book recommendations - The Barrow-Downs Discussion Forum

Lyra Greenleaf · 03-08-2003, 11:03 AM

does anyone have any recommendations for fantasy genre books for soemone who has only read lotr and various childrens ones, (eg Tamora Pierce, Philip Pullman, point fantasy) please?

Meela · 03-08-2003, 11:10 AM

have you heard of Sacred Seven by Amy Stout? thats a good book, has a good mini appendix at the back.
terry pratchett is a good writer.
or lord of the rings by jrr tolkien [img]smilies/biggrin.gif[/img]
or terry brooks and his 'shannara' series or whatever

Orual · 03-08-2003, 11:13 AM

Have you read Patricia Wrede's Enchanted Forest Chronicles (Dealing with Dragons, etc.)? Lewis' "Till We Have Faces" is where I got my nickname from, and it's a very good book. Anything by Ursula LeGuin is good, and Madeleline L'Engle's early work (A Wrinkle in Time, etc.) is excellent.

And I know you asked for fantasy, but I just can't bring myself to leave this wonderful Sci-Fi out: Ender's Game by Orson Scott Card, the sequels, and the parallel books. Just excellent.

If I think of anything more, I'll be sure to tell you.

~*~Orual~*~

Alatáriël Lossëhelin · 03-08-2003, 02:07 PM

I don't read much that is considered fantasy other than Tolkein, but I have read and enjoyed the Madeline L'Engle series (Wrinkle in Time, etc.) as well as The Chronicles of Thomas Covenant & Second Chronicles...by Stephen Donaldson.

Meela · 03-08-2003, 03:18 PM

the chronicles of narnia, especially the voyage of the dawn treader. it was brilliant.

eleanor_niphredil · 03-08-2003, 04:01 PM

Hitchhikers Guide to the Galaxy!

The named and Old magic by Marianne Curley. i destperatly need to talk to someone who has read these books, as no one I know has! however, they start off rather slow, though they get better if you stick with it!

Wicca series.

Chancellen the True · 03-08-2003, 05:05 PM

This is a great topic. I don't want to say this out loud around here; but, there are other good fantasy writers out there (admitedly, not as great).

Michael Moorcock is famous for his Elric of Melnibone series, as well as Corum Jhaelen Irse, Hawkmoon and many others. He shows that it's tough (emotionaly as well as physicly), being the hero, or anti-hero.

Fritz Lieber's Lankmar series with Fafhrd and The Gray Mouser is tremendously fun with a surprising amount of depth.

I'm a big fan of the Planescape novels. Not many people know that they wrote novels (it's an out of print [thanks TSR] RPG). There is The Blood Wars trilogy and Pages of Pain. Pages of Pain is my favorite. It's about a very powerfull paladin who gets sent to the mazes. Don't be fooled by the title.

hobbit punk · 03-11-2003, 09:52 AM

I agree that the Narnia, Voyage of the Dawn Treader is excellent. Also my friend has almost all the Wheel of Time books by Robert Jordan. He thinks they are amazing and I was wondering if anyone else has read them?

Narya · 03-11-2003, 11:36 AM

Well, by now I haven´t read that much of other fantasy authors, but if you are familiar with Fantasybooks as well as Roleplaying Games you should read books by Terry Pratchett. They are really fun when you are a big fantasy- fan and know about all things he´s joking about.
I like Men at Arms the best of the books I´ve read; it´s written in a very good and intelligent style, it is exciting and crytical (about society)...
I can also recommend Frank Herbert (Dune), if you are interested in Science- Fiction.

Iarwain · 03-14-2003, 03:10 PM

Hmm. Good Reads.

Madeleine L'Engle's "Time Quartet" (Wrinkle in Time, Wind in the Door, Swiftly Tilting Planet, Many Waters)

Anything by C.S. Lewis, especially the Space Trilogy, Chronicles of Narnia, the Great Divorce, and 'Till We Have Faces.

The "Myst" series. Very good, best fantasy I've read outside of Tolkien.

The numerous works of George MacDonald.

the Giver, Lois Lowry

Green Eggs and Ham, Dr. Seuss

1984 and Animal Farm, George Orwell.

Grendle, John Gardner

The numerous works of Edith Nesbit (great children's stories)

Hmm. That's about all I can think of right now. Very good books though, all of them.

[ March 14, 2003: Message edited by: Iarwain ]

Isilmëiel · 03-14-2003, 03:58 PM

Most of mine have been named already but I liked Sabriel by Garth Nix. Kurt Vonnegut is also great, though not strictly "fantasy."

Vardamar · 03-14-2003, 05:47 PM

The Dune series, by Frank Herbert

Dune

Dune Messiah

Children of Dune

God Emperor of Dune

Heretics of Dune

Chapterhouse: Dune

It's not fantasy, but its close. Same epic feel as LOTR, I just about cried when I finished the last book. But I still need to read his sons three books.

House Atreides

House Harkonnen

House Corrino

Total of nine books. Should keep you busy for a while [img]smilies/biggrin.gif[/img]

Lindril Arvilya · 03-14-2003, 07:30 PM

Oh, I just couldn't swallow Dune. Well, I didn't mind Dune itself, but I got twenty pages into the second book and my major intestine, in a desperate attempt to save my life, nearly leaped up my throat to throttle my brain.

(For you H2G2 fans.)

I recommend:
The Dragonriders of Pern series, by Anne McCaffery.
The Free Bards books by Mercedes Lackey. My favourites are the first and third, but I don't like The Robin and the Kestrel so much.
If I Pay Thee Not In Gold by Mercedes Lackey and Piers Anthony. Lackey's excellent fantasy with Anthony's Xanth humour. Kinda sudden ending though.
I realise it's not fantasy, but Dirk Gently's Holistic Detective Agency and The Long Dark Teatime of the Soul by Douglas Adams. They do have abit of fantasy, though... some Norse myth.....
The Chronicles of Redwall by Brian Jacques. Childish, sortof, but hey, I'm nearly 19 and still enjoying them. They have the whole warrior's code down pat.

Bill Ferny · 03-14-2003, 10:51 PM

In addition to CS Lewis, I would pick up TH White’s adaptation of the Arthurian Legends, Once and Future King, an omnibus containing four books: The Sword in the Stone, The Queen of Air and Darkness (The Witch in the Wood), The Ill-Made Knight, and The Candle in the Wind. There is also a fifth book, published posthumously called The Book of Merlyn.

White’s work is the source for both the Disney movie, The Sword in the Stone (you’ll realize were the name Wart came from), and the stage musical Camelot.

Laced with wit and satire, high fantasy swords and sorcery, Once and Future King seriously delves into the complexities of human nature and the difference between right and might. In my humble opinion, TH White ranks equally with his contemporaries, Lewis and Tolkien.

InklingElf · 03-14-2003, 11:01 PM

Go Dune and Narnia!

Another author you may consider is Ursula LeGuin: The Wizard of Earthsea, The Tombs of Atuan and The Farthest Shore

A wonderful fantasy.

HerenIstarion · 03-15-2003, 03:08 AM

I'll walk along lines Narya suggested. So Terry Pratchett (highly recommended by yours truly):

The Colour of Magic
The Light Fantastic
Equal Rites
Mort
Sourcery
Wyrd Sisters
Pyramids
Guards! Guards!
Eric
Moving Pictures
Reaper Man
Witches Abroad
Small Gods
Lords and Ladies
Men at Arms
Soul Music
Interesting Times
Maskerade
Feet of Clay
Hogfather
Jingo
The Last Continent
Carpe Jugulum
The Fifth Elephant
The Truth
Thief of Time
The Last Hero
The Amazing Maurice and His Educated Rodents
Night Watch
The Wee Free Men
The 2003 Discworld Novel
The 2004 Discworld Novel
The Discworld Companion
The Science of Discworld
The Science of Discworld II: the Globe
The Streets of Ankh-Morpork
The Discworld Mapp
A Tourist Guide to Lancre
Death's Domain

Enjoy [img]smilies/smile.gif[/img]

Annunfuiniel · 03-15-2003, 04:39 AM

I would like to add the Mists of Avalon by Marion Zimmer Bradley. A new perspective to the Arthurian legend... Has anyone read other books of hers?

Vardamar · 03-15-2003, 06:48 AM

Ive read the Mists of Avalon +the prequels. Also great books.

Lyra Greenleaf · 03-15-2003, 07:27 AM

wow, thank you! i've read narnia (it was my favourite when i was little) as well as patricia wrede and the giver. i tried anne mccaffrey but couldnt get into it.

*jumps up and down: Yay lots to read!*

eleanor_niphredil · 03-15-2003, 08:29 AM

Lindril Arvilya, Hitchhikers guide to the Galaxy?

I would recommend A little Princesse!

Luinfang · 03-15-2003, 09:24 AM

And what about Tad Williams's Anderland books? they are really good too, but of course none of these can compete with JRRT, high king of fantasy!! [img]smilies/biggrin.gif[/img] [img]smilies/biggrin.gif[/img] [img]smilies/biggrin.gif[/img]

03-15-2003, 09:47 AM

YOU ABSOLUTELY MUST READ
'ENDER'S GAME'

Birdland · 03-15-2003, 09:59 AM

As hard as it is to believe, this topic has actually come up before! [img]smilies/biggrin.gif[/img] I'm not saying this topic should be closed, but you also might want to check out here and here for other great recommendations as well.

I'm also going to recommend this list: 100 Best Fantasy Novels, which has many "forgotten" but excellent books, many of which are my personal favorites as well.

[ March 15, 2003: Message edited by: Birdland ]

Daisy Brambleburr · 03-15-2003, 10:28 AM

I definatley reccomend the Chronicles of Narnia by CS Lewis. The Magicians Nephew is the best place to start.
Did you know that Tolkien and CS Lewis were friends?
Love Daisy [img]smilies/smile.gif[/img]

eleanor_niphredil · 03-15-2003, 10:34 AM

welcome Daisy! Yeah, I heard they were friends, but I prefere Tolkien to Cs Lewis any day!

Iarwain · 03-15-2003, 11:25 AM

Heh. I'd say just the opposite, eleanor! But that debate is for another time in another place. [img]smilies/smile.gif[/img] (Though I wish I could get into it right now [img]smilies/wink.gif[/img] )

More books I forgot to add:

yes, the Dune Series by Frank Herbert is quite excellent.

Everything by Tolkien, including:

Roverandom

Sir Gawain and the Green Knight, Pearl, Sir Orfeo

Mr. Bliss (a cute little mix of a few of the children's stories we already know, with a twist of Tolkien)

Iarwain · 03-16-2003, 08:15 PM

Funny, this might be off topic but its interesting all the same. I just read this morning that the Sci Fi channel is producing both Dune Messiah and Children of Dune as a mini series. Sounds very interesting.

InklingElf · 03-19-2003, 04:39 PM

I don't mean toget off topic-but yes, it is interesting. However, I didn't like the first movie they made for Dune, and my mom found it quite corney. :shrugs: It just doesn't convey enough of the politics and the essence of Herbert's books.

Further suggestions: Iarwain, you said that Perelandra was a good choice compared to Lewis' first sci-fi: Out of the Silent Planet. If I'd have found it earlier I'd say it was a great choice too. So yes, I would recommend Perelandra by C.S.Lewis (I trust your judgement Iarwain and I hope the book's not out of print 'cause I can't find it). He is one of the most prodigious authors of fantasy/sci-fi I've known [other than Tolkien, Frank Herbert, Asimov (which I heard was ver good-but still haven't read any of his books)etc.]

This is a great discussion. Onward.

gilraën · 03-19-2003, 05:09 PM

I remember seeing Dune the movie for the first time and thinking, hey that's not the story I read years ago, so I reread it and it WAS the story I read. BUT with the detail missing. It was, however, a much truer representation of the book than PJ's Films are of LOTR to date.

I also enjoyed the Robert Heinlein books (not strictly fantasy but sci-fi)

Lily Bracegirdle · 03-19-2003, 07:00 PM

Watership Down by Richard Adams
It seems odd that a story about RABBITS could be so engrossing, moving, and well, epic, but there you have it. I think I've read it over 40 times.

The Lions of Al-Rassan by Guy Gavriel Kay
This is the best of Kay's books, IMHO. It's a fantasy retelling of the legend of El Cid, and it's fabulous. Good plot, good characters, great writing, tears and laughter.

To Say Nothing of the Dog by Connie Willis
A time travel romantic comedy good for people who like PG Wodehouse's Jeeves & Bertie.

War For the Oaks by Emma Bull
A bit dated now, as an 80's rock n' roll girl takes on the Sidhe in Minneapolis with the help of her phouka boyfriend. Great fun.

Bridge of Birds by Barry Hughart
"A novel of ancient China that never was." I laughed until I cried reading this book.

The Phoenix Guards and Five Hundred Years After by Steven Brust
A great fantasy adventure/comedy/drama along the lines of The Three Musketeers. It may help to have read Brust's Vlad Taltos series first to familiarize yourself with how the world works, but these books are better.

The Chronicles of Prydain by Lloyd Alexander
They're childrens' books, and much simpler than Tolkien, but still charming and moving. (A Fflam is valiant!) The books in order: The Book of Three, The Black Cauldron, The Castle of Llyr, Taran Wanderer, The High King.

I'll also second nominations for:

Terry Pratchett's Discworld books. I'm partial to the ones about the City Watch: Guards, Guards, Men at Arms, and Feet of Clay, especially. Who can resist a six foot six dwarf named Carrot?

Madeline L'Engle
C.S. Lewis
Orson Scott Card, especially Ender's Game and Speaker for the Dead. They're sci-fi, not fantasy, but they're just devastatingly powerful.
Ursula Le Guin -- I wasn't crazy about the Earthsea Trilogy, but you need to read it to understand Tehanu, which is just a mind blowing book.
TH White's The Book of Merlyn is beautiful and tragic.

If you don't mind Sci-fi, David Brin's Uplift series is good. Start with Startide Rising rather than Sundiver.

Also not fantasy, but really good:
Arcadia by Tom Stoppard
It's a play by the person who wrote Shakespeare in Love and it's smart, funny and ultimately moving.

Good reading!

-Lily

[ March 19, 2003: Message edited by: Lily Bracegirdle ]

Beren87 · 03-19-2003, 07:07 PM

Quote:

Ender's Game by Orson Scott Card, the sequels, and the parallel books. Just excellent.

Along with that, Pastwatch by OSC.

And "The Great War" series by Harry Turtledove, WARNING:They are rather explicit at times, i.e. every other page.

[ March 19, 2003: Message edited by: Beren87 ]

Mordor_Queen · 03-20-2003, 08:05 AM

a really good fantasy book is the doomspell by cliff mcnish [img]smilies/evil.gif[/img]

Iarephelion · 03-20-2003, 11:23 PM

I've not seen any mention of Raymond Feist's superb "Magician" trilogy (and other related volumes). David Eddings "Belgariad" and "Mallorean" series are also enjoyable. Stephen Donaldson's "Chronicles of Thomas Covenant" are awesome, although difficult reading (especially early on).

Child of the 7th Age · 03-20-2003, 11:47 PM

I agree with Bill Ferny. My second favorite next to Tolkien is T. H. White--both The Once and Future King and the Book of Merlyn. They are the kind of books that bring a tear to your eye.

Other favorites: Marion Zimmer Bradley, both her Darkover series and her later books which focus on the women behind the Arthurian legend.

C.S. Lewis, Till We Have Faces, which I feel is the most mature and sensitive of his writings.

You've already mentioned Philip Pullman. His Dark Materials series is totally awesome, very thought provoking. Bee me, it's not just a 'chidren's book.' It is as if the author took Tolkien's universe and stood it on its head!! New Line Cinema is trying to buy the film rights. This could be another big one for them, potentially a bit more controversial than LotR.

sharon

Birdland · 03-21-2003, 09:24 AM

For a very melancholy, rich tale concerning the last Elf I highly recommend C.J. Cherryh's Arafel's Saga: The Dreamstone and The Tree of Swords and Jewels

Chyrryh takes her background from Celtic mythology to tell the tale of Arafel, who guards the last holdout of Eald in the world of Men, until she is unwillingly drawn to aid a Man and his family in war. But her assistance comes with a price, both for humans and for Elves.

It is an astounding well-written set of books, and one that I re-read regularly. But it has a very dark tone, and should not be read to any little ones.

Durelin · 03-21-2003, 08:32 PM

The Wheel of Time series by Robert Jordan is excellent, I am in the middle of it right now. And so are the novels of "Deverry and the Westlands" by Katherine Kerr, the start with Daggerspell. I'm in the middle of those too. I'm going to try Dune next, and maybe Children of Dune But, that'll be a while. The Wheel of Time is looooong. But so are Kerr's, just a few less o's. [img]smilies/biggrin.gif[/img] You won't run out of ideas when the book is lost or checked out from the library, Lyra! So many books!

Almost forgot! Arthurian legend rocks! Le Morte d'Arthur. That's probably the best form of it. It gets confusing, so many different legends and names for people.

[ March 21, 2003: Message edited by: Durelin ]

Hirilaelin · 03-21-2003, 09:22 PM

Regarding the Wheel of Time series, I read the first four, then stopped. They got long and tedious, and in some parts, too gorey for my taste. (Though I write RPG posts where I happily slay people!) On the other hand, the Chronicles of Narnia series is the best! They were actually some of the first books I heard. The Dawn Treader is the best, always has been, no doubt. I also nominate Ender's Game. Simply excellent, a wonderful exploration of human nature and morals, and good action.

Diamond18 · 03-21-2003, 09:37 PM

I've seen the original three Earthsea novels and Tehanu mentioned, but don't forget Tales from Earthsea (a collection of short stories) and The Other Wind, which rounds out the Earthsea books. All are excellent.

GaladrieloftheOlden · 03-21-2003, 09:46 PM

Not sure if this is considered fantasy or science fiction, but it is perfect for the Barrow Downs and I will be changing my sig too something from that shortly, so try and read "Something Wicked This Way Comes" by Ray Bradbury. There are some great quotes in that book! If I were a cheap journalist, I'd say "spine-tingling! A page-turner! Will keep you gasping!" Anyways... I am a bookworm so I should know many more, but I have (hopefully temporarily) blanked out, I'll post some when i remember. (Usually when something like this happens, I get my memory back at the wrong point...say, during a math test. [img]smilies/wink.gif[/img] ) The White Mercedes by Phillip Pullman isn't bad, the Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy is amazing, haven't laughed so hard with a book in ages. The Amber Spyglass is the best of the His Dark Materials trilogy. I love S. E. Hinton, so try all her 7 books (2 are for little kids, but fun to read anyway) especiallyThe Outsiders, Tex, That Was Then, This Is Now. Oops- definitely not fantasy.

maikafanawen · 03-21-2003, 11:08 PM

This was mentioned, but very vaguely, and I believe it deserves more attention.

I would definitely recommend author Terry Brooks' Shannara series:

The First King of Shannara
The Sword of Shannara
The Elfstones of Shannara
The Wishsong of Shannara

There's also four other books from Part II to the Shannara series. His newest completed series (Part III) is The Voyage of the Jerle Shannara and the books that make up that trilogy are:

Isle Witch, Antrax and Morgawr

The Voyage of the Jerle Shannara is the best trilogy I've ever read. It's Lord of the Rings with a better romance and magic based plot. I own the whole set and read them over and over again I love them so much! I promise you might be tempted to rethink your Fantastical devotion. [img]smilies/wink.gif[/img]

Good luck!

-Maikafanawen

03-08-2003, 11:03 AM	#1
Lyra Greenleaf The Diaphanous Dryad Join Date: Jan 2003 Location: R toL: 531, past the wild path Posts: 1,180	book recommendations does anyone have any recommendations for fantasy genre books for soemone who has only read lotr and various childrens ones, (eg Tamora Pierce, Philip Pullman, point fantasy) please? __________________ “Sylphs of the forest,” I whispered. “Spirits of oak, beech and ash. Dryads of Rowan and hazel, hear us. You who have guided and guarded our every footstep, you who have sheltered our growth, we honour you." the Forbidden Link

03-08-2003, 11:10 AM	#2
Meela Denethor's True Love Join Date: Sep 2002 Location: Mirkwood. With Thranduil... swoon Posts: 2,118	have you heard of Sacred Seven by Amy Stout? thats a good book, has a good mini appendix at the back. terry pratchett is a good writer. or lord of the rings by jrr tolkien [img]smilies/biggrin.gif[/img] or terry brooks and his 'shannara' series or whatever __________________ 'The Hobbit' 1st impressions: 1. Thorin is hot... Oh god, I fancy a dwarf. 2. Thranduil is hotter. 3. Is that... Figwit! 4. Does Elijah Wood never age? 2nd: It's all about Fili & Kili, really. 3rd: BARD! OMG, Bard.

03-08-2003, 11:13 AM	#3
Orual Speaker of the Dead Join Date: Oct 2002 Location: Superbia Posts: 901	Have you read Patricia Wrede's Enchanted Forest Chronicles (Dealing with Dragons, etc.)? Lewis' "Till We Have Faces" is where I got my nickname from, and it's a very good book. Anything by Ursula LeGuin is good, and Madeleline L'Engle's early work (A Wrinkle in Time, etc.) is excellent. And I know you asked for fantasy, but I just can't bring myself to leave this wonderful Sci-Fi out: Ender's Game by Orson Scott Card, the sequels, and the parallel books. Just excellent. If I think of anything more, I'll be sure to tell you. ~~Orual~~ __________________ "Oh, my god! I care so little, I almost passed out!" --Dr. Cox, "Scrubs"

03-08-2003, 02:07 PM	#4
Alatáriël Lossëhelin Shade of Carn Dûm Join Date: Feb 2003 Location: Road to Rivendell: 2491 miles from Hobbiton, with Frodo and Sam, homeward bound Posts: 365	I don't read much that is considered fantasy other than Tolkein, but I have read and enjoyed the Madeline L'Engle series (Wrinkle in Time, etc.) as well as The Chronicles of Thomas Covenant & Second Chronicles...by Stephen Donaldson. __________________ "It's impossible to have Frodo without Sam, or Sam without Frodo. They're like two halves of one heart..." "If your hurts grieve you still and the memory of your burden is heavy, then you may pass into the West..."

03-08-2003, 03:18 PM	#5
Meela Denethor's True Love Join Date: Sep 2002 Location: Mirkwood. With Thranduil... swoon Posts: 2,118	the chronicles of narnia, especially the voyage of the dawn treader. it was brilliant. __________________ 'The Hobbit' 1st impressions: 1. Thorin is hot... Oh god, I fancy a dwarf. 2. Thranduil is hotter. 3. Is that... Figwit! 4. Does Elijah Wood never age? 2nd: It's all about Fili & Kili, really. 3rd: BARD! OMG, Bard.

03-08-2003, 04:01 PM	#6
eleanor_niphredil Ghost Prince of Cardolan Join Date: Dec 2002 Location: england Posts: 812	Hitchhikers Guide to the Galaxy! The named and Old magic by Marianne Curley. i destperatly need to talk to someone who has read these books, as no one I know has! however, they start off rather slow, though they get better if you stick with it! Wicca series. __________________ Here I am, brain the size of a planet, and they ask me to spend my time on this forum. And by the way, for any of you turning into a penguin, stop it. ~* I am Pippin took in the Female Fellowship*~

03-08-2003, 05:05 PM	#7
Chancellen the True Pile O'Bones Join Date: Mar 2003 Location: NYC Posts: 22	This is a great topic. I don't want to say this out loud around here; but, there are other good fantasy writers out there (admitedly, not as great). Michael Moorcock is famous for his Elric of Melnibone series, as well as Corum Jhaelen Irse, Hawkmoon and many others. He shows that it's tough (emotionaly as well as physicly), being the hero, or anti-hero. Fritz Lieber's Lankmar series with Fafhrd and The Gray Mouser is tremendously fun with a surprising amount of depth. I'm a big fan of the Planescape novels. Not many people know that they wrote novels (it's an out of print [thanks TSR] RPG). There is The Blood Wars trilogy and Pages of Pain. Pages of Pain is my favorite. It's about a very powerfull paladin who gets sent to the mazes. Don't be fooled by the title. __________________ "Shall we mourn here deedless for ever, a shadow folk, mist-haunting, dropping vain tears in the thankless sea?" Feanor at Tirion upon Tuna

03-11-2003, 09:52 AM	#8
hobbit punk Haunting Spirit Join Date: Jan 2003 Location: Canada Posts: 86	I agree that the Narnia, Voyage of the Dawn Treader is excellent. Also my friend has almost all the Wheel of Time books by Robert Jordan. He thinks they are amazing and I was wondering if anyone else has read them? __________________ "The alphabet does not go "A B C D What? When? How? but it does go "V W X Why? Z." -Douglas Adams

03-11-2003, 11:36 AM	#9
Narya Wight Join Date: Feb 2002 Location: not here... floating down the Liffey Posts: 124	Well, by now I haven´t read that much of other fantasy authors, but if you are familiar with Fantasybooks as well as Roleplaying Games you should read books by Terry Pratchett. They are really fun when you are a big fantasy- fan and know about all things he´s joking about. I like Men at Arms the best of the books I´ve read; it´s written in a very good and intelligent style, it is exciting and crytical (about society)... I can also recommend Frank Herbert (Dune), if you are interested in Science- Fiction. __________________ ...for we know the joy of life is the peace* that love can bring* So spoke the wizard in his mountain home.

03-14-2003, 03:10 PM	#10
Iarwain Pugnaciously Primordial Paradox Join Date: Sep 2002 Location: Birnham Wood Posts: 808	Hmm. Good Reads. Madeleine L'Engle's "Time Quartet" (Wrinkle in Time, Wind in the Door, Swiftly Tilting Planet, Many Waters) Anything by C.S. Lewis, especially the Space Trilogy, Chronicles of Narnia, the Great Divorce, and 'Till We Have Faces. The "Myst" series. Very good, best fantasy I've read outside of Tolkien. The numerous works of George MacDonald. the Giver, Lois Lowry Green Eggs and Ham, Dr. Seuss 1984 and Animal Farm, George Orwell. Grendle, John Gardner The numerous works of Edith Nesbit (great children's stories) Hmm. That's about all I can think of right now. Very good books though, all of them. [ March 14, 2003: Message edited by: Iarwain ] __________________ "And what are oaths but words we say to God?"

03-14-2003, 03:58 PM	#11
Isilmëiel Animated Skeleton Join Date: Jan 2003 Location: wandering about... Posts: 33	Most of mine have been named already but I liked Sabriel by Garth Nix. Kurt Vonnegut is also great, though not strictly "fantasy." __________________ I'd give my right arm to be ambidextrous. ~Graffito

03-14-2003, 05:47 PM	#12
Vardamar Haunting Spirit Join Date: Jan 2003 Location: Right over Here!! No Here!! Yoohoo! Posts: 97	The Dune series, by Frank Herbert Dune Dune Messiah Children of Dune God Emperor of Dune Heretics of Dune Chapterhouse: Dune It's not fantasy, but its close. Same epic feel as LOTR, I just about cried when I finished the last book. But I still need to read his sons three books. House Atreides House Harkonnen House Corrino Total of nine books. Should keep you busy for a while [img]smilies/biggrin.gif[/img] __________________ Strength without wisdom falls by its own weight.

03-14-2003, 07:30 PM	#13
Lindril Arvilya Shade of Carn Dûm Join Date: Nov 2002 Location: In a box at the end of Harrison Ford's street, with a pair of binoculars Posts: 336	Oh, I just couldn't swallow Dune. Well, I didn't mind Dune itself, but I got twenty pages into the second book and my major intestine, in a desperate attempt to save my life, nearly leaped up my throat to throttle my brain. (For you H2G2 fans.) I recommend: The Dragonriders of Pern series, by Anne McCaffery. The Free Bards books by Mercedes Lackey. My favourites are the first and third, but I don't like The Robin and the Kestrel so much. If I Pay Thee Not In Gold by Mercedes Lackey and Piers Anthony. Lackey's excellent fantasy with Anthony's Xanth humour. Kinda sudden ending though. I realise it's not fantasy, but Dirk Gently's Holistic Detective Agency and The Long Dark Teatime of the Soul by Douglas Adams. They do have abit of fantasy, though... some Norse myth..... The Chronicles of Redwall by Brian Jacques. Childish, sortof, but hey, I'm nearly 19 and still enjoying them. They have the whole warrior's code down pat. __________________ Neo, watch out! Trinity's going to steal your pants! Pants thief! Pants thief!

03-14-2003, 10:51 PM	#14
Bill Ferny Shade of Carn Dûm Join Date: Aug 2002 Location: Bree Posts: 392	In addition to CS Lewis, I would pick up TH White’s adaptation of the Arthurian Legends, Once and Future King, an omnibus containing four books: The Sword in the Stone, The Queen of Air and Darkness (The Witch in the Wood), The Ill-Made Knight, and The Candle in the Wind. There is also a fifth book, published posthumously called The Book of Merlyn. White’s work is the source for both the Disney movie, The Sword in the Stone (you’ll realize were the name Wart came from), and the stage musical Camelot. Laced with wit and satire, high fantasy swords and sorcery, Once and Future King seriously delves into the complexities of human nature and the difference between right and might. In my humble opinion, TH White ranks equally with his contemporaries, Lewis and Tolkien. __________________ I prefer Gillaume d’Férny, connoisseur of fine fruit.

03-14-2003, 11:01 PM	#15
InklingElf Shade of Carn Dûm Join Date: Sep 2002 Posts: 421	Go Dune and Narnia! Another author you may consider is Ursula LeGuin: The Wizard of Earthsea, The Tombs of Atuan and The Farthest Shore A wonderful fantasy.

03-15-2003, 03:08 AM	#16
HerenIstarion Deadnight Chanter Join Date: Sep 2000 Posts: 4,301	I'll walk along lines Narya suggested. So Terry Pratchett (highly recommended by yours truly): The Colour of Magic The Light Fantastic Equal Rites Mort Sourcery Wyrd Sisters Pyramids Guards! Guards! Eric Moving Pictures Reaper Man Witches Abroad Small Gods Lords and Ladies Men at Arms Soul Music Interesting Times Maskerade Feet of Clay Hogfather Jingo The Last Continent Carpe Jugulum The Fifth Elephant The Truth Thief of Time The Last Hero The Amazing Maurice and His Educated Rodents Night Watch The Wee Free Men The 2003 Discworld Novel The 2004 Discworld Novel The Discworld Companion The Science of Discworld The Science of Discworld II: the Globe The Streets of Ankh-Morpork The Discworld Mapp A Tourist Guide to Lancre Death's Domain Enjoy [img]smilies/smile.gif[/img] __________________ Egroeg Ihkhsal - Would you believe in the love at first sight? - Yes I'm certain that it happens all the time!

03-15-2003, 04:39 AM	#17
Annunfuiniel Ghost Prince of Cardolan Join Date: Feb 2003 Location: Something close like Shire Posts: 775	I would like to add the Mists of Avalon by Marion Zimmer Bradley. A new perspective to the Arthurian legend... Has anyone read other books of hers? __________________ Despair is only for those who see the end beyond all doubt.

03-15-2003, 06:48 AM	#18
Vardamar Haunting Spirit Join Date: Jan 2003 Location: Right over Here!! No Here!! Yoohoo! Posts: 97	Ive read the Mists of Avalon +the prequels. Also great books. __________________ Strength without wisdom falls by its own weight.

03-15-2003, 07:27 AM	#19
Lyra Greenleaf The Diaphanous Dryad Join Date: Jan 2003 Location: R toL: 531, past the wild path Posts: 1,180	wow, thank you! i've read narnia (it was my favourite when i was little) as well as patricia wrede and the giver. i tried anne mccaffrey but couldnt get into it. jumps up and down: Yay lots to read! __________________ “Sylphs of the forest,” I whispered. “Spirits of oak, beech and ash. Dryads of Rowan and hazel, hear us. You who have guided and guarded our every footstep, you who have sheltered our growth, we honour you." the Forbidden Link

03-15-2003, 08:29 AM	#20
eleanor_niphredil Ghost Prince of Cardolan Join Date: Dec 2002 Location: england Posts: 812	Lindril Arvilya, Hitchhikers guide to the Galaxy? I would recommend A little Princesse! __________________ Here I am, brain the size of a planet, and they ask me to spend my time on this forum. And by the way, for any of you turning into a penguin, stop it. ~* I am Pippin took in the Female Fellowship*~

03-15-2003, 09:24 AM	#21
Luinfang Pile O'Bones Join Date: Mar 2003 Location: Dol Amroth, Gondor Posts: 17	And what about Tad Williams's Anderland books? they are really good too, but of course none of these can compete with JRRT, high king of fantasy!! [img]smilies/biggrin.gif[/img] [img]smilies/biggrin.gif[/img] [img]smilies/biggrin.gif[/img] __________________ aurë entuluva! day shall come again!

03-15-2003, 09:47 AM	#22
vartalion Guest Posts: n/a	YOU ABSOLUTELY MUST READ 'ENDER'S GAME'

03-15-2003, 09:59 AM	#23
Birdland Ghastly Neekerbreeker Join Date: Dec 2001 Location: the banks of the mighty Scioto Posts: 1,757	As hard as it is to believe, this topic has actually come up before! [img]smilies/biggrin.gif[/img] I'm not saying this topic should be closed, but you also might want to check out here and here for other great recommendations as well. I'm also going to recommend this list: 100 Best Fantasy Novels, which has many "forgotten" but excellent books, many of which are my personal favorites as well. [ March 15, 2003: Message edited by: Birdland ]

03-15-2003, 10:28 AM	#24
Daisy Brambleburr Shade of Carn Dûm Join Date: Mar 2003 Posts: 334	I definatley reccomend the Chronicles of Narnia by CS Lewis. The Magicians Nephew is the best place to start. Did you know that Tolkien and CS Lewis were friends? Love Daisy [img]smilies/smile.gif[/img] __________________ 'What news from the South, O sighing wind, do you bring to me at eve? Where now is Boromir the Fair? He tarries and I grieve.'

03-15-2003, 10:34 AM	#25
eleanor_niphredil Ghost Prince of Cardolan Join Date: Dec 2002 Location: england Posts: 812	welcome Daisy! Yeah, I heard they were friends, but I prefere Tolkien to Cs Lewis any day! __________________ Here I am, brain the size of a planet, and they ask me to spend my time on this forum. And by the way, for any of you turning into a penguin, stop it. ~* I am Pippin took in the Female Fellowship*~

03-15-2003, 11:25 AM	#26
Iarwain Pugnaciously Primordial Paradox Join Date: Sep 2002 Location: Birnham Wood Posts: 808	Heh. I'd say just the opposite, eleanor! But that debate is for another time in another place. [img]smilies/smile.gif[/img] (Though I wish I could get into it right now [img]smilies/wink.gif[/img] ) More books I forgot to add: yes, the Dune Series by Frank Herbert is quite excellent. Everything by Tolkien, including: Roverandom Sir Gawain and the Green Knight, Pearl, Sir Orfeo Mr. Bliss (a cute little mix of a few of the children's stories we already know, with a twist of Tolkien) __________________ "And what are oaths but words we say to God?"

03-16-2003, 08:15 PM	#27
Iarwain Pugnaciously Primordial Paradox Join Date: Sep 2002 Location: Birnham Wood Posts: 808	Funny, this might be off topic but its interesting all the same. I just read this morning that the Sci Fi channel is producing both Dune Messiah and Children of Dune as a mini series. Sounds very interesting. __________________ "And what are oaths but words we say to God?"

03-19-2003, 04:39 PM	#28
InklingElf Shade of Carn Dûm Join Date: Sep 2002 Posts: 421	I don't mean toget off topic-but yes, it is interesting. However, I didn't like the first movie they made for Dune, and my mom found it quite corney. :shrugs: It just doesn't convey enough of the politics and the essence of Herbert's books. Further suggestions: Iarwain, you said that Perelandra was a good choice compared to Lewis' first sci-fi: Out of the Silent Planet. If I'd have found it earlier I'd say it was a great choice too. So yes, I would recommend Perelandra by C.S.Lewis (I trust your judgement Iarwain and I hope the book's not out of print 'cause I can't find it). He is one of the most prodigious authors of fantasy/sci-fi I've known [other than Tolkien, Frank Herbert, Asimov (which I heard was ver good-but still haven't read any of his books)etc.] This is a great discussion. Onward.

03-19-2003, 05:09 PM	#29
gilraën Ghost Prince of Cardolan Join Date: Jan 2003 Location: Ireland Posts: 804	I remember seeing Dune the movie for the first time and thinking, hey that's not the story I read years ago, so I reread it and it WAS the story I read. BUT with the detail missing. It was, however, a much truer representation of the book than PJ's Films are of LOTR to date. I also enjoyed the Robert Heinlein books (not strictly fantasy but sci-fi) __________________ "Onen i-Estel Edain, u-chebin estel anim"

03-19-2003, 07:00 PM	#30
Lily Bracegirdle Wight Join Date: Jan 2003 Location: Bree Posts: 210	Watership Down by Richard Adams It seems odd that a story about RABBITS could be so engrossing, moving, and well, epic, but there you have it. I think I've read it over 40 times. The Lions of Al-Rassan by Guy Gavriel Kay This is the best of Kay's books, IMHO. It's a fantasy retelling of the legend of El Cid, and it's fabulous. Good plot, good characters, great writing, tears and laughter. To Say Nothing of the Dog by Connie Willis A time travel romantic comedy good for people who like PG Wodehouse's Jeeves & Bertie. War For the Oaks by Emma Bull A bit dated now, as an 80's rock n' roll girl takes on the Sidhe in Minneapolis with the help of her phouka boyfriend. Great fun. Bridge of Birds by Barry Hughart "A novel of ancient China that never was." I laughed until I cried reading this book. The Phoenix Guards and Five Hundred Years After by Steven Brust A great fantasy adventure/comedy/drama along the lines of The Three Musketeers. It may help to have read Brust's Vlad Taltos series first to familiarize yourself with how the world works, but these books are better. The Chronicles of Prydain by Lloyd Alexander They're childrens' books, and much simpler than Tolkien, but still charming and moving. (A Fflam is valiant!) The books in order: The Book of Three, The Black Cauldron, The Castle of Llyr, Taran Wanderer, The High King. I'll also second nominations for: Terry Pratchett's Discworld books. I'm partial to the ones about the City Watch: Guards, Guards, Men at Arms, and Feet of Clay, especially. Who can resist a six foot six dwarf named Carrot? Madeline L'Engle C.S. Lewis Orson Scott Card, especially Ender's Game and Speaker for the Dead. They're sci-fi, not fantasy, but they're just devastatingly powerful. Ursula Le Guin -- I wasn't crazy about the Earthsea Trilogy, but you need to read it to understand Tehanu, which is just a mind blowing book. TH White's The Book of Merlyn is beautiful and tragic. If you don't mind Sci-fi, David Brin's Uplift series is good. Start with Startide Rising rather than Sundiver. Also not fantasy, but really good: Arcadia by Tom Stoppard It's a play by the person who wrote Shakespeare in Love and it's smart, funny and ultimately moving. Good reading! -Lily [ March 19, 2003: Message edited by: Lily Bracegirdle ] __________________ "But nay: the praise of the praiseworthy is above all rewards." - Faramir

03-20-2003, 08:05 AM	#32
Mordor_Queen Haunting Spirit Join Date: Mar 2003 Location: Mordor Posts: 53	a really good fantasy book is the doomspell by cliff mcnish [img]smilies/evil.gif[/img] __________________ "In place of a Dark Lord you shall have a Queen! Not Dark but beatiful! All shall love me and despair!"-Galadriel

03-20-2003, 11:23 PM	#33
Iarephelion Pile O'Bones Join Date: Mar 2003 Location: The womb of my mother Posts: 11	I've not seen any mention of Raymond Feist's superb "Magician" trilogy (and other related volumes). David Eddings "Belgariad" and "Mallorean" series are also enjoyable. Stephen Donaldson's "Chronicles of Thomas Covenant" are awesome, although difficult reading (especially early on). __________________ My brain has hijacked my body and won't let me in...

03-20-2003, 11:47 PM	#34
Child of the 7th Age Spirit of the Lonely Star Join Date: Mar 2002 Posts: 5,135	I agree with Bill Ferny. My second favorite next to Tolkien is T. H. White--both The Once and Future King and the Book of Merlyn. They are the kind of books that bring a tear to your eye. Other favorites: Marion Zimmer Bradley, both her Darkover series and her later books which focus on the women behind the Arthurian legend. C.S. Lewis, Till We Have Faces, which I feel is the most mature and sensitive of his writings. You've already mentioned Philip Pullman. His Dark Materials series is totally awesome, very thought provoking. Bee me, it's not just a 'chidren's book.' It is as if the author took Tolkien's universe and stood it on its head!! New Line Cinema is trying to buy the film rights. This could be another big one for them, potentially a bit more controversial than LotR. sharon __________________ Multitasking women are never too busy to vote.

03-21-2003, 09:24 AM	#35
Birdland Ghastly Neekerbreeker Join Date: Dec 2001 Location: the banks of the mighty Scioto Posts: 1,757	For a very melancholy, rich tale concerning the last Elf I highly recommend C.J. Cherryh's Arafel's Saga: The Dreamstone and The Tree of Swords and Jewels Chyrryh takes her background from Celtic mythology to tell the tale of Arafel, who guards the last holdout of Eald in the world of Men, until she is unwillingly drawn to aid a Man and his family in war. But her assistance comes with a price, both for humans and for Elves. It is an astounding well-written set of books, and one that I re-read regularly. But it has a very dark tone, and should not be read to any little ones.

03-21-2003, 08:32 PM	#36
Durelin Estelo dagnir, Melo ring Join Date: Oct 2002 Posts: 3,121	The Wheel of Time series by Robert Jordan is excellent, I am in the middle of it right now. And so are the novels of "Deverry and the Westlands" by Katherine Kerr, the start with Daggerspell. I'm in the middle of those too. I'm going to try Dune next, and maybe Children of Dune But, that'll be a while. The Wheel of Time is looooong. But so are Kerr's, just a few less o's. [img]smilies/biggrin.gif[/img] You won't run out of ideas when the book is lost or checked out from the library, Lyra! So many books! Almost forgot! Arthurian legend rocks! Le Morte d'Arthur. That's probably the best form of it. It gets confusing, so many different legends and names for people. [ March 21, 2003: Message edited by: Durelin ]