Among the greatest things about the YA fantasy subgenre is how many distinct subcultures these stories may fall into, and how many mythological beings and stories can fit into one particular plot.
Whether you love vampires, mermaids, or fairy tales, there is a story for you!
The power of each YA fantasy book to transport you to a different setting and temporarily submerge you in a different reality may be its greatest strength.
What more could a young adult possibly desire while looking to escape the tiresome normality of daily existence?
Continue reading to discover our top 70+ picks for the greatest YA fantasy books and franchises of all time.
What is a YA Fantasy Book?
Before we jump into which books we chose as our favorite YA fantasy books of all time, let’s take a look at what this subgenre really is, and what makes it so unique and wonderful.
What is a Young Adult Book?
Since the phrase ‘YA’ – which stands for ‘young adult’ – was first used in the late 1960s to describe a specific genre of books, they became very popular among a specific audience.
They were aimed at teenagers and younger adults, in their early twenties, although they were also suitable for older adults too.
One of the first widely read YA books, The Outsiders by SE Hinton was a bestseller with teenagers and young adults in 1967.
It was around this time that the term ‘YA’ was coined, and it was later used to describe other books that would come out within the following years.
These included Go Ask Alice (1971) by Beatrice Sparks, and Francine Pascal’s Sweet Valley High series (1983-2003).
What qualifies as a young adult novel and a children’s book has always been a topic of discussion.
For instance, although many people think of the Harry Potter series (1998-2007) as being for kids, the later novels in the series seem to have been written with an older readership in mind.
When the first book was published, J.K. Rowling was writing for a younger audience.
However, by the time the series was wrapping up, those children had transitioned into teenagers and young adults.
However, they can be enjoyed by anyone of any age, although many are not entirely suitable for children due to the potential inclusion of strong language, alcohol, and/or horror themes.
Mixing The YA And Fantasy Genres
The subgenre of fantasy literature geared toward teenagers and young adults is known as ‘YA Fantasy’.
Numerous children’s novels follow these themes since fantasy is a broad genre that covers tales of invented worlds, mythological animals, and magic.
However, YA fantasy novels frequently feature more mature themes, such as those related to terror and death.
A book can be considered fantasy without having all the aforementioned components, but it must feature characters and ideas that are unattainable in reality.
As YA novels frequently feature characters who are coming of age, this is a fascinating concept to work with; emphasizing the drama of adolescence while dealing with magic and monsters.
As a result, YA fantasy books have gained popularity throughout time, particularly among teenagers and young adults who are having a hard time adjusting to adult life.
It serves as a means of escape for many from the mundane monotony of daily existence.
79 Of The Greatest YA Fantasy Books Of All Time
Now that we have an understanding of what a YA fantasy novel should look like, and what kind of themes are followed throughout, it is time to take a look at some of them.
Below, we have listed some of the most successful and entertaining YA fantasy books of all time.
Some of our picks are standalone novels, while others are listed as the entire series. All in all, there are plenty of books listed here for you to take a look at.
The inhabitants of Orleans are born with no inherent beauty, and they require The Belles’ miraculous beauty services in order to help them become attractive.
One of the Belles, Camellia, is not content with being ‘just’ a Belle; she wants to serve the royal family.
Pros
A gorgeously detailed world with a fun narrative.
A fantasy fairy tale featuring a courageous female protagonist.
Cons
Some readers consider the pacing of this series to be quite slow.
The Book Thief, which is set in Nazi Germany, follows Liesel, whose destiny drastically alters when she acquires the Gravedigger’s Handbook by accident.
Her mystical adventure officially starts with this first act of book theft.
Pros
A truly emotional read that will tug at your heartstrings.
A solid plot with twists and turns to keep you intrigued.
There has been a movie adaptation of this novel, starring Sophie Nelisse, Geoffrey Rush, and Emily Watson.
Cons
Some readers consider the ending to be underwhelming.
A frightening entity shows up to demand vengeance after 19-year-old Feyre kills a wolf in the woods.
Feyre learns that her abductor is one of the deadly, immortal faeries who formerly governed her planet, after being hauled to a perilous magical realm.
Pros
A fun reimagining of Beauty and the Beast.
Well paced with a well-thought-out plot.
Cons
Despite the title, thorns/roses are hardly ever mentioned in the plot.
Some readers complain that the world-building is weak, and the writing is excessive.
5 factions make up society in a dismal future. When Tris turns 16, she must choose whether to stay in her childhood faction, where conditions are safer, or venture out into the more dangerous but intriguing world she has been yearning to explore.
Pros
An intriguing story of a teenager struggling to find her place in a dystopian world.
Plenty of action to keep you hooked.
There have been movie adaptations of the three books.
Cons
Considered by some to be a less powerful The Hunger Games replica.
When two magicians show up to confront Clementine Madigan, who is about to take over as the warden of her small town, she is unintentionally entangled in a fight that dates back a century.
As she approaches one of the magicians, romance begins to build.
Pros
A distinct narrative with intriguing world-building.
Characters that the reader can identify with.
Cons
Some readers consider the plot to be a little confusing and ‘poorly written’.
When Otto, lost and alone in a restricted forest, encounters three mystifying sisters, he finds himself quickly drawn into a perplexing journey involving a harmonica.
When the exact same harmonica enters three unrelated people’s lives years later, their lives become intertwined.
Pros
An enchanting story that will compel you to keep reading until it’s over.
Will stick with you long after you have turned the final page.
Cons
This is a fairly long book that can become a little weary towards the end.
After their parents pass away, Camille is left to take care of her sister and her unpredictable brother.
Camilla, who is in need of food, shelter, and a better life in general, utilizes dark magic to become a baroness and live a life of luxury among the wealthy.
Pros
A magical YA fantasy with a dash of sensuality and romance.
Both books in the series are as enjoyable as each other.
Cons
Many plot points are left unsolved at the end of the series.
Until his fate as a Dragon Rider is unveiled, Eragon thinks he is just a simple farm child from an impoverished family.
He quickly finds himself drawn into a perilous web of magic, thanks to an ancient sword, a devoted dragon, and wise counsel from an elderly storyteller.
Pros
A successful debut book from a 16-year-old author.
The plot has been compared to Star Wars and Lord of the Rings.
There is a movie adaptation of this novel, starring Ed Speleers, Jeremy Irons, and Robert Carlyle.
Cons
There is little to no character development in the characters.
The sea is all that 17-year-old Fable has ever known as a home.
From the moment she witnessed her mother perish in a merciless storm, and her father left her on an isolated island the following day, she does what she must to survive.
Pros
The protagonist is a tough, resilient female character.
A very entertaining read, filled with action and twists.
Cons
Some readers find the plot to be quite slow-paced throughout.
Throughout the course of a beautiful Valentine’s Day in medieval England, four incredible love tales come together.
Miles and Shelby discover love in unexpected places, Roland receives a difficult truth, Arriane incurs the cost of romance, and Daniel and Luce share a special night together.
Rielle sacrifices everything to rescue her friend when assassins attack him, and she has to go through seven tests to demonstrate that she is the Sun Queen.
Unless the trials succeed in killing her first, she will be executed if she fails.
Pros
An intriguing premise that will keep you hooked.
The writing makes the story really easy to follow.
Cons
Lack of character development causes the plot to fall flat at times.
Lei belongs to the Paper caste, which is Ikhara’s weakest and most oppressed social group.
She and her father reside in a rural district, where she continues to struggle with the pain of witnessing her mother being abducted by royal soldiers ten years ago.
Now that the king’s interest has been aroused by her golden-colored eyes and alleged beauty, the guards return for a second time, and this time, they are pursuing Lei.
Pros
While the reader reads, a vivid picture of imperial China is painted in their minds by that of the background of the excellent world-building.
A teen-to-adult audience will enjoy this gripping, diverse tale about the enslavement and empowerment of women.
Cons
There are many mentions and insinuations of SA, which may trigger some readers.
Her fiancé stole her fortune, her father is no longer alive, and no one wants to hire her.
With no other options, India Steele, who is unemployed and in need of work, ends up accepting a position with the sole employer willing to hire her: an intriguing American with an unusual watch.
Pros
As it progresses from section to section, it is really simple to read and understand.
This series offers a large variety of personalities, incidents, and tension, as well as all the other components one could look for in a top-notch mystery.
Cons
There is an insinuation of sexual assault within the first few chapters that may trigger some readers.
Dana learns certain truths she did not anticipate as she flees to locate her enigmatic father in Avalon, the only location on Earth where the Faeries’ magical world is real. For starters, she is no ordinary teenage girl.
Pros
The book has an intriguing premise and several innovative concepts.
The story is driven by a witty, authentic female protagonist.
Cons
The plot is pretty clichéd and predictable as a whole.
Casiopea lives a mundane life until, one day, she discovers a wooden box in her grandfather’s room.
When she unlocks it, she accidentally releases the Mayan deity of death’s spirit, who begs for her assistance in reclaiming his kingdom from his cunning brother.
11 years after his parent’s deaths, Harry Potter discovers that he is a wizard.
Upon enrolling at the magical wizarding school of Hogwarts, meeting new friends and foes alike, he quickly discovers that life will never be the same again.
Pros
A modern classic series that everyone should read at least once.
The books get darker as the children get older, maturing with its characters.
There are 8 movies that have been adapted from this series, plus a play, and several spin-off books. The movies star Daniel Radcliffe, Ralph Fiennes, and Maggie Smith, just to name a few.
Cons
Some readers believe some aspects of the books to be problematic, e.g., racial stereotyping.
The majority of Alice’s life was spent traveling with her mother.
Alice discovers just how dismal her misfortune can be when her grandma, the recluse writer of a genre-defining collection of eerie fairy tales, passes away all by herself on her property, the Hazel Wood.
Pros
A dark fairy tale-inspired story.
The novel is filled with mysteries and twists.
Cons
Some readers believe that, while the story had potential, the plot is too drawn out.
The family of Rhea and Lexos has governed for an age and intends to continue ruling forever, thanks to their power.
The twins’ closeness has sheltered them as their father’s erratic tyranny and growing fury have threatened the family’s power position over the generations.
The land of Orisha was once alive with enchantment, but all shifted the moment the magic vanished.
Any person with special abilities was hunted and slaughtered on the instructions of a cruel king, rendering Zélie without parents, and her community without faith.
Pros
Despite the novel’s size, the pacing was excellent and engaging.
The lovely prose complements the colorful universe.
Cons
Some readers claim that the plot is excessively clichéd and formulaic.
After Bree’s mom is killed in a tragedy, a residential program at UNC-Chapel Hill for gifted high school students initially appears like the ideal retreat.
However, things almost instantly go wrong when Bree observes a mysterious incident during her very first night.
Pros
A creative retelling of the tale of King Arthur, and an insight into his descendants.
The emotional ending shocked and impressed many readers.
Five years have passed since Wendy’s brothers vanished in the woods, but as the town’s young people begin to vanish, the mysteries surrounding her siblings’ disappearance are once again brought to the forefront.
Wendy quickly learns she cannot escape her history.
Pros
A gripping retelling of the Peter Pan tales.
The reader’s feelings change with each page as this book alternates between being comforting and devastating.
Cons
Despite the potential of the plot, many readers believe that the story, overall, is quite slow and repetitive.
This tale is recounted by the goddess Aphrodite, who must embellish it or suffer judgment on Mount Olympus.
It is a chronicle of love and injustice, as well as both joy and tragedy. It demonstrates that despite being a significant motivator, love has greater authority than conflict.
Pros
A tale with mystical undertones set during World War I.
There are many amusing sections and fascinating individuals to enjoy reading about.
Cons
Some readers believe that Berry’s writing often falls flat throughout the narrative.
Detective Ivy Gamble is sucked into a world of unimaginable potential when a homicide is uncovered at the Osthorne Academy of Young Mages, where her disowned twin sister teaches magic.
Now, she needs to track down a killer and save her sister while retaining her own sanity.
Pros
An interesting take on a ‘normal’ person surviving in a magical setting.
The complex relationship between the twins is particularly captivating.
Cons
The plot is, overall, quite predictable and clichéd.
Thomas can only recall his name when he awakens in the elevator.
Boys whose identities are likewise lost are all around him, and they are all surrounded by high stone walls, beyond which extends a never-ending labyrinth.
There is no other way out, and nobody has ever survived while attempting to escape.
Pros
The world-building in these books is excellent, which contributes to the plot’s well-rounded execution and helps the reader create a vivid mental picture of the setting.
The writing makes the reader feel a connection to the characters since they are endearing and charming.
There were movie adaptations made based upon this series, starring Dylan O’Brien, Kaya Scodelario, and Thomas Brodie-Sangster.
Cons
After the first several novels in the series, some readers believe that the writing and plot start to feel a little bit repetitive.
The mystical yet complex history of June’s family has plagued her for her whole life.
June is eager to put her demons behind her as she gets ready to embark on her senior year of high school when an upsetting flash from the past interferes and throws everything off.
Pros
Through her skill with language, Henry draws the reader into the narrative.
A tale full of supernatural events and mystical realism.
Cons
Some readers feel that the conclusion was a little disappointing.
Jacob travels to a distant island after a terrible family bereavement, where he finds the deteriorating remains of Miss Peregrine’s Home for Peculiar Children.
He quickly discovers that the kids who had resided there were possibly dangerous—and might still be alive.
Pros
Riggs has a vivid imagination and uses a lot of specifics to create a detailed environment.
The story is greatly enhanced and made more enjoyable by the photographs that are included.
There has been a movie adaptation of this novel starring Asa Butterfield, Eva Green, and Samuel L. Jackson.
Cons
The plot loses a lot of the creepy allure that initially piqued the reader’s interest near the end.
Tom Natsworthy is hurled from the racing metropolis, along with a girl with a scar on her face, as they escape a horrifying operation that placed thousands of people in danger.
They are forced to flee through the rubble while avoiding a deadly new device that poses a threat to global security.
Pros
The reader will be anxiously intrigued by the intersecting tale lines.
Unbelievable levels of detail are used to describe the setting and events in the work.
There has been a movie adaptation of this novel starring Hera Hilmar, Robert Sheehan, and Hugo Weaving.
Cons
There are numerous characters to keep up with, which can cause the reader to lose interest as they try to keep track of them all.
Clary Fray is horrified when a body vanishes into thin air after she observes three teens carrying out a murder while wielding unusual weapons and adorned in odd tattoos.
Nobody else was able to see the murderers, and there was no physical proof that the crime even occurred. Clary had just met the Shadowhunters for the first time.
Pros
The world-building in these books is excellent, and the writing is superb, conjuring up vivid images in the reader’s mind.
The main heroine, Clary, is quite realistic and down to earth as she makes her way through this magical realm, so the reader will be able to identify with her.
There have been television shows and movie adaptations of this series of books, starring Lily Collins, Jamie Campbell Bower, and Robert Sheehan.
Cons
The books are fun to read, although they lack originality and occasionally become very predictable.
Sandis, an ancestral spirit’s mortal host, has the ability to be called against her consent as a ferocious monstrosity to carry out her master’s orders.
She had to flee if she wanted to survive. On her journey out of the corrupted city, she discovers an unexpected companion.
Pros
From the opening to the last page, this suspenseful journey gets your heart pumping.
The story takes place in a rich, exquisitely designed environment.
A crash of waves pulls Peter and his new friend Molly to the enigmatic Mollusk Island.
Tension rises as the two characters are compelled to defeat gangs of pirates and crooks in their mission to safeguard a mythical mystery and defend the planet from darkness and evil.
Pros
For anyone curious about how Peter Pan and the Lost Boys came to be who they were, here is a prequel.
A very creative and entertaining book for readers of all ages.
The novel has been adapted into a play with music, which ran on Broadway from 2012 to 2013.
Cons
Due to the many character changes, this is more of a prelude to the Disney movie than it is to J.M. Barrie’s novel. Therefore, fans of the original Peter Pan story may not enjoy this prequel as much.
Mary MacLane, a best-selling novelist, is the object of Flo and Clara’s obsession at Brookhants School for Girls.
History is made when their corpses are found with a copy of Mary’s book sprawled beside them, followed by three further mysterious deaths on school property.
Pros
The story intriguingly alternates between two timelines from distinct ages that are interconnected.
There is a lot of LGBT+ representation.
Cons
There is hardly significant character development or growth over the entire novel.
Victoria Sandalwood’s world is forever altered when she finds out she is the Queen’s daughter.
When she gets to the court, she finds that she needs to outmatch six other girls if she wants to win the Queen’s love and the attention of a noble suitor.
Pros
The series has numerous plot twists and turns that hold the reader’s interest.
A compelling story overall with standout characters.
Cons
Untied loose ends in the conclusion caused some readers to be dissatisfied.
Reid Diggory, a huntsman, finds himself in an untenable predicament when he becomes associated with Louise Le Blanc, a witch who gave up her magic two years ago.
After Lou executes a malicious ploy, the two are forced to decide between their feelings, and what is right.
Pros
The reader has a clear picture of the world thanks to the amount of detail that was put into it.
The twin viewpoints give the plot a unique perspective.
Cons
The reader may become confused because the magic system can come across as lackluster and under-explained at times.
Alina Starkov enters an opulent realm of nobility to train with the Grisha, her nation’s magical forces when she awakens untapped magic that she didn’t know she possessed.
She uncovers a perilous discovery that might endanger the future of the country as she uncovers the mysteries of her history.
Pros
Characters are clearly developed, and the world-building is intricate.
The excitement in the plot is just right, yet there are also enough restful periods.
Netflix released a television series adaptation of the first book, starring Jessica Mei Li, Archie Renaux, and Freddie Carter.
Cons
Both the male love interests come across as abusive at times, which may be triggering to some readers.
Lazlo Strange has had a lifelong obsession with the declining city of Weep.
He must accept the option presented by a hero, known as the Godslayer, along with a group of renowned warriors if he doesn’t want to forfeit his fantasy for good.
Pros
The fictional worlds that Taylor crafts utterly engross her audience.
The connections and character growth are amazing and full of wonder.
Cons
Due to the languid rhythm throughout, the reader may become disoriented.
Celaena Sardothien, an assassin from a realm without magic, is called to the castle.
Although she has no affection for the cruel monarch who sits on the glass throne, she does not intend to harm him. Instead, she arrives in order to secure her liberation.
Pros
A spectacular journey that is always evolving and shifting.
An entertaining series that will entice readers to read each book in the series to the end.
Cons
For an academic reader, the repeated use of exclamation points and grammatical errors can be off-putting.
Agnieszka cherishes her peaceful existence, but she is plagued by the twisted Wood’s presence.
In exchange for keeping its forces in check, a wizard demands the handover of one girl to serve him for 10 years, a destiny that is much more terrifying than being given over to the Wood.
Pros
A fantasy with compelling characters and stunningly inventive retellings of classic tales.
Extremely well written, with lots of intriguing people and settings.
Vampires learn the arts of magic at St. Vladimir’s Academy, while half-human teenagers also receive protection training.
After getting caught, Rose Hathaway and her closest friend Lissa are now forced to return to St. Vladimir’s, the location wherein they face the greatest threat.
Pros
If you want to learn something new about vampires, you should read this series.
A compelling read with appealing ideas and characters.
There was a movie adaptation made inspired by this series, starring Zoey Deutch, Sarah Hyland, and Claire Foy.
Cons
According to several readers, the conclusion felt rushed and ultimately disappointing.
In a twisted take on a childhood pastime, Wren is pursued through the woods close to her hometown in rural Ireland by people who are unaware of who she really is.
If they uncovered the truth, the game would undoubtedly become catastrophic.
Pros
A beautiful coming-of-age tale set in contemporary Ireland.
The reader will be intrigued by the unique and intriguing lore, and be enticed to want to learn more.
Cons
The reader’s knowledge and creativity are constrained by the lack of world building while reading.
The fate of those chosen to attend Zodiac Academy is determined by their astrological sign.
When Tory and Darcy Vega discover they are Fae, they must learn to control their abilities and battle the four Heirs who seek to take over the kingdom.
Pros
With each page turn, the reader will experience a range of emotions, including laughter and tears.
The reader will be engrossed by the interactions between the individuals and the subsequent events.
Cons
The nine-book series begins strong but gradually deteriorates as it goes on.
Final Thoughts
Did you find your favorite YA fantasy novel or franchise in this list? Did you notice any that you haven’t had the chance to read just yet?
If so, we highly recommend giving them a try if they have caught your eye.
There is no better way to escape the mundane boringness of everyday adult life than to settle down with a hot drink and an intriguing YA fantasy story.
So go brew yourself some tea, grab a new book, and escape to another world.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who Is The Best Selling Fantasy Writer Of All Time?
The Harry Potter series by J.K. Rowling is unquestionably the most successful fantasy franchise of all time, having sold more than 500 million copies over the previous 20+ years. This makes Rowling the most successful fantasy writer of all time.
What Is The Most Sold Fantasy Book Of All Time?
With an estimated 120 million sales worldwide, J.K. Rowling’s Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone is the best-selling fantasy book of all time.
In the US, the book is more popularly known as Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone.
Behind Miguel de Cervantes’ Don Quixote in first place, Charles Dickens’ A Tale of Two Cities in second, and Antoine de Saint-Le Exupéry’s Le Petit Prince in third, it is the fourth most popular fiction book of all time.
Is The Lord Of The Rings A YA Series?
Teenagers can read and appreciate Lord of the Rings, but the protagonists are not young people, and the ideas covered have little to do with the YA genre.
As a result, the Lord of the Rings series is simply regarded as being a fantasy series.
Noah Burton works as a Librarian full time, and is a blogger in his spare time. His goal is to write compelling recommendations for all of the most popular books he can find, from science fiction to romance.
With a passion for books, a drive to find new reads to get stuck into, and a love for sharing book recommendations with others, Noah can help you find the next novel for your bucket list.
