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.
As new books are added each December, we look back on previous honorees that still deserve the spotlight.
By Olivia Mason
Edgy and hot off the press, these are the new releases we can't stop thinking about.
By BookTrib
Saunders is one of just two Americans who have nabbed the UK's top literary prize.
By Olivia Mason
The Japanese-British writer has finally nabbed the prestigious award.
Celebrating the genius of the late American poet (1927-2017).
The bestselling historical novel will make its small screen debut this November.
By BookTrib
Dysfunctional families and unconventional upbringings were the norm for these authors.
By Olivia Mason
Imaginative retellings of the playwright's classic works.
By Olivia Mason
From Michael Chabon to Erica Jong, here are some of our favorite books by Jewish authors.
Lie back (with a book) and think of England.
These five authors turned on their critically acclaimed books.
By Bookstr
Forbidden love. Feminism. East vs. West. Welcome to the World of Pearl S. Buck.
The best and most memorable classic English literature.
By Bookstr
We remember the late author with an excerpt of his courageous memoir, Honorary White.
The Pulitzer winner has 12 more books that'll feed your literary appetite.
By Greta Shull
"Do we turn on others, or toward others? Do we share our awakening, or only our despair?"
By Alice Walker
Odysseus’ epic adventure sparked ideas in the minds of James Joyce, William Faulkner, and more.