One characteristic is their fast - paced nature. Short entertaining novels like 'The Call of Cthulhu' can build up tension and mystery very quickly. They don't waste time on long - winded descriptions. Another aspect is that they can cover a wide range of genres in a short space, from comedy to horror, and still manage to be highly engaging.
They are usually concise. For example, a story can be just a few sentences but still make you laugh. They often have unexpected twists. Like in a story where a cat tries to catch a mouse, but in the end, the mouse outsmarts the cat in a very surprising way.
One characteristic is engaging characters. For example, in 'Harry Potter' series, the characters like Harry, Hermione and Ron are so well - developed that readers can't help but be drawn into their story.
One characteristic is vivid characters. For example, in 'The Pillars of the Earth', the characters like Tom Builder are so well - drawn that they seem real. Another is a detailed historical setting. In 'Wolf Hall', you can almost feel like you're in Tudor England. And often there's a strong plot, like in 'Outlander' where the time - travel and historical events are intertwined in an exciting way.
A good plot. For example, if there are unexpected twists like in 'The Lottery' by Shirley Jackson. People expect a normal lottery but it turns out to be a very dark and disturbing event. That keeps the reader hooked.
Typically, a short entertaining story is known as a 'fable'. These often have a moral or lesson and are designed to be both fun and thought-provoking.
A short entertaining story typically has an element of surprise or novelty. It could be a unique setting, a charming protagonist, or a fun problem to solve. The writing style should be smooth and easy to follow.
Aesop's Fables are also very entertaining short stories. For example, 'The Tortoise and the Hare'. It's a simple yet profound story. The hare is overconfident and takes a nap during the race, while the tortoise keeps plodding along steadily and ends up winning. This story teaches the value of perseverance.
Edgar Allan Poe has some short stories that are both entertaining and spooky. 'The Tell - Tale Heart' is one of them. A narrator tries to convince the reader of his sanity while describing how he murdered an old man because of his 'evil eye'. The growing sense of guilt and paranoia makes it a very engaging read.
A good plot twist and interesting characters usually do the trick. They keep the readers engaged and wanting more.
Well, 'Flatland: A Romance of Many Dimensions' is quite interesting. It's a short novel that takes you on a journey through different dimensions in a very engaging and thought - provoking way. Also, 'A Christmas Carol' by Charles Dickens is a classic short and highly entertaining story that spreads the spirit of Christmas.