Short books for when the train ride is long enough for a story

Dear reader,

There’s just something about a short book, isn’t there? A whole world folded neatly into a few pages, light enough to slip into your work bag, pocket, or even carry in your hand like a secret. They’re companions for train rides, coffee breaks, or those small pockets of time that open up when you least expect them. Here are a few that have stayed with me:

Detaljerna – Ia Genberg

I read this one on the train to and from Copenhagen, the landscape rushing by while I sank into its quiet reflections. It lingers on the question: who is really being portrayed, the subject, or the one holding the brush?

We live so many lives inside our lives, smaller lives with people coming and going, friends disappearing, children growing up, and I never understand which of my lives is the actual frame.

Small Things Like These – Claire Keegan

I have mentioned this book before but that was before I read it. It is cosy yet serious. It's about courage and compassion and doing what is right.

It is 1985 in a small Irish town. During the weeks leading up to Christmas, Bill Furlong, a coal merchant and family man faces his busiest season. Early one morning, while delivering an order to the local convent, Bill makes a discovery which forces him to confront his past and the complicit silences of a town controlled by the church.

Intimations – Zadie Smith

Six essays, written as the world held its breath in 2020. They are an attempt to order thoughts and feelings when order seemed impossible.

There will be many books written about the year 2020: historical, analytic, political and comprehensive accounts. This is not any of those - the year isn't halfway done.

Persuasion – Jane Austen

Simply, a second chance at love.

The story of Anne Elliot, who, persuaded to break off her engagement to the man she loved because he was not successful enough, has never forgotten him. When he returns, he brings with him a tantalising second chance at happiness.