Epistolary novels are hard to ignore espeially when it has a strong plotting. Despite of containing all necessary key elements still many of these hidden gem novels have not gotten such popularity that these literary letters deserve. Here are seven underrated epistolary novels that offer captivating narratives and unique storytelling through letters:
“Ella Minnow Pea” by Mark Dunn Epistolary
This novel takes place on the fictional island of Nollop, where the residents must deal with the progressively absurd banishment of letters from the alphabet. It’s a clever and playful exploration of language and freedom of expression. It is a satirical epistolary novel set on the fictional island of Nollop, located off the coast of South Carolina. The island is named after Nevin Nollop, the supposed creator of the famous pangram, “The quick brown fox jumps over the lazy dog.” This sentence, which uses all 26 letters of the alphabet, is enshrined in a memorial to Nollop on the island.
The story begins when the letter “Z” falls off the memorial. The island’s council interprets this as a sign from Nollop himself, declaring that the use of the letter “Z” must be banned. The punishment for using the banned letter becomes increasingly severe, starting with public reprimands and escalating to banishment or worse. As more letters fall from the memorial, the council continues to outlaw their use, leading to progressively absurd and draconian restrictions on the residents’ ability to communicate.
The novel is written in the form of letters between the island’s inhabitants, primarily focusing on the protagonist, Ella Minnow Pea, and her family and friends. As the letters fall, the characters struggle to maintain meaningful communication and resist the council’s oppressive rules. They also search for a new pangram that can replace the original sentence and restore their freedom of expression.
Mark Dunn’s novel is a clever and playful exploration of language, freedom, and the absurdity of authoritarian rule. It highlights the power and importance of communication and the resilience of individuals in the face of tyranny. The book’s inventive use of language, with characters finding creative ways to express themselves despite the growing limitations, adds a unique and engaging layer to the narrative.
“The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society” by Mary Ann Shaffer and Annie Barrows
Set in the aftermath of World War II, this heartwarming novel unfolds through letters exchanged between a writer and the residents of Guernsey. It beautifully captures the resilience and camaraderie of a community during difficult times. It is a captivating epistolary novel set in the aftermath of World War II. The story unfolds through a series of letters exchanged between Juliet Ashton, a London-based writer, and the residents of the island of Guernsey.
The narrative begins in January 1946, when Juliet receives a letter from Dawsey Adams, a farmer and resident of Guernsey. Dawsey has come across Juliet’s name in a secondhand book by Charles Lamb and writes to her out of the blue. Intrigued by his mention of the “Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society,” Juliet begins a correspondence with Dawsey and other members of the society.
Through these letters, Juliet learns about the formation of the society, which originated as a spur-of-the-moment alibi when the islanders were caught breaking curfew by the Germans during the occupation. To avoid punishment, they claimed to be returning from a book club meeting. This spontaneous lie became a real literary society that provided solace and a sense of community during the harsh years of occupation.
As Juliet becomes more engrossed in the lives of the society’s members, she decides to visit Guernsey to write about their experiences during the war. During her stay, she discovers the resilience, courage, and camaraderie that helped the islanders endure the occupation. She also unearths personal stories of love, loss, and recovery, forming deep connections with the people of Guernsey.
The novel beautifully captures the power of literature to bring people together and provide comfort in times of adversity. Through its engaging characters and their heartfelt letters, it portrays the indomitable human spirit and the strength of community bonds. Juliet’s journey of discovery and personal growth, set against the backdrop of a war-torn world healing itself, makes for a heartwarming and uplifting read.
“The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society” not only illuminates a lesser-known chapter of World War II history but also celebrates the enduring power of books and human connection.
“We Need to Talk About Kevin” by Lionel Shriver
Through a series of letters to her estranged husband, Eva reflects on their son Kevin’s disturbing behavior and the tragic events that follow. It’s a haunting and thought-provoking examination of motherhood and guilt.
“We Need to Talk About Kevin” by Lionel Shriver is a gripping and unsettling novel that delves into the complexities of motherhood, the nature of evil, and the aftermath of a horrific act of violence. The story is conveyed through a series of letters written by Eva Khatchadourian to her estranged husband, Franklin. In these letters, Eva reflects on their troubled son, Kevin, and the series of tragic events that culminate in Kevin committing a school massacre.
As Eva writes to Franklin, she revisits her life leading up to Kevin’s birth, her ambivalence about becoming a mother, and her struggles to connect with Kevin as he grows up. From a young age, Kevin displays disturbing behavior—manipulation, cruelty, and an apparent lack of empathy. Eva’s attempts to bond with Kevin are met with resistance and hostility, and she increasingly feels isolated and helpless in the face of his malevolence.
The letters reveal Eva’s inner turmoil as she grapples with feelings of guilt and responsibility for Kevin’s actions. She questions whether Kevin’s behavior is a result of her perceived inadequacies as a mother or if he was inherently “evil” from birth. The novel explores the nature-versus-nurture debate, examining whether Kevin’s actions are a product of his environment or his inherent disposition.
Through Eva’s candid and often raw reflections, the reader gains insight into her strained relationship with Franklin, who remains in denial about Kevin’s behavior and tends to dismiss Eva’s concerns. The tension between Eva and Franklin adds another layer of complexity to the story, highlighting the breakdown of their marriage and their differing perceptions of Kevin.
The novel reaches its harrowing climax as Eva recounts the events leading up to and including the day of the massacre. The aftermath of the tragedy leaves Eva isolated and ostracized by her community, and she is forced to confront the profound loss and devastation that Kevin has wrought on their lives.
“We Need to Talk About Kevin” is a haunting and thought-provoking examination of the dark side of motherhood and the burden of guilt. Shriver’s narrative challenges readers to contemplate the limits of parental influence and the inexplicable nature of evil. The novel’s epistolary format allows for an intimate exploration of Eva’s psyche, making her a deeply compelling and sympathetic character despite the horrific circumstances she endures.
Ultimately, the novel raises uncomfortable questions about love, responsibility, and the capacity for forgiveness, leaving a lasting impact on its readers.
“Where’d You Go, Bernadette” by Maria Semple
This witty and touching novel tells the story of a daughter’s search for her agoraphobic mother, Bernadette, through emails, letters, and official documents. It’s a delightful blend of mystery and comedy.
“Where’d You Go, Bernadette” by Maria Semple is a witty, heartwarming, and intricately crafted novel that unfolds through a series of emails, letters, official documents, and other forms of correspondence. The narrative centers on the disappearance of Bernadette Fox, an eccentric and agoraphobic architect, and her daughter Bee’s determined quest to find her.
Bernadette Fox, once a renowned architect in Los Angeles, now lives in Seattle with her husband Elgin Branch, a successful Microsoft executive, and their teenage daughter Bee. Bernadette’s reclusive and unconventional behavior has made her a subject of fascination and gossip among the Seattle community. Her avoidance of social interactions and her disdain for the city’s cultural and social norms are evident from the start.
The story kicks off when Bee, a bright and precocious teenager, requests a family trip to Antarctica as a reward for her excellent grades. Bernadette, despite her anxieties, reluctantly agrees to the trip. However, as the departure date approaches, Bernadette’s behavior becomes increasingly erratic, and she disappears without a trace just before they are set to leave.
Bee, who deeply loves her mother and refuses to believe she has left them for good, embarks on a mission to uncover what happened to Bernadette. Using a collection of emails, letters, doctor’s notes, police reports, and other documents, Bee pieces together the events leading up to her mother’s disappearance. Through this investigation, she uncovers secrets about Bernadette’s past, her career, and the various pressures that have shaped her current state.
The novel is as much a mystery as it is a comedic and touching exploration of family dynamics and personal identity. Bernadette’s story is revealed through the perspectives of various characters, including her neighbors, school officials, and former colleagues, each adding depth and humor to the narrative. As Bee delves she discovers the complexities of her mother’s life, including the professional disappointments and personal struggles that have led to her reclusiveness.
Maria Semple’s sharp and satirical writing shines through in the portrayal of Seattle’s upper-middle-class society, highlighting the absurdities and hypocrisies of suburban life. At the same time, the novel poignantly addresses themes of creativity, mental illness, and the bonds between mothers and daughters.
“Where’d You Go, Bernadette” is ultimately a story about love, redemption, and the transformative power of understanding and acceptance. As Bee uncovers more about her mother’s past and the reasons behind her disappearance, she gains a deeper appreciation for Bernadette’s unique spirit and resilience.
The novel’s blend of humor and heart, along with its innovative narrative structure, makes it a compelling and enjoyable read. Through Bee’s quest, readers are taken on an emotional journey that is both entertaining and profoundly moving, culminating in a satisfying resolution that celebrates the enduring connection between mother and daughter.
“Griffin and Sabine” by Nick Bantock
A visually stunning series, “Griffin and Sabine” features beautifully illustrated correspondence between two strangers whose lives become mysteriously intertwined. The mix of art and narrative creates an enchanting reading experience.
“Griffin and Sabine” by Nick Bantock is an enchanting and visually arresting epistolary novel that blends art and narrative to create a unique and immersive reading experience. The story is told through a series of illustrated postcards and letters exchanged between two characters, Griffin Moss and Sabine Strohem, whose lives become mysteriously intertwined despite never having met in person.
Griffin Moss is a solitary artist living in London, who creates intricate and surreal postcards. One day, he receives an unexpected letter from Sabine Strohem, an artist living on a remote island in the South Pacific. Sabine claims to have a psychic connection with Griffin, able to see his artwork as he creates it, even though they are separated by thousands of miles and have never communicated before.
Intrigued and somewhat unsettled, Griffin responds to Sabine’s letter, and thus begins a correspondence that quickly becomes deeply personal and intensely emotional. Through their letters, postcards, and artwork, they share their thoughts, dreams, and fears, exploring the nature of their inexplicable bond. The physical letters, which readers can pull out and read, add a tactile and intimate dimension to the story, making the experience of reading the book feel like a secret discovery.
As their relationship develops, the mystery surrounding their connection deepens. Griffin and Sabine’s letters reveal their growing affection for one another, as well as the challenges they face in understanding the supernatural element of their link. The correspondence also hints at darker forces at play, as both characters begin to feel a sense of being watched and manipulated by unseen entities.
Nick Bantock’s masterful combination of visual art and written word creates a richly layered narrative. The detailed illustrations and designs of the postcards and letters enhance the storytelling, offering visual clues and symbolic elements that complement the text. Each piece of correspondence is a work of art in itself, reflecting the personalities and emotional states of the characters.
The novel’s themes of connection, destiny, and the interplay between reality and imagination resonate throughout the series, which unfolds over several books. As Griffin and Sabine’s story progresses, readers are drawn into a world where the boundaries between the physical and the metaphysical blur, creating a sense of wonder and intrigue.
“Griffin and Sabine” is more than just a novel; it is an immersive artistic experience that invites readers to engage with the characters and their mysterious journey on multiple levels. The blend of visual and literary artistry makes it a captivating and unforgettable read, appealing to both the mind and the senses.
“Sorcery & Cecelia: or The Enchanted Chocolate Pot” by Patricia C. Wrede and Caroline Stevermer
Set in an alternate Regency England where magic is real, this charming novel is told through the letters of two cousins. It combines elements of fantasy, romance, and adventure in an engaging and whimsical way.
“Sorcery & Cecelia: or The Enchanted Chocolate Pot” by Patricia C. Wrede and Caroline Stevermer is a delightful epistolary novel set in an alternate version of Regency England, where magic exists alongside the familiar social customs of the period. The story unfolds through the letters exchanged between two cousins, Cecelia (Cecy) Rushton and Katherine (Kate) Talgarth, who find themselves embroiled in magical adventures and romantic entanglements.
Cecelia and Kate are close friends and confidantes, living apart for the first time. Kate is in London for her first season, hoping to make a good match, while Cecy remains in the countryside. Their letters to each other recount their daily lives, but soon their correspondence is filled with accounts of mysterious and magical occurrences.
The plot kicks off when Kate accidentally drinks from an enchanted chocolate pot meant to ensnare a powerful wizard, Sir Hilary Bedrick. This event sets off a chain of magical mishaps and intrigues, drawing both Kate and Cecy into a web of sorcery and danger. As they investigate, they discover that a sinister plot threatens not only their lives but also the stability of the magical society in England.
Kate, with her wit and bravery, navigates the complexities of London society and the magical underworld. She encounters various characters, including the charming but enigmatic Thomas Schofield, who becomes her ally and romantic interest. Meanwhile, Cecy, resourceful and determined, delves into the magical mysteries in the countryside. She uncovers hidden talents and allies, including James Tarleton, a young wizard with whom she shares a growing connection.
Through their letters, the cousins share their discoveries, frustrations, and triumphs, all while maintaining their signature humor and spirited personalities. The novel’s epistolary format allows for a lively and intimate portrayal of their friendship and the unfolding mystery. Their distinct voices and perspectives add depth and variety to the narrative, keeping the reader engaged and entertained.
The novel masterfully blends elements of fantasy, romance, and adventure. The alternate Regency setting is richly detailed, combining historical authenticity with imaginative magical elements. The enchanting and whimsical tone of the book is balanced with moments of suspense and action, making it a well-rounded and satisfying read.
“Sorcery & Cecelia: or The Enchanted Chocolate Pot” is not only a charming fantasy but also a celebration of the enduring bond between the two cousins. Their loyalty, courage, and cleverness drive the story forward, creating a delightful and enchanting reading experience. The novel’s unique blend of genres and its engaging narrative style make it a standout in both the fantasy and historical fiction genres.
“The Expedition of Humphry Clinker” by Tobias Smollett
Written in the 18th century, this humorous novel is narrated through the letters of a family traveling through Britain. It offers a satirical look at the society and culture of the time, with a blend of wit and insight.
These novels showcase the versatility and charm of the epistolary form, providing readers with immersive and intimate narratives that deserve more recognition. If you’re looking to explore epistolary literature, these underrated titles are a great place to start.
“The Expedition of Humphry Clinker” by Tobias Smollett, written in 1771, is a classic example of the epistolary novel form. It is considered one of the great satirical works of the 18th century, offering a witty and insightful look at British society and culture of the time. The novel is composed of a series of letters written by various members of the Bramble family as they travel across England, Scotland, and Wales.
The story begins with Matthew Bramble, a cantankerous but good-hearted Welsh squire, who sets out on a journey to improve his health. He is accompanied by his family, including his sister, Tabitha Bramble, a domineering and marriage-obsessed woman; his niece, Lydia Melford, a young woman with romantic inclinations; his nephew, Jeremy Melford, a rakish and witty young man; and his servant, Winifred Jenkins, a talkative and superstitious maid. Along the way, they are joined by the titular character, Humphry Clinker, a kind-hearted but naive and bumbling servant.
The novel’s plot unfolds through the letters exchanged among the family members, each offering their own perspective on the journey and the people they encounter. These letters provide a rich tapestry of voices, each with its own distinct tone and style, showcasing Smollett’s skill in character development and his keen observational humor.
Matthew Bramble’s letters are filled with complaints about his ailments and critical observations of the people and places they visit. Despite his gruff exterior, he often reveals a deep sense of humanity and wisdom. Tabitha Bramble’s letters are a mix of malapropisms and misguided schemes to find a husband, often leading to humorous situations. Lydia Melford’s correspondence is more sentimental and romantic, providing a contrast to her uncle’s cynicism. Jeremy Melford’s letters are filled with satire and social commentary, reflecting his youthful exuberance and wit. Winifred Jenkins’ letters add another layer of humor with her colloquial language and superstitious beliefs.
Through these varied perspectives, Smollett paints a vivid and satirical portrait of 18th-century British society. The novel explores themes such as class, politics, medicine, and the foibles of human nature. Smollett’s sharp wit and keen insight into social dynamics make “The Expedition of Humphry Clinker” not only a humorous read but also a valuable historical document that captures the essence of its time.
The novel’s epistolary format allows readers to become intimately acquainted with the characters, as their personal thoughts and emotions are laid bare in their letters. This creates a sense of immediacy and engagement, drawing readers into the world of the Bramble family and their adventures.
“The Expedition of Humphry Clinker” is a testament to the versatility and charm of the epistolary form. Its combination of humor, social satire, and character-driven narrative makes it a timeless work that continues to entertain and enlighten readers. For those looking to explore epistolary literature, this novel, along with other underrated titles mentioned earlier, provides an immersive and intimate reading experience that is both enjoyable and thought-provoking.
