"The Best American Nonrequired Reading" is an annual anthology that showcases a diverse collection of essays, articles, and stories. Curated by a guest editor and a group of high school students, it aims to highlight engaging and thought-provoking writing from various sources, including magazines, websites, and literary journals. The series began in 2002 and is part of the larger "Best American" series, which includes various genres. Each volume features a mix of established and emerging writers, making it a valuable resource for readers seeking contemporary voices and perspectives in non-fiction and creative writing.