What are the characteristics of parallel universe books in fiction?

Answer 1

Often, they involve different rules of physics. For example, in some parallel universe books, gravity might work differently. They also tend to have unique creatures or races. Like in 'His Dark Materials', there are daemons which are specific to that universe's concept.

Answer 2

One key characteristic is the exploration of 'what - if' scenarios. What if history had taken a different turn in a parallel universe? This is often seen in books where there are parallel versions of our own Earth. They also tend to have a certain level of the fantastic. Whether it's magic being real in one universe or technology far beyond our comprehension in another. These books also allow for a lot of world - building, as the author has to create a whole new universe with its own geography, politics, and economy, which can be really fascinating to read about.

Answer 3

Parallel universe books in fiction usually have a sense of mystery. The idea of an unknown world that might be similar or vastly different from ours is alluring. They may also play with the concept of doppelgangers or alternate versions of characters. In 'The Dark Tower' series, there are different versions of the same people in different universes. Another characteristic is that they can explore different forms of society and culture. A parallel universe could have a completely different social structure, like a matriarchal society instead of a patriarchal one as we mostly have in our world.