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A bold, gorgeously written fantasy that doesn't shy from complex themes - an instant classic for anyone who likes to read with their brain (and heart) fully engaged.

If you liked The Golden Compass, here are the top 100 books to read next:

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Showing 1 - 10 of 100 
  1. #1

    The Lightning Thief - Percy Jackson and the Olympians by Rick Riordan
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    A modern, funny, and action-packed take on Greek mythology that will thrill adventure lovers of all ages - don't let the "kids' book" label fool you!

    In "The Lightning Thief" by Rick Riordan, readers follow the adventures of Percy Jackson, a demigod who discovers his true identity as the son of Poseidon. Along with his friends Grover and Annabeth, Percy navigates a world filled with Greek mythology, monsters, and gods. The book combines humor, action, and a coming-of-age journey as Percy embarks on a quest to prevent a war between Zeus and Poseidon, ultimately leading to a heartwarming bond of friendship and self-discovery.

    The storyline of "The Lightning Thief" is fast-paced, engaging, and filled with adventure, making it a thrilling read for both children and adults. Riordan's writing style seamlessly weaves Greek myths into a modern setting, introducing readers to a world where gods, monsters, and demigods coexist. Through Percy's dyslexia, ADHD, and heroic journey, the book explores themes of identity, friendship, and the power of teamwork in the face of perilous challenges.

    But if you recognize yourself in these pages—if you feel something stirring inside—stop reading immediately. You might be one of us. And once you know that, it’s only a matter of time before they sens...
    2005
    376 pages

  2. #2
    Sabriel
    by: 
    Book 1 in the series:Abhorsen

    Sabriel - Abhorsen by Garth Nix
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    A darkly inventive, female-led fantasy adventure with one of the coolest takes on necromancy out there. A must for fans of original magic, strong heroines, and rich worldbuilding - just expect to work for some of your answers. Worth the hype!

    Sabriel follows the journey of a young woman who unexpectedly inherits her father's title as Abhorsen, a powerful necromancer, and embarks on a quest that takes her across the wall into another world. The book delves into a dark and magical Old Kingdom where Sabriel must rescue her father from the Land of the Dead while battling against evil forces trying to destroy the balance of the realm. The narrative weaves intricate world-building, necromancy, and a band of loyal companions, creating a suspenseful and engaging story filled with vivid descriptions of the magical realm and its inhabitants.

    The writing style of Sabriel is praised for its dark and cold atmosphere, with the protagonist navigating through desperate situations in the Old Kingdom and Death itself. The book introduces a unique magical system involving bells and a necromancer's duty to lay the dead to rest, all while exploring themes of family legacy, self-discovery, and the struggle between good and evil in a fantasy setting that captivates readers with its originality and depth.

    THE RABBIT HAD been run over minutes before. Its pink eyes were glazed and blood stained its clean white fur. Unnaturally clean fur, for it had just escaped from a bath. It still smelt faintly of lave...
    1995
    463 pages

  3. #3

    The Hunger Games - The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins
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    A gripping, memorable, and thought-provoking read - a modern classic in YA dystopian fiction that’s hard to put down. Worth picking up for the excitement and the questions it raises.

    The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins is a dystopian novel set in the country of Panem, which consists of 12 districts and a Capitol. Every year, the Capitol holds the Hunger Games, where one boy and one girl from each district are chosen to fight to the death on live television. The story follows 16-year-old Katniss Everdeen from District 12, who volunteers to take her sister's place in the Hunger Games. As the plot unfolds, Katniss navigates the brutal competition while facing moral dilemmas and forming alliances with other tributes.

    The book explores themes of survival, sacrifice, government oppression, and the effects of reality television on society. Suzanne Collins weaves a narrative that delves into the complexities of human nature, the power dynamics between the Capitol and the districts, and the resilience of the protagonist, Katniss, as she fights for her life and grapples with her emotions amidst the chaos of the Hunger Games.

    When I wake up, the other side of the bed is cold. My fingers stretch out, seeking Prim’s warmth but finding only the rough canvas cover of the mattress. She must have had bad dreams and climbed in wi...
    September 2008
    486 pages

  4. #4

    The Fellowship of the Ring - The Lord of the Rings by J.R.R. Tolkien
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    A cornerstone of modern fantasy that rewards patience and curiosity - a dense, atmospheric adventure best enjoyed if you love to savor every detail of an epic world.

    'The Fellowship of the Ring' is the first book in 'The Lord of the Rings' trilogy by J.R.R. Tolkien. The story follows Frodo, a hobbit, as he embarks on a perilous journey to destroy the Ring of Power in the barren wasteland of Mordor. Along the way, a fellowship is formed to aid him in this dangerous quest, facing epic battles, evil forces, and the ultimate test of friendship and courage. The book is known for its intricate world-building, detailed narrative, and themes of good vs evil, duty, perseverance, and doing what is right. Despite a slow start, the book picks up pace as the action unfolds, captivating readers with its rich storytelling and complex characters.

    'The Fellowship of the Ring' is a classic masterpiece of fantasy literature that introduces readers to the vast and enchanting world of Middle Earth. Tolkien's writing style, characterized by detailed descriptions and deep world-building, immerses the reader in a tale of adventure, friendship, and dedication to the greater good. The book sets the standard for all fantasy stories, painting a vivid picture of a world where courage and loyalty are tested against the forces of darkness, making it a timeless and captivating read for fans of the genre.

    Bilbo was very rich and very peculiar, and had been the wonder of the Shire for sixty years, ever since his remarkable disappearance and unexpected return. The riches he had brought back from his trav...
    1954
    474 pages

  5. #5

    A Wizard of Earthsea - Earthsea Cycle by Ursula K. Le Guin
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    A poetic, foundational fantasy full of wisdom and adventure - a must-read for classic fantasy lovers, provided you don’t mind a slower, more thoughtful pace.

    Many readers praise 'A Wizard of Earthsea' for its captivating story of Ged's journey from a reckless youth to a powerful sorcerer, facing his own darkness and embarking on a quest to restore balance in Earthsea. The book is described as a bildungsroman encased in a fantasy world, focusing on Ged's coming of age, his growth as a character, and the themes of power, pride, and redemption. Ursula K. Le Guin's writing style is commended for its richness, world-building, and ability to bring characters and places to life with poetic rhythm and philosophical wisdom.

    The Island of Gont, a single mountain that lifts its peak a mile above the storm-racked Northeast Sea, is a land famous for wizards. From the towns in its high valleys and the ports on its dark narrow...
    1964
    283 pages

  6. #6
    Artemis Fowl
    Book 1 in the series:Artemis Fowl

    Artemis Fowl - Artemis Fowl by Eoin Colfer
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    A clever, breathless, and original blend of techie heists and fairy mayhem, Artemis Fowl is a must-try for anyone who thinks fantasy should be smart, funny, and full of mischief. Artemis may not be lovable at first - but you’ll want to follow his every move!

    Artemis Fowl by Eoin Colfer is a captivating fantasy book that follows the story of a twelve-year-old criminal mastermind, Artemis Fowl. After his family falls into financial ruin, he devises a plan to kidnap a fairy in order to restore his family's wealth. The plot is quick-paced and filled with clever twists, as Artemis navigates the technologically advanced world of fairies and their underground society. Throughout the series, readers witness Artemis's moral evolution from a self-serving villain to a more complex anti-hero, reflecting themes of friendship and empathy.

    The writing style of Colfer is engaging and witty, often peppered with humor that appeals to both children and adults. The narrative features well-developed characters and a rich world of magical creatures, blending elements of classic fairy tales with modern technology. Colfer respects his readers' intelligence, using an advanced vocabulary that challenges young readers while keeping the story accessible. The combination of action, humor, and a touch of darkness creates a gripping reading experience.

    HO Chi Minh City in the summer. Sweltering by anyone’s standards. Needless to say, Artemis Fowl would not have been willing to put up with such discomfort if something extremely important had not been...
    1999
    303 pages

  7. #7

    Eragon - The Inheritance Cycle by Christopher Paolini
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    A fun, accessible dragon adventure packed with classic fantasy charm - perfect for newcomers and young readers, even if it’s not the most original journey. If you’re in the mood for an epic quest and don’t mind familiar terrain, give it a try!

    "Eragon" by Christopher Paolini follows the story of a young farm boy named Eragon who discovers a dragon egg that changes his life forever. As he becomes a Dragon Rider, Eragon embarks on a journey filled with magic, adventure, and danger in the land of Alagaesia. Alongside his dragon Saphira, Eragon faces challenges that will determine the fate of his world, his family, and the entire nation. The plot is described as epic, addicting, and full of excitement, tension, adoration, fear, and tragedy, with a structured use of language that connects readers to the emotions of the characters.

    The writing style of "Eragon" is noted as well-written, easy to read, and engaging, with memorable characters, many twists and turns in the plot, and a well-crafted fantasy world created by the author. While some opinions mention similarities to other fantasy works like "Lord of the Rings" and "Star Wars," the book is still praised as an enjoyable and gripping read, providing readers with a nice escape into the world of fantasy.

    1998
    541 pages

  8. #8

    The Trials of Morrigan Crow - Nevermoor by Jessica Townsend
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    Charming, funny, and brimming with imagination, "The Trials of Morrigan Crow" is a delightful entry in the portal fantasy genre - perfect for fans of whimsical adventures and magical competitions. A must-read for kids and the young at heart!

    The Trials of Morrigan Crow in the series Nevermoor by Jessica Townsend follows the story of Morrigan, a Cursed Child blamed for all misfortunes in her town and doomed to die young. However, her fate changes when she is whisked away to the magical world of Nevermoor by Jupiter North. Here, she must compete in trials to join the prestigious Wundrous Society, facing challenges, magic, and danger along the way. The book is described as a mix of Harry Potter and Mary Poppins, with a whimsical world, charming characters, and an engaging plot that keeps readers hooked until the very end.

    The writing style of Jessica Townsend in The Trials of Morrigan Crow is praised for its imaginative world-building, humorous dialogue, and colorful supporting characters. Readers find the story exciting and charming, with a captivating heroine filled with moxie and wit. The book is highlighted for its themes of bravery, self-confidence, and hope, making it a delightful and adventurous read for young readers who enjoy epic fantasy tales.

    The new caseworker hadn’t touched her tea and biscuits. She’d traveled two and a half hours from the capital by rail that morning and walked from the train station to Crow Manor in a wretched drizzle....
    October 2017
    640 pages

  9. #9
    The Colour of Magic
    Book 1 in the series:Discworld

    The Colour of Magic - Discworld by Terry Pratchett
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    A brilliantly bonkers kickoff to Discworld - witty, ridiculous, and endlessly inventive. Not Pratchett’s most polished, but essential if you want to see where fantasy’s funniest universe began. Give it a shot, and don’t be afraid to skip ahead in the series if it doesn’t click right away!

    'The Colour of Magic' by Terry Pratchett is the first book in the Discworld series, introducing readers to the adventures of Twoflower, the Disc's first tourist, and Rincewind, a failed wizard who becomes his guide. The book is a humorous and whimsical fantasy satire that cleverly turns fantasy tropes on their heads, featuring a variety of eccentric characters and imaginative situations. The writing style of Terry Pratchett is described as witty, clever, and full of clever wordplay that creates a detailed and fantastical world for readers to explore.

    FIRE ROARED through the bifurcated city of Ankh-Morpork. Where it licked the Wizards’ Quarter it burned blue and green and was even laced with strange sparks of the eighth color, octarine; where its o...
    1983
    227 pages

  10. #10
    Redwall
    Book 1 in the series:Redwall

    Redwall - Redwall by Brian Jacques
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    A charming, classic animal fantasy adventure - ideal for younger readers and the young at heart, but may feel predictable or overly simple to those craving more complex or realistic tales.

    Redwall by Brian Jacques is a classic children's fantasy novel that follows the adventures of Matthias, a young mouse living in Redwall Abbey. When the peaceful life of the abbey is threatened by the evil rat Cluny the Scourge, Matthias must rise up to become a hero and lead the fight against the forces of darkness. The story is a coming-of-age tale filled with themes of courage, friendship, and good triumphing over evil, set in a richly detailed world inhabited by anthropomorphic woodland creatures.

    The plot unfolds with Matthias discovering his true destiny as a warrior and embarking on a quest to save Redwall Abbey from Cluny's tyranny. The writing style is engaging, with vivid descriptions of characters and settings, creating an immersive fantasy world where readers of all ages can get lost in the epic battle between good and evil.

    MATTHIAS CUT A comical little figure as he wobbled his way along the cloisters, with his large sandals flip-flopping and his tail peeping from beneath the baggy folds of an over-sized novice’s habit....
    1986
    395 pages

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