How does a novel differ from a novella?

In the context of literature, the distinction between a novel and a novella is primarily defined by length and complexity. Both are forms of prose fiction, but they exist along a continuum of narrative scale.1

A novel is an invented prose narrative of considerable length and complexity that explores human experience through a connected sequence of events involving a group of characters. Because of its length, it allows for extensive development of plot, theme, and characterization.231

A novella is a shorter, more compact narrative. While it shares the fictional nature of the novel, it is generally less complex and more focused in its structure. Historically, the term novella (Italian for "new") served as the parent form for the modern novel, often originating as an enlarged anecdote or a self-contained tale.4561

In summary, while a novel is a full-length book, a novella occupies a middle ground—longer than a short story but shorter and less expansive than a traditional novel.15