When does a novel become "literature" and be considered for the Nobel Prize?

Question

Is it true that it should not belong in one particular genre, and cannot have fantastical elements, or be children's lit, because those aren't "serious enough" or are for "entertainment purposes" only?

Can someone explain, thanks.

Answer 1

I have actually answered a similar question before, so I remember looking this info. up.

According to the official Pulitzer Prize website:

There are no set criteria for the judging of the Prizes. The definitions of each category are the only guidelines.

What books are eligible for consideration? Books first published in the United States during the year they are being entered in for consideration. All entries must be made available for purchase by the general public in either hardcover or bound paperback book form. In the Fiction, Biography and General Nonfiction categories, authors must be American citizens.

So, according to them, any fiction novel could win, it just depends on if the judges liked it or not.

Historically, the judges tend to pick novels that have something to do with the every-day lives of humans.

Ultimately fantasy novels or even a young adult novel could theoretically win, it just may have a harder time winning over the judges.