One reason could be the oppressive social structure it presents. Just like in classic dystopian novels, if there's a strict hierarchy where the masses are highly controlled by a small elite group, it gives that dystopian feel. For example, in '1984', the Party had extreme control over every aspect of people's lives.
Well, it might share some common themes. For instance, if it has a totalitarian government like in 'V for Vendetta', then it's similar in that aspect. Dystopian works often have some form of over - powerful and controlling authority.
Well, 'Divergent' by Veronica Roth is a popular dystopian read. It's set in a world where people are divided into different factions based on their personalities. 'The Maze Runner' by James Dashner is another good one. It has a group of boys trapped in a maze trying to find a way out in a post - apocalyptic world. And don't forget 'Station Eleven' by Emily St. John Mandel which shows a world after a flu pandemic has wiped out most of humanity and how art and culture still survive.
Dystopian fiction is often dark and gritty. It usually presents a society that's gone horribly wrong, with oppression, scarcity, and a lack of freedom.
One great example is 'The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks' by Rebecca Skloot. It tells the true story of Henrietta Lacks, whose cells were used for medical research without her knowledge. But it reads like a fascinating novel, with vivid characters and a gripping narrative.
For beginners, 'The Hunger Games' is a great start. It has an easy - to - follow plot and engaging characters. You can easily get into the dystopian world it creates. Another good one is 'Divergent'. It has a clear - cut world - building that makes it accessible for those new to the genre.
People like dystopian fiction because it offers a glimpse into alternate, often challenging futures that make us think about the present. It also allows us to explore human nature and survival in extreme circumstances.
Characteristics include authenticity in dialogue. When the characters speak in a way that's true to the setting and their backgrounds, it gives a non - fictional impression. For example, in a historical fiction, characters using period - appropriate language. Research - based content is also important. If a fiction book has a lot of information about a particular subject, say, a medical thriller with accurate medical knowledge, it reads like non - fiction. And the structure can play a role too. A linear, chronological structure similar to how non - fiction stories are often told can make a fiction work seem more like non - fiction.
'Wild' by Cheryl Strayed. It's about her solo hike on the Pacific Crest Trail. The way she tells her story, with all the personal struggles, the beautiful descriptions of the landscape, and the encounters along the way, it could easily be mistaken for a fictional adventure story.