One of America's foremost writers, novelist Paul Auster ("Timbuktu") and the host of National Public Radio's "All Things Considered, " collects the best stories submitted to NPR's National Story Project--and illuminates the powerful role of storytelling in all readers' lives. "Unforgettable testimonials of human resilience. Moving and amusing dispatches from across America."--"Us Weekly" (starred review).

The true-life stories in this unique collection provide a window into the American mind and heart (The Daily News). One hundred and eighty voices - male and female, young and old, from all walks of life and all over the country - talk intimately to the reader. Combining great humor and pathos this remarkable selection of stories from the thousands submitted to NPR's Weekend All Things Considered National Story Project gives the reader a glimpse of America's soul in all its diversity.