I've always loved the chance to escape to magical realms, whether in a dystopian setting where unlikely heroes emerge, or in an enchanted realm with unusual beasts both fierce and fantastic.
Most of my favorites were written for children, but they remain the same. I have always preferred books written for children, and don't see that changing any time soon!
It has not been easy narrowing down my top ten books, and the only way to do it was to include full series (but I've told my favorite book of each series as well).
The Borrowers: Mary Norton
This has been a favorite of mine since I was ten years old. I wanted to find a tiny family in my own house to befriend, so I'll admit I did a bit of searching as a child. My favorite book of the series is The Borrowers Avenged.
The Goose Girl, (tied) Princess Academy: Shannon Hale
These are both wonderful, but I think the Princess Academy is especially important for teen girls to read. I buy copies to give out.
The Claidi Collection: Tannith Lee
This book combines amazing world-building with steampunk and fantasy elements that in a way remind of some Doctor Who episodes. The books have suspense, romance and a nice self-discovery arc. Things get pretty crazy along the way, and I'm not super fond of the shark people that come along in book four, but it's still a fun series. Book 1, Wolf Tower, is my favorite.
The Two Princesses of Bamarre: Gail Carson Levine
This is such a beautiful, heart-wrenching book, and it's a wonderful look at what it means to be a true sister.
The Blue Sword: Robin McKinley
Some of the best world-building I have ever read, and enough girl power to make Wonder Woman proud.
The Hobbit and Lord of the Rings: J. R. R. Tolkien
I've read these many times over the years, but I'll never forget the day I was reading The Two Towers. I was in King Theoden's throne room when Gandalf blasted through the doors, and it almost made me late for my job at Sonic. Favorite of the series: The Two Towers.
The City of Ember: Jeanne DuPrau
I love the first book in this series. It's such a clever dystopian story with some fun steampunk elements thrown in for good measure. I'm not as fond of the other books in the series.
The Space Trilogy: C.S. Lewis
Incredible worlds, magical places, and a terrifying climactic battle of good and evil. But what else would you expect from Lewis? Favorite in the series is Peralandra.
Hidden Current: Sharon Hinck.
I loved the dance element in this story, and how people connected to God through the arts.
The Princess Bride: William Goldman
If you're a fan of the movie, this book is a must. Some extra scenes, and some things that didn't make sense in the movie are explained in more depth that make them even more hilarious.
The Chronicles of Narnia: C.S. Lewis
Needs no explanation. My favorite of the seven is The Horse and His Boy.
'Till We Have Faces: C. S. Lewis
This retelling of a Greek myth is beautiful, tragic, and brilliant. I think everyone in the world should read this book at least once. I read it every few years and each time it speaks to me in a different way.
Oops, it's twelve. Oh well! I'm sure I missed quite a few as well. What are your favorites? Please share in the comments!
Also, don't forget that I have fantasy books for children and young adults! You can see my Three Royal Children, Toby the Trilby, and Willow Green Series on Amazon! https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B00CJUELT0/
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