Rapid Reads

Orca Book Publishers is excited to introduce Rapid Reads, a new line of short novels for adult readers. In our increasingly fast-paced world we believe there is a need for well-written, well-told novels that can be read in one sitting. Rapid Reads are intended for a diverse audience, including ESL students, reluctant readers, adults who struggle with literacy and anyone who wants an high-interest short novel.

Rapid Reads focus first and foremost on strong writing and storytelling. We are committed to providing books that will help adults achieve their literacy goals in an interesting and accessible way. Each title in the Rapid Reads series is written between a 2.0 and 4.5 reading level. The plots are contemporary and entertaining, with adult language and themes. Reading guides with plot summaries and discussion questions for all Rapid Read titles are available for free download.

Rapid Reads author Gail Bowen recently discussed her 2010 title, Love You to Death, and the Rapid Reads series. Watch the video to get the inside scoop on Love You to Death.

"The idea behind Rapid Reads…is so simple it’s hard to believe no other Canadian firm thought of it before: to provide reluctant readers with entertaining subject matter they can connect with…" —Quill & Quire

"Plot rather than character driven, easy-to-read, high-interest, and short, about a third the length of a regular novel." —CM Magazine

"The books are intended for readers who simply want a book that can be read in one sitting, but also for readers whose first language is not English and for others struggling with literacy challenges." —Gail Bowen, author of Love You to Death and former teacher to students with literacy issues

Praise for The Middle Ground, by Zoe Whittall

"Whittall’s prose demonstrates vitality and humour as she includes the minutiae of daily life among
the bizarre events in Missy’s adventure…An entertaining read. Recommended." —CM Magazine, April 30, 2010

Praise for The Spider Bites, by Medora Sale

"A well-written and exciting novel. The time frame is condensed, and there are no flashbacks to
confuse the action. The language is simple and the sentences short…The Spider Bites is one of the
first entries in what may well become a large and popular series of easy-read novels. Highly
recommended." —CM Magazine, April 16, 2010


The Barrio Kings by William Kowalski	Love You to Death by Gail Bowen	The Middle Ground by Zoe Whittall	The Spider Bites by Medora Sale


One Fine Day You're Gonna Die by Gail Bowen	That Dog Won't Hunt by Lou Allin	The Way It Works by William Kowalski