10 Classic Books That Are Surprisingly Short But Will Stick With You Forever

When we think of classic literature, we generally envision dense, forbidding tomes that take weeks, if not months, to complete. However, not all masterpieces demand such a substantial time commitment. Some of the most deep and enduring pieces of literature are unexpectedly short but powerful. These books, despite their modest length, leave a lasting impression, conveying powerful themes and telling fascinating stories in just a few pages. Here are 10 classic books that, while brief, will stick with you long after you've finished reading them.Also Read:

1. The Metamorphosis by Franz Kafka Page Count: ~100 pagesFranz Kafka's 'The Metamorphosis' depicts the strange and frightening story of Gregor Samsa, a man who wakes up one morning to discover himself changed into a huge insect. As ludicrous as the concept may appear, Kafka utilises it to examine themes of alienation, family dynamics, and identity. Despite being only about 100 pages long, this novella is densely filled with significance, leaving readers thinking about what it means to be human long after they've finished the book. 2. Of Mice and Men by John SteinbeckPage Count: ~107 pages'Of Mice and Men' by John Steinbeck is a short but devastatingly effective story about friendship, dreams, and the brutal realities of life during the Great Depression. The story follows George and Lennie, two displaced ranch hands, as they seek security and chase their ambition of owning land. Steinbeck's plain, clear style, along with the tragic ending, make this a truly moving work that reminds us of the fragility of hopes and human connections.

3. Animal Farm by George OrwellPage Count: ~112 pagesGeorge Orwell's 'Animal Farm' is a satirical allegory about the Russian Revolution and the development of Stalinism. Through the viewpoint of farm animals toppling their human owners, Orwell investigates themes of power, corruption, and political manipulation. The book's brevity does not weaken its power; in just over 100 pages, Orwell delivers a terrifying criticism of totalitarianism that is still pertinent today. 4. The Stranger by Albert CamusPage Count: ~123 pages'The Stranger' by Albert Camus depicts the narrative of Meursault, an emotionally detached man who becomes entangled in a senseless murder. Camus investigates issues of absurdity, alienation, and the meaning (or lack thereof) of existence from Meursault's indifferent and existential standpoint. This novella's simple writing and philosophical profundity will make readers reconsider their own perspectives on life, purpose, and morality. 5. The Old Man and the Sea by Ernest Hemingway Page Count: ~127 pagesErnest Hemingway's 'The Old Man and the Sea' is a beautifully simple yet deep narrative about an elderly fisherman's effort to catch a massive marlin in the Gulf Stream. Hemingway's long war with the fish serves as a metaphor for issues such as endurance, pride, and the human condition. The novel's length, along with Hemingway's trademark austere writing style, makes it an easy read, but its themes of resolve and solitude linger long after the story is finished.

6. The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald Page Count: ~180 pagesDespite being longer than some of the other entries on our list, 'The Great Gatsby' is a relatively short classic novel with a powerful emotional impact. F. Scott Fitzgerald's novel, set in the Roaring Twenties, addresses themes of money, class, love, and the American Dream through Jay Gatsby's sad tragedy. At little under 200 pages, it's a quick read, but its examination of ambition, idealism, and the illusion of the American Dream makes an indelible effect. 7. The Death of Ivan Ilyich by Leo TolstoyPage Count: ~86 pagesLeo Tolstoy's book 'The Death of Ivan Ilyich' delves into the existential crises of a high-ranking judge, Ivan Ilyich, as he faces his impending death. Tolstoy explores subjects such as mortality, the meaning of life, and the superficiality of social standing. Despite its brief length, this novella is a profoundly affecting and philosophical exploration of life and death, leading readers to consider their own lives and what truly matters. 8. Breakfast at Tiffany's by Truman CapotePage Count: ~160 pagesTruman Capote's 'Breakfast at Tiffany's' introduces readers to Holly Golightly, one of literature's most famous characters. The novella is set in 1940s New York City and chronicles the narrator's fascination with the free-spirited, enigmatic Holly. Holly's charm masks a deeper investigation of loneliness, identity, and the search for happiness. Capote's humorous and heartbreaking writing makes this short novel unforgettable and will stay with you. 9. Siddhartha by Hermann HessePage Count: ~152 pagesHermann Hesse's 'Siddhartha' is a philosophical novel about a young man's spiritual quest for enlightenment. Set in ancient India, the book follows Siddhartha as he navigates wealth, poverty, love, and asceticism in his journey for deeper understanding. Hesse's beautiful style and the novel's examination of self-discovery, wisdom, and inner serenity make it a timeless and transformative read, despite its short length.

10. Fahrenheit 451 by Ray BradburyPage Count: ~158 pagesFahrenheit 451 by Ray Bradbury is a dystopian tale set in a future where books are outlawed and "firemen" are tasked with destroying them. Guy Montag, a fireman, begins to question the repressive society in which he lives and the purpose of his job. Bradbury's themes of censorship, knowledge, and conformity serve as a striking critique of a society that strives to control ideas. Despite its small length, 'Fahrenheit 451' is a disturbing and thought-provoking read that leaves an impression long after the last page. Read More: These classic books demonstrate that you don't need hundreds of pages to convey a story with enduring impact. Each of these pieces is brief yet provides profound insights into the human condition, focussing on topics such as love, power, identity, and purpose. Whether you want a quick weekend read or a book that will stick with you for years, these classics are well worth your time.