100 Novels That Changed the World

The evolution of the novel from the earliest examples to the postmodernist best-sellers of the 21st century is traced, with 100 of the greatest novel writers chosen and their most significant work analyzed.

Format: Hardback
Length: 224 pages
Publication date: 26 October 2023
Publisher: HarperCollins Publishers

The world of literature and popular culture has been greatly influenced by a selection of 100 inspiring novels that have left a lasting impact. Before the advent of the novel, the literary landscape was dominated by scientific tomes, religious tracts, and histories of war victories. However, it was not until the seventeenth century, when the European middle classes had the financial means and leisure time, that novels began to be sold as entertainment. Colin Salter, in his book "The Evolution of the Novel," explores the journey of the novel from its earliest examples to the postmodernist best-sellers of the twenty-first century. Rather than delving into the technical intricacies of innovative writing styles, Salter has compiled a list of 100 of the greatest novel writers and selected their most significant works. The selection process for these authors was not an easy one, as each had a unique literary legacy. For writers like Herman Melville, James Joyce, or Harper Lee, the choice was straightforward. However, for Charles Dickens, Salman Rushdie, and Margaret Atwood, the decision required more consideration.

The book follows the format established in previous books in the 100 series, such as "100 Children's Books" and "100 Science Discoveries." Each author is provided with a concise biography, and their major novel is analyzed and placed in context with their other published works. In just 224 pages, readers can gain a comprehensive understanding of these authors and their contributions to literature.

The list of authors featured in "The Evolution of the Novel" is diverse and includes renowned figures such as Alexandre Dumas, Daniel Defoe, Victor Hugo, Mary Shelley, Charles Dickens, Mark Twain, Charlotte Brontë, Emily Brontë, Gabriel Garcia Marquez, Hilary Mantel, Jane Austen, Robert Louis Stevenson, Walter Scott, Lewis Carroll, JRR Tolkien, Gustave Flaubert, Marcel Proust, Henry James, Harper Lee, James Joyce, Ernest Hemingway, Margaret Atwood, Alice Walker, and Jule. Each author's work is examined in detail, providing insights into their literary techniques, themes, and societal significance.

The impact of these 100 inspiring novels extends beyond literature and popular culture. They have shaped the way

The impact of these 100 inspiring novels extends beyond literature and popular culture. They have shaped the way we think, feel, and perceive the world around us. They have inspired generations of readers and writers, and continue to be studied and debated by scholars and enthusiasts alike. These novels have challenged our assumptions, challenged our beliefs, and opened our minds to new possibilities. They have provided us with a window into the lives of others, allowing us to empathize and understand the complexities of the human experience.

In conclusion, the selection of 100 inspiring novels that have left a significant mark on the world of literature and popular culture is a testament to the power of storytelling. These books have touched the lives of countless individuals, and continue to inspire and influence us today. They remind us of the importance of literature in shaping our world and in providing us with a means of understanding and connecting with one another. As we continue to explore the vast array of literary works available to us, we can be grateful for the legacy of these 100 remarkable novels and the impact they have had on our lives.

Weight: 826g
Dimension: 238 x 192 x 20 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780008599089