If you want to look at how conditions create character, you could do worse than looking to the examples of John Steinbeck.

The 13 Best John Steinbeck Books

http://www.publishersweekly.com/pw/by-topic/industry-news/tip-sheet/article/61688-the-13-best-john-steinbeck-books.html

Yesterday, I mentioned reading imaginative children’s books to pump your own imagination. Consider reading a genre you don’t usually read for the same purpose. Try something from science fiction, for example. This list has some great suggestions.
Great Unsung Science Fiction Authors That Everybody Should Read

http://io9.com/great-unsung-science-fiction-authors-that-everybody-sho-1552276689

Prime the pump of your imagination by reading other imaginative works. Here is a review of a couple books for young readers that might open the well of your mind.

Guys Lit Wire: Odd and the Frost Giants by Neil Gaiman and Ludo and the Star Horse by Mary Stewart

http://guyslitwire.blogspot.com/2014/03/odd-and-frost-giants-by-neil-gaiman-and.html?m=1

Feeling a little blocked? Here are a few ideas to encourage your creative side.

How to Be More Creative, Wherever You Work | Entrepreneur.com

http://m.entrepreneur.com/article/232840