Great books you can (and should) read in a day
If you’re not a great reader (‘great’ in terms of volume, not skill), or have fallen out of touch with books over the years, it can sometimes feel daunting when considering picking up a paperback. But reading has so many benefits for your mind, (link to ‘why you should read’ article here), and is one of the greatest nourishments you can provide for your soul. So if you’re averse to trying to read a brick masquerading as a book, why not try these short, but completely wonderful novels you can easily finish in a single day.
We Have Always Lived in the Castle – Shirley Jackson
This gothic curiosity tells the tale of two sisters – the last surviving members of the Blackwood family. Murder and intrigue are the game in this un-put-downable book that will have you talking for days.
The Little Prince – Antoine de Saint-Exupery
This beloved classic has a special place in the hearts of many. A WWII pilot crashes in the desert, where he meets a prince from another planet. The two work together to escape the desert, and the prince tells the pilot about his quest to return home to his love. People tend to consider this a children’s book, but the story is timeless, touching, and beautiful.
Fahrenheit 451 – Ray Bradbury
Chilling in its accuracy, this 1953 novel paints a picture of a world without books. In this world, people spend their lives looking at screens, listening to music through small buds in their ears, and the fire department is called upon whenever a book is found – they destroy it with fire.
The Lover’s Dictionary – David Levithan
Having traditionally written for young adults, this was Levithan’s first adult novel, and it’s masterful. It is a modern love story told entirely through concise, funny, painful dictionary entries, painting a picture in a way you’ve likely never experienced before.
Tuck Everlasting – Natalie Babbitt
If you grew up in the USA, you may have read this modern classic in school. If you didn’t, it’s time to pick it up. The story follows a young girl who meets in the woods a family who accidentally drank from a spring of immortality many years ago.
1984 – George Orwell
No doubt you’ve heard of this book before, but you may not have known how manageable a read it is. If you’ve never cracked the spine of Orwell’s classic, now’s the time to give it a go.
The Reluctant Fundamentalist – Mohsin Hamid
Here’s one to challenge your ideas about race and religion within modern society. This powerful book follows the life of a highly-educated man with Pakistani heritage as his life comes apart in the wake of the attacks of September 11th, 2001.
The Great Gatsby – F. Scott Fitzgerald
Who knew that so many influential classics were this compact? Along with Nick Carraway, you’ll meet Jay Gatsby, who lives a life rich in just about everything – except, perhaps love. This lavish novel, set against a roaring 20s backdrop is intoxicating.
Which of these compact novels have you read so far? Tell us your favourite in the comments below.