What's an historical novel > Likes and Comments

Do you think of a novel set in 1950s as an historical novel? Or is that time period is too recent to classify a novel set in that decade as 'historical.'

Yes, I think so, at least it is if the setting is an important part of the book and reader learns something about the time and place. I think if a book is set prior to the memories of most readers then it could be considered historical.

Setting is important to help set the atmosphere of a book. For example, most books set in the depression era have a depressed feeling as you read the book; The Grapes of Wrath for example.

According to the Historical Novel Society, the time period should be at least 50 years from when the book is written.
I follow this guideline for my two historical fiction set in 1953 and 1960.