Short Books You Can ACTUALLY Read in a Day.

Summary

This video script offers a curated list of short books that can be read in a day, perfect for those seeking quick yet impactful reads. The speaker shares personal experiences with various titles, including classics like 'Of Mice and Men' and 'Animal Farm', contemporary fiction, and even plays. The emphasis is on the power of brevity in storytelling and the joy of discovering new authors or genres in a short time frame. The script also touches on the use of Skillshare for enhancing writing skills and the importance of exploring different literary forms.

Takeaways

• 📚 The speaker has an affinity for short books, especially when exploring new authors or not wanting to commit to a long read.
• 🕒 They believe that the books listed can be read within a day, differing from other 'one day read' lists that may overestimate the average reader's pace.
• 🎨 The 'Penguin Little Black Classics' series is highlighted for its successful presentation of short stories.
• 👤 'The Nose' by Nikolai Gogol is mentioned as an example of an absurdist short story that can be consumed in a day.
• 📖 The speaker appreciates short novels by authors like John Steinbeck, specifically mentioning 'Of Mice and Men' for its brevity and impact.
• 🐷 'Animal Farm' by George Orwell is recommended as a classic that can be read in a day and offers deep societal commentary.
• 👥 'Passing' by Nella Larsen is noted for its quick pace and introspective narrative, suitable for a day's read.
• 🐾 'Flush: A Biography' by Virginia Woolf offers a light-hearted and fluffy read from a dog's perspective, perfect for a day's enjoyment.
• 📚 The importance of brevity in storytelling is discussed, with the speaker's quest to find resources to write impactful short stories.
• 🎨 Skillshare is recommended as a platform for learning, with specific mention of a 'Writing Short Fiction' course that the speaker found helpful.
• 🔍 The script concludes with a discussion on the power of short stories and thrillers, with 'Sharp Objects' by Gillian Flynn suggested as a compelling read.

Q & A

What is the main theme of the video script?

The main theme of the video script is a discussion about short books that can be read in a day, including the presenter's personal recommendations and experiences with various titles.

Why does the speaker have a special affinity for short books?

The speaker has a special affinity for short books because they are ideal for when they are in a particular mood, not familiar with the author, or do not want to commit to a longer reading session.

What does the speaker consider when evaluating if a book can be read in a day?

The speaker considers the book's length, the reading pace of an average reader, and whether the book can convey its intended message and be fully appreciated within a day.

Which publishing house does the speaker mention for honoring short stories effectively?

The speaker mentions Penguin Little Black Editions as the publishing house that has successfully honored short stories.

What is the title of the Nikolai Gogol's story mentioned in the script?

The title of the Nikolai Gogol's story mentioned is 'The Nose'.

What is the speaker's opinion on 'Of Mice and Men' by John Steinbeck?

The speaker considers 'Of Mice and Men' a powerful and impactful story that benefits from its brevity, allowing for fully crafted characters and a devastating story within a short time frame.

Which classic book by George Orwell did the speaker read in a day?

The speaker read 'Animal Farm' by George Orwell in a day.

What is the name of the short story collection by Miranda July?

The name of the short story collection by Miranda July is 'No One Belongs Here More Than You'.

Why does the speaker believe plays can be enjoyed like novels?

The speaker believes plays can be enjoyed like novels because they allow the reader to formulate imagery in their head, providing a more immersive and personal experience.

What is the speaker's recommendation for a thriller that can be read in a day?

The speaker recommends 'Sharp Objects' by Gillian Flynn as a thriller that can be read in a day due to its compelling narrative and desire to know the ending.