13 best readers digest condensed books

Reader's Digest Condensed Books, often referred to simply as Reader's Digest Select Editions, were a series of anthologies published by Reader's Digest Association. These books were popular in the mid to late 20th century and catered to a wide range of readers, including those interested in historical and romance novels. Here's what you should know about Reader's Digest Condensed Books:

1. Publication Format: Reader's Digest Condensed Books were published in a unique format. Each volume contained a selection of condensed versions of popular novels, typically four or five in each book. These novels were carefully selected from a variety of genres, including historical fiction and romance.

2. Condensation Process: The novels featured in Reader's Digest Condensed Books were condensed to reduce their length while retaining the core elements of the story. Skilled editors worked to maintain the plot, character development, and essential themes of the original novels.

3. Genres Covered: Reader's Digest Condensed Books covered a wide range of genres, including historical novels that explored different time periods and settings. They also included romance novels that focused on relationships and love stories.

4. Popular Authors: Many well-known authors had their works featured in these condensed volumes. This included both established authors and emerging writers, making the books a platform for discovering new talent.

5. Reading Convenience: Reader's Digest Condensed Books were designed to provide readers with a convenient way to enjoy a variety of novels in a single volume. This format was particularly popular among readers who wanted to read multiple books without committing to lengthy novels.

6. Global Reach: Reader's Digest Condensed Books were distributed internationally and were available in multiple languages, making them accessible to a global audience.

7. Popularity: These books were highly popular during their peak in the mid-20th century, and they were often found in libraries and on bookshelves in many households.

8. Legacy: While the popularity of condensed books has waned in recent years, Reader's Digest Condensed Books remain a notable part of literary history. Some readers have fond memories of discovering new authors and enjoying abridged versions of beloved novels through these collections.

In summary, Reader's Digest Condensed Books were anthologies that featured condensed versions of popular novels from various genres, including historical and romance fiction. They provided a convenient way for readers to enjoy a diverse selection of stories in a single volume and played a significant role in the reading habits of many people during the mid to late 20th century.