In a world where time is a precious commodity, we often seek classic literature that’s both captivating and manageable in length. For readers on the go, we’ve assembled a list of timeless classics, all under 200 pages, that promise to keep you entertained and engaged. Join us as we explore these literary gems tailor-made for Gen Z and millennial women between 15 and 40.
1. “Franny and Zooey” by J.D. Salinger (176 pages)
Salinger’s “Franny and Zooey” is a literary gem that offers a profound exploration of the Glass siblings, Franny and Zooey. In these pages, you’ll find their thought-provoking journey, filled with existential questions, family dynamics, and the search for meaning, all wrapped in Salinger’s trademark wit and sharp insights.
Fitzgerald’s “The Great Gatsby” takes you on a journey into the Roaring Twenties, a world of glitz, glamour, and hidden desires. In this compact classic, you’ll follow the enigmatic Jay Gatsby as he pursues the American Dream, encountering love, ambition, and tragedy in a narrative that’s as enchanting as it is thought-provoking.
3. “The Picture of Dorian Gray” by Oscar Wilde (174 pages)
Wilde’s “The Picture of Dorian Gray” is a dark and witty masterpiece that explores the consequences of vanity and a Faustian bargain. Within its pages, you’ll witness the transformation of Dorian Gray, as his portrait ages while he remains perpetually youthful, leading to a descent into decadence and moral decay in this captivating tale.
4. “Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde” by Robert Louis Stevenson (72 pages)
In Stevenson’s “Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde,” you’ll delve into the dual nature of humanity through the eyes of Dr. Jekyll’s experiment gone awry. As the sinister Mr. Hyde wreaks havoc in the streets of London, you’ll be drawn into a thrilling and thought-provoking exploration of good and evil, making it a must-read in the realm of classic literature.
5. “A Christmas Carol” by Charles Dickens (104 pages)
Join Ebenezer Scrooge on a transformative journey in Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol.” This heartwarming tale takes you on a voyage of redemption and self-discovery as Scrooge encounters the ghosts of Christmas Past, Present, and Future, learning the true meaning of the holiday season and the importance of kindness and generosity.
6. “The Alchemist” by Paulo Coelho (163 pages)
Coelho’s “The Alchemist” invites you to embark on a spiritual journey with Santiago, a shepherd boy. As he follows his dreams, you’ll discover a world filled with wisdom, adventure, and life-changing experiences that inspire you to pursue your own dreams and embrace the magic of the universe.
7. “The Stranger” by Albert Camus (123 pages)
In Camus’ “The Stranger,” you’ll explore the existential crisis of Meursault, a detached character who grapples with the absurdity of life. This concise classic delves into themes of indifference, alienation, and the philosophical question of the meaning of life, making it a must-read for those seeking intellectual and emotional depth in a compact form.
8. “The Awakening” by Kate Chopin (99 pages)
Kate Chopin’s “The Awakening” offers a glimpse into the inner world of Edna Pontellier as she rebels against societal norms in this feminist classic. In this compact novel, you’ll witness Edna’s journey of self-discovery, passion, and the pursuit of personal freedom, all set against the backdrop of 19th-century Creole society.
9. “The Metamorphosis” by Franz Kafka (50 pages)
In Kafka’s “The Metamorphosis,” you’ll experience the surreal transformation of Gregor Samsa into a giant insect. In just 50 pages, Kafka’s narrative explores themes of alienation, absurdity, and the human condition, leaving readers with profound questions about the nature of existence.
10. “The Little Prince” by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry (83 pages)
Antoine de Saint-Exupéry’s “The Little Prince” is a whimsical and philosophical journey offering profound insights within its deceptively simple story. This charming novella, filled with whimsy and wisdom, takes you on an adventure with the Little Prince as he explores the universe, friendship, and the essential aspects of human nature.
These classic novellas offer a world of literary richness in compact form. Whether you’re commuting, taking a break, or simply looking for a quick escape into the world of literature, these classics under 200 pages have you covered. So, grab your preferred reading nook, settle in, and immerse yourself in these captivating narratives that prove great literature can come in small packages.
