[Mithalwen]

Not exactly fantasy as such - and alas that I can read the only in translation, but for erudition and intellectual stimulation combined with imagination, I would recommend both Jostein Gaarder - who in additon to the very famous "Sophie's World" has written some wonderful books which are perhaps more approachable if like me you don't have the best grasp of philosophy. It is a good time of year to read "The Christmas Mystery" but "The Solitaire Mystery is great as well, and there is another one with an angel but I forget the name-"Through a glass darkly" maybe- and Umberto Eco. Eco with the caveat that his work is less suitable for younger readers however bright...