When you start looking at the novella as a distinct form, there are some works which can’t be ignored. These 7 modern classics under 200 pages make for an essential addition to your bookshelf.
1. The Vegetarian by Han Kang
"Time was a wave, almost cruel in its relentlessness as it whisked her life downstream, a life she had to constantly strain to keep from breaking apart."
Yeong-hye decides to stop eating meat after experiencing several grotesque nightmares. In South Korea where vegetarianism is almost unheard of, this simple act of defiance against the norm kickstarts a disturbing spiral, into a narrative filled with desire, constraints and shame. This novella won the Man Booker International in 2016 and picked up a dedicated following on social media.
2. Animal Farm by George Orwell
"All animals are equal, but some animals are more equal than others."
A gripping story of farm yard animals who rise against their human dictators. What starts as a vision of utopia, soon reveals itself to be another form of dictatorship, as the pigs of the farm take control. A slim volume that packs a lot in. This satirical work talks about truth, power, language and government – all through the medium of life on a farm. One of Orwells most well-known books alongside 1984, Animal Farm is often listed as one the best books ever written, and it’s only 100 pages long!
3. Breakfast at Tiffanys by Truman Capote
"What I’ve found does the most good is just to get into a taxi and go to Tiffany’s."
In an interview with Playboy in 1968, Truman Capote described his central character, Holly Golightly, as an “American Geisha”. That phrase accurately describes the brilliant protagonist who occupies the 1940s New York social scene, socialising with wealthy men in exchange for a life in restaurants and clubs, with gifts of money and jewellery. Holly was brilliantly brought to life by the iconic Audrey Hepburn in the 1961 film adaptation.
4. Of Mice and Men by John Steinbeck
"Lennie—if you jus’ happen to get in trouble like you always done before, I want you to come right here an’ hide in the brush… Hide in the brush till I come for you.."
George and Lennie are two migrant ranch workers travelling California during the Great Depression in search of employment. Lennie is a large man who doesn’t know his strength at times, and George acts as his protector. Together they dream of owning some land – a place where Lennie can raise and pet rabbits. Of Mice and Men is a beautifully distilled look at two men who share a special friendship.
5. Passing by Nella Larsen
"She belonged in this land of rising towers. She was an American. She grew from this soil, and she would not be uprooted.."
A chance encounter between two old friends leaves Clare Kendry questioning her decision to cut all ties from her past. Her fair complexion means she can successfully “pass” as European, leaving her white husband unaware of his wife’s true African-American heritage. A stunning novel; the depth of exploration has led it to become an influential work in academic discussions of race, gender and sexuality.
6. Things Fall Apart by Chinua Achebe
"Okonkwo was not a man of thought but a man of action."
Okonkwo is a warrior of the Umuofia clan – part of the Ibo tribe in Nigeria. His identity is wrapped up in his position as a clan leader, warrior, father and provider. Trying to maintain his position amidst tribe customs and the arrival of colonial missionaries, brings about long-standing consequences for the man, the tribe and the country. Things Fall Apart is a fantastic novella which immerses the reader in the culture of the Ibo tribe, and the tragic narrative of Okonkwo.
7. The Great Gatsby by F Scott Fitzgerald
"And so with the sunshine and the great bursts of leaves growing on the trees, just as things grow in fast movies, I had that familiar conviction that life was beginning over again with the summer."
Gatsby is a mysterious millionaire, surrounded by rumours. His Long Island home is a playground for all of New York, but Gatsby only has eyes for one girl. A brilliant American money novel – The Great Gatsby has become synonymous with the energy and excitement of the 1920s jazz age, helped by Baz Luhrmanns’s brilliant 2013 film The Great Gatsby. It also features one of the best narrators in the character of Nick Carraway, as he relates the tale of meeting Mr Gatsby one summer.
Conclusion
Adding these 7 modern classics under 200 pages to your bookshelf will certainly put you in good stead when anyone needs a great novella recommendation.
Which of these 7 have you read already? Have you added any to your to be read list? Let everyone know in the comments below.