Can you name some novels that might have been contenders for the 1965 nebula best novel?

Sure. 'Moby - Dick' is one. Its exploration of obsession, nature, and the human condition is deep and complex. 'Jane Eyre' is also a strong contender. It tells a story of love, independence, and self - discovery with a very engaging narrative. And 'Don Quixote' is a classic that has influenced countless other works with its satirical look at chivalry and human folly.

One could be 'The Three - Body Problem'. It combines science fiction elements with deep philosophical ideas. The story's scope is vast, dealing with things like the search for extraterrestrial intelligence and the future of humanity.

Another could be 'Voss' by Patrick White. It's a complex novel that follows the journey of the explorer Johann Ulrich Voss in the Australian outback. It explores themes of self - discovery, the relationship between the settlers and the land, and the power of the Australian landscape.

Sure. 'Glimpses' is a strong contender. It has a fascinating premise that plays with the idea of different realities and time. The writing is engaging and makes you think about the nature of existence.

Then there's 'Coraline' by Neil Gaiman. While it's also a children's book, it has a very dark and scary undertone. The other world that Coraline discovers is full of terrifying creatures, and the story has a sense of real danger that makes it a great short scary story.

Sure! 'A Canticle for Leibowitz' by Walter M. Miller Jr. is a remarkable Nebula - winning novel. It spans across different eras, exploring the cyclical nature of human history, especially in relation to technology and religion. Then there's 'Hyperion' by Dan Simmons. This novel weaves together multiple stories of different characters on a pilgrimage to a mysterious and dangerous place. It has elements of science fiction, horror, and philosophy, making it a very rich and engaging read. These novels have all been recognized for their outstanding writing, imaginative concepts, and deep exploration of various themes.

Definitely. 'Wild Decembers' is a strong contender. It has a great story with well - developed characters set against the backdrop of rural Ireland. The way O'Brien describes the landscape and the human relationships within it is quite captivating.

One contender is 'The Canterbury Tales'. It dates back to the 14th century. Chaucer's work has a diverse range of characters each with their own stories, which is a key feature of novels. There's also a sense of a journey, both physical and moral, which is often found in novels.

Well, 'A Contract with God' by Will Eisner is often considered one of the first graphic novels. It had a more complex and serious story compared to typical comics at the time, which makes it a strong candidate for being among the first of its kind.

One contender is 'The Big Nowhere'. It has all the hallmarks of Ellroy's work - a complex plot, a seedy backdrop of Los Angeles, and a cast of characters with dark secrets. The story unfolds in a way that keeps you guessing until the very end.