For D&D fans
Meg W. asked the blog for great, recent-ish books for her Dungeons and Dragons–loving 12-year-old. Thanks for the question, Meg! What a fun one to answer. I consulted with my own D&D-obsessed child and together we came up with this list. Enjoy!
Many believe that the creators of D&D were heavily inspired by the worlds of J.R.R. Tolkien and other fantasy novels of that era. Many of these books share that epic and magical spirit.
Eragon series by Christopher Paolini, started in 2002
This middle-grade series about a boy’s connection with a dragon has many similarities to D&D, from the languages to the magic system.
Blackthorn Key series by Kevin Sands, started in 2015
This suspenseful middle-grade series focuses on the apprentice to an apothecary, with lots of mystery, adventure, and explosions.
Lightfall by Tim Probert, 2020
A graphic novel that feels akin to D&D, with fantastical creatures and secret powers. A second volume is coming in April 2022! The illustrations are gorgeous and the story captivating.
The Girl of Fire and Thorns series by Rae Carson, 2011
I loved all three books in the YA high fantasy series. A heroine faces adversity and adventure, woven through with elements of faith and religion.
Three Dark Crowns series by Kendare Blake, started in 2016
Blake’s YA series focuses on sisters with elemental magic powers who are separated as children only to battle to the death as teens.
Throne of Glass series by Sarah J. Maas, started in 2013
I haven’t (yet) read this series, but my 12-year-old is tearing through it. At the center of the first book is an assassin who enters a competition to become the king’s champion.
Wings of Ebony by J. Elle, 2021
Wings is a riveting contemporary YA fantasy that moves between Houston and a magical realm. The protagonist wants to protect her family and her neighborhood, but her magical blood complicates that goal.
Bonus recommendation: Sunny Rolls the Dice by Jennifer L. Holm and Matthew Holm, 2019
This graphic novel is all about how Sunny learns to play and love D&D. Watch out for the gelatinous cube!