The works likely had strong character development. Writers had to create believable and complex characters for the readers to engage with. For example, if a story was about a historical event, the characters had to be well - crafted to bring that era to life.
These works were likely to deal with important themes. In 2016, social and cultural issues were very much in the spotlight. So, the finalist works may have explored themes such as race, identity, social justice, and the human condition. They would have used their stories as a means to start conversations about these significant topics, not just for the sake of entertainment but also to make readers think more deeply about the world around them.
Most of them probably had unique and engaging plots. A good plot can keep readers hooked from start to finish. Whether it was a story about a personal journey, a social issue, or a historical moment, the plot had to be something that made the book stand out among others. They also might have had a distinct writing style. Some could be more lyrical, while others more straightforward, but all in a way that added to the overall appeal of the work.
They were likely very well - written. Good writing is a key factor for being a finalist. The stories were probably engaging, hooking the readers from the start.
One characteristic could be high - quality writing. The works would have had well - crafted sentences, rich vocabulary, and a good flow. For example, the use of literary devices like metaphors and similes to enhance the description.
Often, they have strong character development. For example, the characters in 'The Nickel Boys' are so vividly drawn that you can't help but be affected by their plights. Another characteristic is unique storytelling. 'Trust Exercise' has a very distinct way of presenting the story that keeps readers on their toes.
One notable work was 'Sing, Unburied, Sing'. It's a great piece of literature.
I'm not sure specifically who the finalists were for the National Book Award 2021 Fiction. You can check the official National Book Award website or do a quick search in a library database to find out.
I'm not sure exactly who all the finalists were for the 2020 National Book Award for Fiction. You can check the official National Book Award website for the most accurate and detailed list.
Most of these finalist books were also well - written in terms of prose. The authors used language in a way that was both beautiful and effective in getting their points across. They could create vivid images and emotions in the readers' minds, which is an important aspect of good fiction.
Well, some of these finalist fictions probably had distinct writing styles. There could be a work with a very lyrical prose, where the words flowed like music. And there were likely those that tackled contemporary social issues, such as inequality or environmental problems, through the power of storytelling.
The finalists are special because they represent the best in contemporary fiction. Each book offers a unique perspective, like 'Black Leopard, Red Wolf' which has a very distinct fantasy world - building.
Some of the finalists included 'The Underground Railroad' by Colson Whitehead. It was a powerful novel that reimagined the Underground Railroad as an actual railroad underground. It explored themes of slavery, freedom, and the journey towards a better life in a very unique and engaging way.