The Greatest British "Fantasy" Books of All Time

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This list represents a comprehensive and trusted collection of the greatest books. Developed through a specialized algorithm, it brings together 305 'best of' book lists to form a definitive guide to the world's most acclaimed books. For those interested in how these books are chosen, additional details can be found on the rankings page.

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Fantasy

Fantasy is a genre of literature that typically involves imaginative and supernatural elements, often set in a fictional world or alternate reality. These stories often feature mythical creatures, magic, and epic battles between good and evil. Fantasy books can range from high fantasy, which includes complex world-building and intricate plotlines, to urban fantasy, which blends fantastical elements with contemporary settings. The genre allows readers to escape into a world of wonder and adventure, where anything is possible.

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  1. 51. The Magician's Nephew by C. S. Lewis

    The book is a prequel to the popular fantasy series, and tells the story of two children who stumble upon magical rings that transport them to different worlds. They encounter a wicked queen, awaken a powerful lion who creates a new world, and inadvertently bring the queen into this new world, setting the stage for the rest of the series. The book explores themes of creation, temptation, and the consequences of one's actions.

    The 1708th Greatest Book of All Time
  2. 52. The Horse and His Boy: The Chronicles of Narnia by C. S. Lewis

    This book is the third installment in a popular fantasy series and follows a young boy and a talking horse as they embark on a dangerous journey to escape from their lives of servitude in the south. Along the way, they encounter a young runaway and her talking horse, and together, they journey north to the magical land of Narnia. Along their journey, they discover that they are part of a greater destiny and that their lives are intertwined with the fate of Narnia itself.

    The 1711th Greatest Book of All Time
  3. 53. The Silver Chair: The Chronicles of Narnia by C. S. Lewis

    In this installment of the Chronicles of Narnia series, Eustace Scrubb and Jill Pole are called to Narnia by Aslan, the great lion, to find and rescue Prince Rilian, the missing son of now elderly King Caspian. Their journey takes them deep into the underworld, where they encounter a variety of strange and dangerous creatures, including the enchanting and malevolent Green Lady. With faith, courage, and the guidance of a few loyal friends, the children strive to fulfill their mission and return the lost prince to his rightful place.

    The 1714th Greatest Book of All Time
  4. 54. Prince Caspian: The Return to Narnia by C. S. Lewis

    In this fantasy novel, four siblings are magically transported back to the realm of Narnia, where they find that centuries have passed and the land is ruled by a tyrannical king. They join forces with the rightful heir to the throne, a young prince, and an assortment of mystical creatures to restore peace and justice to the kingdom. The story is filled with battles, adventures, and lessons about courage, friendship, and faith.

    The 1713th Greatest Book of All Time
  5. 55. The Infernal Desire Machines Of Doctor Hoffman by Angela Carter

    The novel is a phantasmagorical journey through a world where reality is under siege by the diabolical machinations of a mad scientist who has unleashed desire machines that warp perception and desire. The protagonist, Desiderio, an employee of the Ministry of Determination, embarks on a quest to stop Doctor Hoffman, confronting a series of bizarre and surreal challenges that blend eroticism, philosophy, and violence. As Desiderio travels through cities and landscapes transformed by the machines, he encounters a cast of eccentric characters and experiences dreamlike adventures that challenge the boundaries of reality, identity, and sanity, culminating in a confrontation with the enigmatic Doctor and the resolution of his own complex relationship with Hoffman's daughter.

    The 1721st Greatest Book of All Time
  6. 56. Legend by David Gemmell

    In a post-apocalyptic world, an aging warrior known as Druss comes out of retirement to defend his homeland from invading hordes. Despite his advanced age, he is still a formidable fighter and is revered as a living legend. As he prepares for a seemingly impossible battle, he must confront not only his enemies but also his own personal demons and the specter of his own mortality. The novel is a compelling blend of action, adventure, and introspection, exploring themes of heroism, honor, and the human capacity for courage in the face of overwhelming odds.

    The 1789th Greatest Book of All Time
  7. 57. The Owl Service by Alan Garner

    "The Owl Service" is a gripping and mysterious novel that follows three teenagers, Alison, Roger, and Gwyn, as they uncover a dark and ancient secret hidden within a Welsh valley. As they become entangled in a haunting and supernatural phenomenon involving an ancient Welsh myth, the three must confront their own fears and unravel the truth before it consumes them. With elements of folklore, mythology, and psychological suspense, this atmospheric tale explores themes of identity, destiny, and the power of ancient forces that still hold sway in the present day.

    The 1854th Greatest Book of All Time
  8. 58. The Sound Of His Horn by Sarban

    "The Sound of His Horn" is a dystopian science fiction novel set in a future where the Nazis have won World War II. The story follows Alan Querdilion, a British prisoner of war who wakes up in a bizarre alternate reality ruled by a cruel and sadistic Nazi regime. As he navigates this nightmarish world, Querdilion must confront his own survival instincts and grapple with the moral implications of his actions. With its haunting atmosphere and thought-provoking exploration of power and humanity, the novel offers a chilling and unsettling reflection on the consequences of totalitarianism.

    The 1875th Greatest Book of All Time
  9. 59. The Green Man by Kingsley Amis

    "The Green Man" is a chilling and darkly humorous novel that follows the life of Maurice Allington, a middle-aged innkeeper who becomes haunted by a malevolent spirit. As Maurice's life unravels, he must confront his own demons and face the consequences of his actions. Blending elements of horror, comedy, and psychological suspense, this gripping tale explores themes of guilt, mortality, and the supernatural, leaving readers questioning the boundaries between reality and the supernatural.

    The 1875th Greatest Book of All Time
  10. 60. Five Children And It by Edith Nesbit

    The book follows the adventures of five siblings who, while exploring the English countryside, discover a sand fairy known as the Psammead, which has the power to grant wishes. The children are thrilled by the prospect of having their desires fulfilled but soon learn that magic comes with its own set of complications. Each wish granted by the creature only lasts until sunset and often leads to unexpected consequences, teaching the children valuable lessons about the perils of greed, the importance of being careful what you wish for, and the power of imagination and kindness.

    The 1962nd Greatest Book of All Time
  11. 61. The Arabian Nightmare by Robert Irwin

    "The Arabian Nightmare" is a captivating and surreal journey through the dreams and nightmares of a young scholar named Abdulla. Set in medieval Cairo, the book explores the blurred lines between reality and fantasy as Abdulla becomes entangled in a web of magical creatures, mythical beings, and supernatural occurrences. With richly descriptive prose and a deep understanding of Arabian folklore, the story delves into themes of identity, love, and the power of storytelling, leaving readers questioning the nature of dreams and the boundaries of the human imagination.

    The 1984th Greatest Book of All Time
  12. 62. The Passion Of New Eve by Angela Carter

    The book is a provocative work of speculative fiction set in a dystopian future America, where societal collapse has given way to lawlessness and extreme gender politics. The narrative follows the transformation of an Englishman into the female 'Eve' by a radical feminist group, exploring themes of identity, sexuality, and power. As Eve navigates a surreal landscape populated by emblematic characters, including a manipulative surgeon and a mythic film star, the story delves into the fluidity of gender and the construction of femininity, challenging the reader's perceptions of normative gender roles and the nature of desire.

    The 2004th Greatest Book of All Time
  13. 63. The Crystal Cave by Mary Stewart

    "The Crystal Cave" is a historical fiction novel that tells the story of Merlin, the legendary wizard of King Arthur's court. The book follows Merlin's early life, from his birth as the illegitimate son of a Welsh princess to his discovery of his magical powers and his journey to become a wise and powerful advisor to the future King Arthur. Set against the backdrop of early medieval Britain, the novel explores themes of destiny, power, and the struggle between pagan and Christian beliefs.

    The 2137th Greatest Book of All Time
  14. 64. The Amber Spyglass by Philip Pullman

    The final installment in a fantasy trilogy, this novel follows the young protagonists as they continue their journey through parallel universes. They find themselves in the world of the dead, where they lead a rebellion against the oppressive authorities. Meanwhile, celestial forces are gathering for a final, apocalyptic battle. The young heroes must also confront their own destiny, which is tied to a mysterious object known as the amber spyglass. The story explores themes of love, sacrifice, and the nature of consciousness.

    The 2174th Greatest Book of All Time
  15. 65. The Magic Faraway Tree by Enid Blyton

    In this enchanting children's novel, a group of young siblings discovers an incredible tree in an enchanted forest near their new countryside home. This isn't just any tree; it's home to a variety of fantastical creatures and has magical lands that appear at its top, each with its own unique adventures and challenges. The children befriend the tree's quirky inhabitants and embark on a series of whimsical escapades, exploring lands filled with delights, dangers, and mysteries. Through their adventures, they learn the value of friendship, courage, and the boundless nature of imagination.

    The 2180th Greatest Book of All Time
  16. 66. Small Gods by Terry Pratchett

    In a satirical fantasy world, a once-powerful god finds himself nearly forgotten, his power diminished to almost nothing as he's left with a single believer, a novice monk. This unlikely duo embarks on a journey to confront the corrupt religious institution that has lost sight of true faith, challenging dogma and hypocrisy. Along the way, they encounter a host of quirky characters and navigate philosophical quandaries, ultimately seeking to restore genuine belief and the god's rightful place in the hearts of the people. The narrative cleverly explores themes of religion, belief, and the nature of power through a humorous and thought-provoking lens.

    The 2237th Greatest Book of All Time
  17. 67. The Lost World by Arthur Conan Doyle

    "The Lost World" is an adventure novel that follows a group of explorers as they embark on a perilous journey to a remote plateau in South America, where prehistoric creatures still roam. Led by an eccentric professor, the team encounters dangerous dinosaurs, hostile tribes, and treacherous terrain, testing their courage and resilience. As they strive to survive and document their discoveries, the explorers face thrilling encounters and unexpected challenges that push them to their limits. This thrilling tale of exploration and survival is filled with suspense, action, and a sense of wonder as the characters navigate the mysteries of this lost world.

    The 2403rd Greatest Book of All Time
  18. 68. Pincher Martin by William Golding

    The novel centers on a naval officer who, after his ship is torpedoed during wartime, finds himself struggling to survive on an isolated rock in the North Atlantic. As he battles the elements and the limits of human endurance, the narrative delves into his past, revealing the nature of his character through flashbacks and hallucinations. The protagonist's fight for survival becomes not only a physical battle but also a psychological journey, exploring themes of isolation, identity, and the human will to live. The story takes a metaphysical turn, culminating in a twist that challenges the reader's perception of reality and the protagonist's true fate.

    The 2409th Greatest Book of All Time
  19. 69. Coraline by Neil Gaiman

    A young girl named Coraline Jones moves into a new home and discovers a secret door leading to an alternate version of her life, where her "Other Mother" and "Other Father" reside. Although this parallel world seems better at first, she soon realizes that her Other Parents want to keep her there permanently and that they are not as they appear. Coraline must use her bravery and wits to save herself and her real parents, who have been kidnapped by the Other Mother, and free the souls of other children trapped in this alternate world.

    The 2451st Greatest Book of All Time
  20. 70. The Water-Babies, A Fairy Tale for a Land Baby by Charles Kingsley

    "The Water-Babies, A Fairy Tale for a Land Baby" is a children's novel that tells the story of a young chimney sweep named Tom who falls into a river and transforms into a 'water-baby'. He embarks on a series of underwater adventures, meeting various creatures and learning important moral lessons. The book uses fantasy and satire to explore themes of child labor, social reform, and the natural sciences.

    The 2452nd Greatest Book of All Time
  21. 71. The Wind on the Moon by Eric Linklater

    The book is a whimsical and captivating tale of two young girls, Dinah and Dorinda, who, when left alone by their father, find themselves capable of transforming into any creature they choose. Throughout their magical adventures, they transform into kangaroos, rescue their father from a dungeon, and even win a dance contest. The story is a delightful mix of fantasy, humor, and adventure, exploring themes of freedom, friendship, and courage.

    The 2716th Greatest Book of All Time
  22. 72. Night Watch by Terry Pratchett

    "Night Watch" is a satirical fantasy novel that follows the story of Sam Vimes, a city watch commander who is transported back in time. He must navigate the complexities of the past, assume the identity of his old mentor, and prevent a violent revolution, all while trying to find a way back to his own time. The book is filled with humor, social commentary, and a detailed fantasy world.

    The 2743rd Greatest Book of All Time
  23. 73. The Truth by Terry Pratchett

    In this satirical fantasy novel, the story revolves around the accidental establishment of the city's first newspaper by a young entrepreneur and his talking dog. As the newspaper begins to uncover and report the truth, it finds itself entangled in a plot involving political intrigue, murder, and the machinations of the city's elite. The protagonist must navigate the treacherous waters of news and information, dealing with the moral dilemmas of journalism and the power of the written word, all while the very fabric of the city's society is threatened by the stories his paper brings to light. The novel humorously explores themes of media power, truth, and the responsibility of those who control the flow of information.

    The 2752nd Greatest Book of All Time
  24. 74. Stormbringer by Michael Moorcock

    In this dark fantasy novel, the protagonist, a brooding and complex anti-hero, is bound to a sentient and malevolent black sword that grants him power and a cursed fate. As he navigates a world filled with gods, magic, and warfare, he is driven by a personal quest that pits him against supernatural forces and the doom that the sword brings. The narrative is rich with existential themes, exploring the nature of good and evil, destiny, and the struggle for personal agency within a universe that is indifferent or even hostile to the individual's desires. The book culminates in epic battles and tragic choices, leaving a lasting impact on the world the protagonist inhabits and on the readers who journey with him.

    The 2784th Greatest Book of All Time
  25. 75. King Arthur And His Knights Of The Round Table by Roger Lancelyn Green

    This book is a retelling of the classic Arthurian legends, weaving together the tales of the legendary King Arthur and his noble knights. It chronicles Arthur's ascent to the throne after pulling the enchanted sword Excalibur from a stone, the establishment of the Round Table, and the various quests undertaken by his knights, including the search for the Holy Grail. The narrative also delves into the personal stories of key figures such as Sir Lancelot, Guinevere, and Merlin the wizard, exploring themes of chivalry, honor, and betrayal. Rich in medieval mythology and adventure, the book captures the imagination with its depiction of a romanticized, yet perilous, world of knights and their code of ethics.

    The 2944th Greatest Book of All Time

Reading Statistics

Click the button below to see how many of these books you've read!

Download

If you're interested in downloading this list as a CSV file for use in a spreadsheet application, you can easily do so by clicking the button below. Please note that to ensure a manageable file size and faster download, the CSV will include details for only the first 500 books.

Download