Are you running out of book ideas for your tweens? Do they love fantasy books, but you’re not sure what series to get for them next? This is where I’d like to help.
Currently, I have 2 tweens and 1 teen and they helped me compile a list of their favorite fantasy book series. Each of these series has entertained my own children for countless hours. And several of these series have even been read twice by my children, just for fun, and that’s saying something!
For our family, these fantasy book series have been perfect to have on hands while traveling (long flights/ downtime in hotel rooms.) And they have been perfect for when our kids feel like they have “nothing” to do at home. As an added bonus, these book series have even helped my children actually want to get off electronics, (which I’m loving!) And they have opened their imaginations in ways that I can’t even begin to describe. Last but not least, my Mom’s favorite part about discovering these book series, is that it gave her an easy way to give fantastic Christmas and Birthday gifts that she knows her grandchildren will absolutely love!
Our three tweens stand behind their fantasy book recommendations 100% and I hope that you can find something that your own tween will love too!
THE BEST FANTASY BOOK SERIES FOR TWEENS
I separated our favorites by age so you can easily click the section to find the perfect book for your child.
Best for Ages 8-12 year olds
Best for Ages 10-14 year olds
Summary/ Recap at the End
Please note that the two sections above are just general age ranges.
The 8-12 year old section has slightly younger themes – but in all honesty my current 15 year old just re-read one of the series in the 8-12 year old section because he loved it that much! So don’t rule out this section thinking it will be too young for your older tween.
Also, several of the book series in the 10-14 year old section are recommended for age 9 years old and up, yet I placed them in the 10-14 year old group because their themes were either slightly older or their recommended age range was broader and went into the teen years. So don’t completely dismiss this section if your child is only 9 years old.
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THE LAND OF STORIES
by Chris Colfer
-Reading Age Level: 8 – 12 years
-Common Sense Media Age Rating: Books 1 & 2 (age 8+), Books 3, 4, 5 & 6 (Age 10+)
Description: Get swept away in this fast paced adventure that uniquely combines our modern day world with the enchanting realm of classic fairy tales. Follow Alex and Conner as they find themselves face to face with the fairy tale characters they grew up reading about, both the good and the bad. How did they get there? And will they ever be able to get back home?
Our Review: This is one series that seriously surprised me with just how much our family loved it! In fact, all 3 of my boys loved the Land of Stories series so much that they made sure both my husband and I read them too, right away, because they were just “That Good!” And they were right. I loved them! And even my husband, who doesn’t normally read these types of kids books for fun, thought they were great!
Update: Now even their Grandma is reading this series, and she said that she’s really impressed by it. (And she was an elementary teacher her whole career and has come across a lot of different books.)
Honestly, The Land of Stories series originally wasn’t even on my radar because my boys weren’t into fairy tales at all. But their uncle sent it to them as a gift and I’m glad he did because it was an instant hit! Thank you! So if you are looking for a fun read for your kids, boys or girls, even if they’ve never shown any interest in fairy tales, you might want to check this series out.
This is one of our top favorite fantasy book series for tweens.
Check out this amazing complete box set for a great gift idea: This is the set that my brother sent our kids as a gift and it was an instant hit.
Land of Stories Complete Paperback Box Set
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If your child already loves this series, you might also like Colfer’s latest book series: A Tale of Magic, A Tale of Witchcraft, A Tale of Sorcery My children really enjoyed this series too. I have not read it yet but they said that it has a very similar theme and feel as the Land of Stories series. The main difference (that they commented on) is that this second series is completely based in the fantasy world, whereas the Land of Stories series has a mixture of the real world entering into the fantasy world.
GUARDIANS OF GA’HOOLE
by Kathyrn Lasky
-Reading Age Level: 8 – 12 years
-Common Sense Media Age Rating: Age 9+ for the series
Description: In the first book, the reader is introduced to Soren, a barn owl and the centerpiece of the series. When Soren is pushed from his family’s nest by his older brother, he is rescued from certain death on the forest floor by agents from a mysterious school for orphaned owls, St. Aggie’s. When Soren arrives at St. Aggie’s, he suspects there is more to the school than meets the eye. He and his new friend, the clever and scrappy Gylfie, find out that St. Aggie’s is actually a training camp where the school’s leader can groom young owls to help achieve her goal…
Our Review: This is great series that my nature loving son especially loves! In this series, all of the characters are owls and the story line is completely intriguing. The information about them is well-researched and interwoven beautifully into the narrative of this fantastic fantasy world.
The Guardians of Ga’hoole series contains 16 books and it is definitely worth checking out. And if you have a owl-loving child then this series would be a must-read.
Tip: If you have a child that needs a little convincing, the first book was made into a movie that can be viewed through Amazon Prime. That may be a great way to get them hooked on this fun series.
If you think your child would love this series then consider the Guardians of Ga’hoole 1-5 Book Box Set to save money. (This also makes a great Christmas gift!)
by Max Brallier
-Reading Age Level: 8 – 12 years
-Common Sense Media Age Rating: Age 8+
Description: Meet Jack Sullivan, self-described as a late-blooming, slow-developing 13-year-old who has so far survived a zombie apocalypse by hiding out in his treehouse. Overnight his life has become like the plot of a video game. But Jack knows how to make it through this zombie apocalypse. He has a plan. And he created his own ULTIMATE FEATS OF APOCALYPTIC SUCCESS.
Our Review: The Last Kids on Earth book series was an instant hit in our household. (It’s kids battling zombies. They were hooked!) All 3 of my boys eagerly waited for each and every book to come out. But don’t let the title worry you, as I did at first. This book is written in a kid-friendly manner and is about kids learning to get along, thinking of smart solutions and of course showing bravery as they battle all of the zombies.
This is a fun series that all three of my kids have really loved!
If you think your child would like this series, then check out The Last Kids on Earth 7 Book Collection Box Set. This would make a fantastic gift! And if they love the first 7 books, know that there is an 8th book that isn’t in the box set yet.
Update: The Last Kids on Earth is releasing their latest book! Book #9 – The Last Kids on Earth and the Monster Dimension – November 2023 – We’re so Excited!! And just in time for Christmas!!
AMARI: Supernatural Investigations
by B. B. Alston
–Reading Age Level: 8 – 12 years
-Common Sense Media Age Rating: Age 8+
Description: Amari Peters has never stopped believing her missing brother, Quinton, is alive. So when she finds a ticking briefcase in his closet, containing a nomination to tryout at the Bureau of Supernatural Affairs, she’s certain this secretive organization holds the key to locating her brother. Yet, is magic real?
Now she must compete for a spot against kids who’ve known about magic their whole lives. No matter how hard she tries, Amari can’t seem to escape their intense doubt and scrutiny—especially once her newly realized supernatural talent is deemed “illegal.” With an evil magician threatening the supernatural world, and her own classmates thinking she’s an enemy, Amari has never felt more alone. But if she doesn’t stick it out and pass the tryouts, she may never find out what happened to her brother Quinton.
Our Review: So this was a random buy at the book store by my 11 year old and I’m blown away by home much he loves it! We just discovered the Amari series in 2023 and I’m shocked that we had never come across it before. And it is SO Highly rated online. I have no idea how we missed it, but I’m so glad we found it. And now I can share it with you!
My 11 year old quickly flew through Book 1 & Book 2 in this new amazing series and is now eagerly awaiting the release of Book 3 on June 25, 2024!
He’s currently recommending it to all of his friends and he keeps telling me how amazing it is and how much he loves it. So for me, it’s a winner.
Bonus: One aspect that I also love about this book is that it features a black girl. Finally! We desperately need more heroes, heroines and fantasy main characters from every culture so that All Kids have characters that they can better identify with and look up to. And for me, this makes the Amari series even more fantastic!
WINGS OF FIRE
by Tui T. Sutherland
-Reading Age Level: 8 – 12 years
-Common Sense Media Age Rating: They only rated Book 1, it’s rated as age 10+
Description: Seven dragon tribes have been at war for generations, over an ancient lost treasure. But a secret movement called the Talons of Peace is determined to bring an end to the fighting. Five dragonets, said to fulfill the prophecy for peace, are collected and hidden in a cave against their will. Yet, not every dragonet wants a destiny. And their escape unleashes far more on the dragon world than what the revolutionary planners intended.
Our Review: This is one series that all three of my boys are still obsessed with, and wait on pins and needles for each new book to come out, even at age 15! Originally we discovered this book series at our children’s school book fair. Actually my youngest son picked it out when he was 8 because he was completely fascinated with dragons. He quickly devoured reading it and just had to get the next one in the series! Before I knew it, all 3 of my boys couldn’t wait to get the next book!
Now, 15 Wings of Fire books later + 2 books in The Legends series, my children are still loving this series! In fact my 15 year this past summer decided to re-read the entire series just for fun because he loved it that much! So I definitely think this is a fantasy book series that’s worth looking into for your tweens.
Side note:
The first five books focus on the dragonets of destiny. The second five books (5-10) focus on the dragonets of Jade Winglet. And the next books focus on a new continent, Pantala. Also, know that each book is told from the perspective of a different dragonet. This may be confusing when your child begins the next book in the series at first.
Tip: My Children wanted me to add that this series needs to be read in order.
If you like paperback box sets, a great starting set would be the Wings of Fire Boxset (Books 1-5)
Wings of Fire Graphic Novels
**Bonus! There are Wings of Fire Graphic Novels now! So far books 1-7 have been made, so if you have a graphic novel book lover, then this would be a fantastic choice!
(Side Note: The Book 7 Graphic Novel is set to release from Amazon on December 26, 2023 so sadly this would not be available for Christmas this year, but the rest are available.)
SPIRIT ANIMALS
by Brandon Mull
-Reading Age Level: 8 – 12 years
-Common Sense Media Age Rating: Age 8+ (but my children feel that it should be 10+)
Description: Enter the world of Erdas, where every child who comes of age must discover if they have a spirit animal, a rare bond between human and beast that bestows great powers to both. A dark force has risen from distant and long-forgotten lands, and has begun an onslaught that will ravage the world. Now the fate of Erdas has fallen on the shoulders of four young strangers . . . and on you.
Our Review: Spirit Animals is a book series that my oldest child was especially obsessed with (between ages 9-11) and my youngest tween just recently finished (at age 11.) Both of my children couldn’t wait to read each and every book that came out, (and there’s 15!) Personally I haven’t been able to read this series yet, but they say they’re amazing and definitely recommend them, especially if you are intrigued by the idea of having your own Spirit Animal.
Tip: (Originally, my youngest tried to read it at age 7, but he said it was too complex for him. So he stopped. Now at age 11, he just repicked up the series and Loves it! I mention this because, according to my children’s experience, it might be better for children 10+, not 8+ as it’s labeled.)
Side note: There are 7 books in the first “Spirit Animals” part of the series and then the next 8 books are in the second part of the series called “Fall of the Beasts.” So make sure if you are looking to buy the next book in the series for your child that you double check if the book is in the “Spirit Animals” (#1-7) or “Fall of the Beasts” (#1-8) part of the series before you purchase.
CHRONICLES OF NARNIA
by C.S. Lewis
–Reading Age Level: 8 – 12 years
-Common Sense Media Age Rating: Age 8 and up
(I just had to include this amazing classic series, even though you’re probably already familiar with it.)
Description: Four adventurous siblings—Peter, Susan, Edmund, and Lucy Pevensie— step through a wardrobe door and into the land of Narnia, a land frozen in eternal winter and enslaved by the power of the White Witch. But when almost all hope is lost, the return of the Great Lion, Aslan, signals a great change . . . and a great sacrifice.
Our Review: The Chronicles of Narnia is one of the greatest fantasy book series of all time and it’s perfect for tweens. It is a book series that I loved as a child and now, reading it with my own children, I love it even more. But if your child hasn’t started reading this classic fantasy series yet, then this is the perfect time to start. Begin their magical journey to Narnia and know that it will be an adventure they’ll remember forever.
This classic fantasy book series for tweens has really stood the test of time.
Side note: The Lion, Witch and the Wardrobe is Book 2 (yet the most well-known) out of the 7 book series. So you may want to just get this book, but I would recommend getting the enitre Chronicles of Narnia Box Set if you can. This is a fantastic classic series that is sure to be around for a long time.
HARRY POTTER
by J. K. Rowling
-Reading Age Level: 8 – 12 years
-Common Sense Media Age Rating: Books 1 &2 (Age 8+), Book 3 (age 9+), Books 4 & 5 (age 10+), Book 6 (age 11+), Book 7 (age 12+)
Harry Potter is a fantastic classic that really needs no introduction.
Description: Harry Potter was an boy, who grew up with his horrible aunt and uncle, and their awful son Dudley. His room was a tiny closet under the stairs and no one had celebrated his birthday for 11 years. That all changed when Harry received a mysterious letter, on his 11th birthday, inviting him into a magical world. Here, he not only finds great friends, fun flying sports, and how magic is everywhere, but also that he has a great destiny waiting for him… if Harry is only able to survive.
Our Review: The Harry Potter book series is a must-read for any child! It is a fantastic series about friendship, the importance of education and of course good verses evil. Our whole family absolutely loves this series! (And so does most of the world.) But it was this series that really ignited my kids into reading machines when they were just starting to read big chapter books. Once they began reading these books, they have never wanted to stop! (Hence why I’m always on the look out for new amazing book series.)
This is sure to be another classic fantasy book series for tweens that will stand the test of time.
And if your child enjoys a more visual reading experience, check out the new Harry Potter Illustrated Series! This series is bursting with beautiful illustrations for your child to enjoy as they read.
The next section is more for 10-14 year olds, but many of the series do start at age 9 years old, so you’ll definitely want to take a look at them if you have a 9-12 year old. I separated the sections because the book series below have slightly older themes.
FABLEHAVEN
by Brandon Mull
–Reading Age Level: 9 – 13 years
-Common Sense Media Age Rating: Age 9+
Description: For centuries mystical creatures of all description were gathered into a hidden refuge called Fablehaven to prevent their extinction. The sanctuary survives today as one of the last strongholds of true magic. Enchanting? Absolutely. Exciting? You bet. Safe? Well, actually, quite the opposite.
Our Review: The Fablehaven series has been a huge hit in our house. All 3 of my children have read it, loved it and then surprisingly (on their own) they ALL decided to re-read this entire series again! They each said it was that good! So, from a parent’s point of view, I definitely would say that this is a winner.
Fablehaven Box Set (5 Book Series)
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And if your child loves the Fablehaven series then you should definitely check out the sequel to this series, DRAGONWATCH
Description: In the long-awaited sequel to Fablehaven, the dragons who have been kept at the dragon sanctuaries no longer consider them safe havens, but prisons. And they want their freedom. The dragons are no longer our allies…
Our Review: After finishing Fablehaven, my children quickly began reading the Dragonwatch sequel series and they couldn’t put these books down as well! In fact, they said that the Dragonwatch series could possibly be even better than the Fablehaven series, and that’s saying something! This series has quickly turned into another family favorite.
There are 5 books in the Dragonwatch series to look forward to.
Fablehaven & Dragonwatch are two book series that I hear them consistently recommending to all of their friends!
Other well-rated series by Brandon Mull:
FIVE KINGDOMS (5 book series) and the BEYONDERS (3 Book Series).
My 13 & 14 year finished the Five Kingdoms series and both absolutely loved it!
Five Kingdoms Description: Cole Randolph was just trying to have a fun time with his friends on Halloween (and maybe get to know Jenna Hunt a little better). But when a spooky haunted house turns out to be a portal to something much creepier, Cole finds himself on an adventure on a whole different level.
Our Review: Although my kids loved this series, they all did not really like the beginning. They said it was kind of creepy and a little too realistic. But once the characters got into the fantasy world, they said the story was awesome! So this is a series that may need a little encouragement to get through the beginning before they will like it.
Our family has not read the Beyonders Series yet, but it is definitely on our list to read soon from this author. It’s highly-rated online and we can’t wait to read it!
KEEPER OF THE LOST CITIES
by Shannon Messenger
–Reading Age Level: 9-12 years
-Common Sense Media Age Rating: Age 9+
-My 11 year old sons says its best for 10+
Description: Twelve-year-old Sophie has never quite fit into her life. She’s skipped multiple grades and doesn’t really connect with the older kids at school, but she’s not comfortable with her family, either. The reason? Sophie’s a Telepath, someone who can read minds. No one knows her secret—at least, that’s what she thinks… But the day Sophie meets Fitz, a mysterious (and adorable) boy, she learns she’s not alone. He’s a Telepath too, and it turns out the reason she has never felt at home is that, well…she isn’t. Fitz opens Sophie’s eyes to a shocking truth, and she is forced to leave behind her family for a new life in a place that is vastly different from what she has ever known. But Sophie still has secrets, and they’re buried deep in her memory for good reason: The answers are dangerous and in high-demand. What is her true identity, and why was she hidden among humans? The truth could mean life or death—and time is running out.
Our Review: So somehow our family only just discovered The Keepers of the Lost City in 2023 and I have no idea how we missed it previously! (And I’m definitely always on the look out for new series, so this completely shocked me.)
This past Christmas my 11 year old received the 1-5 Box Set of Keeper of the Lost City and it was an instant hit in our household!
In fact, this is now my 11 year-old’s Absolute New Favorite Series! And that is really saying something!
As he put it – (This review is according to my son Bryan who is 11.)
“The Keeper of the Lost City series is the best series I’ve ever read! This is actually even better than my previous old favorites – Fablehaven, Dragonwatch, Wings of Fire, Harry Potter, Land of Stories, Spirit Animals, The Ranger’s Apprentice and even the Percy Jackson mega series. – and I didn’t even think that was possible!”
Bryan’s Pros: Really good character development, plot development, detail and really fun to read if you like to let your imagination to run wild. It completely leaves you on the edge of your seat!
Bryan’s Cons: “It can get a little scary (if you’re a little kid), but don’t worry most of the book is happy and really fun to read. Other than the few creepy parts, this book series is amazing!”
RICK RIORDAN
This has been an absolute favorite “mega” series in our house for over 6 years now!
In fact most of this entire series has been read more than once by each of my children. The storyline is absolutely addictive!
This Rick Riordan series is actually 5 separate series that go together as one big story line. In total there are more than 20 books plus numerous side stories that support the main story line. With these books my kids have learned about Greek, Roman, Egyptian and Norse mythology as well as discovered many different places across the world in exciting adventures. When we travel, we love to visit the sites mentioned in these books as well. My children love being in the same spot where some serious action took place in these books. I highly recommend these fantasy books to everyone, tweens and adults! (My husband absolutely loves these books too!)
If you’re not ready to get the entire first boxed set then here’s a link to the first book in this series in case you are wanting to try it out: Percy Jackson and the Lightning Thief
Click on the links below to learn more about each of these incredible series that all intertwine together.
Reading Age Level: 8-12
CSM Age: 10+
This series can be read at any point (it’s not as intertwined.)
(5 Book Series)
Reading Age Level: 10-14
CSM Age: 10+
Read this series after Percy Jackson
MAGNUS CHASE AND THE GODS OF ASGARD
Reading Age Level: 10-14
CSM Age: 10+
Read this series after Heroes of Olympus
THE RANGER’S APPRENTICE
by John Flanagan
-Reading Age Level: 11-14
-Common Sense Media Age Rating: Age 11+
Description: Villagers believe the Rangers practice magic that makes them invisible to ordinary people. And now 15-year-old Will, always small for his age, has been chosen as a Ranger’s apprentice. What he doesn’t yet realize is that the Rangers are the protectors of the kingdom. Highly trained in the skills of battle and surveillance, they fight the battles before the battles reach the people. And as Will is about to learn, there is a large battle brewing. The exiled Morgarath, Lord of the Mountains of Rain and Night, is gathering his forces for an attack on the kingdom. This time, he will not be denied. . . .
Our Review: This is an absolutely fantastic 12 novel series! When our 14 year old began this series he simply can’t put them down. I luckily bought the Ranger’s Apprentice (1-6) Book Box Set, but it wasn’t long before he was asking for the rest of the series. (So if this looks like a series your child would like, then I highly recommend starting with this 1-6 box set since it’s much cheaper than buying each book individually. It’s also much cheaper to buy both the 6 book box sets individually than even buying the entire 12 book box set as of this writing.)
Update: The rest of our family is now reading the Ranger’s Apprentice Series, and we are all loving these books! My 14 year old, who has already read (and LOVED) this entire 12 book series, just finished The Ranger’s Apprentice: The Early Years (a 2 book series) and The Royal Ranger series (a 5 book series sequel) and highly recommends these books as well! And now my 11 year old is completely obsessed with this series!
This is a definite favorite series in our household!
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If your child has read these books, and loves them, then you may want to check out the Brotherband Chronicles (8 book series), also by John Flanagan. This is the next series after the Ranger’s Apprentice/ Royal Ranger series and it is next on our family’s list to get. We can’t wait to read them!
ERAGON
by Christopher Paolini
-Reading Age Level: 12 – 15 years
-Common Sense Media Age Rating: Age 10+ (Only Book 1 is rated. But I feel like these books are older than this, more like the 12-15 age, similar to the reading age level.)
Description: When fifteen-year-old Eragon finds a polished blue stone in the forest, he thinks it is the lucky discovery of a poor farm boy. But when the stone brings a dragon hatchling, Eragon soon realizes he has stumbled upon a legacy nearly as old as the Empire itself.
Overnight his simple life is shattered, and, gifted with only an ancient sword, a loyal dragon, and sage advice from an old storyteller, Eragon is soon swept into a dangerous tapestry of magic, glory, and power. Now his choices could save—or destroy—the Empire.
Our Review: The Eragon 5 book Series is amazing! So far my husband, oldest and middle child have finished the entire series (and absolutely LOVED it!) They all were completely engulfed in it while they read it and they all highly recommend this series!
Side Note: This book series can get complex and has some pretty dark scenes. Personally this is why I feel like this book series may be more suitable for 13 to 14 year olds and up, depending on your child.
Bonus Info: On top of the book’s story being incredible, the author’s story is truly inspirational as well! Christopher Paolini was just 15 years old when he wrote his first draft of this book! And he was 16 when he finally showed it to his parents and decided to self publish it! And today his story is shared around the world with millions of readers. What an amazing inspiration for kids!
THE LORD OF THE RINGS
by J.R.R. Tolkien
-Reading Age Level: 12 +
–Common Sense Media Age Rating: The Hobbit is rated age 9 (but the Fellowship of the Ring is rated age 12.)
A fantastic classic series that definitely needs no introduction.
Description: The Lord of the Rings fantastic journey begins with The Hobbit. Here, Bilbo Baggins is a hobbit who enjoys a comfortable, unambitious life, rarely traveling any farther than his pantry or cellar. But his contentment is disturbed when the wizard Gandalf and a company of dwarves arrive on his doorstep one day to whisk him away on an adventure. They have launched a plot to raid the treasure hoard guarded by Smaug the Magnificent, a large and very dangerous dragon. Bilbo reluctantly joins their quest, unaware that on his journey to the Lonely Mountain he will encounter both a magic ring and a frightening creature known as Gollum.
The Lord of the Rings book series is a classic and a perfect fantasy series for older tweens to teens. Most of you have probably already read this great series at some point in your life (or seen the movies) so make sure you don’t forget to introduce your own children to this amazing adventure!
Side note: This book series, being written in the 1930s to 1950s, moves at a much slower pace than some of the more action packed fantasy books out there today so it may be a more challenging read for your kids. Still, it’s an amazing book series that should be on any fantasy book lovers list!
Find out more about the entire Lord of the Rings Series.
RECAP: Top Fantasy Book Series for Tweens Ages 8-12 Years Old
- Land of Stories (Perfect for everyone, but a must-read for fairy tale loving kids)
- Guardians of Ga’hoole – (Perfect for nature-loving kids, and a must-read for owl-loving kids)
- The Last Kids on Earth – (Perfect for zombie and apocalypse-loving kids)
- Amari: Supernatural Investigations Books – (Perfect for anyone that loves the supernatural word with a little mystery. Also perfect if you are looking for a book that features other cultures.)
- Wings of Fire – (Perfect for dragon-loving kids.)
- Chronicles of Narnia – (Perfect for everyone, especially kids who love the classics)
- Spirit Animals – (Perfect for magic and animal loving kids, especially if they’ve ever dreamed of having their own spirit animal.)
- Harry Potter – (Perfect for everyone, but especially for magic-loving kids.)
RECAP: Top Fantasy Book Series for Tweens Ages 10-14 Years Old
- Fablehaven (Perfect for any person that loves magic)
- Dragonwatch (Perfect for anyone who loves dragons or the Fablehaven series)
- Keeper of the Lost Cities (Perfect for anyone who loves magic and would love to have a magical ability)
- Rick Riordan Percy Jackson Mega Series (Perfect for anyone that loves Greek, Roman, Norse or Egyptian mythology)
- The Ranger’s Apprentice (Perfect for anyone who loves the medieval time period)
- Eragon (Perfect for anyone who loves dragons)
- The Lord of the Rings: The Hobbit (Perfect for anyone who loves the classics. This is the top fantasy series that ultimately started this entire genre of books!)
Highly Rated Book Series That Had Mixed Reviews in Our Household
The Wizards of Once
by Cressida Cowell
-Reading Age Level: 8 – 12 years
-Common Sense Media Age Rating: Age 8+
Description: Once there were Wizards, who were Magic, and Warriors, who were not. But Xar, son of the King of Wizards, can’t cast a single spell. And Wish, daughter of the Warrior Queen, has a banned magical object of her own. When they collide in the wildwood, on the trail of a deadly witch, it’s the start of a grand adventure that just might change the fabric of their worlds.
Our Review: My 13 year old just finished reading this series last month and he really loved it. He said that it was written in a very similar style to the How to Train Your Dragon series and he really liked that. The Wizards of Once has the same type of action, adventure and artwork that Cressida Cowell has become famous for. But to be honest, my youngest (at 11) just thought it was ok and for some reason couldn’t get into the story. (As a side note, he also did not like her How to Train Your Dragon Book Series, even though he loved the movies and t.v. show.)
So, for this series, I would say that if your child likes the How to Train Your Dragon Books, then this could be a good choice, but if they don’t then you might want to look at other series first.
Highly-Rated Book Series That Are Next on Our List to Get
I thought I would add these, just in case you are looking for a few more ideas.
Nevermoor: The Trials of Morrigan Crow (Book 1)
by Jessica Townsend
-Reading Age Level: 8 – 12 years
-Common Sense Media Age Rating: Age 9
Descritpion: Morrigan Crow is cursed. Having been born on Eventide, the unluckiest day for any child to be born, she’s blamed for all local misfortunes, from hailstorms to heart attacks–and, worst of all, the curse means that Morrigan is doomed to die at midnight on her eleventh birthday.
But as Morrigan awaits her fate, a strange and remarkable man named Jupiter North appears. He whisks her away into the safety of a secret, magical city called Nevermoor. Here Morrigan has been chosen to contend for a place in the city’s most prestigious organization: the Wundrous Society. In order to join, she must compete in four difficult and dangerous trials against hundreds of other children, each with an extraordinary talent that sets them apart–a talent that Morrigan insists she does not have. To stay in the safety of Nevermoor for good, Morrigan will need to find a way to pass the tests–or she’ll have to leave the city to confront her deadly fate.
There are 3 books in this series and Nevermoor is perfect for any fan of the Harry Potter series or for anyone who loves the world of magic!
The Underland Chronicles: Gregor the Overlander (Book 1)
by Suzanne Collins
-Reading Age Level: 9 – 12 years
-Common Sense Media Age Rating: Age 9
Description: When Gregor falls through a grate in the laundry room of his apartment building, he hurtles into the dark Underland, where spiders, rats, cockroaches coexist uneasily with humans. This world is on the brink of war, and Gregor’s arrival is no accident. A prophecy foretells that Gregor has a role to play in the Underland’s uncertain future. Gregor wants no part of it — until he realizes it’s the only way to solve the mystery of his father’s disappearance. Reluctantly, Gregor embarks on a dangerous adventure that will change both him and the Underland forever.
This is the next series we’re looking at starting soon, and although we haven’t read it yet, we’ve had many people recommend it to us and tell us that their kid’s like it. It’s also highly rated online as well.
Written by the international best selling author of the Hunger Games, the Underland Chronicles is rich in suspense and brimming with adventure and incredibly addictive! Find out more about this fantasy book series for tweens Here.
Inkheart (Inkheart Trilogy)
by Cornelia Funke
-Reading Age Level: 9 – 12 years
-Common Sense Media Age Rating: Book 1 (age 9), Books 2 & 3 (age 11)
Description: One cruel night, Meggie’s father reads aloud from a book called INKHEART– and an evil ruler escapes the boundaries of fiction and lands in their living room. Suddenly, Meggie is smack in the middle of the kind of adventure she has only read about in books. Meggie must learn to harness the magic that has conjured this nightmare. For only she can change the course of the story that has changed her life forever.
The Inkheart Trilogy is fantastic for both kids and adults! They even made a movie out of it! But I always find that the books are better than the movies. Find out more about the first book in this great trilogy Here.
Artemis Fowl
by Eoin Colfer
-Reading Age Level: 10 – 14 years
-Common Sense Media Age Rating: Series ranges from age 9-11
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