Originality is also key. Novels that bring new ideas to the science - fiction or fantasy genre, such as unique world - building concepts or different takes on time and space, are more likely to be considered. Take 'The Demolished Man' which had a very original take on a society with telepaths.
The criteria usually involve aspects like the quality of the writing. The story should be well - crafted with engaging characters and a compelling plot. For example, the prose should flow smoothly and draw the reader in.
The impact of the novel on the genre also matters. If a book has influenced other works that came after it, either in terms of themes, writing style, or ideas, it stands a better chance. For instance, 'A Canticle for Leibowitz' has had a long - lasting impact on post - apocalyptic literature with its exploration of how society might re - form after a major disaster.
Originality is a big factor. The novel should present new and fresh ideas, whether it's in terms of world - building, characters, or plot. For example, a unique take on a future society or a new kind of magic system in a fantasy novel.
The story should be an outstanding piece of short - form science fiction or fantasy writing. It needs to have strong characters, an engaging plot, and often a unique or thought - provoking concept. For example, a story that can make readers think about different aspects of humanity in a new way through a science - fictional or fantastical setting.
Another winner is 'The Big Time' by Fritz Leiber. It's a science - fiction adventure that plays with concepts of time and space in a very unique way. The story is full of action and intrigue, and the way it deals with time travel and the implications of different timelines is quite engaging.
The 2016 Hugo Award for Best Novel went to 'The Fifth Season'. N. K. Jemisin's work was highly regarded for its unique world - building, complex characters, and thought - provoking themes. It's set in a world where the environment is harsh and unstable, and it delves deep into issues of power, race, and survival. The story follows characters who are trying to navigate this difficult world and their own personal struggles within it, which made it stand out among the nominees and worthy of the Hugo Award.
The 2011 Hugo Award for Best Novel was won by 'Blackout' and 'All Clear' by Connie Willis.
Well, in 2013, the Hugo Award for Best Novel went to 'Redshirts'. I read it not long ago. The plot is quite unique. It follows a group of characters who realize they are in a rather strange and dangerous situation similar to what you might see in a typical science - fiction TV show. The way Scalzi weaves the narrative, with a good mix of action, mystery, and a touch of satire, really makes it stand out. It's a great example of modern science - fiction literature.
The 2012 Hugo Award for best novel was 'Among Others' by Jo Walton.
The novel 'The Fifth Season' by N.K. Jemisin won the 2016 Hugo Award for Best Novel. It's a really great book with a unique world - building. The story is set in a world full of geological upheavals and there are some really interesting characters and a complex magic system. It's a story that explores themes of oppression, power, and survival in a very engaging way.
The winner of the 2017 Hugo Award best novel was 'The Obelisk Gate'. It's part of N. K. Jemisin's series. This book is really engaging. It has complex characters and a really interesting world - building. The story continues to explore themes like power, oppression, and the fight for survival in a post - apocalyptic - like setting. It's no wonder it won the award as it managed to captivate both the critics and the readers with its unique blend of fantasy elements and deep - rooted social commentaries.
Well, the 2010 Hugo Award for Best Novel was won by 'The Windup Girl'. This book is set in a post - apocalyptic kind of world. There are all these elements of genetic engineering that are central to the story. The main character Emiko is a product of this genetic tinkering. It shows how society has changed due to the over - reliance on bio - technology. It also delves into power struggles between different groups in this new world order. The book is a great read for those interested in science fiction that makes you think about real - world issues like the environment and human ethics.