Is it getting harder to focus on reading due to the demands of daily life? You’re not alone. The constant stream of information, combined with the shortening days of winter, can make it challenging to sit down with a book. If you only have a few minutes to spare, War and Peace might not be the best choice. However, that doesn’t mean you should sacrifice your love for reading. Here are 20 short books that have been carefully selected for their ability to capture and hold attention.
Each book is under 200 pages long, making them perfect for busy readers. The descriptions below are concise and under 100 words each. Within each genre category, the books are arranged from shortest to longest. The list includes a mix of fiction, nonfiction, science fiction, essays, and illustrated humor. No matter what you’re in the mood to read, I hope you find a book that provides solace and escape.
Short Novels for Short Attention Spans
Fair Play by Tove Jansson, Translated from the Finnish by Thomas Teal
Mari and Jonna’s harmonious coexistence in their shared apartment serves as a poignant metaphor for their decades-long partnership. This slim novel, comprised of interconnected short stories, masterfully captures the intricate dance between these two artists, who have learned to balance their individual needs for private space with the joys of shared living.
As they navigate the ebbs and flows of life together, the book poignantly reveals the full spectrum of moments – from minor squabbles to quiet gestures of affection – that shape the fabric of their devoted relationship.
La Bastarda by Trifonia Melibea Obono, Translated from the Spanish by Lawrence Schimel
In the heart of Central Africa, a teenage girl finds solace in a tight-knit community of queer girls who once rallied around her gay uncle. As she navigates this newfound support system, she begins to explore and embrace her own sexuality as a means of pushing back against her overbearing grandmother and the rigid Fang culture that surrounds them.
This powerful novella, brought to life by the esteemed Feminist Press, marks a significant milestone – it is the first book written by a woman from Equatorial Guinea to be translated into English, offering readers a rare glimpse into the experiences and perspectives of this often-overlooked region.
Convenience Store Woman by Sayaka Murata, Translated from the Japanese by Ginny Tapley Takemori
For nearly two decades, Keiko Furukura has found solace in the routine of working at a convenience store. At 18, she started her tenure behind the counter, and by 36, it had become an integral part of her daily life. As she effortlessly serves customers and maintains spotless shelves, one might assume that this is where Keiko’s heart truly lies.
However, whispers of discontent from loved ones and societal expectations to conform to a more traditional path propel her into uncharted territory, sending her on a perilous journey outside the confines of her comfort zone.
Dept. of Speculation by Jenny Offill
In a stunning 179-page work, Dept. of Speculation presents a poignant portrayal of marriage through a unique collage of moments, thoughts, and introspective visits to the inner workings of hurt emotions. The enigmatic narrator, known only as ‘the wife’, is a witty writer who sacrificed her artistic ambitions for the responsibilities of motherhood and marriage.
With an uncanny ability to capture life’s triumphs and tribulations, she weaves a narrative that effortlessly draws readers in, much like Jenny Offill’s distinctive prose, which has a way of holding you captivated until you’re forced to pause for air.
Dear Committee Members by Julie Schumacher
In ‘181 pages’, Jason Fitger’s literary endeavors take an unexpected turn. The novel, penned entirely in letters of recommendation, chronicles the struggles of an overworked English professor working in an underfunded department where his writing career has lost its luster. His once-promising aspirations now manifest in the absurd and sarcastic letters he writes for colleagues and students, weaving a tale of existential desperation.
The epistolary format lends itself to brief yet engaging reading sessions, allowing readers to dip in and out of the narrative at will or devour the entire novel in one sitting.
Red at the Bone by Jacqueline Woodson
In a tender coming-of-age ceremony in Brooklyn, we meet 16-year-old Melody as she marks a milestone moment in her life. But instead of staying firmly rooted in the present, the story takes us on a journey through time to explore the formative years of her parents and grandparents. We witness the pivotal decisions they made during their teenage years that went on to shape their adult lives.
Jacqueline Woodson has crafted a masterful intergenerational family saga that defies expectations by packing a big emotional punch into its slim 196-page frame.
Short Speculative Fiction Books for Short Attention Spans
The Little Prince by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry, Translated from the French by Richard Howard
In a remarkable encounter, a pilot lost in the desert finds himself tasked by a young prince to draw a sheep. This peculiar request serves as an introduction to the timeless tale of The Little Prince. For those unfamiliar with this charming story, now is the perfect opportunity to indulge. With fewer than 100 pages and rich illustrations, it’s no wonder why this small yet powerful book has captured hearts worldwide.
Moreover, for anyone who dismisses this classic as ‘just for children,’ I’d argue that they may be doing themselves a disservice by overlooking its poignant exploration of love, friendship, and the pursuit of meaning.
Mrs. Caliban by Rachel Ingalls
In a world where the mundane and the extraordinary collide, a woman stuck in a dull marriage finds solace in an unlikely affair with an amphibious man who has escaped from a nearby research facility. This novella, often overshadowed by its modern counterpart, Guillermo del Toro’s cinematic masterpiece, The Shape of Water, has actually been around for 35 years.
And while it may take you just as long to read it as it would to watch the film, this tale has one major advantage – its sea-dwelling protagonist can actually converse, lending a fresh spin to Mary Shelley’s timeless classic, Frankenstein, with a twist of romantic fortune.
Landscape with Invisible Hand by M.T. Anderson
As Vuvvs settle on Earth, they bring with them a medley of innovations, including advanced medical practices and an unbridled enthusiasm for vintage human culture. Amidst this extraterrestrial presence, Adam, a budding artist, and his girlfriend Chloe capitalize on the peculiar fascination of their alien captors by reenacting nostalgic 1950s-style human dates.
As they continue to perform for their audience, however, their initial camaraderie gradually gives way to disdain, prompting them to maintain the illusion of harmony in order to survive. The Vuvvs’ technology has rendered most earthly occupations obsolete, yet the planet’s unforgiving capitalist system remains intact. This thought-provoking science fiction novella offers a wry commentary on privilege, class, economics, and the uncertain future of work.
The Deep by Rivers Solomon, Daveed Diggs, William Hutson, and Jonathan Snipes
Short Nonfiction Books for Short Attention Spans
Here Is New York by E.B. White
E. B. White’s iconic book, Here Is New York, is a timeless tribute to the city that never sleeps. First published in 1948, this poignant reflection on Manhattan’s allure continues to captivate its inhabitants, commuters, and settlers alike. In his own words, ‘The island of Manhattan is, without any doubt, the greatest human concentration on earth’ – a phenomenon whose magic can be grasped by millions, yet forever remain an enigma.
As one who has experienced it firsthand, I find this book to be the perfect companion for a subway ride from Midtown to central Brooklyn, or indeed, anywhere in the city that never fails to leave you enchanted.
For Every One by Jason Reynolds
This 102-page masterpiece can be likened to a poetic letter or motivational speech. However you choose to categorize For Every One, its true essence lies in being a powerful catalyst for individuals poised on the brink of embracing new opportunities. The book’s visually stunning design features sparse yet impactful text, prompting readers to devour each page with an insatiable hunger as Reynolds’ words ignite a sense of inner passion.
With characteristic candour, he notes that our aspirations can seem either perpetually out of reach or tantalizingly close by; regardless, his message stresses the importance of having ‘courage in trying’, regardless of whether we achieve our goals or not.
A Week at the Airport: A Heathrow Diary by Alain de Botton
Alain de Botton’s seven-day residency at London’s Heathrow Airport in 2009 allowed him to indulge in people watching, a passion shared by many. His subsequent book offers thought-provoking musings on the nature of travel and the significance of transitional spaces. De Botton seamlessly navigates chapters focused on departure, transit, and arrival, his insights informed by the countless interactions he witnessed during his stay.
The book’s engaging narrative is further enhanced by an accompanying photograph on almost every page, making it a quick and enjoyable read.
New Erotica for Feminists: Satirical Fantasies of Love, Lust, and Equal Pay by Caitlin Kunkel, Carrie Wittmer, Fiona Taylor, and Brooke Preston
To grasp the essence of feminist erotica, let’s consider a scenario: imagine being summoned to a private meeting where your career is on the line, but instead of a cutthroat promotion battle, you’re propelled forward with empowering recognition. This sparks wild ecstasy within you.
Similarly, this satirical collection of writings cleverly subverts familiar tropes in the genre, inviting readers to immerse themselves in imaginative worlds featuring scenarios like an equitable gender-balanced congress and Tinder dates that respect boundaries. The bite-sized nature of each piece makes it effortless to indulge in a little at a time, with most chapters consisting of only a few paragraphs.
100 Tricks to Appear Smart in Meetings: How to Get By Without Even Trying by Sarah Cooper
Sarah Cooper is a renowned figure in the world of comedy, best known for her impressive Donald Trump lip syncs and Netflix special Everything Is Fine. Prior to her rise to internet fame, she spent several years working at esteemed tech giants Yahoo! and Google, where she honed her ability to appear intelligent during meetings. Her latest book offers readers a treasure trove of 100 humorously illustrated tricks for navigating everyday situations.
Examples include #14’s ‘React as if you already knew that’ and #55’s ‘Before moving on, ask if it’s okay to move on.’ The publication also features valuable charts and graphs covering essential topics like facial expressions – a crucial skill in today’s Zoom-dominated era.
Short Memoirs for Short Attention Spans
The Clothing of Books by Jhumpa Lahiri
In a slim yet rich essay of just 74 pages, Jhumpa Lahiri delves into the intricate connection between the written words within a book’s pages and its outermost layer – the iconic book cover.
This thought-provoking exploration seamlessly weaves together historical context, cultural significance, and personal anecdotes from her own experiences as both a reader and writer, offering a compelling narrative for anyone who has ever stopped to ponder the story behind the jacket that adorns their favorite books.
Tiny Moons: A Year of Eating in Shanghai by Nina Mingya Powles
In a quest to reconnect with her Chinese-Malaysian roots, a young woman from Australia embarks on a year-long journey in Shanghai, immersing herself in the Mandarin language. The resulting 96-page collection is a poignant series of 11 short essays that explore themes of family, solitude, and belonging. Woven throughout are evocative descriptions of delectable dishes, including noodles, dumplings, and sesame pancakes, which transport readers to the bustling streets of Shanghai.
The Cost of Living: A Working Autobiography by Deborah Levy
As Deborah Levy embarked on a new chapter in her life at 50, following a divorce from her long-time husband, she found herself compelled to reexamine the role of women in modern society. Through her experiences and observations, Levy crafted a fresh perspective, drawing parallels between literary and real-life scenarios that highlighted instances of female erasure. Her approach was rooted in her understanding that ‘all writing is about looking, listening, and paying attention to the world.
‘ This memoir is comprised of 14 concise essays that can be devoured in one sitting or savored across a dozen brief moments stolen from the margins of daily life.
I’m Still Here: Black Dignity in a World Made for Whiteness by Austin Channing Brown
What I Talk About When I Talk About Running by Haruki Murakami, Translated from the Japanese by Philip Gabriel
Haruki Murakami’s concise memoir is an exploration of his running life, rather than a reflection on his writing process. However, he cleverly employs the sport as a springboard to examine the intricate connections between physical exertion and creative thinking. This memoir offers a refreshing respite from traditional writing-about-writing narratives.