I Need Suggestions! What’s a Great Book to Read on an Airplane?

My daughter and I are going to London next week. I’m not a huge traveler, but I know that novelty and challenge boost happiness, that new experiences stay in the memory better than familiar experiences, and that shared adventures are a great way to get closer to the people we love. And in case there are traveling challenges along the way, I always comfort myself with the Secret of Adulthood that my mother taught me: The things that go wrong often make the best memories.

Plus I do love London.

But here’s my question: what books should I take? I’ll have a lot of airplane time, and I love to read on airplanes — I get to focus, without interruption, for so long.  Plus I’ll have reading time while we’re there.

What books do you suggest? I have a bunch of books in my stack, but none of them seem right. For instance, I have a lot of books about color, but several of them are extremely heavy, and as obsessed as I am with color, it’s not a subject that I want to read about for five hours straight.

I want a terrific, gripping, beautifully written novel or memoir or book of history.  And I want paperback, so it’s easier to carry.

My husband suggested John Le Carre’s Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy. Thumbs up?

What else would you suggest?

I checked out three e-books from the library (technology is amazing), but I do like to bring physical books as well.

Do you love reading on airplanes? Where’s your favorite place to read?

I’m going to the bookstore this weekend, so make your suggestions quickly!

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