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.

4af56302c502-birdillustration.png

Joan Didion: Her Books, Life, and Legacy

A woman with a love for the written word, and a dedication to the truth.

Damon Galgut's The Promise Has Won The Booker Prize

The South African author had been shortlisted twice before.

How Barbara Kingsolver's Books Warned Us of Climate Change

Her most powerful works remind us that our actions affect the world.

11 Literary Mysteries For the High-Minded Sleuth

Lit fic lovers will devour these mysterious reads. 

16 Books to Get You Out of Your Reading Rut

Looking for a good book to jumpstart your reading habit?

Vita Sackville-West: Virginia Woolf’s Greatest Love Affair

Meet the woman who inspired Virginia Woolf's most fanciful novel.

Mark Twain Books That Everyone Should Read

See which of his books belong on your TBR list.

The 22 Best Movies Based On Books

Check out the cinematic classics that started out as novels.

9 Literary Suspense Books That'll Keep You on Edge

Tensions reach unbearable heights in these dark explorations of the human psyche, the inescapability of our pasts, and more.

Read an Excerpt from Strange Love, Fred Waitzkin’s New Book

“If literary romance is your genre, this book is for you.” —Men Reading Books

8 Lost Masterpieces from NYRB Classics

The best of an imprint that digs deep into lost classics.