We all have books that defined us when we were young. These were the books with the unforgettable characters that stuck with us long after middle school, high school and even college. Often, these books are fantasy, and they remind us of the times when the magic in the world was easier to see. Here are two fantasy books to read adn share with your loved ones: The Two Princesses of Bamarre and The Thief Lord.
The Two Princesses of Bamarre came out in 2001, written by Gail Carson Levine, who also penned Ella Enchanted. The book follows two sisters, Addie and Meryl. Meryl is strong, brave, and determined to find the lost cure to the plague ravaging the land. Addie is scared of everything, from spiders to the affections of the handsome sorcerer Rhys. When Meryl catches the deadly plague the Grey Death, it’s up to Addie to go on a quest to find the cure.Â
This book is the reminder that we all need that bravery doesn’t always come easily. Sometimes, to be brave, you have to do brave things. This book is fantastical, but accessible enough for even casual fantasy fans to enjoy. Addie’s wit and charm keeps her alive, even when swinging a sword can’t. This book is full of magic, adventure and mystery and perfect for reading aloud.
The Thief Lord by Cornelia Funke is nothing short of a modern classic. Set in Venice, Italy, this story follows two brothers, Prosper and Bo, who are running from their aunt and uncle. Lost and alone, they go to the only place they can think of: Venice, the city that their mother always insisted was magic. Here, they’re taken in my a band of misfits who have all rallied under the mysterious Thief Lord, who keeps the kids alive by stealing from the rich. This campy, accessible urban fantasy is the perfect pick-me-up when you need a reminder of the magic of friendship and abandoned movie theaters.
If you need a little magic in your life following Halloween, these books are the perfect place to start.