Fantasy fans, looking for a new read? Don’t discount children’s fantasy books for your TBR. You’re never too old for a good children’s fantasy novel.
Combining complex themes, coming-of-age narratives, and profound friendships, these ten children’s fantasy books are a great choice for any adult looking to revisit a classic.
Here are our ten best children’s fantasy books adults should reread.
10. So You Want To Be A Wizard by Diane Duane
ISBN: 9780152047382
This delightful children’s fantasy book is perfect for an adult re-read. It follows Nita and Kit, two young teenagers who discover they have magical powers in the midst of their New York City youth.
Other books in the series:
- Deep Wizardry
- High Wizardry
- A Wizard Abroad
- The Wizard’s Dilemma
- A Wizard Alone
- Wizard’s Holiday
- Wizards at War
- A Wizard of Mars
- Interim Errantry
- Games Wizards Play
Why we recommend it: This book is a fantastic choice for anyone looking for a powerful friendship narrative, or anyone who longed to be a witch or wizard in their youth.
9. A Wrinkle In Time by Madeleine L’Engle
ISBN: 9781429915649
Chances are, you’ve seen the film adaptation of this children’s fantasy classic starring fashion icon Reese Witherspoon, but the book stands the test of time and is well worth a revisit no matter your age.
The novel tells the story of three young friends, Meg, Charles, and Calvin, as they embark on an intergalactic adventure to battle The Black Thing, an evil force which has invaded our reality.
Other books in the series:
- A Wind in the Door
- A Swiftly Tilting Planet
- Many Waters
- An Acceptable Time
Why we recommend it: This book tackles massive themes like the struggle of good and evil, all wrapped into a touching and profound coming-of-age story about identity.
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8. The Last Unicorn by Peter S. Beagle
This award-winning children’s fantasy book is about a Unicorn who thinks she is the last of her kind in the world.
As she begins an investigation to uncover what happened to the other unicorns, she meets friends and enemies who help her understand her own purpose in the world.
Why we recommend it: I adored the dreamy, magical world in this children’s fantasy novel, which was a satisfying combination of fantasy and adventure tropes.
7. Howl’s Moving Castle by Diana Wynne Jones
ISBN: 9780064410342
Howl’s Moving Castle is an undeniable classic of children’s fantasy. It’s about a young woman named Sophie who is suddenly cursed and turned into an old woman by the Witch of the Waste.
She befriends a wizard, Howl, in an attempt to reverse the curse, and is soon thrust into an epic web of betrayal and discovery.
Other books in the series:
- Castle in the Air
- House of Many Ways
Why we recommend it: I love the atmosphere of this novel, as well as the presence of complex and strong-willed female characters. Sophie is the heroine we all need!
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Subscribe to our weekly newsletter6. Sabriel by Garth Nix
This allegorical children’s fantasy novel is set in a world divided into kingdoms with and without magic.
When the living Dead, controlled by evil Necromancers, become a threat to peace, young Sabriel is tasked with leading the rebellion. Can she rise to the challenge?
Other books in the series:
- Lirael
- Abhorsen
- Clariel
- Goldenhand
- Terciel and Elinor
Why we recommend it: This novel is a great choice for fans of horror and dark fantasy, and anyone who’s looking to get lost in an atmospheric series.
5. The Golden Compass by Phillip Pullman
ISBN: 9780679879244
This children’s fantasy classic, also known as Northern Lights, explores a magical world where all children are accompanied be daemons who act as manifestations of their soul.
When young Lyra learns about an evil plot to kidnap children, she and her daemon are forced to venture into the cold North. Can Lyra save her friend Roger before it’s too late?
Other books in the series:
- The Subtle Knife
- The Amber Spyglass
Why we recommend it: This book is such a wholesome and heartbreaking mix of magic, epic adventures, massive conspiracies, and adorable creatures. (I wish I had a daemon!)
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4. Matilda by Roald Dahl
Who among us never wished to have magic powers as a kid?
Well, for Matilda Wormwood, that dream becomes a reality. Confronted with absent parents and surrounded by uncaring adults, Matilda slowly learns her true power.
With the support of her ally, Miss Honey, can Matilda find her happy ending?
Why we recommend it: I love how perfectly this book captures the feeling of alienation and frustration that are so central to childhood. (A fan theory has even tied this children’s fantasy novel to a Stephen King classic.) A perfect choice for anyone looking for a dose of nostalgia.
3. Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone by J. K. Rowling
ISBN: 9781338299144
This classic children’s fantasy novel needs no introduction.
When young Harry, a neglected orphan who lives with his uncaring relatives, discovers he’s a wizard, he is whisked away to the magic school Hogwarts, where he is forced into a battle against the evil Voldemort.
Will Harry and his friends make it out alive?
Other books in the series:
- Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets
- Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban
- Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire
- Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix
- Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince
- Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows
Why we recommend it: I love the cozy and comforting setting of this novel, as well as the sweet and timeless relationships between the three friends. It’s always a great time for a reread.
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2. The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe by C. S. Lewis
ISBN: 9780061974151
This first entry into the Chronicles of Narnia series is about four friends in the English countryside during the devastation of World War II.
When they find a portal into the magical realm of Narnia, the children are immersed in a high-stakes world of magical intrigue.
Other books in the series:
- Prince Caspian
- The Voyage of the Dawn Treader
- The Silver Chair
- The Horse and His Boy
- The Magician’s Nephew
- The Last Battle
Why we recommend it: C. S. Lewis was a master of writing stories for all ages, and this children’s fantasy novel is a testament to his versatility. I love the sense of adventure in this book, as well as the presence of numerous fantastical characters. (I mean, a talking faun? Come on, what more could you want?)
1. Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland by Lewis Carroll
ISBN: 9781529002461
This children’s fantasy is the top of our list, and it’s easy to see why: it established so many of the fantasy tropes we know and love today.
When young Alice follows a mysterious white rabbit down a tunnel, she finds herself in a bizarre world where everything she eats and drinks has an unexpected effect on her body.
When Alice meets the cruel and easily-flustered Queen of Hearts, she begins an epic battle for the fate of the other creatures around her.
If you’re a fan of the series, be sure to check out the next Descendants film, which will feature some of our favorite characters from Lewis Carroll’s fever-dream fantasy.
Other books in the series:
- Through the Looking Glass
Why we recommend it: This book is often overlooked for how funny it is, but it truly is hilarious. A perfect pick for fans of Victorian literature and those who love to laugh.
These are our ten favorite children’s fantasy novels that adults should reread. How many of them have you read? What will you be adding to your TBR? Let us know in the comments.
Happy reading!
