What makes some books the best in 20th century fiction?

George Orwell's '1984' is a classic. It presents a dystopian future where the government controls every aspect of people's lives. It's a warning about totalitarianism and the importance of freedom of thought.

One of the well - known books on such a list could be 'To Kill a Mockingbird' by Harper Lee. It's a classic that deals with themes of racism and justice in the American South.

First, the author matters a great deal. Books by well - known and highly regarded authors like F. Scott Fitzgerald or Virginia Woolf are more likely to be collectible. Their works are not only significant in the history of literature but also in high demand among collectors. Second, the condition of the book. A book in mint condition, with no tears, marks, or fading, will be more valuable. Third, the edition. First editions, especially those with special features like original dust jackets or author inscriptions, are highly prized.

'Animal Farm' by George Orwell is also a must - read. It's an allegorical tale about the Russian Revolution. Through the story of the animals on a farm taking over from the humans, Orwell shows how power can corrupt. It's a short but very impactful book that uses simple language to convey deep political and social ideas. It was very relevant in the 20th century and still has lessons for today.

One of the best is 'Gulliver's Travels' by Jonathan Swift. It's a satirical work that takes the reader on extraordinary adventures with Lemuel Gulliver. Another great one is 'Tom Jones' by Henry Fielding, which is known for its vivid characters and complex plot. Also, 'The Castle of Otranto' by Horace Walpole is an important early Gothic novel.

Well, 'Lolita' by Vladimir Nabokov is considered a great 20th - century fiction novel, though it's a controversial one. It tells a complex story of an older man's obsession with a young girl. 'One Hundred Years of Solitude' by Gabriel García Márquez is also among the best. It's a magical realist work that weaves a multi - generational family story in a fictional town. 'Animal Farm' by George Orwell is a classic too. It uses animals on a farm to satirize totalitarian regimes.

Some of the best 19th - century fiction works include 'Pride and Prejudice' by Jane Austen. It's a classic that explores themes of love, marriage, and social class in a witty and engaging way. Another is 'Moby - Dick' by Herman Melville, which is not only a story about a whaling voyage but also a profound exploration of human nature and obsession.

One popular 18th - century fiction book is 'Gulliver's Travels' by Jonathan Swift. It is a satirical work that takes the reader on adventures with Lemuel Gulliver to strange lands like Lilliput and Brobdingnag. Another is 'Robinson Crusoe' by Daniel Defoe. It tells the story of a man stranded on an island and his survival and self - discovery there. Also, 'Tom Jones' by Henry Fielding is well - known. It is a picaresque novel that follows the life and adventures of the titular character.

Some of the bestselling 20th - century fiction books include 'Lord of the Rings' by J.R.R. Tolkien. This epic fantasy series has captured the hearts of millions with its rich world - building and memorable characters. 'Animal Farm' by George Orwell is also among them. It's a satirical take on the Russian Revolution. Additionally, 'A Farewell to Arms' by Ernest Hemingway, which tells a tragic love story set against the backdrop of World War I.

Some popular 19th - century fiction books include 'Pride and Prejudice' by Jane Austen. It's a story full of social commentary and complex characters. Another is 'Moby - Dick' by Herman Melville, which is an epic tale of a whaling voyage. Also, 'Jane Eyre' by Charlotte Bronte, a story of a young woman's journey through love and self - discovery.