How can we define the best children's novels?

Best children's fiction often has engaging characters that children can relate to. For example, characters like Harry Potter are ordinary kids in extraordinary situations. It also usually has a clear and interesting plot that can hold a child's attention, such as the adventures in 'Alice's Adventures in Wonderland'.

Defining the world's best novels isn't straightforward. One aspect is their cultural significance. 'The Odyssey' is not only a great adventure story but also a cornerstone of Western literature, influencing countless works that followed. Another is their ability to stand the test of time. 'A Tale of Two Cities' by Charles Dickens has been loved for generations because it vividly depicts the social unrest of the French Revolution and has memorable characters. Also, the emotional connection they create with readers. 'The Little Prince' by Antoine de Saint - Exupéry has a simple yet profound story that touches the hearts of people of all ages, which makes it one of the world's best novels.

There are no actual novels by Shakespeare. But considering his plays in the context of 'novel - like' works, a play like 'A Midsummer Night's Dream' stands out. It has multiple storylines that intersect in interesting ways, much like a well - written novel. It also has a wide range of characters, from the fairy world to the human world, and it's filled with humor, love, and magic, which are elements that can make a work very engaging, similar to a great novel.

The best endings to novels are the ones that leave a lasting impression. They can be happy endings like in 'The Secret Garden' where the garden is restored and the characters are healed, which gives a feeling of hope. Or they can be more bittersweet, like in 'The Picture of Dorian Gray' where Dorian's death is a kind of release but also a statement about the consequences of a life lived in vanity. Also, an ending can be great if it challenges the reader's expectations. In 'Slaughterhouse - Five', the non - linear and somewhat chaotic ending defies the traditional narrative structure and makes the reader really think about war and time.

'Best forgotten novels' could be those that are not well - received due to their overly complicated plots. For example, if a story jumps around too much without a clear thread, it might be considered forgettable.

Well, the 20th century best novels are often those that have a profound impact on society. For example, 'The Catcher in the Rye' by J.D. Salinger was a huge influence on youth culture. It captured the angst and alienation of the young generation.

The best American dream novels often explore the idea of upward mobility. For example, in 'The Great Gatsby', Gatsby's rise from poverty to wealth in his pursuit of Daisy represents the hope of achieving more in life. They also look at the concept of freedom. 'The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn' shows Huck's journey towards freedom from society's constraints, which is a key part of the American Dream. Another aspect is the search for a better life, like in 'The Grapes of Wrath' where the Joads are looking for a more prosperous existence in California.

The best writer can be defined as someone who has a unique writing style and is able to deeply engage readers. Their best novel is often the one that has the most impact. For example, Mark Twain with 'The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn'. It's a great novel because it uses humor and satire to comment on society, especially on issues like slavery and racism. It has characters that are both memorable and complex.

The best fictional stories often have engaging characters. For example, in 'To Kill a Mockingbird', Atticus Finch is a memorable character who stands up for justice. They also usually have interesting settings, like the post - apocalyptic world in 'The Road'. Another factor is the plot. A good plot keeps readers hooked, such as the mystery in 'Sherlock Holmes' stories.

A 'best world story' can be defined as one that has universal appeal. It should touch the hearts of people from different cultures and backgrounds. For example, stories that deal with basic human emotions like love, hope, and fear are likely to be considered great. If a story can make people cry, laugh, or think deeply, it has a good chance of being a 'best world story'.