It is ever so satisfying to finish a book, but often I find myself so busy that it’s hard to dedicate the time to whatever I’m reading. This leads to one of two things: 1) I neglect my other responsibilities and read instead (my usual choice — who needs clean dishes?), or 2) I get super distracted by daydreaming about what is happening in my book and pine for the time when I get to pick it up again. Either way, all I want to do is read to the gratifying conclusion of the story. If you’re like me, I’m sure you know the feeling. Well friends, I have discovered a cure for our ailment: read a shorter book! I’m not suggesting that you do this all the time, but it’s especially handy when your schedule is full, and you need the mental relief that only a great story can give. Here is a selection of some shorter books at your disposal for when life gets hectic.
“The House on Mango Street” by Sandra Cisneros
An incredibly short (110 pages) coming-of-age story of Esperanza Cordero. The story is told in vignettes and centers on her growing up as a Latina in Chicago. This is often considered a classic (or well on its way to being one), and with it being so short, what have you got to lose?
“A Wizard of Earthsea” by Ursula K. Le Guin
A short, but complete fantasy novel: a reckless boy unleashes a great evil into his world and grows up while attempting to get it back under control.
Bonus: this is the first in the Earthsea Cycle, so you can continue the story if you find yourself with extra time.
“Interpreter of Maladies” by Jhumpa Lahiri
This Pulitzer Prize-winning collection of short stories takes place in Boston and India. Lahiri takes seemingly simple stories and weaves them into beautiful tales of humanity.
Another Bonus: this already short book is a collection of short stories, so if you’re really pressed for time you can read it in even shorter chunks.
“Coraline” by Neil Gaiman
This one is technically a children’s book, but even adults can appreciate the subtly creepy story with truly frightening illustrations. Coraline discovers another flat through a locked door in her own family’s flat — everything is similar, but different, too. This short book represents masterful storytelling.
If this taste isn’t enough, hop on over to our catalog to check out the full list: Weekend Reads: Short Reads to Devour in a Weekend.
