Novellas! Novellas are the perfect size to be read in one night.
If you’ve read any of my work, you know that I enjoy writing novellas. And if you haven’t read them yet, here is a link to my free one:
Why do I like novellas? Maybe it’s my ADHD, or maybe it’s because, like most of us, I’m always short on time. Regardless, there are several great reasons why novellas are the perfect bite-sized read.
The Magic of Consuming a Novella in a Single Night
Reading a novella is a small investment of time that provides a special combination of fulfillment, profundity, and closure that longer works or episodic digital media simply can’t match. Here are some reasons why spending an evening with a novella is a habit worth adopting.
Instant Gratification Meets Depth
Short books and novellas provide the perfect middle ground between a lengthy novel and a short story. They’re compact enough to be consumed in a few hours, yet they possess enough substance to offer a deep, immersive experience. This balance allows you to achieve a sense of completion and satisfaction in just one night, a rare commodity in today’s fragmented media landscape — and perfect for when you need to add a few titles to a reading challenge.
A Journey of Emotion and Insight
Despite their brevity, novellas are powerful vessels for storytelling. In a single evening, a reader can traverse a wide spectrum of emotions, dive into complex characters, and explore intricate plots that novels spend hundreds of pages developing. This intense, condensed journey can leave a lasting impression, often inviting reflection and insight that endures well beyond the final page.
Discovering New Voices and Perspectives
Short books and novellas are often the domain of emerging authors (like myself) or those experimenting with new styles and themes. Setting aside an evening to explore these works allows for the discovery of unique voices and perspectives. Think of it as an adventure, a chance to step outside your comfort zone and experience a new author or fictional world.
The Perfect Literary Palate Cleanser
If you’re an avid reader entrenched in lengthy novels or dense non-fiction, a novella can serve as the perfect palate cleanser. It allows you to cleanse your literary taste buds with a complete narrative arc without the commitment required by longer works. This can be especially refreshing when you are experiencing reader’s block or looking to transition between heavier themes or genres.
Conclusion
In summary, spending an evening with a novella is more than just a reading exercise; it’s a celebration of the art of storytelling, a mental health retreat, and a way to enrich your perspective through the exploration of diverse voices. So, the next time you find yourself with a free evening, consider picking up a short book or novella. It might just be the perfect way to spend your night, offering a complete, fulfilling experience that stays with you long after the story ends.
Janet Koops 