What are the characteristics of award winning historical fiction novels?

Well, one characteristic is the accurate portrayal of historical settings. For example, in books set during the Middle Ages, the details of daily life, like the way people dressed, the food they ate, and the religious practices of the time are depicted precisely. This helps the reader to be immersed in the story.

Often, they have vivid historical settings. For example, they can transport you to a specific time like the Middle Ages or the Victorian era. The characters are usually relatable for young adults, facing challenges that are both of their age and related to the historical context. The plots are engaging, like in 'The Book Thief' where the unique narrative voice of Death makes the story really stand out.

One characteristic is the detailed historical setting. For example, in 'The Name of the Rose' by Umberto Eco, the third - person view lets the reader fully experience the medieval monastery setting, with all its religious, social, and intellectual aspects. Another is the complex characters. Since it's third - person, the author can fully explore different characters' motives and backgrounds. In 'Gone with the Wind', Scarlett O'Hara's complex personality is shown through third - person narration. Also, these works often have a strong narrative arc that is based on historical events. They can show the cause - and - effect relationships within history in a more comprehensive way.

Award winning historical fiction children's books typically have rich historical details. This could be the way of life in a certain era, like the daily chores and social hierarchies in 'The Witch of Blackbird Pond'. They also tend to have themes that are relevant to both the historical period and modern times. For instance, 'Johnny Tremain' has themes of patriotism and growing up, which are still important today. Moreover, the language used is often accessible to children while still maintaining a historical flavor, as seen in 'A Single Shard' where the descriptions of Korean pottery and village life are vivid yet easy for kids to understand.

They often have well - developed female characters. For example, in Hilary Mantel's works, the female characters are complex and their motives are deeply explored. Another characteristic is detailed historical research. Writers like Philippa Gregory do extensive research on the time periods they write about, whether it's the clothing, the social hierarchies or the political situations of that era.

Often, award - winning novels have strong and unique themes. For example, they might explore deep human emotions like love, loss, or identity. They also tend to have well - developed characters. Take 'Jane Eyre' as an example. The character of Jane is complex and multi - dimensional. The writing style is usually of high quality, with engaging prose.

Often, they have very well - developed characters. For example, in 'Pride and Prejudice' by Jane Austen, the characters like Elizabeth Bennet and Mr. Darcy are complex and multi - dimensional, which is a common trait in award - winning fiction.

Award - winning fiction books tend to have a deep exploration of themes. Take 'The Color Purple' for instance. It delves deeply into themes of race, gender, and abuse. They may also offer a unique perspective on the human experience. 'Slaughterhouse - Five' presents a very different view of war and time. And they typically have a certain level of literary merit. 'Mrs. Dalloway' is a prime example of a book with great literary value in terms of its stream - of - consciousness writing style.

A common characteristic was the exploration of relevant social issues. 'There There' delved deep into Native American identity and the challenges faced by the community. These books were not just stories but also a mirror to the society of that time, addressing topics like race, gender, and class in a nuanced way.

Award - winning fiction books usually offer a fresh perspective. 'The Handmaid's Tale' presents a terrifying view of a future society based on misogyny. They also have a certain level of cultural significance. 'One Hundred Years of Solitude' by Gabriel García Márquez is a prime example. It combines elements of magic realism and family saga, and it has had a profound impact on Latin American literature.