FallenKingdomReads’ list of 10 Must-Read Fantasy Books for Young Adults.
Fantasy is a genre that has captured the hearts of readers of all ages. For young adults, fantasy novels can provide a sense of escapism, allowing them to explore new worlds and ideas. With so many amazing fantasy novels out there, it can be hard to know where to start. In this article, we’ll be exploring ten must-read fantasy books for young adults.
An Ember in the Ashes by Sabaa Tahir
An Ember in the Ashes is a gripping and brutal tale of survival in a world inspired by Ancient Rome. The story follows Laia, a slave girl, and Elias, a soldier, as they navigate the dangers of a brutal society. The novel explores themes of oppression, freedom, and the corrupting influence of power.
Children of Blood and Bone by Tomi Adeyemi
Children of Blood and Bone is a richly imagined fantasy world inspired by West African mythology. The story follows Zélie, a young girl with magical abilities, as she sets out to restore magic to her world. The novel explores themes of oppression, identity, and the power of belief.
Rebel of the Sands by Alwyn Hamilton
Rebel of the Sands is a thrilling and action-packed adventure set in a world inspired by the myths and legends of the Middle East. The story follows Amani, a sharpshooter, as she joins a rebellion against a corrupt government. The novel explores themes of freedom, rebellion, and the power of storytelling.
Eragon by Christopher Paolini
Eragon is a classic coming-of-age tale set in a world of dragons and magic. The story follows a young farm boy named Eragon as he discovers a dragon egg and sets out on a journey to defeat an evil king. The novel explores themes of destiny, friendship, and the power of language.
Cinderella is Dead by Kalynn Bayron
Cinderella is Dead is a reimagining of the classic fairy tale set in a world where the story of Cinderella is used to oppress women. The story follows Sophia, a young girl who rebels against the strict gender roles imposed on her. The novel explores themes of oppression, rebellion, and the power of love.
The Hobbit by J.R.R. Tolkien
The Hobbit is a timeless classic that follows the adventures of Bilbo Baggins, a hobbit who sets out on a quest to reclaim a treasure guarded by a dragon. The novel is a masterclass in world-building, and its themes of courage, friendship, and the dangers of greed continue to resonate with readers of all ages.
Scythe by Neal Shusterman
Scythe is a dystopian fantasy set in a world where death has been eradicated. The story follows two teenagers, Citra and Rowan, as they train to become scythes, responsible for controlling the population. The novel explores themes of mortality, power, and the corrupting influence of absolute control.
The Gilded Ones by Namina Forna
The Gilded Ones is a gripping and thought-provoking fantasy set in a world inspired by West African mythology. The story follows Deka, a young girl who discovers that she has powerful abilities and is forced to choose between conforming to society’s expectations or embracing her true self. The novel explores themes of identity, conformity, and the power of resistance.
Northern Lights by Philip Pullman
Northern Lights, also known as The Golden Compass, is a classic fantasy novel set in a world where humans have animal companions called daemons. The story follows Lyra, a young girl who embarks on a journey to save her friend from a mysterious organization. The novel explores themes of friendship, betrayal, and the dangers of authority.
The Warrior Heir by Cinda Williams Chima
The Warrior Heir by Cinda Williams Chima is a thrilling and action-packed coming-of-age story set in a world where magic and modern technology coexist. The story follows Jack, a seemingly ordinary teenager who discovers that he is a warrior, a powerful magical being destined to fight in a secret tournament.
Final Thoughts
Fantasy novels offer a chance for young adults to escape to magical worlds, explore complex themes and characters, and discover new perspectives. The ten books we have discussed in this article are a great place to start for any young adult looking to explore the vast and exciting world of fantasy literature.
From the gripping tales of rebellion in Children of Blood and Bone and Rebel of the Sands to the classic adventures of The Hobbit and Eragon, there is something for everyone in this list. These novels are not only entertaining but also offer valuable lessons about identity, power, and the importance of individual choice.
