One characteristic is their universality. '1984' for example, although written about a specific dystopian future, can be related to any situation where there is excessive control. These novels also have memorable quotes. 'Jane Eyre' has lines that are still quoted today about love and self - respect. And they often have a certain depth that makes readers think long after they've finished reading, like 'Crime and Punishment' which makes you question morality and the human psyche.
The novels in the list of top 10 novels usually have strong storylines. In 'The Great Gatsby', the story of Jay Gatsby's pursuit of Daisy is both romantic and tragic. They can also offer profound insights into human nature. 'War and Peace' shows how different people react in times of war, revealing our capacity for both good and bad. Additionally, they tend to be well - written in terms of language and structure, which makes them stand the test of time.
Most of them have complex characters. For instance, in 'Pride and Prejudice', Elizabeth Bennet is a multi - faceted character with her own opinions and prejudices. They also often deal with important themes. 'To Kill a Mockingbird' focuses on racism and justice. And many have great writing styles, like the detailed and vivid descriptions in 'Moby - Dick' that make the story come alive.
Many of these top crime novels also explore deep themes. 'The Big Sleep' by Raymond Chandler, for instance, not only has a crime to solve but also looks at the seedy underbelly of society. It shows how crime is intertwined with things like power, money, and corruption in a detailed and thought - provoking way.
They often involve some form of conflict. In 'Wuthering Heights', the love between Heathcliff and Catherine is complicated by class differences and revenge. The conflict adds depth to the romantic story.
One characteristic is that they usually have very engaging plots. For example, in 'The Hunger Games', the idea of a post - apocalyptic world where kids have to fight to the death is very gripping.
Many of them have strong character development. For example, in 'Umrao Jaan Ada', the titular character is complex and multi - faceted. Her story unfolds gradually, and we get to know her desires, dreams, and sorrows.
They often have a great balance between humor and romance. Take 'Bridget Jones's Diary' as an example. Bridget's clumsy and self - deprecating humor combined with her search for love makes for a very entertaining read. There are many laugh - out - loud moments as well as tender romantic scenes.
Most of the top light novels often have interesting settings. For example, 'Sword Art Online' has a virtual reality setting which was quite novel at the time. They also usually have engaging characters. In 'Overlord', the main character Momonga is complex and his actions drive the story forward.
Many of them often focus on themes of self - acceptance. For example, characters in these novels usually struggle with their sexual orientation at first and then gradually come to terms with it.
Often, top hipster novels have a sense of non - conformity. They might question mainstream values or ways of life. For example, in '1984' by George Orwell, the dystopian world presented is a sharp critique of totalitarianism and a conformist society.
One of the well - known novels on the Goodreads top novels list is 'To Kill a Mockingbird' by Harper Lee. It's a classic that deals with themes of racial injustice and moral growth in the American South.
A third novel that might be on the list is 'Moby - Dick' by Herman Melville. It's a complex and epic tale of Captain Ahab's obsessive quest to hunt down the white whale, Moby - Dick. It delves deep into themes of fate, obsession, and the power of nature.