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.
They're not bad—they're just written that way.
Learn more about the woman behind influential pieces of literature such as The Color Purple.
The Jazz Age literary icon who couldn't resist living to excess.
Strange worlds full of even stranger people.
Harrowing tales from Florida to Kentucky.
Find your next journey through the tumultuous lives of the gifted, obsessive, and unlikely individuals driven to success in these books like The Queen's Gambit.
By Kara Brand
A “Modern Prometheus” that left a timeless mark.
The horror genre's oldest characters continue to spook, so keep the garlic handy.
You know you want to, old sport.
"Expect nothing. Live frugally on surprise."
When in doubt, hit the books.
Get ready to settle in for the long haul.
The enduring haunting of a cold first wife.
Sometimes dads just don’t fit the bill, and these characters can relate.
Almost a century later, hope continues to endure through disillusionment.
“Trifles make the sum of life."
Unique and poignant fiction from a Nobel Prize-winner.
Read an essay from Alice Walker’s book, Living by the Word.
By Alice Walker
The National Book Award winner has written much more than The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian.