Short Novels To Read During Your Journeys – Part One
“Books are the plane, and the train, and the road. They are the destination, and the journey. They are home.”
— Anna Quindlen
Reading Tip
Choose books under 150 pages for travel. They’re easy to finish during flights, train journeys, or weekend getaways without feeling rushed.
Our Travel Reading List
Here’s the ABCDE of some wonderful short novels that deserve a place in your backpack.A — Animal Farm
Author: George Orwell Published in 1945, Animal Farm is one of the greatest political satires ever written and consistently ranks among the finest English-language novels. The story follows a group of farm animals who rebel against their human owner in pursuit of freedom, equality, and a better future. Beneath its simple storytelling lies a powerful commentary on politics, leadership, and society.Perfect For: Readers who enjoy political fiction, satire, and thought-provoking classics.
B — Beside the Sea
Author: Véronique Olmi If psychological thrillers intrigue you, this haunting novella is an unforgettable read. The story follows a mother and her two sons on what appears to be a peaceful seaside vacation. As the narrative unfolds, readers witness an emotional and unsettling exploration of love, loneliness, and mental health.Perfect For: Fans of psychological fiction and emotionally intense stories.
C — Cousin Phillis
Author: Elizabeth Gaskell Originally published in 1864, Cousin Phillis is a beautifully written coming-of-age novella divided into four easy-to-read sections. The story follows young Paul as he experiences friendship, family, innocence, and the emotions of growing up in nineteenth-century England.Perfect For: Readers who enjoy classic literature and gentle, character-driven storytelling.
D — Death Going Down
Author: María Angélica Bosco Looking for mystery and suspense during your travels? This gripping detective novel by acclaimed Argentinian author María Angélica Bosco delivers unexpected twists, engaging investigations, and a suspenseful storyline that keeps readers turning pages until the very end. The novel was recognized among the finest mystery books of the year in which it was published.Perfect For: Mystery lovers and fans of detective fiction.
E — Every Day Is for the Thief
Author: Teju Cole Named among the year’s best books, this beautifully written novella explores the meaning of home, memory, identity, and belonging. The story follows a man returning to his homeland after fifteen years, only to discover that both the city and he himself have changed. It is a reflective and deeply personal novel that resonates with anyone who has traveled far from home.Perfect For: Travelers, reflective readers, and lovers of literary fiction.
Why Short Novels Make Great Travel Companions
- Easy to carry in your backpack.
- Perfect for flights, trains, and long bus journeys.
- Can often be finished within a single trip.
- Less intimidating than lengthy novels.
- Offer meaningful stories without requiring a huge time commitment.
Final Thoughts
Travel and books share something special—they both take us to places we’ve never been.
Whether you’re sitting beside a train window, waiting at an airport, relaxing on a beach, or winding down after a day of exploring, these short novels can make your journey even more memorable.
Each book on this list offers a unique experience while remaining compact enough to fit comfortably into your travel bag.
This is only the beginning. Stay tuned for Part Two, where we’ll share even more short novels perfect for every traveler.
Travel Far. Read More.
Every journey tells a story—and every great book becomes part of the adventure.
Happy Reading & Happy Travels!
