“A Retrieved
Reformation” may be the fourth most widely read O. Henry story in grammar,
middle, and high school. “The Ransom of Red Chief” rates number one, “The Gift
of the Magi” number two, and “The Cop and the Anthem” number three. Young
readers enjoy this story a lot, because of the safe-cracking plot. Adults tend
to like the growing up part: starting a shoe store, succeeding, getting the
girl, and going straight.
O. Henry stories
are not read or heard widely after one leaves high school, which is a shame,
because they are such magical stories about expectations being crushed by
realities, and the turn of events, which O. Henry was so masterful at
achieving. However (and O. Henry is full of howevers), adults tend to love the
stories once reintroduced to them. The humor is spectacular and quite light
hearted. A final thought for the listener: Is there anyone similar to O. Henry
in style? We can’t think of anyone, and that is another reason to listen to
these stories. As with all Simply short stories, you should enjoy the ideas put
forth in the introduction and afterword—things to think about or write about if
a student. A brief biography appears in each of our O. Henry audiobooks.
Download and start listening now!