Ramayana Champu, written by Cherusseri Namboothiri in the 12th century, is widely regarded as the first major work of Malayalam literature.

Vallathol Narayana Menon is widely considered the father of modern Malayalam literature for his contributions to poetry and his role in the renaissance of Malayalam literature in the early 20th century.

Ezhuthachan's Adhyatma Ramayanam, a poetic adaptation of the Ramayana, is considered one of the greatest works of Malayalam literature.

Thakazhi Sivasankara Pillai's 'Oru Desathinte Katha' is a classic Malayalam novel that depicts the lives of villagers in Kerala.

C.N. Sreekantan Nair's 'Chemmeen' is a famous play based on the novel of the same name by Thakazhi Sivasankara Pillai.

Basheer Vaikom Muhammad's 'Arachar' won the Sahitya Akademi Award in 1979, recognizing his contributions to Malayalam literature.

Kamala Das's 'Summer in Calcutta' is a semi-autobiographical novel that explores themes of love, sexuality, and identity.

M.T. Vasudevan Nair's 'Nalukettu' won the Sahitya Akademi Award in 1960, establishing his prominence in Malayalam literature.

Uroob's 'Sundarikalum Sundaranmarum' (Beautiful Women and Handsome Men) is a classic Malayalam novel that explores the lives of various characters from different social backgrounds.

Thakazhi Sivasankara Pillai's 'Thottiyude Makan' won the Sahitya Akademi Award in 1969, highlighting his contributions to social realism in Malayalam literature.

S.K. Pottekkatt's 'Vishakanyaka' (The Poison Maiden) is a classic Malayalam novel that explores the themes of love, betrayal, and revenge.

M.T. Vasudevan Nair's 'Yugapurusha' won the Jnanpith Award in 2007, further solidifying his position as one of the most celebrated writers in Malayalam literature.

Vaikom Muhammad Basheer's 'Pathummayude Aadu' (Pathumma's Goat) is a humorous and satirical novel that explores the social and political conditions of Kerala.