What characteristic of a literary excerpt would motivate students to continue reading the novel?

The emotional resonance of the narrator's experiences is a significant characteristic that would motivate students to continue reading the novel. This is because when readers connect emotionally with a character, they become invested in the character's journey, challenges, and growth. A narrative that effectively conveys deep feelings and complex experiences can evoke empathy, prompting readers to explore how these emotions unfold throughout the story.

This emotional connection can make the reader reflect on their own experiences and feelings, fostering a sense of relatability. As students recognize their own struggles or aspirations in the narrator's experiences, they are more likely to feel compelled to turn the pages to see how the character navigates their circumstances. Emotional engagement often enhances the reading experience and can make the themes of the novel more impactful and memorable.

While the other characteristics, such as simple diction, a contemporary setting, or detailed descriptions, can also enhance a reader's experience, they typically do so in ways that might not evoke the same level of deep, personal engagement as emotional resonance does.