Best Literary Fiction Book Recommendations

What is literary fiction, you may ask? Often described as "serious" literature (think the Great American Novel), literary fiction often doesn't fit neatly into the parameters of other genres, and is usually more character-driven than plot-driven. But don't let that lofty definition put you off—plenty of literary fiction is accessible, fascinating, and all the more interesting for its fully fleshed-out characters. In fact, some of the most popular books of all time are literary fiction.

At the same time, a literary fiction label doesn’t mean a novel can’t have elements of other genres—there’s plenty of books shelved as literary suspense, literary romance, or even literary fabulism. You can expect these kinds of novels to still have those genre traits, but with elevated writing styles and more character development.

Another hallmark of literary fiction is the prizes. From Booker Prize winners to National Book Award winners to Pulitzer Prize winners, literary fiction features the kind of writing that deserves all the accolades.

Intrigued? Dive in to our lists of recommended literary fiction books below.

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Inside the Surveillance War Between James Baldwin and the FBI

Before the If Beale Street Could Talk author became a symbol of today's Black Lives Matter movement, he was a high-priority target of FBI surveillance during the 1950s, '60s, and '70s.

Fans of Westerns Will Love This Poignant Novel by the Author of Peace Like a River

In So Brave, Young, and Handsome, a stumped writer gets more than inspiration from his adventure across the Wild Wild West.

Maryse Condé is Awarded the Alternative Nobel Prize in Literature

The Guadeloupean writer took home the The New Academy Prize, which is replacing the Nobel Prize in Literature this year.

Remembering Philip Roth: A Great American Novelist

On May 22, 2018, author Philip Roth died at age 85. Read an enlightening conversation between Roth and writer Milan Kundera in Roth's collection of essays and interviews, Shop Talk. 

Only Child: Terrifying Events Seen Through the Eyes of a Child

Rhiannon Navin’s powerful debut novel, “Only Child,” tells the story of a fictional school shooting, and the lasting impact it has on 6-year-old Zach.