If you’ve booked that international flight, and packed your bags, there’s one crucial thing you can’t forget: your in-flight entertainment. Sure, movies and podcasts are great, but there’s something special about getting lost in a good book while soaring through the skies. I have been an avid reader since I was a child and still enjoy a good story. Here’s your ultimate guide to picking the perfect books for your next long flight, with a little nod to my favorite author, Christopher Pike.
Book Recommendations by Genre
Now, let’s get to the fun part: picking the books! Here are some recommendations across various genres to keep you entertained on your flight.
Mystery/Thriller
- “The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo” by Stieg Larsson: This novel follows journalist Mikael Blomkvist and hacker Lisbeth Salander as they uncover dark family secrets. It’s a fast-paced thriller that will keep you on the edge of your seat.
- “Sharp Objects” by Gillian Flynn: A psychological thriller about a journalist who returns to her hometown to cover a series of brutal murders. Flynn’s writing is dark and twisted, perfect for fans of complex characters and eerie settings.
- “The Big Sleep” by Raymond Chandler: Enter the world of private detective Philip Marlowe. This classic noir novel is full of witty dialogue, complex plots, and a moody atmosphere that’s hard to resist.
Science Fiction/Fantasy
- “Dune” by Frank Herbert: Set in a distant future in a huge interstellar empire, “Dune” is a masterpiece of world-building. Follow the story of Paul Atreides as he navigates political intrigue, desert survival, and mystical powers on the desert planet of Arrakis.
- “The Name of the Wind” by Patrick Rothfuss: This fantasy novel tells the story of Kvothe, a magically gifted young man who grows up to become a legend. It’s a tale that blends adventure, romance, and a touch of mystery.
- “Thirsty” by Christopher Pike: A dark thriller about a teenager who discovers she is a vampire. Pike’s writing is imaginative and full of suspense, making it a great choice for fans of supernatural fiction.
Romance
- “Me Before You” by Jojo Moyes: This romance follows the relationship between Louisa Clark and Will Traynor. It’s a story about love, loss, and finding the courage to live life fully.
- “Pride and Prejudice” by Jane Austen: A timeless classic that never gets old. Follow Elizabeth Bennet as she navigates societal expectations, family dynamics, and her evolving relationship with the enigmatic Mr. Darcy.
- “The Hating Game” by Sally Thorne: A fun, flirty romance about two coworkers who start off as rivals but slowly realize there might be more to their relationship than meets the eye. It’s a light-hearted read that’s perfect for a long flight.
Non-Fiction
- “Becoming” by Michelle Obama: An intimate and inspiring memoir from the former First Lady. Michelle Obama shares her journey from her childhood in Chicago to her years in the White House, offering insights into her personal and public life.
- “Sapiens: A Brief History of Humankind” by Yuval Noah Harari: This thought-provoking book explores the history of our species, from the emergence of Homo sapiens in the Stone Age to the present day. It’s packed with fascinating insights and big ideas.
- “Educated” by Tara Westover: A powerful memoir about a young woman who grows up in a strict and abusive household in rural Idaho and eventually escapes to pursue education. It’s a testament to the transformative power of education and resilience.
Horror
- “The Shining” by Stephen King: A classic that will give you chills. Follow the story of Jack Torrance and his family as they spend the winter in the isolated Overlook Hotel, where sinister forces drive Jack to madness.
- “Bird Box” by Josh Malerman: A terrifying page-turner set in a post-apocalyptic world where people must blindfold themselves to avoid seeing mysterious entities that drive them to violence. It’s a gripping and suspenseful read.
- “Remember Me” by Christopher Pike: A haunting story about a girl who dies under mysterious circumstances and returns as a ghost to solve her own murder. Pike’s blend of horror and mystery makes this a compelling read.
Young Adult
- “The Hunger Games” by Suzanne Collins: This action-packed dystopian novel follows Katniss Everdeen as she competes in a brutal televised competition. It’s an addictive read with strong characters and a gripping plot.
- “Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone” by J.K. Rowling: Perfect for a magical escape, this book introduces us to the world of Harry Potter, a young wizard who discovers his heritage and attends Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry.
- “The Last Vampire” by Christopher Pike: A compelling series about Sita, a 5,000-year-old vampire. Pike’s storytelling is vivid and full of twists, making it an engaging read for young adult readers.
Buying Books at the Airport
Let’s start with an obvious option—buying books at the airport. It’s convenient, especially if you’re a last-minute packer (no judgment here). Airport bookstores usually have a decent selection of bestsellers, travel guides, and light reads. Plus, there’s something about browsing the shelves that adds to the excitement of your journey.
Pros
- Convenience: Forgot to pack a book? No worries! Airport bookstores are perfect for last-minute purchases.
- Curated Selection: These stores often stock the latest bestsellers, travel essentials, and trending reads, so you’re likely to find something that catches your eye.
- Instant Gratification: There’s no waiting for downloads or deliveries. You can start reading as soon as you purchase.
Cons
- Higher Prices: Books at airports can be pricier than those bought online or at regular bookstores.
- Limited Selection: While there’s a good range, it’s nowhere near the vast selection you’d find online.
Online Book Services
If you’re more of a digital nomad or just prefer having a library at your fingertips, online book services are a game-changer. Here are a few options to consider:
Kindle by Amazon
The Kindle app is a must-have for book lovers. It offers millions of titles, from the latest bestsellers to hidden gems in every genre imaginable. With Kindle Unlimited, you can get access to thousands of books, audiobooks, and magazines for a monthly fee. It’s available on Kindle devices as well as smartphones, tablets, and computers, so you can read anywhere.
Audible
For those who prefer listening to their books, Audible is your best bet. It has an extensive library of audiobooks, including exclusive content and podcasts. The app is user-friendly, and with a subscription, you get monthly credits to download any book you like. Perfect for when you want to close your eyes and let the story come to life.
Apple Books
Apple Books is seamlessly integrated with all Apple devices, making it a convenient choice for iPhone, iPad, and Mac users. The store offers a wide range of books and audiobooks, and the reading experience is enhanced with features like customizable fonts and themes.
Google Play Books
Android users will find Google Play Books an excellent choice. It offers a vast array of titles and integrates well with all your devices. The app supports both ebooks and audiobooks, and you can even upload your own PDF and EPUB files.
Scribd
Scribd is often called the Netflix of books. For a monthly fee, you get unlimited access to books, audiobooks, magazines, and even sheet music. It’s perfect for voracious readers who want a variety of content at their fingertips.
Final Thoughts
No matter your reading preference, there’s a book out there to make your flight fly by. Whether you’re picking up a paperback at the airport or downloading a digital copy to your device, having a great book is the best way to make the most of your travel time. And if you haven’t yet, give Christopher Pike a try—his books are perfect for getting lost in another world.
Safe travels!
