Curated shelf
Fantasy
Browse Fantasy as a public-domain reading list on Rivro, with free classics, authors, subjects, and related books.
The Wonderful Wizard of Oz
L. Frank (Lyman Frank) Baum
The Wonderful Wizard of Oz
"The Wonderful Wizard of Oz" by L. Frank Baum is a children's novel written in 1900. When a cyclone sweeps young Dorothy and her dog Toto from Kansas to the magical Land of Oz, she discovers only one way home: she must destroy the Wicked Witch of the West. Joined by a Scarecrow seeking brains, a Tin Woodman wanting a heart, and a Cowardly Lion desiring courage, Dorothy follows the yellow brick road to seek help from the mysterious Wizard of Oz.
Le Morte d'Arthur: Volume 1
Thomas Malory
Le Morte d'Arthur: Volume 1
"Le Morte d'Arthur: Volume 1" by Sir Thomas Malory is a prose compilation completed around 1470. This Middle English work weaves together tales of the legendary King Arthur, from his conception to his death. It chronicles Guinevere, Lancelot, Merlin, and the Knights of the Round Table, including their quest for the Holy Grail and the legend of Tristan and Iseult. Written apparently in prison, Malory rearranged and modified French and English sources to create a complete Arthurian saga that became one of literature's most influential retellings of the legend.
Four Arthurian Romances
de Troyes Chrétien
Four Arthurian Romances
"Four Arthurian Romances" by Chrétien de Troyes is a collection of medieval narratives written in the latter part of the 12th century. This work encompasses the stories of four heroes: Erec, Cligés, Yvain, and Lancelot, each exploring the themes of chivalry, romance, and adventure intertwined with the sophisticated ideals of courtly love. The romances reflect the rich tapestry of Arthurian legend, showcasing knights undertaking noble quests and engaging in battles for honor and love. The opening of "Four Arthurian Romances" introduces the tale of Erec and Enide, beginning with King Arthur's court and the announcement of a hunt for the elusive White Stag, which involves a significant and potentially troublesome tradition. Erec, a prominent knight, is drawn into conflict after a dwarf and a knight insult and strike a damsel at the court. Following this assault, Erec seeks to avenge the honor of the lady, embarking on a quest that leads him through various perils and encounters. His journey sets the stage for themes of valor and love as Erec strives to prove himself worthy, ultimately leading to his romantic involvement with Enide and the promise of her marriage. The romance illustrates not just action and adventure, but also explores the emotional and social dynamics of courtly life in a quintessential chivalric manner.
The Merry Adventures of Robin Hood
Howard Pyle
The Merry Adventures of Robin Hood
"The Merry Adventures of Robin Hood" by Howard Pyle is a novel published in 1883. This retelling transforms traditional Robin Hood ballads into a unified adventure story for young readers. Follow Robin Hood as he becomes an outlaw, recruits his Merry Men through legendary encounters, and battles corrupt authorities in Sherwood Forest. Pyle reimagined Robin as a noble hero who robs the rich to help the poor, creating an enduring version of the legend that influenced countless adaptations and established the Robin Hood story as beloved children's literature.
The House of the Wolfings A Tale of the House of the Wolfings and All the Kindreds of the Mark Written in Prose and in Verse
William Morris
The House of the Wolfings A Tale of the House of the Wolfings and All the Kindreds of the Mark Written in Prose and in Verse
"The House of the Wolfings" by William Morris is a fantasy novel published in 1889. Written in a blend of prose and verse, it portrays Germanic Gothic tribes defending their homeland against the armies of imperial Rome. The story follows Thiodolf, a war leader whose fate becomes entwined with a cursed dwarf-made mail-shirt and the divine women who support him. Considered a pioneering work that united historical settings with supernatural elements, it directly influenced J.R.R. Tolkien's "The Lord of the Rings" and helped establish modern fantasy literature.
The House on the Borderland
William Hope Hodgson
The House on the Borderland
"The House on the Borderland" by William Hope Hodgson is a supernatural horror novel published in 1908. A recluse living in an ancient, circular house in remote Ireland records his terrifying experiences in a journal later discovered by two fishermen. He encounters monstrous Swine-creatures emerging from a mysterious pit, experiences visions of cosmic dimensions and otherworldly arenas, and witnesses time itself accelerating toward the end of the universe. This hallucinatory tale influenced H. P. Lovecraft and pioneered modern cosmic horror.
The Story of the Volsungs (Volsunga Saga); with Excerpts from the Poetic Edda
Unknown
The Story of the Volsungs (Volsunga Saga); with Excerpts from the Poetic Edda
"The Story of the Volsungs (Volsunga Saga); with Excerpts from the Poetic Edda" is a legendary saga written in the late 13th century. This Old Norse heroic tale chronicles the rise and fall of the Völsung clan across generations. It follows legendary heroes through family betrayals, magical interventions by gods, and epic quests. The saga centers on Sigurd's slaying of the dragon Fáfnir and his claiming of a cursed ring, weaving together Germanic heroic legends that echo real events from Europe's Migration Period.
Le Morte d'Arthur: Volume 2
Thomas Malory
Le Morte d'Arthur: Volume 2
"Le Morte d'Arthur: Volume 2" by Sir Thomas Malory is a Middle English prose compilation completed around 1470. This legendary work weaves together tales of King Arthur, Guinevere, Lancelot, Merlin, and the Knights of the Round Table. Malory compiled and reworked material from French and English sources to create a complete story of Arthur's life, incorporating the quest for the Holy Grail and the legend of Tristan and Iseult. Apparently written while imprisoned, it remains one of the most influential works of Arthurian literature.
The Legends of King Arthur and His Knights
James Knowles
The Legends of King Arthur and His Knights
"The Legends of King Arthur and His Knights" by Sir James Knowles is a collection of Arthurian tales adapted from Sir Thomas Malory's original works, likely written in the mid-19th century. This volume seeks to popularize the legends surrounding King Arthur, Merlin, and the Knights of the Round Table, setting the stage for a rich exploration of chivalry, valor, and adventure during a mythical time in Britain. At the start of the book, we are introduced to the ancient context of Merlin's prophecies, the rise of King Arthur, and the overarching theme of rightful leadership. The narrative begins with King Vortigern attempting to build a castle thwarted by mysterious forces, leading to the discovery of Merlin, who foretells the rise of Arthur. As Arthur grows in secrecy, unaware of his royal lineage, the story establishes his destiny to unite Britain, culminating in significant events like the extraction of the sword from the stone, which marks him as the true king. Amid prophecies, battles, and the emergence of noble knights, the opening lays a foundation for the rich tapestry of legends that follow.
The Marvelous Land of Oz
L. Frank (Lyman Frank) Baum
The Marvelous Land of Oz
"The Marvelous Land of Oz" by L. Frank Baum is a novel published in 1904. This sequel follows young Tip as he escapes his cruel guardian, the witch Mombi, with a magical pumpkin-headed companion. When an all-girl army conquers the Emerald City, Tip joins forces with the Scarecrow and Tin Woodman on a wild adventure involving flying machines, hidden royalty, and shocking transformations that will determine Oz's rightful ruler.
The Mabinogion
Unknown
The Mabinogion
"The Mabinogion" by Lady Charlotte Schreiber is a collection of Welsh tales composed in the early 14th century. This work includes classic stories steeped in myth and legend, often involving heroic characters such as King Arthur and his knights, alongside other notable figures from Welsh folklore. The collection presents themes of adventure, chivalry, and the intertwining of reality and the fantastical, reflecting the cultural heritage of Wales. The opening of "The Mabinogion" features an introduction by Lady Charlotte Guest, which discusses the significance of the Mabinogion in connection to medieval romance literature across Europe. Following that, the tale "The Lady of the Fountain" begins with King Arthur and his knights, providing insight into their camaraderie and the valorous quests they undertake. The narrative follows the character Owain as he embarks on a journey involving a mysterious fountain and its guardian knight, reflecting themes of love, adventure, and the quest for honor. The plot is rich with detail, illustrating the vibrant landscapes and magical elements that are hallmarks of this collection, while also setting the stage for heroic confrontations and personal growth.
News from Nowhere; Or, An Epoch of Rest Being Some Chapters from a Utopian Romance
William Morris
News from Nowhere; Or, An Epoch of Rest Being Some Chapters from a Utopian Romance
"News from Nowhere; Or, An Epoch of Rest" by William Morris is a novel published in 1890. When the narrator falls asleep after a Socialist League meeting, he awakens in a transformed future society without private property, money, government, or class divisions. Morris envisions a world where work becomes pleasurable and creative, blending seamlessly with art and life. Written as a libertarian socialist response to Edward Bellamy's industrialized utopia, the novel explores how this reimagined society organizes itself through common ownership and democratic control of production.
Dorothy and the Wizard in Oz
L. Frank (Lyman Frank) Baum
Dorothy and the Wizard in Oz
"Dorothy and the Wizard in Oz" by L. Frank Baum is a children’s fantasy novel written in the early 20th century. The story continues the adventures of Dorothy Gale, who finds herself in the magical Land of Oz once more, accompanied by familiar characters and new companions. The narrative revolves around Dorothy’s quest to navigate various challenges alongside her friends as they encounter whimsical creatures and face unique threats in this enchanting world. The opening of the novel introduces us to Dorothy as she arrives in California after a long train ride, only to witness a devastating earthquake. Shortly after, she meets a boy named Zeb who is to take her to her uncle's ranch. However, just as they are settling into their journey, they are abruptly caught in another earthquake that causes the ground to crack. This event leads them into a perilous adventure where they encounter strange phenomena and ultimately find themselves in the Glass City inhabited by the Mangaboos. Here, they meet the Wizard, and the story unfolds into a tale filled with whimsical surprises and the whimsical nature of the Land of Oz as they discover new challenges and companions.
The Well at the World's End: A Tale
William Morris
The Well at the World's End: A Tale
"The Well at the World's End: A Tale" by William Morris is a high fantasy novel first published in 1896. Ralph, the youngest son of a king, defies his father's wishes and embarks on a quest for adventure. His journey leads him through perilous encounters, forbidden love, and the pursuit of a legendary well whose waters grant extraordinary powers. Accompanied by the maiden Ursula, Ralph must navigate treachery, battle evil lords, and ultimately fight to reclaim his homeland and secure his destiny.
Irish Fairy Tales
James Stephens
Irish Fairy Tales
"Irish Fairy Tales" by James Stephens is a collection of ten retellings published in 1920. Set in a wooded, medieval Ireland, these stories bring to life hunters, warriors, kings, and fairies from Irish mythology. Many tales follow the legendary Fianna and their captain, Fionn mac Uail, from the Fenian Cycle. Through magical transformations, epic quests, and encounters with fairy folk, Stephens weaves ancient folklore into vivid narratives where heroes face sorcery, seek wisdom, and navigate between the mortal world and Faery.
The Merry Adventures of Robin Hood
Howard Pyle
The Merry Adventures of Robin Hood
"The Merry Adventures of Robin Hood" by Howard Pyle is a novel published in 1883. Pyle weaves traditional Robin Hood ballads into a unified story, following the legendary outlaw as he gathers his Merry Men and battles corrupt authorities in Nottinghamshire. Through episodes featuring Little John, Friar Tuck, and Allan a Dale, Robin emerges as a heroic figure who aids the poor and resists injustice. This influential retelling transformed Robin Hood into a beloved champion of the common people for generations to come.
The Tin Woodman of Oz A Faithful Story of the Astonishing Adventure Undertaken by the Tin Woodman, Assisted by Woot the Wanderer, the Scarecrow of Oz, and Polychrome, the Rainbow's Daughter
L. Frank (Lyman Frank) Baum
The Tin Woodman of Oz A Faithful Story of the Astonishing Adventure Undertaken by the Tin Woodman, Assisted by Woot the Wanderer, the Scarecrow of Oz, and Polychrome, the Rainbow's Daughter
"The Tin Woodman of Oz" by L. Frank Baum is a novel published in 1918. The Tin Woodman embarks on a quest to find his long-lost love, Nimmie Amee, whom he left behind after losing his heart. Accompanied by the Scarecrow and a wandering boy, he faces magical transformations and startling discoveries about his past. Along the way, he encounters another tin man with the same romantic history, leading to surprising revelations about what became of their original bodies and the woman they both once loved.
Robin Hood
J. Walker (Joseph Walker) McSpadden
Robin Hood
"Robin Hood" by J. Walker McSpadden is a fictional adventure tale likely written during the late 19th century. The narrative follows the legendary outlaw Robin Hood, who famously robs from the rich to give to the poor, along with his band of merry men in Sherwood Forest, as they take on the oppressive Sheriff of Nottingham and navigate various escapades in their quest for justice. At the start of the story, Robin Hood is introduced as a skilled archer and the son of the now-deposed Head Forester of Sherwood Forest. After witnessing the wrongful imprisonment and subsequent death of his father, Robin vows to fight against the injustices inflicted by the Sheriff and his allies. The narrative reveals Robin's transition from a noble youth to an outlaw after a dramatic confrontation that leads him to escape into the forest. He quickly seeks to assemble a band of fellow outlaws who share his convictions, setting the stage for his legendary adventures as he seeks not only vengeance but also a life of freedom.
The Gods of Pegana
Lord Dunsany
The Gods of Pegana
"The Gods of Pegāna" by Lord Dunsany is a fantasy book published in 1905. This debut work presents a mythological universe centered on an invented pantheon of deities dwelling in Pegāna. Through interconnected short stories, Dunsany introduces Māna-Yood-Susha̅i̅, the supreme creator who sleeps while his drummer Skarl maintains eternal rhythm, and various "small gods" who govern life, death, time, and destiny. The book attempts to account for fundamental elements like the ocean and moon through original mythology, illustrated by Sidney Sime's artwork.
The Book of Wonder
Lord Dunsany
The Book of Wonder
"The Book of Wonder" by Lord Dunsany is a fantasy short story collection published in 1912. This unique work features fourteen tales written to accompany illustrations by Sidney Sime, who drew the pictures first. The stories transport readers to Dunsany's elementary yet terrible fantasy world, filled with jewel thieves, idolators, dragons, and mysterious creatures called gnoles. These tales influenced legendary writers like Tolkien and Lovecraft, showcasing Dunsany's imaginative storytelling that bridges the fantastical with psychological complexity and connections to the real world.
The Night Land
William Hope Hodgson
The Night Land
"The Night Land" by William Hope Hodgson is a horror and fantasy novel published in 1912. Set millions of years in the future after the Sun has died, the story depicts the last remnants of humanity sheltering in a colossal pyramid called the Last Redoubt. Surrounded by eternal darkness and besieged by mysterious forces and monstrous Watchers, they survive on dwindling energy. When the narrator makes psychic contact with a woman in a distant refuge, he ventures alone into the hostile night to find her—and his reincarnated lost love.
Men of Iron
Howard Pyle
Men of Iron
"Men of Iron" by Howard Pyle is a novel published in 1891. Set in 15th-century England, it follows young squire Myles Falworth on his journey to knighthood and his quest to restore his father's honor. Through rigorous training under the Earl of Mackworth, jousting tournaments, and service in France, Myles must prove himself worthy of becoming a knight. His ultimate challenge awaits: confronting a powerful family enemy who destroyed his father's reputation through false accusations of treason.
Time and the Gods
Lord Dunsany
Time and the Gods
"Time and the Gods" by Lord Dunsany is a collection of short stories published in 1906. The book presents tales linked by Dunsany's invented pantheon of deities dwelling in the mystical realm of Pegāna. This second work by the Irish fantasy writer explores cosmic themes through imaginative mythology, featuring gods, mortals, and their intertwined fates. The collection influenced major fantasy authors including Tolkien and Lovecraft, and was originally illustrated by Sidney Sime with ten haunting black and white drawings that still reside at Dunsany Castle.
The Lost Princess of Oz
L. Frank (Lyman Frank) Baum
The Lost Princess of Oz
"The Lost Princess of Oz" by L. Frank Baum is a novel published in 1917. When Princess Ozma vanishes from the Emerald City along with powerful magic tools belonging to Glinda and the Wizard, Dorothy leads search parties across Oz to find her missing ruler. Their quest takes them through unknown communities and eventually to a suspicious shoemaker's castle. Along the way, they encounter a pompous Frogman, a cookie cook missing her magic dishpan, and mysterious enchantments that complicate their mission.
The Crock of Gold
James Stephens
The Crock of Gold
"The Crock of Gold" by James Stephens is a comic novel published in 1912. This fantastical tale blends Irish folklore, philosophy, and comedy as a Philosopher embarks on a quest to save the most beautiful woman in the world from the gods Pan and Aengus Óg. When neighboring Leprechauns accuse him of murder over a stolen crock of gold, he must flee with his wife, the Thin Woman, who belongs to Ireland's most powerful Shee. Their separate journeys lead them through encounters with elemental beings and ancient powers.
Glinda of Oz In Which Are Related the Exciting Experiences of Princess Ozma of Oz, and Dorothy, in Their Hazardous Journey to the Home of the Flatheads, and to the Magic Isle of the Skeezers, and How They Were Rescued from Dire Peril by the Sorcery of Glinda the Good
L. Frank (Lyman Frank) Baum
Glinda of Oz In Which Are Related the Exciting Experiences of Princess Ozma of Oz, and Dorothy, in Their Hazardous Journey to the Home of the Flatheads, and to the Magic Isle of the Skeezers, and How They Were Rescued from Dire Peril by the Sorcery of Glinda the Good
"Glinda of Oz" by L. Frank Baum is a children's novel published in 1920. The fourteenth and final book in Baum's original Oz series follows Princess Ozma and Dorothy as they journey to a remote corner of Oz to prevent war between the Flatheads and Skeezers. When their peace mission fails and they become trapped underwater on a magically submerged glass island, Glinda must lead a rescue expedition to free them before it's too late.
Dorothy and the Wizard in Oz
L. Frank (Lyman Frank) Baum
Dorothy and the Wizard in Oz
"Dorothy and the Wizard in Oz" by L. Frank Baum is a fantasy novel written during the late 19th century. The story continues the adventures of Dorothy Gale, who, along with new companions such as Zebediah and Eureka the kitten, finds herself ensnared in yet another extraordinary journey through the magical land of Oz. Following a disastrous earthquake that thrusts her and her friends into a perilous underground world, the narrative explores themes of friendship, bravery, and the clash between different realms and beings. The opening of the book introduces Dorothy as she arrives in California, where she is met by Zeb, who is sent to take her to Hugson's Ranch. Not long after their encounter, they experience a violent earthquake that causes the ground to split, and they tragically tumble into a dark pit. As the story unfolds, they navigate strange lands inhabited by odd creatures, including the oddly polite yet menacing Mangaboos, who are composed entirely of vegetable matter. Meanwhile, the return of the Wizard allows them to engage with other magical beings and delve deeper into the mysteries of Oz, all while seeking a way back home. The tale teems with whimsical elements, unexpected conversations, and a touch of danger, ensuring a captivating read for fans of adventure and fantasy alike.
The Emerald City of Oz
L. Frank (Lyman Frank) Baum
The Emerald City of Oz
"The Emerald City of Oz" by L. Frank Baum is a novel published in 1910. Dorothy Gale brings her Aunt Em and Uncle Henry to live permanently in Oz after financial ruin threatens their Kansas farm. While Dorothy tours her relatives through the magical land, the vengeful Nome King assembles a fearsome alliance to invade Oz and reclaim his stolen magic belt. This double-plot adventure explores the utopian society of Oz while building toward a climactic confrontation that will determine the land's future.
The Master Key An Electrical Fairy Tale Founded Upon the Mysteries of Electricity
L. Frank (Lyman Frank) Baum
The Master Key An Electrical Fairy Tale Founded Upon the Mysteries of Electricity
"The Master Key" by L. Frank Baum is a novel published in 1901. When young electrical experimenter Rob accidentally touches the Master Key of Electricity, he summons the Daemon of Electricity, who grants him nine futuristic gifts over three weeks—including flying devices, food tablets, and protective garments. As Rob explores the world with these extraordinary powers, he faces adventures that lead him to question whether humanity is truly ready for such advanced technology.
The Patchwork Girl of Oz
L. Frank (Lyman Frank) Baum
The Patchwork Girl of Oz
"The Patchwork Girl of Oz" by L. Frank Baum is a novel published in 1913. When a magical accident turns Ojo's uncle to stone, the boy embarks on a quest across Oz to gather five rare ingredients for a cure. Joined by Scraps—a wild, poetry-spouting patchwork girl brought to life—along with a glass cat and a peculiar Woozy, Ojo must navigate strange lands and forbidden laws to save his family and find his fortune.
Otto of the Silver Hand
Howard Pyle
Otto of the Silver Hand
"Otto of the Silver Hand" by Howard Pyle is a children's historical novel written and illustrated in 1888. Set in 13th-century Germany, it follows young Otto, son of a feared robber baron, who is raised peacefully by monks until reclaimed by his violent father. When rival barons seek revenge for past wrongs, Otto becomes caught in a brutal cycle of warfare and retribution that costs him dearly. This pioneering American historical novel for children explores themes of violence versus peace, redemption, and the possibility of breaking free from inherited conflict.
Ozma of Oz A Record of Her Adventures with Dorothy Gale of Kansas, the Yellow Hen, the Scarecrow, the Tin Woodman, Tiktok, the Cowardly Lion, and the Hungry Tiger; Besides Other Good People too Numerous to Mention Faithfully Recorded Herein
L. Frank (Lyman Frank) Baum
Ozma of Oz A Record of Her Adventures with Dorothy Gale of Kansas, the Yellow Hen, the Scarecrow, the Tin Woodman, Tiktok, the Cowardly Lion, and the Hungry Tiger; Besides Other Good People too Numerous to Mention Faithfully Recorded Herein
"Ozma of Oz" by L. Frank Baum is a novel published in 1907. When Dorothy is swept overboard during a sea voyage, she washes ashore in the mysterious Land of Ev with a talking hen named Billina. There she encounters mechanical men, menacing Wheelers, and a princess who collects heads. Princess Ozma arrives from Oz to rescue the royal family from the Nome King, who has transformed them into ornaments. Dorothy and her companions must outwit the cunning King to free the captives and escape his underground kingdom.
The Magic of Oz
L. Frank (Lyman Frank) Baum
The Magic of Oz
"The Magic of Oz" by L. Frank Baum is a fantasy novel published in 1919. When a Munchkin boy named Kiki Aru discovers a powerful transformation spell, he teams with the exiled Nome King Ruggedo to conquer Oz. Together they scheme to raise an army of forest animals by transforming them into soldiers. Dorothy, the Wizard, and their friends must stop this magical threat before Ozma's birthday celebration turns into disaster for the Emerald City.
The Wood Beyond the World
William Morris
The Wood Beyond the World
"The Wood Beyond the World" by William Morris is a fantasy novel published in 1894. When Golden Walter flees his unfaithful wife, a mysterious vision leads him to an enchanted wood ruled by a powerful Lady. There he encounters the Maid, a captive who begs for his help to escape. As Walter becomes entangled in a web of seduction, magic, and deadly intrigue, he must choose between loyalty and love—while dark forces conspire around him in this pioneering work of modern fantasy literature.
Kai Lung's Golden Hours
Ernest Bramah
Kai Lung's Golden Hours
"Kai Lung's Golden Hours" by Ernest Bramah is a fantasy novel first published in 1922. In ancient China, the wandering storyteller Kai Lung faces treason charges before the Mandarin Shan Tien. His ingenious defense: captivating his judge with enchanting tales, each story postponing his conviction. Through his gem-like narratives filled with wisdom and wit, Kai Lung weaves a path toward freedom while winning the heart of the maiden Hwa-Mei. The novel serves as a vehicle for Bramah's aphorism-laden stories of ancient Chinese life.
Jurgen: A Comedy of Justice
James Branch Cabell
Jurgen: A Comedy of Justice
"Jurgen: A Comedy of Justice" by James Branch Cabell is a fantasy novel published in 1919. This humorous romp follows the clever hero Jurgen through a medieval cosmos as he searches for a parodied courtly love. His journey takes him through fantastic realms including Heaven and Hell, where he encounters eccentric knights, legendary women like Helen of Troy and Queen Guinevere, and even the Devil's wife. This acerbic satire of contemporary America became a landmark in comic fantasy, later influencing writers like Terry Pratchett.
Child Christopher and Goldilind the Fair
William Morris
Child Christopher and Goldilind the Fair
"Child Christopher and Goldilind the Fair" by William Morris is a fantasy novel published in 1895. Set in the forested land of Oakenrealm, this reimagining of a medieval tale follows two displaced royal heirs who are forced into marriage. Christopher, unaware of his true noble identity, struggles with his love for Goldilind while believing their social stations are impossibly different. When an assassination attempt exposes hidden truths, Christopher must decide whether to challenge the usurper who stole his heritage and claim his rightful place.
The Roots of the Mountains Wherein Is Told Somewhat of the Lives of the Men of Burgdale, Their Friends, Their Neighbours, Their Foemen, and Their Fellows in Arms
William Morris
The Roots of the Mountains Wherein Is Told Somewhat of the Lives of the Men of Burgdale, Their Friends, Their Neighbours, Their Foemen, and Their Fellows in Arms
"The Roots of the Mountains" by William Morris is a fantasy romance novel published in 1889. Set in the fictional Germanic settlement of Burgdale, the story follows interdependent communities of Dalemen, Woodlanders, and Shepherds whose peaceful existence faces disruption from invading Dusky Men and the arrival of the Sons of the Wolf—descendants of warriors driven from their homeland. As these refugees attempt to integrate while defending their new home, five lovers from both peoples navigate romance and survival. Recognized as pioneering work that influenced J.R.R. Tolkien's "The Lord of the Rings," Morris's novel helped establish modern fantasy literature.
Tik-Tok of Oz
L. Frank (Lyman Frank) Baum
Tik-Tok of Oz
"Tik-Tok of Oz" by L. Frank Baum is a novel published in 1914. The eighth book in the Oz series follows the Shaggy Man on a quest to rescue his brother from the Nome King's underground kingdom. Along the way, he joins forces with shipwrecked Betsy Bobbin, her mule Hank, a Rose Princess, and an ambitious queen seeking conquest. Their journey through magical lands leads to confrontations with the Nome King and unexpected alliances that will determine who rules the underground realm.
The Enchanted Island of Yew Whereon Prince Marvel Encountered the High Ki of Twi and Other Surprising People
L. Frank (Lyman Frank) Baum
The Enchanted Island of Yew Whereon Prince Marvel Encountered the High Ki of Twi and Other Surprising People
"The Enchanted Island of Yew" by L. Frank Baum is a children's fantasy novel published in 1903. A bored fairy convinces three mortal girls to transform her into a human boy for one year. Now called Prince Marvel, this adventurous newcomer sets out across the island of Yew with magical weapons and an enchanted steed. Along the way, Marvel encounters peculiar challenges: a reformed bandit king, a glittering dragon without fire, twin rulers who share one mind, and fraudulent magicians—all in a quest to bring peace to a land overrun by rogues.
The History of Caliph Vathek
William Beckford
The History of Caliph Vathek
"The History of Caliph Vathek" by William Beckford is a Gothic novel composed in French beginning in 1782 and first published in English in 1786. The story follows Vathek, a depraved and tyrannical caliph with an unquenchable thirst for knowledge, who encounters a mysterious stranger promising magical treasures and access to forbidden power. Seduced by promises of ultimate knowledge and the keys to the Palace of Underground Fire, Vathek makes a dark pact that demands terrible sacrifices and leads him down a path of increasingly heinous acts, rejecting salvation at every turn.
Fifty-One Tales
Lord Dunsany
Fifty-One Tales
"Fifty-One Tales" by Lord Dunsany is a collection of short stories written in the early 20th century, specifically in the period around the 1910s. This book explores a variety of fantastical themes and mythological motifs, delving into the realms of imagination and the human condition. Dunsany's work is characterized by its lyrical prose and rich imagery, reflecting a deep engagement with myth and the poetic tradition. The stories within "Fifty-One Tales" are diverse, each presenting unique narratives that often intertwine the mundane with the extraordinary. For instance, tales like "The Assignation" paint a vivid portrait of the relationship between fame and artistry, while "Charon" reflects on mortality through a conversation between Charon and the last shade of a man. Other stories, such as "The Death of Pan," evoke the themes of loss and the passage of time, emphasizing Dunsany's fascination with the fleeting nature of beauty and existence. Throughout the collection, the author employs a dreamlike quality, allowing readers to traverse imaginative landscapes populated by whimsical characters, symbolic events, and profound reflections on life, death, and creativity.
The Wallet of Kai Lung
Ernest Bramah
The Wallet of Kai Lung
"The Wallet of Kai Lung" by Ernest Bramah is a collection of fantasy stories published in 1900. Set in ancient China, the tales follow Kai Lung, a wandering storyteller who captivates listeners with narratives of transformation, probation, vengeance, and destiny. Each story unfolds as Kai Lung shares these tales during his travels, weaving together accounts of mandarins, picture makers, and charitable souls navigating moral dilemmas and supernatural events. This pioneering work helped shape early fantasy literature with its unique blend of Eastern setting and imaginative storytelling.
The Scarecrow of Oz
L. Frank (Lyman Frank) Baum
The Scarecrow of Oz
"The Scarecrow of Oz" by L. Frank Baum is a novel published in 1915. When sailor Cap'n Bill and young Trot are swept by a whirlpool into a magical underwater world, they begin an extraordinary journey that leads them to the land of Oz. There they encounter Jinxland, a troubled kingdom ruled by the corrupt King Krewl, where a princess's heart has been frozen by dark magic. With the Scarecrow's help, they must confront evil witches and cruel usurpers to restore love and justice to the realm.
Twilight Land
Howard Pyle
Twilight Land
"Twilight Land" by Howard Pyle is a collection of fantasy tales written during the late 19th century. The narrative transports readers to a magical realm where a mysterious protagonist encounters famous figures from folklore and fairy tales, such as Mother Goose, Aladdin, and Cinderella, who all gather to share their stories. At the start of the book, the narrator finds himself in "Twilight Land," a serene place where time seems to pause, and all is tranquil. As he drifts along the roads and enjoys the enchanting environment, he arrives at the Inn of Mother Goose, where beloved characters engage in storytelling. The opening segment primarily introduces the whimsical atmosphere of this land and sets the stage for the various tales that will unfold through the voices of these familiar characters. The storytelling begins with "The Stool of Fortune," where a soldier's journey intertwines with magical elements and fate, marking the transition into a realm where wishes and adventures abound.
Don Rodriguez; Chronicles of Shadow Valley
Lord Dunsany
Don Rodriguez; Chronicles of Shadow Valley
"Don Rodriguez; Chronicles of Shadow Valley" by Lord Dunsany is a fantasy novel published in 1922. Set in a mythical golden age of Spain, this coming-of-age tale follows Rodriguez, a young man denied his family inheritance and sent forth to win his own estate and bride through skill with sword and mandolin. Accompanied by his servant Morano, Rodriguez embarks on extraordinary adventures that lead him deeper into the fantastical realm of Shadow Valley, where reality and myth intertwine.
The Road to Oz
L. Frank (Lyman Frank) Baum
The Road to Oz
"The Road to Oz" by L. Frank Baum is a children’s fantasy novel written in the early 20th century. This enchanting tale follows Dorothy Gale, her loyal dog Toto, the Shaggy Man, Button Bright, and Polychrome, the Rainbow's Daughter, as they embark on a whimsical adventure along an enchanted road that leads to the Marvelous Land of Oz. Faced with odd characters and curious challenges, the group navigates this fantastical world while discovering friendship and the importance of loyalty. At the start of "The Road to Oz," Dorothy is introduced along with a new character, the Shaggy Man, whom she encounters while trying to help him find the way to Butterfield. However, their journey swiftly transforms into a marvelous adventure as Dorothy realizes she and the Shaggy Man are lost on a multitude of strange roads. They soon meet Button-Bright, a boy without memories of his origins, and Polychrome, who describes herself as the Daughter of the Rainbow, each adding their charm to the storyline. As their collective journey unfolds, they experience delightful misadventures and peculiar encounters, setting the stage for a captivating exploration of friendship and bravery amidst the enchanting backdrop of Oz.
The Certain Hour (Dizain des Poëtes)
James Branch Cabell
The Certain Hour (Dizain des Poëtes)
"The Certain Hour" by James Branch Cabell is a collection of literary reflections and narratives written in the early 20th century. The work explores themes of artistic ambition, the nature of creativity, and the complexities of love, primarily through the lens of its central character, Felix Kennaston, a poet and toy-maker. Through Kennaston's experiences and musings, the author delves into the struggles an artist faces while attempting to express the beauty of life amidst societal expectations and personal dilemmas. At the start of the narrative, we are introduced to Felix Kennaston, whose dual identity as a poet and a toy-maker symbolizes the conflict between artistic idealism and the frivolity of life. The opening chapters suggest a reflective tone as Kennaston contemplates his position in the world, the nature of his craft, and his relationships, particularly with love and ambition. Cabell sets the stage for a deeper examination of the artistic spirit, confronting societal norms and sensual experiences, while offering a critical perspective on contemporary life and the relationships that define it. The tone combines both wistfulness and irony, hinting at a richly layered narrative that questions the very essence of existence and creativity.