I’m a 23 year old female, I have read the whole Harry Potter series and love it(border on obsession).
What are some other fiction books that you recommend?
I like magic, fantasy, make believe stuff, but not really too dark or depressing.
I too am a fan of the harry potter series, and read almost exclusively fiction and fantasy novels. As an avid reader, I would be happy to list some of my favorite stories below. That being said, before I begin I want to set a few things straight. I am not denying that twilight and the following books in the series are interesting reads, but the writing style is juvenile at best. Stephanie Meyer is not a fantastic writer, her books just have compelling plots. For some reason, no one these days realize that there is a difference between being a good writer and having a good plot. However, if you are willing to overlook the basic writing style and the occasional grammatical errors, then they are fair series that would most likely hold you interest. Second, I noted that Christopher Paolini’s inheritance quartet has been mentioned. Again, this is a young, green author. He is much the same as Meyers: his writing style is basic, written in a child’s voice, and some of his plot is predictable. Much of what he writes occurs in many other books (in other words he borrowed many concepts from others) but I suppose his books are interesting enough. You should be warned, however, that neither is a seasoned author or writes with the kind of voice that lends life to the characters and weaves rich tapestries of sounds, smells, and sights. That being said, their works aren’t horrible, they just arent as great as some declare them to be. I say this not to offend anyone, but simply to be honest of my opinion of the books in comparison to the hundreds of others that I have read. Now, without furthur ado, the list of my personal favorites:
Anything at all by Tamora Pierce, but I mostly recomend her more recent works. If you are new to this author, start with "Beka Cooper, Terrier"
The Goblin Wood, by Hilari Bell, was written with much wit and humor and I enjoyed reading it in my younger years. It may be too young for your tastes, but I suggest you try it.
The bartimaeous triliogy has fantastic wit and humor (particurally in the subtitles, so don’t ignore them.)
The chronocles of Narnia are well worth reading through, if you have not done so already, for more wholesome books you could not ask for. They remind me of my childhood, and I enjoy curling up under the covers and reading them.
Kristin Cashore’s GRACELING was a compelling read
Ursula LeGuin’s Gifts (1st of The Annals of the Western Shore series)
had a refreshing and unique look at magic and what it was like to wield
it.
THE SECRET LIFE OF SPARROW DELANY by Suzanne Harper
THE TWO PRINCESSES OF BAMARRE by Gail Carson Levine I re-read time and time again, I love it so.
The hero and the Crown by Robin Mcinley (sp?) is also good.
Lloyd Alexander’s THE ROPE TRICK is fantastic.
Duane, Diane – SO YOU WANT TO BE A WIZARD (& sequels) are a little strange, but good.
Aurelia is good as well
THE SHADOW SPINNER and FLIGHT OF THE DRAGON KYN (& sequels) by Susan Fletcher are incredable.
Most of Anne Mcaffery’s books, ahh there’s just too many good books. Email me if you want more suggestions. Hope I was helpful ![]()
Peace, Clarkie
EDIT:
I totally agree with Courtney, The Thirteenth Tale really is amazing, and I can’t believe that I forgot to put it in my list. It’s ok though, I’m adding it now. Additionally, I forgot Jodi Piccult who may be more suited to your age and is a fantastic writer.