9 Books You Can Finish This Weekend (All Under 300 Pages)
A curated selection for busy readers who don't want to compromise on quality
In an era of endless streaming and diminishing attention spans, there's something revolutionary about a novel that knows exactly how long it needs to be.
Some of literature's most powerful stories come in small packages.
It proves that impact is not measured in page count.
As ‘#ShortReads’ dominated BookTok in 2024, readers are rediscovering the magic of books that can be devoured in a single sitting.
Whether breaking a reading slump, squeezing a story between meetings, or settling in for a cozy afternoon, these gems under 300 pages deliver maximum impact with minimum time investment—much like our collection of unputdownable books readers can't stop reading.
Each one stands as proof that a great novel doesn't need to be a doorstop to leave a lasting impression.
📚 Why Short Books Are Having a Moment
January 2025 has seen a surge in readers seeking shorter books.
According to Goodreads data, books under 300 pages are being added to "Want to Read" lists at twice the usual rate.
And in a major validation for the short books movement, Claire Keegan's "Small Things Like These" made history as the shortest book ever nominated for the Booker Prize at just 116 pages.
Why?
As readers set ambitious reading goals for the new year, they're strategically mixing shorter reads with longer ones to maintain momentum and stay motivated.
When you're stuck in a reading rut, a quick win can reignite your love for reading - similar to how life-changing books can shift your perspective.
Why Short Books Matter in 2025
Perfect for our busy lives
These books fit perfectly between meetings or during your commute
Boost reading confidence
Finishing a book gives you a dopamine hit that motivates you to read more
End reading slumps
When you're stuck in a reading rut, a quick win can reignite your love for reading
Quality over quantity
These authors prove that powerful storytelling doesn't require endless pages
Crush Your 2025 Reading Goals:
Aiming for 52 books this year? Short books help you stay on track
Mix longer reads with these quick wins to maintain momentum
Perfect for reading challenges like "Read 24 in 2025" or "12 Books in 12 Months"
Great way to explore new genres without a major time commitment
Must-Read Short Books That Pack a Punch
If you've enjoyed our best novels to read, you'll love these carefully selected short books that pack a punch.
Literary Fiction
The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald (180 pages)
A perfect cocktail of romance, tragedy, and social commentary
Trigger Warning (TW): violence, suicide, domestic abuse
Piranesi by Susanna Clarke (250 pages)
A haunting exploration of solitude and wonder
TW: mild psychological distress, isolation themes
Contemporary Literary Gems
Tin Man by Sarah Winman (195 pages)
A beautiful exploration of love, friendship, and loss
Follows the intertwined lives of Ellis, Michael, and Annie
TW: grief, loss, LGBTQ+ themes
Water Moon by Samantha Sotto Yambao (January 14, 2025)
A magical short novel set in Tokyo following a mysterious pawnshop disappearance
Perfect for fans of Studio Ghibli's intimate storytellingTW: themes of loss, magical realism
Show Don't Tell by Curtis Sittenfeld (February 25, 2025)
A sharp collection of interconnected short stories examining women's lives.
Features a special treat for longtime fans with a story starring Lee from Prep
TW: political themes, relationship complexity
Small Things Like These by Claire Keegan (116 pages)
The shortest book ever nominated for the Booker Prize
A powerful story set in 1980s Ireland about moral courage and human kindnessTW: themes of institutional abuse, social injustice
Science Fiction & Fantasy
All Systems Red by Martha Wells (176 pages)
Perfect for those who love sarcastic narrators and AI perspectives
TW: mild violence, anxiety themes
This Is How You Lose the Time War (209 pages)
A love letter to both sci-fi and romance genres
TW: war themes, mild violence
Contemporary Romance
Under One Roof by Ali Hazelwood (~100 pages)
STEM romance at its finest
TW: mild sexual content
For more reading inspiration, check out our guide to the best books to re-read: classics and modern favorites.
Your Turn! 📚
What's the best book under 300 pages you've ever finished in one sitting?
Share your "one-sitting wonders" in the comments below—I'd love to discover new quick reads that kept you glued to the page!
And if you've read any of these recommendations, let me know if they were worth your precious reading time.
Let's Connect!
❓What's your favorite short novel?
📚 Have you read any of these books?
💌 Reply to this newsletter with your thoughts or join the discussion in the comments below.
Happy reading,
-Hakan
Founder, EternalReads.com
P.S. Next week, I'll share powerful techniques for fitting more reading time into busy days - don't miss it!