My partner (24M) dropped out of high school and likely hasn’t read a book since middle school. Meanwhile, I (25F) read comfortably at a college level.
He recently offered to try one of my hobbies since I’ve been helping him with one of his, and we decided to read a book together.
We’re looking for something with simple language and an engaging plot—something he can follow without getting frustrated. It also shouldn’t be too long.
I was thinking of books like Percy Jackson or Flowers for Algernon. It can’t feel too childish, though, since he’s an adult. Any suggestions?
So not too long (max 250-300 pages), not very complex, and simplified words
by HeavySigh14
6 Comments
John Scalzi’s **Starter Villain** is the most entertaining book I’ve read recently. It’s a spoof of the early James Bond movies. A substitute teacher inherits his estranged uncle’s villainy which comes complete with a secret volcanic lair.
It’s an easy read; much of it is dialogue.
{{Magpie Murders by Anthony Horowitz}} (EDIT: 512 pages, doesn’t meet your length criteria)
{{Where The Crawdads Sing by Delia Owens}}
{{Stoner by John Williams}}
Watership Down. If you can get over “it’s bunnies,” it’s a gripping story.
The Traveler’s Gate Trilogy by Will Wight. Magic is used by calling energy and creatures from other worlds called territories. People who can draw from their territories are called travelers. The first book in the series is House of Blades.
The Sheriff Bo Tully series by Patrick McManus. An Idaho sheriff solves crimes. The first book in the series is The Blight Way.
The Martian may be a good shout.
Penpal by Dathan Auerbach could be an option, fairly easy but very engaging horror book (not super scary, more of a dreadful feeling once you understand what is happening).