They usually have high - quality writing. The prose is engaging, the characters are well - developed, and the plot is well - structured. Take 'The Grapes of Wrath' by John Steinbeck. His vivid descriptions of the Dust Bowl and the migrant workers' journey are very moving.
Well, they often deal with important social issues. For example, many explore topics like race, class, and gender inequality. This makes them relevant and thought - provoking.
Most Pulitzer Prize winning fictions also have a certain cultural significance. They can represent a particular time period or place in American history. They can also influence future works of literature and even society's view on certain matters.
For the 2018 Pulitzer Prize for Fiction - winning 'Less' by Andrew Sean Greer, one of the key characteristics could be its exploration of human nature. It might show the protagonist's growth and self - discovery in an interesting way. The settings in the book may be vividly described, transporting the reader to different places. The use of language could be both creative and accessible, not overly complicated but still rich enough to convey deep emotions and ideas. Also, the story could have a universal appeal, touching on themes that many people can identify with, such as love, loss, and the search for meaning in life.
Often, they have strong and unique themes. For example, they might explore social issues deeply, like 'Beloved' by Toni Morrison which delved into the horrors of slavery and its long - lasting impacts on African - American families.
The winning book 'The Overstory' by Richard Powers has complex and interwoven storylines.
They often have strong, well - developed characters. For example, in 'To Kill a Mockingbird', Atticus Finch is a very memorable and morally upright character.
Many Pulitzer Prize - winning fictions are deeply rooted in the time and place they are set. They can provide a vivid picture of a particular era or location. For instance, 'The Color Purple' by Alice Walker gives insights into the lives of African - American women in the rural South.
One characteristic is high - quality writing. These works often have a polished prose style that draws readers in. For example, the language used is vivid and descriptive.
Many of them are very good at portraying social issues. For example, they might show the struggles of different social classes or the problems within a particular community.
The winning work for the 2015 Pulitzer Prize in Fiction was 'All the Light We Cannot See' by Anthony Doerr.
The work that won the 2022 Pulitzer Prize in Fiction was 'The Netanyahus'. Joshua Cohen's writing in this book must have had certain qualities that made it stand out. It might have had a really interesting story, or it could have been the way he crafted his characters. Maybe it was his use of language or how he tackled important themes. All these elements together could have led to it being selected as the winner.
The criteria generally include excellence in writing, original and creative storytelling, and the ability to engage with important themes relevant to society or the human condition.