I would say bring both. A beach towel is practical. You need it to sit on the beach, protect your skin from the hot sand, and dry off. A novel book, on the other hand, can add a lot of enjoyment to your beach day. It gives you something to do when you want to take a break from the sun or the water. You can lie on your beach towel and get immersed in the story of the novel book. It's a perfect combination for a relaxing day at the beach.
Both a beach towel and a novel book can be great for a day at the beach. The beach towel is essential for lying on the sand, drying off after a swim, or just wrapping around you if it gets a bit chilly. A novel book can be a wonderful companion, allowing you to relax and get lost in a different world while enjoying the beach scenery. So, it really depends on your personal preference. If you love reading and want some quiet time, the book is a good choice. But if you're more into sunbathing and just lounging, the beach towel is a must - have.