Books, Reading, Lists Cindy Fazzi Books, Reading, Lists Cindy Fazzi

The Omniscient POV: Readers Either Love it or Hate It

The third-person omniscient point of view (POV) is common in 19th century novels, British mysteries, and European fiction, but many American book editors and writing teachers dislike it. There are literary agents who will flat out reject manuscripts with an omni POV. This literary tool leaves no gray area. People either love it or hate it. Here are 10 books that have used it effectively.

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Reading, Writing cindyfazzi Reading, Writing cindyfazzi

In Praise of the Unpopular Omniscient POV: “All the Light We Cannot See”

There is much to be praised about Anthony Doerr’s Pulitzer Prize-winning novel, “All the Light We Cannot See.” From its memorable protagonists to its epic World War II setting, the novel has all the elements of a great read. But what struck me the most is Doerr’s effective use of the unpopular omniscient point of view. Most writing teachers, editors, and literary agents advise writers to avoid the omni POV.

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