What are the best books in experimental literary fiction?

Well, 'Gravity's Rainbow' by Thomas Pynchon is among the top experimental fiction books. It has a vast and convoluted plot that jumps around in time and space, challenging the reader to piece it all together. 'Cloud Atlas' by David Mitchell is also a great example. It weaves multiple storylines across different time periods and genres in an innovative way. And don't forget about 'The Sound and the Fury' by William Faulkner, which uses different narrative voices and perspectives in a very experimental manner.

Visiting independent bookstores can also be helpful. The staff there are often very knowledgeable about different literary genres. They can guide you to some of the best experimental literary fiction based on your interests. For instance, they might introduce you to works by Italo Calvino, like 'Invisible Cities', which is an experimental exploration of place and narrative through the form of a fictional conversation between a traveler and an emperor.

Well, experimental literary fiction is known for pushing boundaries. It doesn't stick to the usual norms of plot, character, and setting. The characters in such works can be very abstract or represent complex ideas rather than just typical individuals. In terms of plot, it may not have a clear - cut beginning, middle, and end. It might be more like a stream - of - consciousness exploration. And the setting could be a blend of real and imaginary places, creating a very unique reading experience.

Literary agents look for originality in experimental fiction. If it has a unique voice or a completely new take on storytelling, that's appealing. For example, a narrative that plays with time in a way not seen before.

Experimental literary fiction is sometimes published by publishers who have a reputation for supporting bold and unconventional storytelling. These could be small presses or imprints within larger publishing companies that have a specific mandate for pushing the boundaries of literature.

Experimental fiction can find a good home in many presses. Farrar, Straus and Giroux has been known to publish some very interesting experimental works. Their editorial vision allows for works that are different from the mainstream. Another press worth mentioning is Soft Skull Press. They often focus on works that are edgy and experimental, exploring new ways of presenting fictional worlds and characters. University presses like Duke University Press also sometimes publish excellent experimental fiction, especially those works that blend academic and creative elements.

Another great one is 'The Candy House' by Jennifer Egan. It continues the exploration of some of the themes from her previous work. It has a unique structure that interconnects different characters and stories in an engaging way. It makes you think about memory, identity, and the impact of technology on our lives.

Another excellent one is '1984' by George Orwell. It's a dystopian novel that warns about the dangers of totalitarianism. The concepts of Big Brother and thought control are really striking and make readers reflect on the importance of freedom.

I would say 'To Kill a Mockingbird' by Harper Lee. This book is not only a great piece of literary fiction but also an important commentary on racism and injustice in the American South. The story, told through the eyes of Scout Finch, is both heartwarming and eye - opening.

There are quite a few. Gertrude Stein is famous for her experimental writing. She played with language in a very unique way in works such as 'Tender Buttons'. Thomas Pynchon is also a significant author in this realm. His novels are filled with complex intertextuality and non - linear narratives, for example, in 'Gravity's Rainbow'. And then there's Jorge Luis Borges. His short stories are known for their mind - bending exploration of concepts and reality, which is very experimental.