Writing short stories is an art, very few authors can claim command over this art.Many try, but turn out to be cheap imitations.
I am listing five of the best short-stories writers, as per my limited reading as below :
1.O’Henry.
Short stories range in the 1800-1900 era, the language is also old English, however all stories have great plot and characters in the stories are great.
A very good writer of short stories.
2.W.Somersaut Maugham.
All modern day era short stories writers have taken a leaf from him.
Read all the volumes to enjoy maugham.
3.Jeffry Archer.
Master story teller.
Due to the simple language and fantastic twists, a great short story writer.
4.Roald Dahl.
One of the Best.Gripping style.
5.Arthur Conan Doyle.
A surprise entry, in this field, however there is not and will never be a better short stories writer of detective fiction.
I know this is the best 5 books category, however one cannot choose best 5 short stories.