What makes the best Steinbeck novels so great?

Well, Steinbeck's best short stories are special for multiple reasons. His use of language is masterful. He can convey deep emotions and complex ideas in a simple yet profound way. His stories are also deeply rooted in the real - world experiences of people, whether it's the poor fisherman in 'The Pearl' or the workers in 'Cannery Row'. He has a unique ability to make the reader care about the characters and their fates, no matter how short the story is.

The baseball stories probably.

The world - building. Tolkien created an entire world in Middle - earth that is so detailed and immersive. In The Lord of the Rings, for example, you can almost feel like you're walking through the Shire or the Mines of Moria. Every location has its own history, culture, and inhabitants.

The best crime novels often have complex and engaging plots. For example, in 'Gone Girl', the plot twists are so unexpected that it keeps you guessing throughout. They also usually have interesting characters. In 'The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo', Lisbeth Salander is a unique and multi - faceted character. Another factor is the atmosphere. 'In Cold Blood' creates a really chilling and immersive atmosphere.

Well, the best fanfiction often has really engaging characters. It takes the existing characters from the original work and gives them new depth and development. For example, it might explore a character's backstory that wasn't fully covered in the original. Also, it usually has a unique plot. Instead of just repeating the same old story, it twists and turns in unexpected ways, making it exciting to read. And the writing style can be a big factor too. If it's well - written with good grammar and vivid descriptions, it draws readers in.

Well, in my opinion, it's often the characters. In the best novel, the characters are vivid and multi - dimensional. They feel like real people with their own flaws, dreams, and desires. For example, in 'Pride and Prejudice', Elizabeth Bennet is so well - crafted. Her wit and independence make her a memorable character. Also, the plot of the best novel is usually engaging. It has twists and turns that keep you hooked from start to finish. And the writing style, it should be elegant and flow well, making it a pleasure to read.

I think 'The Grapes of Wrath' is a top Steinbeck novel. It's a masterpiece that makes you feel the pain and hope of the people during that difficult time. 'Of Mice and Men' is also excellent. The relationship between George and Lennie is so moving. Additionally, 'Travels with Charley' is worth mentioning. Steinbeck's journey across America and his observations make it an interesting read.

One reason George Eliot's best novels are great is her detailed descriptions of the settings. In 'The Mill on the Floss', the rural landscape is vividly depicted, making the story more immersive. Her understanding of human nature also plays a big role. In 'Adam Bede', she shows how people make moral choices, which is something that always interests readers. And her writing style is engaging, which keeps readers hooked throughout her novels.

The characters. Well - developed characters can really make a fiction novel stand out. They draw readers in and make them care about what happens in the story.

The plot twists. In her best novels, like 'And Then There Were None', you think you have it all figured out, but then she throws in a curveball that completely changes your perspective. It's this element of surprise that makes her books so great.