Some of these books could also be experimental in their narrative structure. Take 'The Ghost Writer' for instance. Philip Roth plays with the idea of the unreliable narrator and the blurring of fact and fiction, which makes the reading experience both challenging and thought - provoking.
Many of these books often have complex characters whose lives are deeply influenced by the historical events. Take a book like 'The Goldfinch' for instance. The main character's journey is shaped by various historical happenings around him. The books also tend to have a strong sense of place, making you feel like you are actually in that historical era.
Some books in the list are known for their complex characters. For example, in 'The Silkworm', the detective has his own set of quirks and a past that adds depth to the story. The settings in these books also play an important role. In many of them, like 'Gone Girl', the setting of a seemingly ordinary suburban life is used to contrast with the dark and twisted events that occur.
Take 'Where the Crawdads Sing'. Its strong sense of place is a big characteristic. The marsh becomes almost like a character itself. And the mystery aspect keeps the readers hooked as they try to figure out what really happened in the story.
Well, many of them have complex characters. For example, in some books, the criminals are not just one - dimensional villains but have their own backstories and reasons for their actions.
Some books in the list might have strong cultural elements. For example, they could be set in different regions of India and showcase the local traditions, languages, and ways of life. They may also deal with contemporary social issues like caste discrimination, gender inequality, or urban - rural divide.
For example, 'The Book Thief'. One of its main characteristics is its unique narrator. Death as the narrator gives a very different view of the events in World War II. The language is also very vivid, painting pictures of the characters' lives and the horrors of the war. And it has a very strong emotional core, making readers feel for the characters.
Some popular books in the list have very unique settings. For example, like in 'The Yiddish Policemen's Union', the setting of an alternate history Alaska as a Jewish homeland makes it stand out. It allows for a different kind of cultural exploration within a mystery plot.
For 'State of Wonder', the vivid description of the Amazon setting is a major characteristic. The author really makes you feel the heat, the humidity, and the wildness of the place. Also, the moral and ethical dilemmas that the characters face while in this foreign and extreme environment add depth to the story.
Some books from the list, like 'The Snow Queen', often had strong female characters which was a bit different from some earlier science fiction. It was set in a far - flung future with different cultures.
For 'Freedom', it's known for its complex and well - developed characters. Franzen takes the time to really explore their inner thoughts and emotions, and through them, he examines larger social and cultural issues in a way that makes the reader think deeply about modern American life.