical nature, typical of O.Henry's work is combined with a level of thoughtfulness and consideration that creates a truly special read. Some of the best-known tales among them include "e;The Discounters of Money"e;, "e;A Retrieved Reformation"e;, and "e;Friends in San Rosario"e;. These tales will leave you very happy you picked this book up, but also with something to think on. A collection perfect for any fans with an adventurous streak, who loved 'Around the World in Eighty Days' or 'Jumanji'.-

"e;Whirligigs"e; is twenty-four tale powerhouse collection of short stories created by acclaimed author O.Henry. This collection focuses on the daring, the darling and the strangest amongst us, written with O.Henry's signature sharp wit and flair for satire, this is not a book that will have you bored. O.Henry's impressive ability for creating layered and intricate plots is on full display here, creating an offering that will have you marvelling at the wit and ingenuity of his plot creation. Typical of his work there is a wide array of tales to dive in to, cipher cracking journalists, reformed burglars and men intent on creating their own language. "e;Whirligigs"e; is a timeless collection with something for everyone - perfect for people who are fans of fast, punchy stories without the time for a whole novel.-

This collection of nineteen short stories from O.Henry beautifully captures the spirit of the American West, crystallising the era of gunslingers and cowboys in a extremely poignant manner. There are captivating moments of happiness, joy, love and sorrow throughout this tumultuous tour of brilliant characters. Nothing in the West is easy, and it becomes apparent that love is above all else the most important thing we can possess. This importance of love is the overarching theme present in this collection and its prevalence in even the most dire of places. These tales possess O. Henry's signature unexpected twists, and, in all, turn this collection into a compelling, and humorous read. Some of the stories included are "e;Hearts and Crosses"e;, "e;The Caballero's Way"e;, and "e;Christmas by Injunction"e;. For those with the Wild West spirit, from lovers of the 'Magnificent Seven' to 'Red Dead Redemption' this book is for you.-

"Waifs and Strays" is a collection of short stories by O. Henry that focuses on the outcasts in society, the charlatans, the humourists, and all of the other wonderous people that populate O. Henry’s universe. Teeming with anecdotal wit, humour, and satire, often verging on the tragic, the collection is diamond in O. Henry’s treasure trove of work. In "Out of Nazareth", we come across a swindler-businessman selling false plots of land for a living, ripping off elderly couples that have put their lives in to his bogus plans. In another tale, "The Red Roses of Tonia", two men compete for the heart of the eponymous heroine, bringing the tale to a tragic conclusion. It is a truly well rounded and diverse collection, perfect for readers that enjoy the stories of Oscar Wilde and Mark Twain.William Sidney Porter (1862-1919), known simply as O. Henry, following his stint in prison, was a prolific American short story writer. His fame came exceptionally quickly and he became a bestselling author of short story collections, the most famous being "Cabbages and Kings", "The Voice of the City", and "Strictly Business." As a result of the outstanding literature legacy that O. Henry left behind, there is an annual award named after him, given to the authors of exceptional short stories.

Another poignant short story collection from the famed writer, formed as an ode to O. Henry’s favourite place, New York City. Seeking to find the genuine voice of this megapolis, O. Henry portrays a variety of characters in their own peculiarity and uniqueness . In the first short of the same name, we are brought to the cacophonous chanting of a New York class room where students eagerly recite their lessons, before we are brought on a sweeping journey throughout the city. We meet policemen, poets and newsboys who each eagerly accounts for the true voice of their famed city. It is an excellent read, that constitutes essential reading for any fan of O. Henry, or those of you with a big love for the Big Apple who want to see just exactly how this wondrous city came to captivate the world.William Sidney Porter (1862-1919), known simply as O. Henry, following his stint in prison, was a prolific American short story writer. His fame came exceptionally quickly and he became a bestselling author of short story collections, the most famous being "Cabbages and Kings", "The Voice of the City", and "Strictly Business." As a result of the outstanding literature legacy that O. Henry left behind, there is an annual award named after him, given to the authors of an exceptional short stories.

A collection of twenty-three short stories, "e;Strictly Business"e; focuses on romance, toxic relationships, love, and social issues. A chronicler of human emotions and the workings of the heart, O. Henry's prose amazes in vivid, emotional, and at times cynical commentaries. Some of the best-known stories are "e;A Ramble in Aphasia"e;, "e;The Gold that Glittered"e;, and "e;A Bird of Bagdad"e;, telling of suitors, femme fatales, and hot-tempered exiles. A must for those with a love of dramatic romances, or those of you looking for a follow up to 'Gone Girl'.-

Judge Derwent dotes on his daughter, Nancy. So when he receives a letter in the mail threatening Nancy's life, he immediately springs into an investigation. Attorney Littlefield assists him in his mission, and they track the letter to 'Mexico Sam' a desperado recently imprisoned on manslaughter charges. Things quickly turn dark as Judge Derwent races to save his daughter's life. This thrilling short story explores human relationships, sacrifice, and revenge, with a fast-paced plot bound to intrigue fans of James Patterson.William Sidney Porter (1862-1919), known simply as O. Henry, was a prolific American author of humorous literary pieces. His fame came exceptionally quickly and he became a bestselling author of short story collections. The most notable of which being "Cabbages and Kings", "The Voice of the City", and "Strictly Business." In fact, his legacy was so great that the ‘O. Henry Award’ was established to celebrate the best short stories. His vivid storytelling is perfect for fans of Roald Dahl.

General Falcon casts his ship's anchor at Pier No. 55, close to the Spanish-Amerian colony in Columbia. He disembarks and heads towards a shady hotel with the intention of engaging in an elusive rendezvous. Mysterious meetings, hidden messages, and revolutionary ideas follow -alongside an impossible to predict plot twist. O Henry puts his idea of morality on full display in this compelling story, perfect for fans of Oscar Wilde's flamboyancy. William Sidney Porter (1862-1919), known simply as O. Henry, was a prolific American author of humorous literary pieces. His fame came exceptionally quickly and he became a bestselling author of short story collections. The most notable of which being "Cabbages and Kings", "The Voice of the City", and "Strictly Business." In fact, his legacy was so great that the ‘O. Henry Award’ was established to celebrate the best short stories. His vivid storytelling is perfect for fans of Roald Dahl.

Dr. James is respectable, dependable, and kind. Mr. Chandler is vulgar, violent, and rude. A chance encounter between the two sets a series of events in motion that are bound to change their lives forever. This short story explores the dark recesses and duality of the human condition with chilling precision. Perfect for those who enjoyed Gabriel Krauze's 'Who They Was'.William Sidney Porter (1862-1919), known simply as O. Henry, was a prolific American author of humorous literary pieces. His fame came exceptionally quickly and he became a bestselling author of short story collections. The most notable of which being "Cabbages and Kings", "The Voice of the City", and "Strictly Business." In fact, his legacy was so great that the ‘O. Henry Award’ was established to celebrate the best short stories. His vivid storytelling is perfect for fans of Roald Dahl.

Fuzzy the homeless drunkard is infamous. What most people aren't aware of though, is his kind heart. When he finds a tattered rag doll lying in the snow, he realises that it belongs to a spoiled child living in a nearby mansion, and promptly goes to return it. He is unaware of the reward that awaits him, and he is even less aware of the three street gangsters watching his every move, desperate to claim the reward for themselves. A morality tale with a twist, 'Compliments of the Season' is O. Henry's exploration of just how small the world is, and how people from completely different walks of life can find themselves entangled. William Sidney Porter (1862-1919), known simply as O. Henry, was a prolific American author of humorous literary pieces. His fame came exceptionally quickly and he became a bestselling author of short story collections. The most notable of which being "Cabbages and Kings", "The Voice of the City", and "Strictly Business." In fact, his legacy was so great that the ‘O. Henry Award’ was established to celebrate the best short stories. His vivid storytelling is perfect for fans of Roald Dahl.

Receiving large sums of money is never without its challenges and Dan's situation is no exception. When he inherits an impossible amount of money from his father, he is over the moon, but it soon transpires that the cash is blood money, born from ill intentions. He becomes desperate to right his father's past wrongs, in order to make peace with his own present and inspire hope for the future. Luckily for Dan, when he falls in love the solutions to his problems start to become clear. In this raw tale of humanity, O Henry reminds us that no misdeed goes unpunished.William Sidney Porter (1862-1919), known simply as O. Henry, was a prolific American author of humorous literary pieces. His fame came exceptionally quickly and he became a bestselling author of short story collections. The most notable of which being "Cabbages and Kings", "The Voice of the City", and "Strictly Business." In fact, his legacy was so great that the ‘O. Henry Award’ was established to celebrate the best short stories. His vivid storytelling is perfect for fans of Roald Dahl.

A man moves from Nevada to New York, tired of his old life and hungry for change. He immediately meets a man completely enamored by Nevada's charm. They enter into a heated debate over the merits and downfalls of their respective cities. This humorous short story reflects O Henry's own enchantment with New York City and reminds us that although people talk a lot, rarely do they listen.William Sidney Porter (1862-1919), known simply as O. Henry, was a prolific American author of humorous literary pieces. His fame came exceptionally quickly and he became a bestselling author of short story collections. The most notable of which being "Cabbages and Kings", "The Voice of the City", and "Strictly Business." In fact, his legacy was so great that the ‘O. Henry Award’ was established to celebrate the best short stories. His vivid storytelling is perfect for fans of Roald Dahl.

Johnny Bellchambers is one of the wealthiest men in New York. His outlandish style is famous across all of America. But one day he disappears without a trace. A kidnapping? Alien abduction? Spontaneous combustion? 'The Robe of Peace' follows Johnny's friends as they race against time to not only find him but potentially save his life. This transformative story reminds us that not everything is as it seems, and even those of us who have everything are secretly longing for something unattainable.William Sidney Porter (1862-1919), known simply as O. Henry, was a prolific American author of humorous literary pieces. His fame came exceptionally quickly and he became a bestselling author of short story collections. The most notable of which being "Cabbages and Kings", "The Voice of the City", and "Strictly Business." In fact, his legacy was so great that the ‘O. Henry Award’ was established to celebrate the best short stories. His vivid storytelling is perfect for fans of Roald Dahl.

Foster is bored of New York City. It seems impossible, but it's true. He has been forced to turn to his own imaginary world to escape the monotony. Until he meets Ives. Eccentric, entertaining, interesting Ives. Foster has met his match, or so it seems. In this short story, O. Henry dives headfirst into the idea of hedonism - perfect for fans of Oscar Wilde.William Sidney Porter (1862-1919), known simply as O. Henry, was a prolific American author of humorous literary pieces. His fame came exceptionally quickly and he became a bestselling author of short story collections. The most notable of which being "Cabbages and Kings", "The Voice of the City", and "Strictly Business." In fact, his legacy was so great that the ‘O. Henry Award’ was established to celebrate the best short stories. His vivid storytelling is perfect for fans of Roald Dahl.

Dennis Corrigan is a slavedriver. He exploits his workers, pays them inhumanly low wages, and essentially makes their lives hell. Like many of his workers, Martin suffers from an addiction to smoking. Fueled by his miserable circumstances, his addiction becomes murderous. This transformative short story explores the limits of humanity and addiction. Not without surprises, this captivating tale is unmissable for fans of Oscar Wilde. William Sidney Porter (1862-1919), known simply as O. Henry, was a prolific American author of humorous literary pieces. His fame came exceptionally quickly and he became a bestselling author of short story collections. The most notable of which being "Cabbages and Kings", "The Voice of the City", and "Strictly Business." In fact, his legacy was so great that the ‘O. Henry Award’ was established to celebrate the best short stories. His vivid storytelling is perfect for fans of Roald Dhal.

First published in 1910, ‘The Two Women’ is a collection of two short stories from revered American author William Sidney Porter, better known by his pseudonym ‘O. Henry’. The two stories include ‘Fog in Santone’ and ‘A Medley of Moods’. Set in San Antonio, ‘Fog in Santone’ explores how the city has become a haven for tuberculosis patients and follows the experiences of a prostitute as one of the central characters. The second story draws on some of O. Henry’s own life experiences and follows the tale of a man in New Orleans accused of embezzlement. With his usual warm style, and focus on the outcasts and underdogs of society, this is an intriguing pair of classic O. Henry tales. William Sidney Porter (1862-1910) was an American writer best-known for his short stories. Born in North Carolina, Porter moved to Texas in his early twenties where he began his literary career contributing to newspapers and magazines such as ‘The Houston Post’. During this period he also began work at a bank where he was accused of embezzlement, lost his job and was arrested a year later. Growing fearful of his upcoming trial, Porter escaped to New Orleans and then Honduras while on bail, where he hid for several months. It was here that he was inspired to write one of his famous short story collections ‘Cabbages and Kings’. In 1897 Porter returned to the US and was sentenced to five years in prison. He continued to write and had several stories published from prison under various pseudonyms, the most famous of which was ‘O. Henry’ – a name by which he is better known. Upon release Porter moved to New York where his most intense period of writing began, authoring hundreds of short stories mostly for the New York World Sunday Magazine. His witty narration and plot twists made his stories a huge hit with readers, a legacy which endures to this day. Some of his most popular short stories include, ‘The Gift of the Magi’, ‘The Cop and the Anthem’ and ‘The Caballero’s Way’. 1952 film ‘O. Henry’s Full House’ featured five of his short stories and starred Marilyn Monroe and Charles Laughton. Annual American literary prize ‘The O. Henry Award’ was established in his honour in 1919.

'Options' is a collection of 16 short stories from much-loved 20th century American author William Sidney Porter, better known as 'O. Henry'. Stories from the collection include brave and ambitious 'The Moment of Victory', a strange encounter with a homeless man in 'The Higher Pragmatism', and a North versus South clash in 'The Rose of Dixie'. O. Henry's realistic portrayal of the human condition, his focus on the strange and unexpected, and his witty plot twists make him a favourite with established O. Henry readers and those new to his work. Fans of authors such as Mark Twain, Guy de Maupassant and Kate Chopin will appreciate O. Henry's style.-

Published posthumously, William Sidney Porter's 'Sixes and Sevens' is a collection of 25 short stories from the popular author. Some of the most famous works included are 'Ulysses and the Dogman', where a dog walker meets an old acquaintance; 'The Church with an Overshot-Wheel' about a bereaved miller who turns his mill into a church, and classic detective story 'The Sleuths'. With a focus on the harshness but also the humour of everyday life, and tales stretching from New York to the Wild West, this is a remarkable collection of some of O. Henry's timeless tales.-

Published posthumously in 1920, ‘O. Henryanya’ is a collection of short stories and poetry from much-loved American author William Sidney Porter, better known as ‘O. Henry’. This collection features the poem ‘The Crucible’, as well as short stories including, ‘Bulgar’s Friend’, ‘A Professional Secret’ and ‘The Elusive Tenderloin’. Full of charismatic characters and surprises typical of Porter’s literary style, this collection of his work will delight established O. Henry fans as well as those new to his writing. William Sidney Porter (1862-1910) was an American writer best-known for his short stories. Born in North Carolina, Porter moved to Texas in his early twenties where he began his literary career contributing to newspapers and magazines such as ‘The Houston Post’. During this period he also began work at a bank where he was accused of embezzlement, lost his job and was arrested a year later. Growing fearful of his upcoming trial, Porter escaped to New Orleans and then Honduras while on bail, where he hid for several months. It was here that he was inspired to write one of his famous short story collections ‘Cabbages and Kings’. In 1897 Porter returned to the US and was sentenced to five years in prison. He continued to write and had several stories published from prison under various pseudonyms, the most famous of which was ‘O. Henry’ – a name by which he is better known. Upon release Porter moved to New York where his most intense period of writing began, authoring hundreds of short stories mostly for the New York World Sunday Magazine. His witty narration and plot twists made his stories a huge hit with readers, a legacy which endures to this day. Some of his most popular short stories include, ‘The Gift of the Magi’, ‘The Cop and the Anthem’ and ‘The Caballero’s Way’. 1952 film ‘O. Henry’s Full House’ featured five of his short stories and starred Marilyn Monroe and Charles Laughton. Annual American literary prize ‘The O. Henry Award’ was established in his honour in 1919.

'Cabbages and Kings' is one of renowned author William Sidney Porter's most famous collections of short stories. Better known by his literary pseudonym 'O. Henry', the collection was inspired by the time he spent hiding out from the US authorities in Honduras. The narrative focuses on the fictional Republic of Anchuria and is a collective tale of corruption and political intrigue. 'Cabbages and Kings' is also the source of the now famous and much-used term 'banana republic'. The title is in reference to the poem 'The Walrus and the Carpenter' from 'Through the Looking Glass' by well-known children's author Lewis Carroll. One of O. Henry's earliest short story collections, 'Cabbages and Kings' offers a fascinating introduction to this much-loved 20th century author. -

A short story collection from much loved American author William Sidney Porter, better known as ‘O. Henry’, ‘The Gentle Grafter’ is a wonderful array of some of his classic short stories. Tales in the collection include, ‘The Octopus Marooned’, ‘A Midsummer Masquerade’ and ‘Innocents of Broadway’. As always, O. Henry’s focus on the outcasts of society, his warm characterisation, and humorous twists and turns make this a fascinating selection of the popular authors’ works - a joy for both established fans as well as those discovering his stories for the very first time. William Sidney Porter (1862-1910) was an American writer best-known for his short stories. Born in North Carolina, Porter moved to Texas in his early twenties where he began his literary career contributing to newspapers and magazines such as ‘The Houston Post’. During this period he also began work at a bank where he was accused of embezzlement, lost his job and was arrested a year later. Growing fearful of his upcoming trial, Porter escaped to New Orleans and then Honduras while on bail, where he hid for several months. It was here that he was inspired to write one of his famous short story collections ‘Cabbages and Kings’. In 1897 Porter returned to the US and was sentenced to five years in prison. He continued to write and had several stories published from prison under various pseudonyms, the most famous of which was ‘O. Henry’ – a name by which he is better known. Upon release Porter moved to New York where his most intense period of writing began, authoring hundreds of short stories mostly for the New York World Sunday Magazine. His witty narration and plot twists made his stories a huge hit with readers, a legacy which endures to this day. Some of his most popular short stories include, ‘The Gift of the Magi’, ‘The Cop and the Anthem’ and ‘The Caballero’s Way’. 1952 film ‘O. Henry’s Full House’ featured five of his short stories and starred Marilyn Monroe and Charles Laughton. Annual American literary prize ‘The O. Henry Award’ was established in his honour in 1919.

"Tobin’s Palm" is a story about a young man named Tobin whose love Katie has disappeared. He did everything he could to find her, but she was nowhere to be seen. Heartbroken, Tobin falls into despair. His friend Jawn shows up and force Tobin to head out into to get some fresh air. But what they stumble upon there is not what Jawn or Tobin had expected."The Ransom of Red Chief" is a short story with a twist ending about two criminals, named Bill and Sam. They decide to kidnap an important and rich figure’s child, hoping he'll pay the large ransom to get his boy back. What they had taking into consideration in their plan making, was how irritating the boy turns out to be. They find themselves in an uncomfortable situation but the question is how will they get themselves out of it?B. J. Harrison started his Classic Tales Podcast back in 2007, wanting to breathe new life into classic stories. He masterfully plays with a wide array of voices and accents and has since then produced over 500 audiobooks. Now in collaboration with SAGA Egmont, his engaging narration of these famous classics is available to readers everywhere.William Sidney Porter (1862-1919), known simply as O. Henry, was a prolific American author of humorous literary pieces. His fame came exceptionally quickly and he became a bestselling short story author. Among his most famous stories are the "Cabbages and Kings", "The Voice of the City", and "Strictly Business." As a result of the outstanding literature legacy O. Henry left behind, there is an annual American award named after him, which is granted to exceptional short stories.