20 Best Short Books Under 100 Pages

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Short books have become increasingly popular in recent years as our busy lives make it difficult to find the time for lengthy reads. But just because a book is short doesn’t mean it lacks substance. In fact, some of the most impactful works of literature are under 100 pages, offering quick and insightful readings that can make a lasting impression.

Whether you’re looking for a quick escape or some thought-provoking material, here are some of the best short books under 100 pages that you should add to your reading list. The following list is an unordered list of best books under 100 pages. Let’s start:

Best Short Books Under 100 Pages

1. As a Man Thinketh by James Allen

“As a Man Thinketh” is a self-help book written by James Allen and first published in 1902. The book is a philosophical treatise on the power of thought and its impact on a person’s life.

Allen argues that our thoughts shape our reality and determine the quality of our lives. He writes that the things we think about, both positive and negative, have a direct impact on our emotions, actions, and, ultimately, our success in life. He goes on to say that the key to changing our lives and achieving success is to cultivate positive thoughts and beliefs and to eliminate negative and limiting ones.

This short book explores the idea of personal responsibility and the importance of taking control of one’s thoughts and beliefs. Allen argues that individuals can create their own reality through the choices they make and the thoughts they focus on. He writes that by focusing on positive and constructive thoughts, a person can overcome adversity and achieve success, while negative and limiting thoughts will only lead to disappointment and failure.

In conclusion, “As a Man Thinketh” is a powerful and inspiring self-help book that continues to be widely read and revered more than a century after its publication. Its message of personal responsibility and the transformative power of thought has been a source of inspiration for millions of people around the world, and its simple and straightforward writing style makes it accessible to readers of all ages and backgrounds. Whether you are looking to improve your life, cultivate positive thoughts, or simply find inspiration and motivation, “As a Man Thinketh” is a timeless classic that is sure to captivate and inspire.

2. The Art Of War by Sun Tzu

“The Art of War” is a treatise on military strategy written by the ancient Chinese military general and strategist Sun Tzu. The book was written more than 2,000 years ago and is widely considered to be one of the most influential works on military strategy in the world.

The book is comprised of 13 chapters, each of which covers a different aspect of warfare, including strategy, tactics, and leadership. Sun Tzu emphasizes the importance of understanding the enemy and using knowledge of the terrain to gain a strategic advantage. He also writes about the importance of deception and the use of spies, and the need to maintain control of one’s own forces while disrupting the enemy’s.

Sun Tzu’s ideas are based on the principle that victory can be achieved with minimal conflict and loss of life, and he stresses the importance of thinking ahead and planning for all possible scenarios in a military campaign. He also highlights the need for effective communication, unity, and discipline among the troops and the importance of adaptability and the ability to change tactics when the situation demands it.

In conclusion, “The Art of War” is a classic work on military strategy that continues to be widely read and studied more than 2,000 years after its publication. Its ideas and principles have been applied in numerous fields, including business, sports, and politics, and its insights into the nature of conflict and the importance of strategy and planning are as relevant today as they were in ancient China. Whether you are interested in military history or strategy or simply looking for a timeless classic that can help you think more critically and strategically, “The Art of War” is a must-read that is sure to captivate and inspire.

3. Who Moved My Cheese by Spencer Johnson M.D.

This one is my personal favorite book, and I hope it will be yours, too, after you finish reading it. “Who Moved My Cheese?” was written by Spencer Johnson and first published in 1998. The book uses a simple parable to explore the topic of change and how individuals can handle change in their lives.

Here are the key points of the book:

• The book uses the allegory of four characters (two mice and two “littlepeople”) searching for cheese in a maze.
• The cheese represents what people want in life, whether it’s a job, a relationship, or a personal goal.
• The maze represents the complex and constantly changing environment in which individuals find themselves.
• The four characters react differently to the changes that occur when the cheese runs out.
• The two mice quickly adapt to the change and find new cheese, while the two “littlepeople” resist change and struggle to find new cheese.
• The book explores the idea that change is a constant in life, and that individuals must be prepared to adapt and change in order to achieve success and happiness.
• The book emphasizes the importance of embracing change, being flexible, and having a positive attitude.
• The book also highlights the dangers of clinging to the past and being resistant to change, as this can lead to disappointment and frustration.
• The book has become a classic in the self-help genre and has inspired numerous adaptations and spin-off products, including a video, a workbook, and a board game.

In conclusion, “Who Moved My Cheese?” is a simple yet powerful book that provides a valuable lesson about the importance of adapting to change. Through its allegory of four characters searching for cheese in a maze, the book offers a compelling reminder that change is a constant in life, and that individuals must be prepared to embrace change and adapt to new circumstances in order to achieve success and happiness.

4. Tao te Ching by Laozi

The Tao Te Ching is an ancient Chinese text traditionally attributed to the sage Laozi, although the exact authorship of the text is unknown. The text, written in verse, is a work of philosophy and spirituality that explores the Tao, or the Way, and offers guidance for living a virtuous and harmonious life.

Here are the key points of the book:

• The Tao Te Ching is a collection of 81 short verses that explore the concept of the Tao and offer guidance for living a virtuous and harmonious life.
• The Tao is described as the ultimate reality, the source of all things, and the path of nature.
• The text emphasizes the importance of simplicity, humility, and non-action and suggests that the most effective way to achieve one’s goals is to align oneself with the Tao.
• The Tao Te Ching teaches that the pursuit of power and wealth leads to conflict and suffering and that true happiness and fulfillment can only be achieved by embracing the Tao and living in harmony with nature and with others.
• The text also explores themes of morality, wisdom, and the nature of existence and offers advice on how to live a virtuous and fulfilling life.
• The Tao Te Ching has had a profound influence on Chinese philosophy and spirituality, and has been interpreted in many different ways, including as a Taoist text, a Confucian text, and a Buddhist text.
• The text is widely regarded as one of the great works of Chinese literature and philosophy, and has been translated into numerous languages and read by millions of people around the world.

In conclusion, the Tao Te Ching is a rich and thought-provoking text that explores the concept of the Tao and offers guidance for living a virtuous and harmonious life. Through its verses, the text provides a powerful message about the importance of simplicity, humility, and non-action, and offers a timeless and profound insight into the nature of existence and the human condition.

5. Lifeboat No. 8: An Untold Tale of Love, Loss, and Surviving the Titanic by Elizabeth Kaye

“Lifeboat No. 8: An Untold Tale of Love, Loss, and Surviving the Titanic” is a book by Elizabeth Kaye that tells the story of the passengers and crew who were rescued by Lifeboat No. 8 during the sinking of the Titanic in 1912.

The book provides a unique perspective on the disaster, using primary sources such as letters, diaries, and eyewitness accounts to paint a vivid picture of the events that took place. The author explores the themes of love, loss, and survival and how these emotions affected the passengers and crew of Lifeboat No. 8 in the aftermath of the tragedy.

The book also highlights the story of the Countess of Rothes, who took charge of the tiller of Lifeboat No. 8 and helped steer it through the dark, icy waters, as well as the budding romance between Roberta Maioni, the Countess’s ladies maid, and Jack Phillips, the Titanic’s wireless operator. “Lifeboat No. 8” provides a fresh and thought-provoking account of one of the greatest disasters of the 20th century and is sure to captivate and inspire.

6. The Yellow Wallpaper by Charlotte Perkins Gilman

“The Yellow Wallpaper” is a short story written by Charlotte Perkins Gilman and was first published in 1892. The story is a fictionalized account of Gilman’s own struggles with postpartum depression and the treatment she received from her physician, who prescribed rest and inactivity. The main character in the story is a woman who is suffering from depression and is being treated by her husband, a physician, who believes in the rest cure. The woman is confined to a small room with yellow wallpaper, which becomes a source of obsession and terror for her.

The story is written as a series of journal entries made by the woman, and as she becomes more and more obsessed with the yellow wallpaper, she begins to see patterns and shapes in the design that she interprets as figures moving behind the paper. The woman’s descent into madness is paralleled by her growing defiance against the restrictions imposed on her by her husband and physician. She becomes more and more isolated and is eventually driven to complete madness by the yellow wallpaper and the limitations imposed on her.

“The Yellow Wallpaper” is considered a classic of feminist literature and is often read as a critique of the treatment of women by the medical profession in the 19th century. Gilman’s story is a powerful commentary on the ways in which women’s voices and experiences were ignored and marginalized in a society dominated by men. The story also speaks to the themes of oppression and the effects of confinement and isolation on the human psyche.

Overall, “The Yellow Wallpaper” is a haunting and powerful story that continues to captivate readers more than a century after it was first published. Its themes of oppression, isolation, and madness remain relevant and have made it a staple of literature and feminist studies. The story’s vivid descriptions and gripping narrative make it a must-read for anyone interested in literature, feminist studies, or the history of mental health.

7. Of Mice and Men by John Steinbeck

“Of Mice and Men” is a powerful short novel written by John Steinbeck and published in 1937. The book is just a little over 100 pages. The book has around 107 pages.

Coming to the story which takes place during the Great Depression and follows the lives of two migrant workers, George Milton, and Lennie Small, as they travel from job to job in search of work. George is a small, wiry man with quick wits, while Lennie is a large, mentally disabled man with a love for petting soft things. The two men have a close friendship, and George serves as a caretaker for Lennie, who is unable to care for himself.

The story begins as George and Lennie arrive at a new job on a ranch in California. They meet a group of other workers who are all looking for a way to escape their hard lives and find some sense of purpose. Despite their differences, the men form a community and help each other through tough times. However, their plans for the future are disrupted when Lennie accidentally kills the wife of one of their coworkers, Curley. Fearing for their safety, George decides that the only way to protect Lennie is to kill him before the authorities can get to him.

“Of Mice and Men” is a powerful, timeless story that explores the themes of friendship, loneliness, and the American Dream. Steinbeck’s characters are complex and nuanced, and the novel is filled with vivid descriptions of the landscape and the people who inhabit it. The story is both a commentary on the harsh realities of life during the Great Depression and a timeless tale of the bonds of friendship and the power of the human spirit.

One of the key themes in the novel is loneliness. The characters in “Of Mice and Men” are all searching for connection and a sense of belonging, and they find comfort in each other’s company. However, the harsh realities of their lives mean that they are constantly on the move and unable to form lasting relationships. This sense of loneliness and isolation is heightened by the backdrop of the Great Depression, which left many people feeling adrift and without purpose.

Lastly, it is a heartbreaking story that continues to be widely read and studied. Its powerful themes and memorable characters have made it a timeless work of literature that speaks to the human condition and the struggle for meaning in a difficult world. Steinbeck’s writing is both beautiful and brutal, and the novel is a testament to his ability to create vivid and memorable stories that have stood the test of time. If you are a fan of short novels, then this is the book for you.

8. We Should All Be Feminists by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie

“We Should All Be Feminists” is a book-length essay by the Nigerian author Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, first published in 2014. The essay is based on a TEDx talk that Adichie gave in 2012 and draws on her own experiences growing up in Nigeria and her observations about the intersection of gender and race.

Here are the key points of the book:

• The essay argues that we need a new definition of feminism, one that includes men and women of all races and classes and that addresses the ways in which gender intersects with other forms of oppression.
• Adichie describes her own experiences growing up in Nigeria, including her realization at a young age that she was considered inferior because she was female.
• She argues that the notion of a single, universal definition of femininity is limiting and reinforces patriarchal values and that a more inclusive definition of femininity would benefit both women and men.
• Adichie argues that society’s expectations of women, such as the expectation that women be nurturing and caring, serve to limit women’s opportunities and reinforce patriarchal values.
• The essay argues that the concept of “feminism” has been misunderstood and that the true goal of feminism is to create a world in which men and women are treated equally and have equal opportunities.
• Adichie argues that this goal is not just about women’s rights but about creating a more just and equal society for all people.
• The essay is written in a clear and accessible style, making it accessible to a wide range of readers.
• The book has become a classic of feminist literature and has been widely read and discussed, inspiring a new generation of feminists and sparking important conversations about gender, race, and equality.

In conclusion, “We Should All Be Feminists” is a powerful short essay that challenges readers to rethink their understanding of feminism and to work towards creating a world in which men and women are treated equally. Through her own experiences and observations, Adichie provides a compelling argument for why we should all be feminists and why this is a goal that is not just about women’s rights but about creating a more just and equal society for all people.

9. Very Good Lives by J. K. Rowling

“Very Good Lives: The Fringe Benefits of Failure and the Importance of Imagination” is a book by J.K. Rowling, published in 2015. The book is based on a commencement speech that Rowling gave at Harvard University in 2008 and reflects on her own experiences of failure and success and the importance of imagination.

Here are some interesting things about the book:

• The book reflects on Rowling’s own experiences of failure and success, including her struggles as a single mother and her eventual success as the author of the Harry Potter series.
• Rowling argues that failure is a necessary part of the path to success and that we should embrace our failures and use them as opportunities to learn and grow.
• The book emphasizes the importance of imagination and creativity in our lives and argues that these qualities are often undervalued in our society.
• Rowling shares her own experiences with imagination and creativity and argues that these qualities have been essential to her own success and happiness.
• The book offers advice on how to cultivate imagination and creativity in our own lives and how to pursue our passions and dreams despite setbacks and failures.
• The book is written in a clear and accessible style, making it accessible to a wide range of readers.
• The book has been widely read and celebrated for its inspiring message about the power of imagination, creativity, and resilience in the face of adversity.

In conclusion, “Very Good Lives” is a powerful and inspiring book that encourages readers to embrace their failures and use them as opportunities to learn and grow. Through her own experiences and reflections, Rowling provides a compelling argument for the importance of imagination and creativity in our lives and offers practical advice on how to pursue our passions and dreams. This book is a must-read for anyone seeking inspiration and guidance on how to lead a rich and fulfilling life.

10. Antigone by Sophocles

“Antigone” is a play written by Sophocles, one of the three great ancient Greek playwrights, and was first performed in 441 BC. The play is one of the three Theban plays and is considered one of the greatest works of ancient Greek tragedy.

Here are the key points of the play:

• The play is set in Thebes and tells the story of Antigone, the daughter of Oedipus, who defies the edict of the ruler, Creon, by burying her brother Polynices, who died in a battle against Thebes.
• Antigone’s actions are seen as a challenge to the authority of Creon, who declares that Polynices should be left unburied as a punishment for his rebellion against Thebes.
• The play explores themes of loyalty, obedience, and the conflict between individual conscience and the rule of law.
• Antigone is depicted as a determined and heroic figure who is willing to risk her own life to fulfill her duty to her brother and the gods.
• The play also explores the consequences of the choices made by Antigone and Creon and the impact of those choices on their families and the city of Thebes.
• Antigone is widely regarded as one of the greatest works of ancient Greek tragedy and has been performed and adapted for various audiences for over 2,000 years.
• The play’s themes of civil disobedience, the power of the individual conscience, and the conflict between individual rights and the rule of law continue to be relevant and have inspired countless works of literature, art, and popular culture.

In conclusion, “Antigone” is a timeless masterpiece of ancient Greek tragedy that explores universal themes of loyalty, obedience, and the conflict between individual conscience and the rule of law. Through its powerful characters and memorable dialogue, the play continues to captivate audiences and inspire new interpretations and adaptations. This play is a must-read for anyone interested in the history of Western literature or the enduring power of drama.

11. The Little Prince by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry

“The Little Prince” is a timeless and classic tale written by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry, that has captured the hearts and imaginations of people of all ages since its publication in 1943. The book is a philosophical and imaginative journey that explores the themes of love, friendship, and the meaning of life.

Here are the key points of the book:

• The Little Prince is a timeless story about a young prince who travels from planet to planet, meeting different characters and learning important life lessons.
• The Little Prince is depicted as a curious and innocent child who is searching for the meaning of life and the essence of what it means to be human.
• Throughout his journey, the Little Prince meets various characters, including a king, a conceited man, a tippler, a businessman, and a lamplighter, who all teach him valuable lessons about the complexities of human nature and relationships.
• One of the central themes of the book is the importance of love and friendship. The Little Prince’s relationship with the narrator, a pilot, is a poignant example of the power of genuine friendship and human connection.
• The Little Prince’s encounters with the various characters highlight the negative consequences of greed, vanity, and the obsession with material things. The book encourages readers to reflect on their own priorities and to appreciate the simple things in life.
• The Little Prince is a lyrical and imaginative story that transcends time and language, and continues to resonate with readers of all ages. The book’s beautiful illustrations, combined with its philosophical musings, make it a truly unique and enchanting read.
• The Little Prince is a book that has the power to touch the hearts and minds of readers, and to inspire them to think deeply about the meaning of life and the importance of love, friendship, and the simple things in life.

12. Larger than Life by Jodi Picoult

“Larger than Life” is a novel written by bestselling author Jodi Picoult. The novel is a family drama that explores the relationship between a father and his daughter, and the impact of a rare genetic condition on their lives.

Here are the key points of the book:

• The novel is set in New Hampshire and focuses on the relationship between Holly, a young girl who has a rare genetic condition called Proteus syndrome, and her father, Luke.
• Holly’s condition causes her to grow at an accelerated rate and has a profound impact on her physical and emotional well-being.
• Luke is a single father who is struggling to raise Holly and is faced with the challenges of balancing his work, his relationship with his daughter, and his own emotional needs.
• The novel explores themes of family, love, and sacrifice, and the impact of a rare genetic condition on a family.
• Through her character, Holly, Picoult sheds light on the challenges faced by children with rare genetic conditions and their families.
• The novel also explores the role of medicine in our lives and the ethical implications of modern medical advances.
• “Larger than Life” is a heart-warming and emotionally charged novel that is both touching and thought-provoking.
• Picoult is known for her insightful and compassionate approach to complex and controversial issues, and “Larger than Life” is no exception.

In conclusion, “Larger than Life” is a powerful and poignant novel that explores the relationship between a father and his daughter, and the impact of a rare genetic condition on their lives. Through its insightful and compassionate approach, the novel sheds light on the challenges faced by children with rare genetic conditions and their families and offers a message about the importance of family, love, and sacrifice. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in family drama, medical ethics, or the impact of genetic conditions on individuals and families.

13. The Tell-Tale Heart by Edgar Allan Poe

“The Tell-Tale Heart” is a short story written by Edgar Allan Poe, one of the master storytellers of the horror and mystery genre. Published in 1843, it remains a classic of the horror genre and is considered one of Poe’s most famous works.

Here are the key points of the story:

• The story is narrated by an unnamed narrator who claims to be sane but is struggling with the guilt of having murdered an old man with a “vulture eye.”
• The narrator describes in vivid detail the planning and execution of the murder and the elaborate steps he took to conceal the evidence of the crime.
• The narrator’s guilt begins to haunt him as he hears a persistent, pounding heartbeat that he believes to be the old man’s ghost seeking revenge.
• The narrator’s attempts to convince the police officers of his sanity ultimately lead to his downfall, as he confesses to the crime and reveals the hiding place of the old man’s body.
• The story is told in a vivid, intense, and almost manic style that builds tension and suspense to a climactic finale.
• The story explores themes of guilt, madness, and the power of the human imagination and is a perfect example of Poe’s ability to create suspense and fear through his use of language.
• “The Tell-Tale Heart” is considered one of Poe’s most famous works and continues to be widely read and studied as a masterpiece of the horror genre.
• The story’s enduring popularity is a testament to Poe’s skill as a storyteller and his ability to evoke fear and suspense through his writing. Themes of guilt, madness, and the power of the human imagination are timeless and continue to resonate with readers to this day.

14. The Prince by Nicolo Machiavelli

“The Prince” is a political treatise written by Nicolo Machiavelli in the early 16th century. It is considered one of the earliest works of modern political philosophy and remains one of the most influential books on political thought.

Here are the key points of the book:

• The Prince is a guide for ruling and maintaining power, written for the ruling class of Italy.
• Machiavelli asserts that the primary goal of a ruler should be to maintain power and that all actions should be taken with this goal in mind.
• The Prince argues that the ends justify the means and that rulers should not be bound by traditional moral codes but should instead act in the best interest of their state and their own power.
• Machiavelli argues that it is often necessary for rulers to act harshly and use fear to maintain power and that it is better to be feared than loved.
• The Prince also includes advice on the use of military power, the creation of alliances, and the importance of diplomacy.
• Machiavelli argues that a ruler should be prepared to adapt to changing circumstances and should be flexible in their approach to ruling.
• The Prince remains one of the most influential books on political thought, and its ideas have been studied and debated for centuries.
• Machiavelli’s ideas are considered controversial, and the book has been both praised and criticized for its frank and pragmatic approach to politics.
• Despite its controversial nature, The Prince remains an important work in the history of political thought and continues to be widely read and studied. It remains a seminal work on the topic of power and politics and is considered a classic of Western literature.

15. The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde by Robert Louis Stevenson

“The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde” is a classic novella by Robert Louis Stevenson, first published in 1886. It is a tale of mystery and horror that explores the duality of human nature.

Here are the key points of the book:

• The story follows the lawyer, Mr. Utterson, as he investigates the strange case of his friend, Dr. Jekyll, and the evil Mr. Hyde.
• Dr. Jekyll is a respected physician and scientist who has developed a potion that separates the good and evil aspects of his personality.
• The evil Mr. Hyde is the result of this separation, and he is violent, cruel, and completely lacking in moral compass.
• As the story progresses, Mr. Hyde begins to take over Dr. Jekyll’s life, and the good doctor is powerless to stop him.
• The tale ends with the tragic revelation that Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde are the same person, and that the potion has permanently transformed him into the evil Mr. Hyde.
• The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde is considered one of the best examples of the Gothic horror genre, and it has been widely adapted into film, television, and stage productions.
• The novella is also considered an important work of Victorian literature, and it reflects the anxieties and fears of the era.
• The duality of human nature is a central theme of the book, and the story explores the idea that every person has both good and evil within them.

The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde remains a popular and enduring work of fiction, and it continues to be widely read and studied. It is considered a classic of English literature and a seminal work in the horror genre.

16. Chess Story by Stefan Zweig

“Chess Story,” also known as “The Royal Game,” is a novella by the Austrian author Stefan Zweig. First published in 1942, it is a story about the power of chess and its impact on the human spirit.

Here are the key points of the book:

• The story takes place on board an ocean liner, where two chess players, Mirko Czentovic and Dr. B, engage in a series of chess games.
• Mirko Czentovic is a chess prodigy and world champion, while Dr. B is an amateur player who has been practicing chess as a form of escape.
• The two players engage in a series of games that become increasingly intense as Dr. B discovers that Mirko is not just a chess master but a man who has been conditioned to play chess as a way of life.
• The chess games become a metaphor for the larger struggles in life as the two players engage in a battle for dominance and control.
• Through the chess games, Dr. B learns the power of strategy and the importance of using his own mind and creativity to overcome obstacles.

The novella explores themes of individuality, freedom, and the power of the mind, and it highlights the importance of using our own skills and abilities to overcome adversity. Chess Story is considered one of Stefan Zweig’s best works, and it is widely regarded as one of the greatest works of literature. The novella is also a commentary on the political and social events of the time, and it reflects the anxieties and fears of the world in the mid-20th century.

Despite its focus on the game of chess, Chess Story is not just a story about the game, but a story about the human spirit and the power of the mind. It is a timeless work that continues to be widely read and appreciated. So, if you’re one of the book lovers of short stories than definitely give this book a try.

17. Daisy Miller: A Study by Henry James

“Daisy Miller: A Study” is a novella written by Henry James and first published in 1878. The story is set in Europe and revolves around the character of Daisy Miller, a young American woman traveling abroad with her family. The protagonist, Winterbourne, is a wealthy American who is captivated by Daisy’s charm and beauty but also puzzled by her behavior and the scandal that seems to follow her wherever she goes.

The main theme of the story is the conflict between European and American cultures, as Daisy’s freedom and independence clash with the social norms and expectations of European society. Through her character, James explores the societal and cultural differences between the Old World and the New World, as well as the attitudes towards women and their roles in society.

Throughout the story, Daisy’s actions and behavior cause controversy and scandal in European society, leading to her being shunned by many of her acquaintances. Despite this, she remains undeterred and continues to act as she pleases, much to her confusion and frustration with Winterbourne.

In the end, Daisy’s defiance and lack of concern for the opinions of others lead to her untimely death, which serves as a warning to the reader about the dangers of disregarding societal norms. The novella ends with Winterbourne realizing that he was mistaken in his judgment of Daisy and that she was in fact, a “very pretty, innocent, lively young girl.”

“Daisy Miller: A Study” is considered a masterpiece of American literature and is widely regarded as one of James’s greatest works. It remains a popular and relevant story today, as its themes of cultural differences and the struggle for independence continue to resonate with readers.

18. The Alienist by Machado De Assis

“The Alienist” is a novel written by the Brazilian author Machado de Assis and was first published in 1882. The story is set in 19th-century Rio de Janeiro. It follows the experiences of Dr. Simão Bacamarte, a successful and respected psychiatrist who decides to study the human mind and behavior in order to understand the causes of madness.

Bacamarte returns to his hometown and uses the townspeople as subjects for his research, hoping to determine the root cause of their mental illnesses. As he continues his experiments, the townspeople begin to fear him and his work, and rumors of his madness spread. The townspeople’s reactions to Bacamarte’s work become a central theme of the story, as he faces opposition from those who do not understand or agree with his methods.

The novel is known for its wit, irony, and humor, as well as its commentary on the themes of power, knowledge, and the pursuit of truth. Through Bacamarte’s character, Machado de Assis questions the idea of science as a tool for progress and the use of power in the pursuit of knowledge. The novel also explores the relationship between the individual and society, as Bacamarte’s pursuit of knowledge causes him to be isolated and rejected by the community.

In addition to its themes, “The Alienist” is also notable for its unique narrative structure, as the story is told through a series of letters, diary entries, and newspaper articles. This narrative style provides a rich and diverse perspective on the events of the story, giving the reader a unique glimpse into the minds of the characters and their motivations.

“The Alienist” is considered a classic of Brazilian literature and is widely regarded as one of Machado de Assis’s most important works. Its themes of power, knowledge, and the pursuit of truth continue to resonate with readers and make it a relevant novel even today.

19. Larger Than Life by Jodi Picoult

“Larger Than Life” is a novel written by bestselling author Jodi Picoult. The story is centered around a family who, after the death of their father, are left with an elephant named Ellie as the only remaining part of his legacy. Ellie is a magnificent and beloved creature, but she is also an enormous responsibility and a reminder of the father who is no longer there.

As the family tries to navigate their loss and the challenges of caring for Ellie, they begin to learn important lessons about themselves and each other. The main character, who is the mother of the family, must come to terms with her own grief and the changes that have taken place in her life. She finds comfort in her relationship with Ellie and begins to see the world in a different way, learning to appreciate the beauty and majesty of the elephant and the lessons she can teach.

The novel explores themes of grief, loss, and the power of love and family. Picoult writes about the complex relationships that exist within a family and the challenges that can arise when a family member is lost. Through the character of Ellie, the story also highlights the importance of taking care of animals and the responsibility we have to protect them.

“Larger Than Life” is a beautifully written novel that is both touching and captivating. Picoult’s ability to create characters that are both real and relatable, combined with her insights into the human condition, make this book a must-read for fans of contemporary literature. The story is a testament to the power of love, family, and the relationships we build with each other and the animals around us.

20. The Birds’ Christmas Carol by Kate Douglas Wiggin

“The Birds’ Christmas Carol” is a children’s novel written by Kate Douglas Wiggin, originally published in 1887. The book tells the story of Carol Bird, a young girl who is very sick and must stay in bed during the Christmas holiday. Her siblings and friends rally around her, trying to make the holiday special, and in turn, they learn the true meaning of Christmas. The story takes place in a small New England town and focuses on the experiences of Carol and her family, as well as the town’s poor, who are helped by the generosity of the town’s wealthier residents.

Throughout the book, Carol’s health improves, and she learns to appreciate the simple things in life, such as the love and kindness of her family and friends. The story highlights the importance of giving and helping others, as well as the joy that can be found in even the most difficult circumstances. The book also explores themes of family, community, and the true meaning of Christmas.

Lastly, “The Birds’ Christmas Carol” is a heart touching tale that teaches the importance of love, generosity, and selflessness. It is a timeless classic that is sure to warm the hearts of readers of all ages. The book’s enduring popularity is a testament to the power of its message and the enduring appeal of its characters.

Conclusion

In conclusion, short books can offer a wealth of experiences, insights, and entertainment, despite their brevity. Whether you’re looking for a quick escape, a thought-provoking read, or just a fun, lighthearted book to pass the time, there’s something for everyone in the Best Short Books Under 100 Pages list.

From the timeless classic “The Call of the Wild” by Jack London, to the timeless wisdom in “As a Man Thinketh” by James Allen, and the timeless strategy in “The Art of War” by Sun Tzu, these books are sure to leave a lasting impact on your life.

For those looking for a lighthearted and entertaining read, “Who Moved My Cheese” by Spencer Johnson M.D. and “Very Good Lives” by J.K. Rowling offer a perfect perspective. “Tao te Ching” by Laozi and “We Should All Be Feminists” by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie offer thought-provoking insights into the complexities of life and human nature.

Short books like “The Yellow Wallpaper” by Charlotte Perkins Gilman, “Of Mice and Men” by John Steinbeck, and “Antigone” by Sophocles, provide powerful portrayals of human experience and the enduring impact of our choices. And “The Little Prince” by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry and “The Prince” by Nicolo Machiavelli offer timeless lessons on the nature of leadership and power.

In short, the Best Short Books Under 100 Pages list is a diverse collection of books that offer a wide range of experiences and insights, and are sure to leave a lasting impact on your life. So, what are you waiting for? Grab one of these books today mentioned above and see for yourself!

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