As the year comes to an end, energy is also waning and time seems to be running out. But this is not the moment to stop the urge to read, as there are plenty of great books that come with few pages.
To help you choose what to read next, we bring you some short books that you can read in a blink of an eye, without interrupting the activities you are preparing for the holidays or the work you have to finish before the end of 2024.
The Cherry Orchard, Anton Chekhov
Theater play
Published: 1904
Pages: 50
Author’s nationality: Russian
One of the best known and most important works of playwright Anton Chekhov, The Cherry Orchard moves between nostalgia, social change, family dynamics and loss. The psychological complexity and character structuring have made it a key work in the history of theater, maintaining relevance today.
The play centers on the Ranevskaya family, owners of an estate with a gorgeous cherry orchard. The conflict begins when the family realizes the seriousness of their financial situation, which would lead to the auction of the property due to debts.
Who’d like this?
Readers who love theater and plays that have left their mark on the history of drama will be delighted with this read. If you are a fan of Russian literature, Chekhov will captivate you with his elaborate prose, immersive descriptions and subtle, evocative writing.
It is equally perfect for those interested in character psychology, inner conflicts and deeper motivations.
Quotes
- “And what does it mean — dying? Perhaps man has a hundred senses, and only the five we know are lost at death, while the other ninety-five remain alive.”
- “Going to see plays isn’t what you people should do. Try looking at yourselves a little more often and see what gray lives you all lead. How much of what you say is unnecessary.”
Readers say
- “Anton Chekhov has always been a bright star in Russian literature. His short stories have always fascinated me,” says a Goodreads user.
- “Chekhov is known in his writing as not judging, not preaching about ideas or his characters. He’s a humanist, not an ideologue,” says a Goodreads user.
The curious case of Benjamin Button, Francis Scott Fitzgerald
Short story
Published: 1922
Pages: 56
Author’s nationality: USA
Life walks in reverse for Benjamin Button, a boy who is born with a strange disorder that makes him look old in his early years and then rejuvenates as the years go by.
The short story reflects on mortality, the transience of life and the acceptance of the different, with a situation that poses challenges for both him and the people around him. The unconventional idea contributed to leave a lasting mark on literature.
Who’d like this?
For readers who watched the 2008 movie (directed by David Fincher and starring Brad Pitt and Cate Blanchett) and want to delve into one of Fitzgerald’s most remarkable stories.
It is an excellent read for those who enjoy unique and highly imaginative stories as well.
Quotes
- “Your life is defined by opportunities…even the ones you miss”
- “It’s never too late or, in my case, too early to be whoever you want to be. There’s no time limit, stop whenever you want. You can change or stay the same, there are no rules to this thing. We can make the best or the worst of it… I hope you live a life you’re proud of. If you find that you’re not, I hope you have the strength to start all over again.”
Readers say
- “Just like eating a delicious appetizer. I’d like to make a meal of it. I recommend this 30-minute read,” says an Amazon user.
- “I liked the story, first I couldn’t help but compare the story with movie and feel that the story was lacking everything the movie had, but soon I was sucked into the story and I’m glad it was different since it’s more fun reading something that not exactly like the movie,” says an Amazon user.
The Metamorphosis, Franz Kafka
Short story
Published: 1915
Pages: 81
Author’s nationality: Czech
The Metamorphosis is one of the most influential novels around the world. The psychological depth and exploration of universal themes has awakened diverse reflections and interpretations about its meaning.
This gem of world literature and existentialism follows Gregor Samsa, a salesman who one day wakes up transformed into a giant insect. The story explores how this transformation impacts Gregor and his family, addressing themes such as alienation, responsibility, family duty, transformation, loneliness, isolation and family dynamics.
Who’d like this?
The minimalist, symbolic style appeals to those who enjoy the use of metaphor to convey deeper meanings. It is also essential reading for enthusiasts of philosophy, exploration of human psychology and experimental storytelling that challenges traditional conventions.
Quotes
- “I cannot make you understand. I cannot make anyone understand what is happening inside me. I cannot even explain it to myself.”
- “What am I doing here in this endless winter?”
Readers say
- “This book is an abrupt short story that is engaging from start to finish. The story is surreal yet the main character Gregor is completely relatable,” says an Amazon user.
- “I love the absurdism and the economy of language that he employs within it,” says an Amazon user.