22 Short Books to Help You Reach Your Reading Goal Before 2024 Ends

As the year draws to a close, you may be looking to squeeze in a few more books before 2024 arrives. Whether you’re just a few pages away from hitting your reading goal or want to enjoy a satisfying book without the long commitment, there are plenty of short but impactful books that can fit perfectly into the final weeks of the year. From thought-provoking novels to fast-paced thrillers and heartfelt memoirs, here are 22 short books to help you reach your reading goal before the end of the year.

1. “The Alchemist” by Paulo Coelho (208 pages)

This international bestseller is a timeless allegorical novel about a shepherd named Santiago who embarks on a journey to find treasure. Rich with life lessons and spiritual wisdom, “The Alchemist” will leave you inspired and uplifted, all in just under 200 pages.

2. “Animal Farm” by George Orwell (112 pages)

A classic novella that blends political satire with a poignant story about farm animals who revolt against their human oppressors. Orwell’s powerful allegory is a quick read that tackles big themes like power, corruption, and inequality.

3. “The Great Gatsby” by F. Scott Fitzgerald (180 pages)

Set in the roaring ’20s, this iconic novel follows the mysterious Jay Gatsby and his obsession with the elusive Daisy Buchanan. Full of lush prose and tragic characters, “The Great Gatsby” is a perfect short classic to fit into your reading schedule.

4. “The Ocean at the End of the Lane” by Neil Gaiman (181 pages)

Neil Gaiman’s poetic, nostalgic, and slightly eerie novel takes readers on a journey through the memories of a man revisiting his childhood home. A story of friendship, fantasy, and the magic of memory, it’s a great pick if you’re in the mood for something whimsical yet thought-provoking.

5. “Breakfast at Tiffany’s” by Truman Capote (142 pages)

This novella is a snapshot of New York society through the eyes of the unnamed narrator who befriends the eccentric Holly Golightly. It’s a delightful yet poignant story of loneliness and longing, all packed into just over 100 pages.

6. “The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde” by Robert Louis Stevenson (144 pages)

A dark psychological novella that delves into the duality of human nature. Dr. Jekyll and his alter ego, Mr. Hyde, provide a thrilling mystery with themes of good versus evil in a compact format.

7. “The Metamorphosis” by Franz Kafka (108 pages)

A surreal and haunting novella about a man, Gregor Samsa, who wakes up one day transformed into a giant insect. Kafka’s exploration of alienation and identity is as relevant today as it was when it was first published, and it’s a quick, engrossing read.

8. “Eleanor Oliphant Is Completely Fine” by Gail Honeyman (390 pages)

While not the shortest on this list, this heartwarming novel about Eleanor Oliphant, a quirky woman with a solitary life, is a relatively quick read. Eleanor’s personal growth and transformation will stay with you long after you’ve finished.

9. “The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy” by Douglas Adams (224 pages)

A hilarious and absurd science fiction classic, this book follows Arthur Dent, who is whisked away on an intergalactic adventure after the Earth is destroyed. It’s funny, witty, and a perfect choice for anyone who loves quirky sci-fi.

10. “We Have Always Lived in the Castle” by Shirley Jackson (146 pages)

Shirley Jackson’s psychological thriller about two sisters living in isolation after a family tragedy is a gripping, atmospheric read. Jackson’s writing is eerie and compelling, with twists that will keep you hooked until the very end.

11. “The House on Mango Street” by Sandra Cisneros (110 pages)

This coming-of-age novel is a series of vignettes that follow a young girl named Esperanza as she navigates life in a Latino neighborhood in Chicago. Its brevity doesn’t diminish its power, and it’s a poignant exploration of identity, community, and dreams.

12. “The Little Prince” by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry (96 pages)

A beautifully illustrated and philosophical tale about a young prince who travels from planet to planet, meeting various strange characters. Though it’s often classified as a children’s book, it contains profound wisdom for readers of all ages.

13. “The Sense of an Ending” by Julian Barnes (163 pages)

Winner of the Booker Prize, this novel follows a man reflecting on his past relationships and the death of his old friend. A sharp meditation on memory, regret, and the passage of time, this is a quick but profound read.

14. “The Death of Ivan Ilyich” by Leo Tolstoy (128 pages)

This novella by Tolstoy explores the existential questions of life and death as Ivan Ilyich, a high-ranking official, comes to terms with his own mortality. It’s a powerful, life-affirming exploration of what it means to live authentically.

15. “The Perks of Being a Wallflower” by Stephen Chbosky (213 pages)

Told through letters, this coming-of-age novel captures the tumultuous high school years of Charlie, a shy and introspective teenager. It’s emotional, funny, and relatable—an unforgettable, quick read.

16. “Of Mice and Men” by John Steinbeck (107 pages)

A poignant tale about two displaced migrant workers during the Great Depression, Steinbeck’s novella is both heartbreaking and thought-provoking. The themes of friendship, dreams, and loneliness resonate deeply in this short but impactful work.

17. “The Buddha in the Attic” by Julie Otsuka (144 pages)

This beautifully written novel tells the story of Japanese “picture brides” who came to America in the early 1900s. Through the collective voices of these women, Otsuka explores immigration, identity, and the challenges of assimilation.

18. “Slaughterhouse-Five” by Kurt Vonnegut (275 pages)

A strange and powerful novel about a soldier’s experience in World War II, “Slaughterhouse-Five” mixes elements of science fiction, absurdity, and war trauma. It’s a short read that packs a punch with its dark humor and anti-war message.

19. “Coraline” by Neil Gaiman (162 pages)

For a spooky, fun, and slightly eerie read, Neil Gaiman’s “Coraline” is an excellent choice. The story follows a young girl who discovers a parallel world that seems better than her own, but dark forces lurk behind the illusion. It’s a perfect balance of creepy and captivating.

20. “The Outsiders” by S.E. Hinton (192 pages)

This classic novel about teenage rebellion, class struggles, and friendship follows Ponyboy Curtis and his gang, the Greasers. Though it’s often required reading for school, it’s still a gripping and emotional story that’s well worth reading as an adult.

21. “The Last Unicorn” by Peter S. Beagle (176 pages)

This fantasy novel is about the journey of the last remaining unicorn, who sets out to find her lost kin. It’s a beautifully written, magical story that mixes whimsy and melancholy with deep themes about the nature of loss and change.

22. “Siddhartha” by Hermann Hesse (152 pages)

Hesse’s novel follows Siddhartha, a young man who embarks on a journey of self-discovery and spiritual enlightenment. Full of philosophical insights, “Siddhartha” is a brief but powerful read that will leave you reflecting on the deeper meaning of life.

Final Thoughts

If you’re in a race against time to reach your reading goal before the year ends, these short books are your perfect solution. Whether you’re looking for a classic novel, a thought-provoking read, or something with a touch of magic, each of these books is a quick yet fulfilling journey. With just a few weeks left in 2024, there’s no better time to check off these shorter works from your reading list!

Happy reading, and here’s to reaching your reading goal! 📚✨