How can one identify the best first person fictions?

Look for stories that have a strong sense of a high - tech, dystopian future. For example, if a story features advanced cybernetic implants and a world where corporations have extreme power, it might be a good cyberpunk. Also, the exploration of the relationship between man and machine is key. If it delves into how humans are changing because of technology or how machines are becoming more like humans, it's likely a quality cyberpunk fiction.

One way to identify the best 1st person novels is by the level of immersion they provide. If you feel like you are really inside the narrator's head, it's a good sign. Take 'The Color Purple' by Alice Walker. Celie's first - person letters make you feel her pain, joy, and growth intimately. Also, consider how the first - person view affects the plot. In 'Wuthering Heights', Nelly Dean's first - person retelling of the story adds an element of reliability and yet also a sense of being an outsider looking in on the passionate and tragic events.

One way is to see if it has a strong sense of isolation. Many great gothic horror fictions place their characters in isolated situations, like being alone in a big, old house in the middle of nowhere. Another factor is the exploration of the darker side of human nature. Stories that dig deep into themes like madness, obsession, or forbidden desires tend to be good gothic horror. Additionally, the use of symbolism, like the use of blood in vampire stories to represent life and death or decay, can be a sign of a well - crafted gothic horror fiction.

First, look for rich and vivid language. For example, in 'The Scarlet Letter' by Nathaniel Hawthorne, the descriptions of the Puritan setting and Hester's emotions are so detailed and colorful that it gives a poetic touch. Second, a strong use of metaphor and simile is a sign. In 'As I Lay Dying' by William Faulkner, his use of such literary devices is masterful. Also, if the story has a certain rhythm in the prose, like in 'The Sound and the Fury' by Faulkner as well, it can be considered poetic literature fiction.

One way is to look at the author's background. If the author has a degree in history or has spent years studying a particular era, it's likely their work is well - researched. For example, Hilary Mantel, who studied Tudor history. Another way is to check reviews from reliable sources like historical scholars or literary critics. They can point out if the details in the story are accurate and well - sourced. Also, if the book includes a bibliography or references at the end, it's a good sign that the author has done proper research.

Another aspect is the longevity of the work. If a book has been read and studied for decades or even centuries, like 'Don Quixote' which has been around for a very long time and still relevant today. It has influenced countless other works and its exploration of the human psyche and the power of imagination is timeless.

Look for well - researched books. If the author has clearly delved deep into the historical period and the life of the subject, it's likely to be good. For example, if it includes details about the cultural, social and political aspects of the time.

Look for graphic novels that have won awards or received critical acclaim. For example, the Eisner Awards often recognize excellent graphic novels. Also, consider the popularity among readers. If a lot of people are talking about a particular graphic novel, it might be a good one to start with. Additionally, if it's recommended by librarians or teachers, it's likely to be a great first graphic novel.

To identify best first class fiction, pay attention to the story structure. A well - structured story that has a clear beginning, middle, and end, and builds tension and resolution, is likely to be good. For instance, 'The Count of Monte Cristo' has an excellent story structure. The cultural impact of the book is also important. If it has influenced other works, art forms, or even society at large, like 'Uncle Tom's Cabin', it's probably first - class fiction. And the originality of the concept matters too. A unique idea like in 'The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy' can make a book first - class.

One way is to consider the theme. The best ones often have themes that are relevant to both the historical period and the present day. For example, a story about the fight for civil rights in the 1960s can have themes like equality and justice that are still important today. Also, pay attention to the writing style. A well - written historical short story will use language that is appropriate for the time but still engaging for modern readers. It might use archaic words sparingly to create an authentic feel. The plot is also crucial. It should be engaging and not just a recitation of historical events.