Yahoo News The best fantasy books
In ever-changing times, our world can be a frantic and, let’s face it, stressful place to be. The headlines are full of uncertainty, fear reigns, and bleak news is all around us. Come on, hands up, who else has dreamt of an escape?
But a brave new place exists. A place of action and wonder, where dragons roam, broomsticks fly and goodness prevails over evil. Is there ever a time when we need fantasy books more than now?
If you’re in need of a dose of magic, read on. We’ve put together our pick of the best fantasy books, old and new. So grab a blanket, curl up and step into a universe where anything is possible.
Harry Potter by JK Rowling
Because it’s only right to start this piece with the Boy Wizard himself. Dreamt up on a train by JK Rowling, the adventures of the orphaned Harry, the Boy Who Lived began back in 1997 when the first book, Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone was published. Since then, there have been seven books, eight films, a stage adaptation, even a behind-the-scenes studio tour. Nothing beats curling up on the sofa and losing yourself in this magical wizarding world.
A Song of Ice and Fire by George R. R. Martin
If you’ve watched Game Of Thrones but not read the books, then well, ‘you know nothing, Jon Snow.’ Beginning with the first volume, A Game of Thrones, published in 1996, this eight book series by American novelist and screenwriter George R.R Martin is quite simply epic. Yes, they’re long. But trust us, they’re definitely worth it.
His Dark Materials by Philip Pullman
Comprised of Northern Lights, The Subtle Knife and The Amber Spyglass and currently being shown as a Sunday night adaptation on BBC One, this brilliant trilogy follows the coming of age of two children, Lyra Belacqua and Will Parry, as they journey across parallel universes.
The Gunslinger by Stephen King
This is the first of the legendary Stephen King’s gripping Dark Tower fantasy series, which tells the tales of gunslinger Roland as he pursues a mysterious, malevolent presence across a strange world. Stephen King is the author of more than fifty books – and it’s no wonder that virtually all of them have become worldwide bestsellers.
Discworld series by Terry Pratchett
The Discworld is the fictional setting of the late Terry Pratchett’s most iconic 41 novel series, a flat planet balanced on the backs of four elephants which in turn stand on the back of a giant turtle. Bonkers, yes, but brilliant and incredibly gripping. 32 years in the making, Discworld is widely accepted to be one of the most richly detailed and inventive fantasy worlds in the history of the written word.
American Gods by Neil Gaiman
American Gods follows Shadow Moon, a convict who finds out that his wife has died in a car accident, just before he is due to be released. Little does he know, his life is about to change after takes a job working as a bodyguard for a mysterious conman called Mr. Wednesday, and travels with him across America. The novel blends ancient and modern mythology to create a dark, surreal and unputdownable fantasy.
Jonathan Strange and Mr Norrell by Susanna Clarke
This sweeping Victorian fantasy offers insight into an alternative history set in 19th-century England, around the time of the Napoleonic Wars. Magic has long been lost to England – but two men, Mr Norrell and novice Jonathan Strange, set out to bring it back. So successful that it won a string of global awards and was adapted for BBC One, this is a read not to be missed.
The Hunger Games trilogy by Suzanne Collins
Imagine a place made up of districts, a world where children must become tributes, must fight to the death. And now, it’s Katniss Everdeen’s turn. Immerse yourself in this vivid, terrifyingly believable world and you’ll forget where you really are.
The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern
‘The circus arrives without warning. No announcements precede it. It is simply there, when yesterday it was not.’ This beautifully written novel centres around a mysterious circus, where a long held duel between two young magicians is underway. However, unbeknownst to them, only one can be left standing. Quite simply, this book is mesmerising.
The Winternight trilogy by Katherine Arden
Set in Medieval Russia and inspired by fairytales the Winternight Series follows the adventures of a young woman who discovers she has magical gifts in a world that has turned its back on the old ways. A historical fantasy perfect for those who love ancient stories and tradition.
The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe by C.S Lewis
No fantasy books list would be complete without C.S Lewis’ much-loved Chronicles of Narnia novel. Packed with adventure, symbolism and magic, this is a classic and timeless tale, one to be pulled off the bookcase and devoured over and over again.
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