Today’s short edition of BookTok is much like what we are covering today: we are recommending short books that can be finished in one sitting! Are you busy but still want to scratch that reading itch? Or are you traveling for the holidays and need a good book that won’t take you too long? Here are three books that are under 300 pages long that will keep you engaged until the very end, so they will be easy to finish in one sitting!
The Bell Jar by Sylvia Plath
244 pages
This is one of my all time favorite books. A metaphor for Sylvia Plath’s depression, The Bell Jar covers the life of an aspiring writer who is currently on the verge of a mental breakdown. Throughout the novel, you can get quick signs that the future is looking rather dim for the protagonist. Every encounter and instance she has makes you question her credibility, but overall it is very interesting and pretty emotional. I would put a slight disclaimer here because it covers a lot of intense content. There are mentions of self harm as well, so please be safe and take breaks when needed while reading.
Speak by Laurie Halse Anderson
195 pages
This YA novel tells the story of a high school freshman, Melinda Sordino. After suffering sexual assault and busting the end-of-summer party, Melinda is cast away by her peers because she will not reveal why she called the police. Unable to put into words what she witnessed, Melinda stops talking altogether. Instead, she speaks through her art. This form of expression slowly helps Melinda come to terms with what happened, face her fears, and recreate who she is. This is a trauma novel, so I will additionally advise everyone to please read safely.
The Short Second Life of Bree Tanner by Stephenie Meyer
178 pages
This is a novella by the acclaimed writer of Twilight, Stephenie Meyer. It tells the story of a newborn vampire, Bree Tanner, who is featured in Eclipse. The book is written from Bree’s POV, as opposed to the rest of the series which is narrated by Bella. The newborn vampire had a short life. This story tells her experience as part of the Seattle newborn army.
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