The 10 Best Biographical Fiction Novels of the Last Twenty Years
Biographical fiction, also known as biofiction, has gained immense popularity in recent years. These novels blend historical facts with imaginative storytelling, bringing famous figures to life in a way that traditional biographies often can’t. In this article, we’ll explore the top 10 biographical fiction novels published in the last two decades, offering readers a captivating journey through history and literature.
1. “The Paris Wife” by Paula McLain (2011)
Paula McLain’s “The Paris Wife” transports readers to 1920s Paris, chronicling the tumultuous relationship between Ernest Hemingway and his first wife, Hadley Richardson. This poignant novel offers a unique perspective on the iconic writer’s early years and the sacrifices made by those closest to him.
2. “Loving Frank” by Nancy Horan (2007)
Nancy Horan’s debut novel, “Loving Frank,” delves into the passionate and controversial affair between architect Frank Lloyd Wright and Mamah Borthwick Cheney. This meticulously researched work explores themes of love, art, and societal expectations in early 20th-century America.
3. “The Aviator’s Wife” by Melanie Benjamin (2013)
Melanie Benjamin’s “The Aviator’s Wife” tells the story of Anne Morrow Lindbergh, wife of the famous aviator Charles Lindbergh. This compelling narrative traces Anne’s journey from shy ambassador’s daughter to accomplished author and aviator in her own right.
4. “Z: A Novel of Zelda Fitzgerald” by Therese Anne Fowler (2013)
Therese Anne Fowler’s “Z” offers a sympathetic portrayal of Zelda Fitzgerald, often overshadowed by her famous husband, F. Scott Fitzgerald. This novel paints a vivid picture of the Jazz Age and explores Zelda’s struggles with mental illness and her own artistic aspirations.
5. “Hamnet” by Maggie O’Farrell (2020)
Winner of the Women’s Prize for Fiction, Maggie O’Farrell’s “Hamnet” imagines the life of Shakespeare’s son, who died at the age of 11. This deeply moving novel explores grief, family, and the power of art in the face of loss.
6. “The Invention of Wings” by Sue Monk Kidd (2014)
Sue Monk Kidd’s “The Invention of Wings” is based on the life of Sarah Grimké, a 19th-century abolitionist and women’s rights activist. This powerful novel interweaves Sarah’s story with that of Handful, an enslaved girl given to Sarah as a birthday present.
7. “Circling the Sun” by Paula McLain (2015)
Paula McLain returns to our list with “Circling the Sun,” a vivid portrayal of Beryl Markham, a pioneering aviator and horse trainer in colonial Kenya. This novel captures the spirit of adventure and the complexities of love in a changing world.
8. “The Last Painting of Sara de Vos” by Dominic Smith (2016)
Dominic Smith’s “The Last Painting of Sara de Vos” weaves together the stories of a female Dutch painter in the 17th century, an art forger in 1950s New York, and a museum curator in contemporary Sydney. This intricate novel explores art, deception, and redemption across centuries.
9. “The Noise of Time” by Julian Barnes (2016)
Julian Barnes’ “The Noise of Time” offers a fictional account of the life of Russian composer Dmitri Shostakovich. This thought-provoking novel examines the relationship between art and power under Stalin’s regime.
10. “The Marriage of Opposites” by Alice Hoffman (2015)
Alice Hoffman’s “The Marriage of Opposites” tells the story of Rachel Pizzarro, the mother of Impressionist painter Camille Pissarro. Set on the island of St. Thomas in the early 19th century, this lush novel explores themes of forbidden love and artistic passion.
Conclusion
These ten biographical fiction novels offer readers a unique blend of historical fact and imaginative storytelling. By bringing famous figures to life in new and exciting ways, these works allow us to explore the complexities of human nature and the forces that shape our world. Whether you’re a history buff, a literature lover, or simply looking for your next great read, these novels are sure to captivate and inspire.
FAQs
1. What is biographical fiction?
Biographical fiction, or biofiction, is a genre that blends historical facts about real people with fictional elements to create a compelling narrative.
2. How accurate are biographical fiction novels?
While based on real events and people, biographical fiction novels take creative liberties to fill in gaps and create a cohesive story. The level of accuracy can vary between authors and works.
3. Are these novels suitable for book clubs?
Yes, many of these novels are popular choices for book clubs due to their rich historical context and complex characters, which provide ample material for discussion.
4. Can biographical fiction help me learn about history?
While not a substitute for non-fiction historical works, biographical fiction can offer insights into historical periods and figures in an engaging, accessible way.
5. Are there any movie adaptations of these novels?
Yes, some of these novels have been adapted for the screen. For example, “Z: A Novel of Zelda Fitzgerald” inspired the TV series “Z: The Beginning of Everything.”
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