Let’s cut through the noise. You’ve probably heard the term “novella” tossed around in book clubs or writing circles. Maybe you’re wondering: What is a novella, really? Is it just a short novel? A long short story? Why do some writers swear by it?
I’m here to break it down for you—no jargon, no fluff. Think of this as a casual chat over coffee. By the end, you’ll know exactly what a novella is, why it’s so powerful, and how it might just be the perfect format for your next read (or writing project).
What Exactly Is a Novella? Let’s Define It
A novella is a prose narrative that sits between a short story and a novel. Think of it as the “Goldilocks zone” of storytelling: not too short, not too long, but just right for delivering a punchy, focused tale.
- Word count: Roughly 20,000–40,000 words (about 60–120 pages).
- Structure: Tight plot, minimal subplots, and a small cast of characters.
- Purpose: Explores one central theme or conflict with laser focus.
The term comes from the Italian novella (meaning “new” or “little new thing”), popularised by classics like Boccaccio’s The Decameron. But don’t let the history lesson fool you—this format is far from outdated.
Why Length Matters (But Isn’t Everything)
Here’s the thing: word counts are a guideline, not a rule. A novella’s magic lies in its efficiency. Unlike novels, which sprawl with subplots and world-building, novellas cut straight to the heart.
- Short story vs. novella: Short stories are under 20k words and often focus on a single moment. Novellas dig deeper, giving characters room to evolve.
- Novella vs. novel: Novels (50k+ words) build expansive worlds. Novellas? They’re like a sniper rifle—precise, intense, and impactful.
Example: Kafka’s The Metamorphosis (104 pages) packs a lifetime of existential dread into one bizarre morning. You finish it in a sitting, but it sticks with you for years.
A Quick History Lesson (Without the Boring Bits)
Novellas aren’t new. They’ve been slaying the game since the 14th century:
- 1300s: Boccaccio’s The Decameron used novellas to frame stories of love, betrayal, and survival.
- 1800s: German writers like Goethe perfected the Novelle—tight tales with a “twist” (e.g., a shocking event).
- 1900s: Steinbeck’s Of Mice and Men and Orwell’s Animal Farm proved novellas could tackle big themes (inequality, power) in small packages.
Today, they’re thriving in sci-fi, romance, and indie publishing. Why? Because busy readers crave big emotions, fast.
The Secret Sauce of a Novella
What makes a novella work? Let’s get tactical:
- One Central Idea
No room for tangents. Pick a theme (grief, rebellion, identity) and drill into it. Example: Camus’ The Stranger explores absurdism through a man’s detached response to his mother’s death. - A Compact Timeline
Span a few days, not decades. The pressure of a ticking clock heightens tension. Example: Ian McEwan’ On Chesil Beach unravels a marriage in a single night. - Transformative Moments
Focus on events that change the protagonist forever. Think of it as a “before and after” snapshot. - Lean, Mean Writing
Every sentence must earn its place. Cut filler like a chef trims fat.
“But Why Should I Read/Write a Novella?”
Glad you asked. Here’s why novellas are worth your time:
- For Readers: Perfect for a commute or lazy Sunday. You get the depth of a novel without the 400-page commitment.
- For Writers: Ideal for testing bold ideas. Not ready to write a trilogy? Start with a novella.
- For Thinkers: Their brevity forces authors to simplify complex themes. You get clarity without oversimplification.
Pro Tip: Many iconic films (Brokeback Mountain, Rita Hayworth and Shawshank Redemption) are based on novellas. They’re Hollywood’s secret weapon for adaptable stories.
FAQs About Novellas
Q: Can a novella be part of a series?
Absolutely! Many sci-fi/fantasy authors use novellas to expand their universes (e.g., N.K. Jemisin’s The Broken Earth novellas).
Q: Are novellas harder to publish?
Traditionally, yes—publishers often prefer novels. But indie authors and digital platforms (Kindle, Kobo) have made it easier.
Q: How do I know if my idea is a novella vs. a novel?
Ask: Can this story be told in under 40k words without feeling rushed? If yes, novella. If no, outline a novel.
Q: What’s the most famous novella?
George Orwell’s Animal Farm. It’s short, savage, and taught in schools worldwide.
Ready to Dive In? Start Here
If you’re new to novellas, try these classics:
- The Metamorphosis by Franz Kafka (existential crisis, insect edition).
- Breakfast at Tiffany’s by Truman Capote (not just a movie!).
- The Ballad of Black Tom by Victor LaValle (Lovecraftian horror with a twist).
Or, if you’re writing one:
- Outline ruthlessly. Know your ending before you start.
- Kill your darlings. If a scene doesn’t serve the core theme, scrap it.
- Aim for emotional whiplash. Leave readers breathless.
So, What Is a Novella? Let’s Recap
A novella is concentrated storytelling. It’s the espresso shot of literature—small but potent. Whether you’re a time-crunched reader or a writer honing your craft, novellas offer a unique blend of brevity and depth.
And hey, in a world drowning in content, sometimes less really is more.
Final Thought: Grab a novella today. Read it. Write it. Let it remind you that great stories don’t need 500 pages—just a damn good idea.
