The Greatest American "Magical Realism, Fiction, High Fantasy" Books Since 1980

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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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Genres

Magical Realism

Magical realism is a literary genre that weaves elements of fantasy into realistic settings, creating a narrative that exists in a harmonious balance between the ordinary and the extraordinary. In magical realist literature, the supernatural is not presented as something to be questioned or explained, but rather as an accepted part of everyday life. Characters might encounter ghosts, engage in telepathy, or experience time in non-linear ways, yet these occurrences are treated as mundane aspects of the world. This genre often explores complex themes such as identity, time, and the interconnection of reality and illusion, blurring the lines between the conceivable and the incredible. Magical realism is rooted in Latin American literature but has become a beloved and diverse genre worldwide, offering readers a lens through which the complexities of life are viewed with wonder and a subtle touch of magic.

Fiction

High Fantasy

High Fantasy, as a literary genre, transports readers to entirely imagined worlds, distinct from our own, where magic, mythical creatures, and epic quests form the backbone of the narrative. These worlds often feature complex political systems, intricate lore, and a clear distinction between good and evil. Central to high fantasy are themes of heroism, adventure, and the struggle against formidable adversaries or forces. The genre is epitomized by works such as J.R.R. Tolkien's "The Lord of the Rings," where the detailed setting of Middle-earth, complete with its own languages, races, and history, sets the stage for a classic battle between the forces of light and darkness. High Fantasy offers an escape into worlds where the fantastical is the norm, inviting readers to explore realms where the limits are defined only by the breadth of the author's imagination.

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  1. 1. Little, Big by John Crowley

    "Little, Big" is a complex tale that weaves together elements of magical realism, fantasy, and family saga. The story follows the Drinkwater family who live in an eccentric house known as Edgewood, which is somehow bigger on the inside than the outside. The family is connected to the realm of Faerie, and the narrative explores their interactions with this magical world. The book spans multiple generations and intertwines the lives of its characters with the cycles of history and myth, creating a multi-layered narrative about love, family, destiny, and the nature of storytelling itself.

    The 723rd Greatest Book of All Time
  2. 2. Love And Sleep by John Crowley

    "Love and Sleep" is the second novel in a four-part series that weaves together elements of history, mythology, and magic. The narrative follows the life of Pierce Moffett, a historian who becomes entangled in a complex tapestry of events that span centuries. As Pierce delves deeper into the study of Renaissance hermeticism and the mysteries of the past, he also grapples with personal relationships and his own spiritual journey. The novel blends the metaphysical with the mundane, exploring themes of love, knowledge, and the pursuit of truth, all while challenging the boundaries between reality and the supernatural.

    The 9090th Greatest Book of All Time
  3. 3. The 10,000 Doors Of January by Alix E Harrow

    In this enchanting novel, a young girl named January Scaller discovers a mysterious book that reveals a world of secret doorways leading to other realms, each unique and wondrous. As she delves deeper into its pages, she learns about her own family's connections to these other worlds and their role in guarding these portals. Set against the backdrop of the early 1900s, the story weaves a tale of adventure, self-discovery, and the power of words and stories to open doors to new possibilities. January must navigate a complex web of historical societies, hidden powers, and her own identity as she seeks to unlock the truth of her past and shape her destiny.

    The 10660th 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