Epistolary literature is a genre that tells a story through letters, diary entries, emails, or other forms of correspondence. This format allows readers to gain insight into characters' thoughts and emotions directly, creating a sense of intimacy and immediacy. Notable examples include Mary Shelley's "Frankenstein" and Alice Walker's "The Color Purple." The use of letters can also provide multiple perspectives, as different characters may respond to events in their own unique ways. This technique can enhance the narrative by revealing conflicts, relationships, and personal growth, making it a powerful tool for storytelling in literature.