6 (Fiction) Books that make great travel buddies

Most people love traveling to new places. The excitement to explore is real. But more often than not, long journeys could mean unbearable boredom. While there are many creative ways to engage oneself during travel hours, my personal favorite has always been reading. Be it 2hrs by train or 24hrs by flight, I have never missed packing a book before I set off. A good book can serve as a great travel buddy, making the journey a lot more fun.

Here is a list of 6 fiction books that I consider great travel companions.

Absolute Power

David Baldacci | Thriller | 550 pages | ~10hrs reading time

Absolute Power is an edge of the seat thriller (literally). It is about a burglar attempt gone awry and the burglar ending up as a witness to one of the worst crimes in the nation. The plot is filled with suspense and action. David Baldacci's engaging writing brings life to the characters. If you haven't watched the movie based on this novel, it sure qualifies as an entertaining travel companion.

The Hitchhikers Guide to the Galaxy

Douglas Adams | Science fiction | 193 pages | ~3hrs reading time

The hitchhikers guide to the galaxy is one ridiculous science fiction. Aliens, spaceships, babel fishes, depressed robots - this book has it all. If you are on a short trip and are looking for a light read, Arthur Dent and Ford Prefect can certainly keep you entertained.  The witty writing style (absurd sometimes) is unique and thoroughly enjoyable!

Paths of Glory

Jeffrey Archer | Fiction | 363 pages | ~5hrs reading time

Paths of Glory is a fictional account of George Mallory's Mt. Everest conquest. The outcome of the historical expedition remains a mystery till date. Many parts of this book would probably fail fact-checks, but the plot is engaging overall. If a trek is in the itinerary of your upcoming trip, this book would leave you totally inspired!

The God of Small Things

Arundhati Roy | Fiction | 340 pages | ~6hrs reading time

Set in the picturesque state of Kerala, The God of Small Things is relatable to most Indians. This book is an experience of its own. Arundhati Roy paints an accurate image of India in 1969, highlighting most of the issues that plagued the society back then. Her writing is clever, witty, and intriguing. It is one of those books that makes you reflect on your thoughts and beliefs.

*Spoiler Alert*  The story has a tragic ending. Pick this only if you are someone who doesn't suffer from severe book hangovers.

All the Light We Cannot See

Anthony Doerr | Fiction | 531 pages | ~8hrs reading time

A well-crafted book that transports you to a different world and makes you share the experiences of every character. Set in the backdrop of World War II the book talks about the lives of a blind girl (Marie Laure) and an orphan boy (Werner). As the title metaphorically suggests, it is one of the many untold stories from the war. 

I thoroughly enjoyed getting lost in the pages of this book. I hope you appreciate it as you sail off to faraway places!

Gone Girl

Gillian Flynn | Thriller | 415 pages | ~9hrs reading time

If you haven't watched the movie yet and would like to read an unputdownable book, here you go. One of the best psychological thriller novels that I have read so far. The story is about a marriage gone wrong and the husband standing by his innocence. Fact-paced, manipulative, and suspense-filled plot make it an impressive read.

A good book can give an altogether new dimension to traveling. On a boring solo business trip or on an exhilarating beach vacation, there is a book for every mood. 

So, which book do you plan to pack on your next trip? While travel seems a distant dream with the current COVID lockdown, there is no harm in planning after all!

Happy Reading! 😁