An epistolary novel is a literary work that tells its story through a series of documents, such as letters, diary entries, emails, or other forms of correspondence. This format allows readers to experience the characters' thoughts and emotions directly, creating a sense of intimacy and immediacy. Famous examples of epistolary novels include Mary Shelley's "Frankenstein" and Alice Walker's "The Color Purple". These novels often explore themes of communication, isolation, and personal relationships, as the characters reveal their inner lives through their written words.