TGIF! And Happy Almost Weekend!

Speaking of “weekend,” are you short on time but long on wanting a worthwhile read? Like, something you can start tomorrow and finish by Sunday? Not to fret. Mom and I gotcha covered.

Featuring both fiction and non-fiction titles, the books on this list offer top-notch writing, robust characters, sturdy storylines and/or memorable life lessons and powerful personal accounts. Most are under 200 pages. Most can be read in a day or two. Or less.

In no particular order:

1. A River Runs Through It – Norman Maclean (Fiction/Semi-autobiographical)

Based on Norman Maclean’s growing-up years in Montana, A River Runs through It has established itself as one of the most moving stories of our time. It captivates readers with vivid descriptions of life along Montana’s Big Blackfoot River and its near magical blend of fly fishing with the troubling affections of the heart. An American classic.

2. The Christmas Box – Richard Paul Evans (Fiction)

A widow and a young family share a home and discover the true meaning of love, healing, and the brevity of life during the holiday season. Heartwarming. And not just for Christmas!

3. The Bridges of Madison County – Robert James Waller (Fiction)

The story of Robert Kincaid, a photographer and free spirit searching for the covered bridges of Madison County, Iowa, and Francesca Johnson, the farm wife waiting for the fulfillment of a girlhood dream. A #1 bestseller, the book was made into a movie starring Clint Eastwood and Meryl Streep.

4. The Little Prince – Antoine de Saint-Exupéry (Fiction)

The beloved classic story about a young prince’s travels through space―a profound philosophical tale about loneliness and loss, and love and friendship. This classic fable cherished by adults and children alike.

5. Tuesdays With Morrie – Mitch Albom (Non-fiction)

A bestselling memoir and non-fiction biographical account that packs a punch. Published in 1997, it chronicles the real-life, final conversations between Albom and his former sociology professor, Morrie Schwartz, who was dying from ALS. Poignant and powerful.

6. These Strange Ashes: Is God Still in Charge? – Elisabeth Elliot (Non-fiction)

With fascinating detail, Elliot captures the stark realities of missionary life among the Colorado Indians of Ecuador. She reflects upon the “strange ashes” that can result when an act of obedience is passed through the fires of God’s perfect – yet mysterious – will.

More than a remarkable account of the author’s first year as a missionary, These Strange Ashes is a reflection on the great questions of life as well as a memorable testimony to the realities of authentic Christian commitment. One of the finest, most insightful books we’ve ever read.

7. I Came To Love You Late – Joyce Landorf (Historical Fiction – 221 pages)

Using extensive on-site research and excellent literary skill, Joyce Landorf transports you back in time for an eyewitness view of the Gospel accounts. The author weaves a tenderly perceptive, intensely personal tale as seen through the eyes of Martha — sister to Lazarus and Mary, friend to Jesus.

The story line runs from Martha’s childhood, through the baptism of Jesus, right up to His final ascension after the crucifixion. Experience for yourself the hopes, the doubts, and the sheer amazement that were being expressed throughout Israel about the carpenter from Nazareth.

8. Island of the Blue Dolphins – Scott O’Dell (Historical Fiction)

This Newbery Medal-winning classic is a gripping tale of survival, strength, and courage. Based on the true story of a Nicoleño Indian girl living alone on an island off the coast of California, Island of the Blue Dolphins has captivated readers for generations.

9. Tuck Everlasting – Natalie Babbitt (Fiction)

Doomed to – or blessed with – eternal life after drinking from a magic spring, the Tuck family wanders about trying to live as inconspicuously and comfortably as they can.

When young Winnie Foster stumbles on their secret, the Tucks take her home and explain why living forever at one age is less a blessing that it might seem. Complications arise when Winnie is followed by a stranger who wants to market the spring water for a fortune.

10. Shiloh – Phyllis Reynolds

Marty will go to any lengths to rescue the sweet beagle Shiloh from his cruel owner in this Newbery Medal–winning perennial bestseller by Phyllis Reynolds Naylor, the first in a series.

These are all pour yourself a cuppa, pull up a chair, take a load off and enjoy kinda books that can be read in a day or two. Or less.

What would you add?