A collection of transformative stories that emphasize women`s roles in society. The works of Kate Chopin were nearly forgotten for much of the twentieth century, but her popularity made a resurgence in the 1970s when readers and scholars turned their attention to early women`s literature. The Awakening, her best-known novel, is set in the Gulf Coast region around New Orleans, and is critically acclaimed for its style and for being ahead of its time in discussing important women`s issues. Also included in this volume are several of Chopin`s short stories, including "Désirée`s Baby" and "The Story of an Hour."