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A novella is a shorter work of fiction, typically between 17,500 and 40,000 words, while a novel is generally considered to be a work of fiction that is longer than 40,000 words. Some popular novella authors include Ernest Hemingway, Nathaniel Hawthorne, and Edgar Allan Poe, while popular novelists include J.K. Rowling, Stephen King, and Jane Austen.
Novellas are less common than novels in terms of publication and sales, but they can still be successful. For example, “The Old Man and the Sea” by Ernest Hemingway, a novella, is considered a classic and is frequently studied in literature classes. However, in terms of commercial success, novels tend to outsell novellas.
Novellas are more suitable for certain types of stories, such as those that are highly focused and have a specific theme or message, rather than a complex plot. For example, “The Death of Ivan Ilyich” by Leo Tolstoy is a novella that explores the nature of death and the meaning of life. Similarly, “The Metamorphosis” by Franz Kafka, is a novella that explores the themes of isolation and transformation.
Some novellas have been expanded into novels, examples include The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald which was expanded into a novel and The Handmaid’s Tale by Margaret Atwood which was expanded into a novel and also adapted into a TV series.
Grady Lucas
Admistrator / Writers Critique (site)
Writers Critique LLC
Founder and web developer (retired).
He/Him
When I first started writing, I was looking for a place to get feedback on my work. I wanted to find a community of writers who could help me improve my craft. But I quickly became frustrated with the sites I found. You know the ones that were either too superficial or too harsh.
I saw a need for a different kind of writing critique site. One that was based on mutual respect.
So I created Writer’s Critique. It’s a place where writers can meet other writers, collaborate, and get feedback on their work. It’s also a place where you can learn from editors, publishers, and other experts in the field.
No gimmicks. No karma points. Just write.
The road to hell is paved with adverbs.
Stephen King
