One way is to look at reader reviews. If many readers mention being hooked from the very first pages, it's a good sign. For example, on platforms like Goodreads, you can often find comments about how a novel grabbed someone's attention immediately. Another way is to sample the first few pages yourself. If you find that you are immediately drawn into the story, the characters, or the setting, then it likely has a good 'run' on the first pages.
Analyzing the literary devices used on the first pages can be helpful. If there is strong use of imagery, for example, it can make the start of the novel more captivating. In 'The Lord of the Rings' by J.R.R. Tolkien, the first pages are filled with detailed descriptions of the Shire, which is like a vivid painting. This use of imagery makes the start of the novel engaging. Also, if there is an interesting narrative voice or a sense of mystery introduced early on, it can contribute to a long 'run' on the first pages.
One example could be 'War and Peace' by Leo Tolstoy. Its first pages draw readers in with a detailed and engaging account of the Russian society at that time, setting the stage for the long and complex story that follows. The descriptions and introductions in the beginning are so well - crafted that they keep the reader's attention, which is a sign of a long 'run' in terms of reader engagement from the very start.
Well, first you could go to a bookstore or library and physically compare the thickness of the books. But more accurately, you can look at the word count or page count information available online. 'A Memory of Light' is likely to be the longest. It's the culmination of the entire series, so it has to bring together all the different elements from the previous books. There are multiple storylines involving different regions, magical abilities, and political intrigue, and they all converge in this one long novel.
You could also look at the audiobook length. If an audiobook version of a Stephen King novel is much longer than others, it's likely to be one of his longer works. 'It' for example has a very long audiobook which reflects its length as a printed novel.
One way to identify run of the mill fan fiction is by the lack of unique ideas. If it doesn't bring anything new to the table in terms of character relationships or world - building, it's probably run - of - the - mill. For instance, if a fan fiction about a superhero just has the hero fighting the same villains in the same old way without any new twists, it's a sign. Also, if the writing style is very basic and doesn't show much creativity in the use of language, it could be run of the mill.
The influence on other works and culture is also important. A first - class novel might inspire other writers or be adapted into various forms like movies or plays. 'The Great Gatsby' has been both an inspiration for many writers and has had multiple film adaptations.
One way to identify first edition novels is by examining the printing details. Check the sequence of numbers, if there are any, on the copyright page. Usually, a '1' indicates a first printing which is often a first edition. Also, the type of binding and the quality of the paper can sometimes give clues. Older first edition novels might have a certain type of binding that was typical for that era. And the paper used in the first edition could be different from later printings.
Look for graphic novels that have won awards or received critical acclaim. For example, the Eisner Awards often recognize excellent graphic novels. Also, consider the popularity among readers. If a lot of people are talking about a particular graphic novel, it might be a good one to start with. Additionally, if it's recommended by librarians or teachers, it's likely to be a great first graphic novel.
Look for specific publisher's marks, copyright dates, and sometimes there are unique identifiers on the title page or the verso of the title page.
It's really hard to say for sure. Different novels are measured differently and it can vary a lot. Some might have thousands of pages!
You can identify an 'advance first novel' by looking at the freshness of its ideas. If the concepts are not the typical ones you see in mainstream novels, it might be an 'advance first novel'. Also, check if the writing style is different from the norm.