Collected in this edition are forty stories by Guy de Maupassant, the 19th century French author considered by many as one of the masters of the modern short story. Maupassant was a prolific author during his short life, writing six novels, 300 short stories, and three travel books before dying at age 42. Maupassant was influenced by the style of Gustave Flaubert and his stories are noted for their efficient prose and his seemingly effortless ability to reach satisfying conclusions. Many of his tales are set during the Franco-Prussian conflict and are an unflinching portrayal of war’s brutality and senselessness. Maupassant’s works have been hugely influential to authors, playwrights, and film makers in the decades since their first publication and are frequently adapted for stage and screen. Collected here are such classics as “Ball of Tallow”, often considered one of the best short stories ever written, the cruelly ironic “The Diamond Necklace”, the shockingly brutal “Mademoiselle Fifi”, and many more unforgettable and evocative tales. This edition includes a biographical afterword.