This blog post is all about the best short books to read this year.
There’s nothing quite like getting lost in a good book, whether it’s during a quiet morning with a cup of coffee or winding down after a long day of travelling.
Long books, short books, mid-size books – the lot!
But as someone who loves goals (maybe a little too much), I’ve always set myself a reading target each year.
Some years, it’s been ambitious. Like aiming for 100 books in 12 months back in 2022.
While other years, I’ve kept it more manageable, like reading one book per week.
No matter the goal, there’s always that moment when I realise I’m running out of time, and suddenly, hitting that target feels a bit out of reach.
That’s when I turn to these best short books. It’s not cheating; it’s just being smart!
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- 17 Of The Best Books To Read During Fall Months
- Best 100 Books of the 21st Century: How Many Have You Read?
- The 41 Best Cozy Fall Books to Get Wrapped Up in This Year
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This blog post is all about the best short books for your goals.
15 Best Short Books to Help Meet Your Reading Goal
These best short books can be just as powerful, moving, and memorable as longer ones, and they’re perfect for giving you that extra push to reach your reading goal.
So, if you’re in the same boat and looking to boost your reading count, here’s a list of the 15 best short books that will help you reach your goal without compromising on quality.
1. The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald
A classic tale of love, ambition, and the American Dream set in the Roaring Twenties. Follow the mysterious Jay Gatsby as he tries to win back the love of his life amidst the glitz and glamour of New York.
Related Best Short Books blog post to read: 15 New York Books for Those Who Love New York
2. The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho
A magical story about following your dreams, this book follows Santiago, a shepherd boy, as he embarks on a journey across the desert in search of treasure, learning valuable life lessons along the way.
3. Animal Farm by George Orwell
A satirical novella that uses farm animals to explore themes of power, corruption, and politics. It’s a thought-provoking read that packs a punch despite its short length.
4. We Have Always Lived in the Castle by Shirley Jackson
A haunting and unsettling tale of two sisters living in isolation after a family tragedy. With its eerie atmosphere and gripping storytelling, this one is hard to put down.
5. The Metamorphosis by Franz Kafka
This surreal novella tells the story of Gregor Samsa, who wakes up one morning transformed into a giant insect. It’s a strange but fascinating read that explores themes of alienation and identity.
6. Of Mice and Men by John Steinbeck
Set during the Great Depression, this novella follows two displaced ranch workers with dreams of a better life. It’s a heartbreaking story of friendship, dreams, and the harsh realities of life.
7. The Old Man and the Sea by Ernest Hemingway
An epic tale of struggle and perseverance, this book tells the story of an aging fisherman’s battle with a giant marlin. Hemingway’s simple, powerful prose makes this a must-read.
8. The Stranger by Albert Camus
A philosophical novel about an indifferent man who finds himself drawn into a senseless crime. It’s a fascinating exploration of existentialism and absurdity.
9. The Perks of Being A Wallflower by Stephen Chbosky
Written in the form of letters, this coming-of-age novel follows Charlie as he navigates the ups and downs of high school, friendships, and finding himself. A touching and relatable read.
Related Best Short Books blog post to read: Best 100 Books of the 21st Century: How Many Have You Read?
10. Man’s Search for Meaning by Viktor E. Frankl
A powerful memoir by a Holocaust survivor that explores finding purpose in life, even in the darkest of times. It’s part autobiography, part self-help, and offers valuable insights into resilience and the human spirit.
11. The Four Agreements by Don Miguel Ruiz
A short but impactful book that outlines four simple principles to create a life of freedom and happiness. It’s a quick read but one that can change your perspective on life.
Related Best Short Books blog post to read: My 12 Favourite Self-Help Books
12. Siddhartha by Hermann Hesse
The story of a man’s spiritual journey to find enlightenment, this novella is a beautiful exploration of life, self-discovery, and the quest for meaning.
13. Breakfast at Tiffany’s by Truman Capote
This novella introduces readers to the unforgettable Holly Golightly, a young woman living in New York City. It’s a charming, bittersweet story about love, identity, and the search for belonging.
Related Best Short Books blog post to read: 10 Binge-Worthy Books to Read Before They Hit the Big Screen
14. The Giver by Lois Lowry
In a dystopian world where emotions and memories are suppressed, young Jonas discovers the truth about his society. It’s a thought-provoking read that raises questions about individuality and freedom.
15. The House on Mango Street by Sandra Cisneros
Told in a series of vignettes, this book follows a young Latina girl growing up in Chicago. It’s a beautifully written exploration of identity, culture, and finding one’s voice.
Related Best Short Books blog post to read: 17 South America Books For Those Who Love South America
The Best Short Books to Read Before 2026
As the year comes to a close, there’s something so satisfying about ticking off those final books on your reading list.
Whether you’ve been powering through long novels all year or just getting back into the habit, these best short books are the perfect way to reignite your love for reading and hit your 2025 goal with ease.
From thought-provoking classics to modern page-turners, the best short books on this list prove that a story doesn’t need hundreds of pages to leave a lasting impact.
So, make yourself a cozy drink, curl up in your favourite reading spot, and dive into one (or a few!) of these quick but powerful books before the year ends.
RELATED Best Short Books blog posts to read:
- 17 Of The Best Books To Read During Fall Months
- Best 100 Books of the 21st Century: How Many Have You Read?
- The 41 Best Cozy Fall Books to Get Wrapped Up in This Year
- Best Taylor Jenkins Reid Books: Her 9 Books in Order
- 9 Incredible Book YouTubers You Need to Watch on YouTube
By Orlagh Shanks
Orlagh Shanks is the Editor of Orlagh Claire, an award-winning travel and lifestyle blog.
After working in the PR & Influencer Marketing industry, Orlagh quit her job to travel Asia for 12 months and moved to Sydney, Australia where she is now a full-time travel blogger and content creator sharing travel tips and recommendations for all 30 of the countries she’s visited so far.
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