Are there any mystery novels in the literary canon?

Mystery novels deserve a place in the literary canon because they engage readers' minds, challenging them to solve puzzles and think critically. They also often explore complex human nature and societal issues within their thrilling plots.

The main priorities for novels in the canon could be their artistic quality, thematic relevance, and the author's mastery of narrative techniques. A novel that combines compelling storytelling with profound themes and elegant prose is more likely to earn a place in the canon.

One example is 'Maus' by Art Spiegelman. It's a powerful graphic novel that tells the story of the Holocaust through the use of animals to represent different groups. Another is 'Watchmen' by Alan Moore. It deconstructs the superhero genre and is considered a classic in the world of graphic novels. 'Persepolis' by Marjane Satrapi is also part of the literary canon. It gives an intimate look at life in Iran during and after the Islamic Revolution.

Among the existential novels in the literary canon are 'The Plague' by Albert Camus and 'Kafka on the Shore' by Haruki Murakami. These novels often present characters grappling with existential questions and the uncertainties of life, offering profound insights into the human experience.

One of the best is 'The Great Gatsby' by F. Scott Fitzgerald. It's a mystery in the sense of the enigma surrounding Gatsby's true self, his past, and his intentions. The allure of the Jazz Age and the complex characters add to the mystery.

Literary canon graphic novels contribute in multiple ways. They expand the forms of storytelling. For instance, they can convey complex ideas and emotions through a combination of words and images. They also reach a wider audience, including those who might be more drawn to visual mediums. This helps to bring literature to new demographics.

The canon is important because it showcases the diversity of voices in antebellum America. Some novels in it were written by female authors, like Harriet Beecher Stowe. These works were not only literary creations but also tools for social change. They helped to shape the national conversation about issues such as the role of women in society, as well as the moral and ethical implications of slavery and other economic systems.

Well, there's 'The Plot' which is a really good new literary mystery novel. It plays with the idea of a writer stealing a plot and all the mystery that unfolds from there. Then there's 'The Chain' which is quite thrilling, with a disturbing premise of a chain - letter - like kidnapping mystery. Also, 'The Guest List' by Lucy Foley is a great addition to the new mystery novels, set in an isolated location full of secrets.

One of the well - known literary agents for mystery novels is Sandra Dijkstra. Her agency has a good track record in representing mystery authors and getting their works noticed. Another is Donald Maass. His agency offers great support to mystery writers in terms of manuscript development and marketing.

One common device is foreshadowing. For example, an author might mention a small detail early on, like a strange mark on a door, which later turns out to be crucial to solving the mystery. Another is red herrings. These are false clues that mislead the reader and the characters in the story. Suspense is also a key device. The author builds it up by creating a sense of impending danger or an unanswered question that keeps the reader turning the pages.