The "Best American Essays" series is an annual anthology that showcases a selection of the finest essays published in the previous year. Each volume is edited by a prominent writer, who curates a diverse range of topics and styles, highlighting both established and emerging voices in the literary world. The series is part of the larger "Best American" collection, which includes various genres such as fiction, poetry, and sports writing. It aims to celebrate the art of essay writing and provide readers with thought-provoking insights into contemporary issues and personal experiences.