One way is to look at long - term sales figures. Publishers often keep records of how many copies of a book have been sold over the years. For example, if a book has been in print for decades and has sold millions of copies, it's likely an all - time best - selling novel.
We can also look at awards and critical acclaim. A novel that has won major literary awards like the Pulitzer or the Booker Prize and has also sold well is likely to be an all - time best - seller. For instance, 'To Kill a Mockingbird' by Harper Lee. It won the Pulitzer Prize and has been a staple in American literature, selling millions of copies and being taught in schools across the country. It deals with important themes such as racism and justice, which contribute to its long - standing popularity.
We can also look at the themes they explore. The best time period novels often deal with timeless themes within a specific historical context. Take 'One Hundred Years of Solitude' for instance. Set in a fictional South American town over a long period, it explores family, love, and the passage of time while also reflecting on the region's history. Another factor is the impact they have had on literature and culture. Novels like 'The Canterbury Tales' have not only given us a peek into medieval England but have also influenced generations of writers.
One way is to look at how well the adaptation captures the essence of the characters. If the characters in the adaptation feel like the ones from the novel, it's a good sign. For example, in a good 'Sherlock Holmes' adaptation, Holmes should be as brilliant and eccentric as in the original stories. Another aspect is the faithfulness to the plot. While some changes are often necessary, the main plot points should be there. Like in 'The Hunger Games' adaptations, the key events of the games and the political undertones were retained. Also, the atmosphere of the novel should be recreated. A good 'Dracula' adaptation should be spooky and gothic, just like the Bram Stoker's novel.
The best conclusions also have an emotional impact. It could be a happy ending that makes you feel warm, like in a romantic novel where the couple gets married. Or it could be a sad ending that makes you think deeply, such as in a war novel where the main character sacrifices themselves. A conclusion that elicits strong emotions is likely to be a good one.
First, look for conclusions that tie up the main plotlines neatly. For example, if a novel is about a mystery, a good conclusion will solve that mystery clearly. Second, consider if the conclusion reflects on the novel's themes. In 'Animal Farm', the final state of the farm and the animals' situation clearly reflects on the themes of power and corruption. Third, an effective conclusion can leave an emotional impact, like in 'The Catcher in the Rye' where Holden's uncertain future makes you think about youth and growing up.
We can identify them by their influence on later writers. 'Don Quixote' has inspired countless authors with its unique storytelling. Also, the spread of ideas in the book is important. 'To Kill a Mockingbird' spread ideas about equality and justice. And the longevity of a book's popularity matters. 'Moby - Dick' has remained popular over the years, which shows its influence on different generations.
You can start by reading a lot of best - selling novels. As you read, take note of what makes you keep turning the pages. Is it the characters? The plot? The setting? Another way is to study reviews. See what other readers and critics praise about a particular book. Often, they will mention elements like a great story arc or memorable characters.
Look at the characters. If they seem real and complex, that's a good sign. Also, check the plot structure. A clear and engaging plot is often found in best - sellers. Another way is to see how popular it is among different groups of readers.
You can look at bestseller lists in well - known newspapers like The New York Times or The Guardian. These often include upmarket fiction. Also, awards can be an indicator. If a book has won prestigious literary awards like the Pulitzer or the Booker Prize, it's likely to be upmarket and successful. Another way is to check reviews from respected literary critics.
Look for a story that grabs your attention right from the start. That often indicates a strong opening, which is an element of a best - selling novel. Notice the characters. If they seem real and you care about what happens to them, it's a good sign. Also, if the plot keeps you guessing and makes you want to turn the pages, those are elements of a potentially best - selling novel.
A monologue that has a strong emotional impact can be considered one of the best. Take 'The Great Gatsby' for instance. Gatsby's monologues about his love for Daisy are full of longing and desperation. These monologues not only show his character but also the futility of the American Dream in some ways. They are memorable because they evoke strong emotions in the reader.