AD
  • Articles
  • Quick Reads Under 200 Pages You Can Devour in a Day

Quick Reads Under 200 Pages You Can Devour in a Day

By Likewise and ThriftBooks | May 21, 2025In a world where time is as precious as the stories we consume, short novels offer the perfect remedy for the restless mind or the busy schedule. Dive into our curated list of quick reads, each under 200 pages, that promise to enchant, provoke thought, and provide a striking glimpse into human experiences and emotions. From powerful debuts to riveting tales of survival, these books are worthy of your attention.

Convenience Store Woman

Convenience Store Woman
© Photo: Provided by Likewise.

Shortlisted for the Best Translated Book Award, this novel marks the English-language debut of an exciting voice in international fiction. It tells the heartwarming yet surprising story of Keiko Furukura, a thirty-six-year-old woman working at a Tokyo convenience store. Despite societal pressures to settle down and conform, Keiko finds contentment in the strictures of her job, questioning the norms of love and career. It's a poignant look at individuality within the framework of contemporary Japanese culture, encapsulated beautifully by Sayaka Murata’s sharp narrative.

Curious to see more? Check it out here!

buy icon Buy Now

Annihilation

Annihilation
© Photo: Provided by Likewise.

The first installment in Jeff VanderMeer’s Southern Reach Trilogy takes readers into the enigmatic Area X, a region isolated from civilization and rife with mystery. Following a team of four women on an expedition, this Nebula Award-winning novel blends elements of horror and sci-fi as they confront the fraught landscapes of both nature and human psyche. VanderMeer's evocative prose pulls you into a world where reality and perception collide in chilling ways.

Want to explore more? Discover it here!

buy icon Buy Now

The House on Mango Street

The House on Mango Street
© Photo: Provided by Likewise.

A celebrated classic, Sandra Cisneros's poignant tale follows a young Latina girl, Esperanza, growing up in Chicago. Written as a series of vignettes, Cisneros's narrative encapsulates themes of identity, heritage, and the fierce desire to break free from sociocultural constraints. This essential read resonates with readers of all ages and reminds us of the powerful impact of storytelling.

Interested in this timeless classic? Buy it here!

buy icon Buy Now

Tender Is the Flesh

Tender Is the Flesh
© Photo: Provided by Likewise.

In a disturbing yet thought-provoking narrative, Agustina Bazterrica presents a dystopian society where humans have become livestock due to a mysterious virus that renders animal meat toxic to humans. The story follows Marcos, a worker at a processing plant for humans, as he grapples with morality, loneliness, and the depths of human depravity. This unsettling tale urges readers to confront the ethical implications of consumer culture and our relationship with life and death.

Ready to delve into this harrowing read? Get it here!

buy icon Buy Now

All Systems Red

All Systems Red
© Photo: Provided by Likewise.

Martha Wells's award-winning novella ushers readers into a corporate-ruled future where a self-aware android, known as Murderbot, grapples with its identity while assisting its human companions on a distant planet. Bursting with humor and introspection, this tale tackles themes of autonomy, companionship, and existential inquiry, perfectly balancing action and philosophical depth. Now a series on Apple TV+!

Intrigued by this fresh take on sci-fi? Check it out here!

buy icon Buy Now

Dept. of Speculation

Dept. of Speculation
© Photo: Provided by Likewise.

Jenny Offill' delivers a masterful exploration of a marriage, examining the complexities of human connection and the intricacies of life’s ordinary moments. Through fragments of thought and poetic reflections, the narrative captures the tension between love and despair, making it a resonant read for anyone who has navigated the unpredictabilities of relationships and family life.

Want to reflect on this beautiful narrative? Find it here!

buy icon Buy Now

Fahrenheit 451

Fahrenheit 451
© Photo: Provided by Likewise.

Ray Bradbury’s iconic novel remains a powerful commentary on censorship and the eroding presence of literature in modern society. Set in a dystopian future where books are banned, and 'firemen' burn them, the protagonist, Guy Montag, embarks on a transformative journey that questions the fabric of society itself. With its timeless themes, this classic encourages readers to ponder over the value of knowledge and the importance of critical thought.

Eager to experience this classic? Get your copy here!

buy icon Buy Now

AD
:

Take Pix Everywhere

Add your phone number, and you can get instant, personalized recommendations anywhere, anytime via text message

By using our website you agree to our Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy.

This website uses cookies to ensure you get the best experience.