There is something incredibly satisfying about starting a new book on a plane. I personally do not love lugging a large book around, so I find novellas to be the perfect airplane companion.
A novella is longer form than a short story but not quite the length of a full novel. Stephen King is the reason I fell in love with novellas. His novellas were my introduction to the world of short form, succinct, interesting and impactful storytelling. Coincidentally, when anyone asks me how to “get back into reading” I tell people to start small and recommend a lot of the titles I will be sharing today.
Novellas and short stories are a great way to build confidence if you are stepping back into the world of reading from years away. They are also perfect for ticking off books on your reading list if you are going for a number count. These books are also all incredible, if I do say so myself.
Nowadays, in-flight entertainment is made easy with seatback TVs with loads of movies and shows. But I still love to snuggle into a book and get absorbed into a story and let the time fly by.
Ditch those screens and pick up a book! Enjoy the time you get to be disconnected from the outside world. These books will all pack easily in your carry-on/bag. Not only will you have the satisfaction of starting a book on your next flight but finishing it as well!
Rita Hayworth and the Shawshank Redemption by Stephen King
Page count: 92 
Taking place in the Shawshank State Penitentiary and told through the eyes of Ellis “Red” Redding, this is the story of unjust imprisonment, unexpected friendship, despair, hope and revenge.
Inmate Andy Dufresne was a banker and falsely convicted of murder. His time in prison touches the lives of every unforgettable character in this novella. From his fellow inmates all the way to the warden, Andy transforms lives within the prison. His friendship with Red, who can procure whatever you need, forges a bond in the face of despair that is Shawshank Penitentiary. Andy’s time is not easy, and he formulates a plan for revenge and clings to the hope of a brighter future on the outside.
For those who have seen the film and love it, the book is still impactful, and you’ll get even more depth into the story through the novella. There is so much packed into these 92 pages, it is hard to believe that the book is as short as it is. It is visceral, unforgettable storytelling at its finest.
This book can be found as a standalone copy or in Stephen King’s collection of novellas, Different Seasons.
The Body by Stephen King
Page Count: 143
It is 1960 in the small town of Castle Rock, Maine and four boys go on a journey along the railroad tracks to find the body of missing teen, Ray Brower. Through their journey, Gordie, Chris, Teddy and Vern learn the truth of growing up, growing apart, the lack of future their town holds for them and the harsh reality of death. A coming-of-age story that is brutally honest, bare, and poignant.
Many of you may know this story from its film adaptation, Stand By Me. This book will have you laugh and cry. Stephen King captures adolescence on the brink of adulthood with such accuracy that you will find yourself traveling back in time to when you were that age.
This book can be found as a standalone copy or in Stephen King’s novella collection, Different Seasons.
Galatea by Madeline Miller
Page Count: 64
Galatea is the most beautiful woman in town. This stunning and cunning woman was sculpted from marble and gifted life from her husband. His obsession and need to control her every movement have him place her under the constant supervision of doctors and nurses. Due to her imprisonment, Galatea’s every movement is controlled by her husband who expects her constant obedience. But Galatea’s determination to free herself and rescue her daughter from a similar fate will have her stop at nothing to ensure their freedom.
This is a retelling of the Greek myth of Galatea and Pygmalion. It is a short story that packs a punch. Not a moment is wasted in this pulse pounding plot to escape the confines of man.
So Late in the Day: Stories of Women and Men by Claire Keegan
Page Count: 119
A collection of three short stories that explore the dynamics between women and men within a patriarchal society. Themes of love, regret, loneliness, and misogyny are touched on in every story.
“So Late in the Day” focuses on Cathal who is grappling with the fact that his behaviors and choices are what led him to lose the woman he wanted to spend his life with.
“The Long and Painful Death” follows a woman who arrives at her seaside residency, a home belonging to writer Henrich Böll. Here she meets a German professor that forces his way into her life and disrupts what was meant to be her writing retreat.
“Antarctica” is the story of a married woman who has always lived by the rules. She decides to step out and travel to meet a stranger to see what life would be like if she were to have an affair. But she is met with a dangerous and possessive man.
Claire Keegan is masterful in her ability to hone in on social insights within such a tight page count. Her stories contain beautiful prose, depth and characters filled with life.
Small Things Like These by Claire Keegan
Page Count: 118
Set in 1985 in a small town in Ireland, this novel takes place on the weeks that lead to Christmas. Bill Furlong is delivering coal to the local convent and sees something that makes him see the truth. Society has remained complicitly silent on abuse. The church controls the town, and Bill must reckon with his past and all that he has seen. What does he do with the knowledge he has come upon?
This novella explores the idea that small steps can lead to the dismantling of a system of abuse and oppression. A thought-provoking story of empathy and hope.
A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens
Page Count: 106
The classic story of Ebenezer Scrooge who is a miserly businessman. He is cruel to all and values money over life. On Christmas Eve, he is visited by ghosts. He is confronted with his past, present and the lonely future ahead of him if he doesn’t change his ways. But can a man of his age and status change? Will a change of heart ever happen to someone who has been cold for years?
This is one of my favorite classic tales, and I know we are all incredibly familiar with the story since people have retold it so many times. But if you find yourself traveling during the holiday season and if you have never read it, now is the time! I read it nearly every year and Dickens’ signature wit, humor and social commentary leap off the page.
Of Mice and Men by John Steinbeck
Page Count: 107
George and Lennie are the unlikely duo that lead this classic novella. George is small in stature and cares for Lennie who is large and has the mental faculties of a child. This bonded duo are laborers and travel around California looking for work. They dream of owning land of their own but face hardships, misunderstandings, and class struggles.
Lennie and George show that despite the difficulties, friendship and a dream can make a lot of life’s cruelties bearable.
Filmmakers have adapted yet another story on the list into a film, which shows how powerful these stories are because people keep retelling them. This classic is no exception. This novel has me weeping every time. Lennie and George are two characters who will remain in your hearts for years to come.
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