Fantasy books for kids captivate readers and keep them interested, whether they show young people embarking on grand expeditions, discovering extraordinary abilities, making friends with magical creatures, or becoming sucked into mythological tales. The publishing industry has flourished in recent years with various exciting fantasy possibilities for readers in elementary and middle schools. This list is for you if you’re trying to expand your selection of middle-grade fantasy books (in addition to timeless favorites like Harry Potter, Percy Jackson and the Olympians, and Land of Stories, of course).
This series is a must-try for kids who adore the idea of Hogwarts but aren’t yet ready to read about Harry and his friends independently. The Dunwiddle Magic School’s Upside-Down Magic pupils have to deal with the unforeseen effects of their occasionally “wonky” magic. We appreciate how this series delicately addresses difficulties associated with having different abilities in addition to its high kid-approval rating.
As instructors try to increase representation in their school libraries, urban fantasy is a crucial subgenre. Watch as Jax tries to take care of some (quickly developing!) baby dragons with a varied Brooklyn cast!
Identity, discrimination, bullying, friendship, and magic are just a few of the issues that are eloquently addressed in this new series’ premiere. Nadia discovers an old Egyptian tutor ready to impart his knowledge when her memento from Egypt comes to life.
Bronte Mettlestone’s parents are killed by pirates, and their instructions for their daughter in the case of their deaths are…unusual. Each chapter describes an exciting, riddle-filled voyage to send a gift to one of Bronte’s several aunts.
This magical realist immigration tale is unlike other children’s fantasy books. When Gabrielle relocates from Haiti to New York City, she only wants to blend in. The conditions seem worth it when a witch grants her three wishes to assist in achieving that.
This work is praised by reviewers as being “spooky with feelings.” It’s a brand-new Ghostbusters tale with a nod to Dominican folklore. To protect their village from evil spirits, two companions must cooperate.
Clivo doesn’t fully understand the nature of his father’s occupation until after his death when he is left to continue his father’s work as a cryptid catcher who hunts down elusive monsters. Kids will be interested in this two-part series since it is fast-paced and distinctive.
Dinosaurs walk the streets of New York during the Civil War while troops riding raptors engage in combat in the South. Magdalys Roca and her team from the Colored Orphan Asylum must be brave and shrewd as they attempt to save their comrades who have been kidnapped by a bad magistrate among these surprising scenes. Kids’ imaginations will be piqued by this imaginative reinterpretation of American history.
Young orphan Nan learns she isn’t alone when she wakes up from a terrifying chimney fire. She is now accompanied by a golem, a creature created from soot and ash. A captivating historical fantasy.
Amari is now our favorite typical child who also happens to be magical! This first installment of the series incorporates a lot of magical adventures with social themes like privilege and bigotry.
This book is for you if you adore The Chronicles of Narnia but are seeking something else. Talking animals, magical railroad tracks, and British charm abound in this tale.
While summoning deceased relatives and experimenting with time and space, Sal and Gabi handle relatable friendship dilemmas and truly bring the Miami Cuban community to life. This series is a part of the Rick Riordan Presents series, which champions children’s fantasy stories written by authors with various perspectives and cultural influences. You should look at the entire collection.
Many fans have connected the popular character Morrigan Crow to Harry Potter. She accepts the opportunity to travel to a magical land and alter her destiny despite being the underdog and does it with bravery and wit. A lot of people love audiobooks as well.
Indian stories told to Kiranmala by her parents as a child had never occurred to her as one did on her twelfth birthday in her home. She soon finds herself involved in a quest beyond her highest imaginings.
Jezebel, a.k.a. Turner, discovers that the “rootwork” tradition of African American folk magic has more than she initially assumed. This gripping tale, set in the South during the Jim Crow era, skillfully blends magical realism with a wealth of insightful historical context.
The twin younger brothers of Artemis are the stars of this Artemis Fowl series splinter. It’s exactly as intelligent, humorous and easy to read as the original novels!
This offshoot will satisfy children who are obsessed with the renowned Land of Stories books. Or, consider it a prelude to the first season of the show. In either case, there is much fantastical wonder and sinister turns.
The strong social injustice themes in this fantasy Les Misérables-inspired tale are deeply rooted in Thai society. It’s a fantastic book club selection.
Kids will adore the history, humor, pirates, and action in this first episode. How can Javi, his best friend, and his sister send Blackbeard the Pirate back to where he belongs when a magic table delivers him to a modern-day dinner party?
Not for the weak-hearted! These tales of toxic carnivorous plants, enormous insects and aliens—as well as the brave young pals at the center of it all—are beloved by those who prefer the creepier side of children’s fantasy literature.
