What I would recommend
I really enjoyed reading “A Rose for Emily” because of the twisted ending that William Faulkner laid out for us. The first person narration allowed us readers to obtain the insights of how Emily’s neighbors viewed her as. Instead of feeling sympathy for her, we pitied her and her pathetic attempts to keep her loved ones near, literally.
Although “A Rose for Emily” makes the top three of my favorite short stories, I would have to say that my friends would most likely enjoy reading “21 steps”. Today’s world is so advanced that it’s not even funny. Written texts and books are all old school. My first reaction towards the short story was that it worked hand in hand with google earth. It automatically draws you into the reading itself. The movement of the character Rick from place to place keeps you active on the screen. It allows you to be aware of where the character is and where he is heading towards. It is in first person form; you follow each and every step that Rick takes along with the confusion that troubles him throughout the story. Since our view is limited to Rick’s own thoughts we too are always one step behind in the plot. What Rick goes through is also very random. One minute he is riding a taxi and then the next minute he is in Edinburgh with some people who he has never seen before.
In addition, the narrator is careful not to reveal too much about each character. For example, Rick constantly reminds himself of the record he have; what cops wouldn’t want to catch him? Very little details are given about other characters which make it hard to differentiate between minor characters and major characters. “21 Steps” keeps you guessing on what is going to happen next. It’s something that my friends would enjoy reading.