Charles Baxter's 'Gryphon: New and Selected Stories' is a compelling collection that combines the best of his previous short story compilations with seven new tales. Each story delicately explores the intricacies of seemingly mundane Midwestern life, revealing profound truths and unexpected desires that lurk beneath the surface. From a substitute teacher who whimsically reads fortunes with Tarot cards, to individuals confronting the quiet conflicts of conventional existence, these narratives unfold with a mixture of compassion and subtle humor. 'Gryphon' expertly examines the tension between our beliefs and our needs, displaying Baxter's unique ability to illuminate the extraordinary within the ordinary.