15 Short Fantasy Books

Ready for an adventure that fits perfectly into your busy schedule? Dive into a world of enchantment with our curated list of 15 short FANTASY books with less than 300 pages.

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These captivating tales might be small in size, but they’re bursting with magic, wonder, and unforgettable characters. Whether you’re squeezing in a quick read during your lunch break or winding down before bed, these bite-sized fantasies are sure to transport you to realms beyond your imagination. Let’s embark on a journey together through these captivating pages!

Our List of Short Fantasy Books

Certainly! Here’s the list of books with emojis and the requested columns:

No	Title with Author	Year of Publishing	Number of Pages	Rating
1	🌊 The Ocean at the End of the Lane by Neil Gaiman	2013	181	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
2	🦄 The Last Unicorn by Peter S. Beagle	1968	294	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
3	🏰 The Tombs of Atuan by Ursula K. Le Guin	1971	146	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
4	🐉 The Forgotten Beasts of Eld by Patricia A. McKillip	1974	247	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
5	✈️ The Little Prince by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry	1943	93	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
6	🌟 The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho	1988	197	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
7	🗡️ The Blue Sword by Robin McKinley	1982	248	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
8	🧙‍♂️ The Last Wish by Andrzej Sapkowski	1993	292	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
9	🔫 The Gunslinger by Stephen King	1982	231	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
10	🌌 The Sorcerer of the Wildeeps by Kai Ashante Wilson	2015	212	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
11	🗝️ The Thief by Megan Whalen Turner	1996	280	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
12	🧩 The Riddle-Master of Hed by Patricia A. McKillip	1976	240	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
13	🐇 “Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland” by Lewis Carroll	1865	96	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
14	⚡ “The Sorcerer’s Stone” by J.K. Rowling	1997	223	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
15	🚪 “Coraline” by Neil Gaiman	2002	162	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

What Are Our 15 Recommended Short Fantasy Books?

1. “The Ocean at the End of the Lane” by Neil Gaiman (2013, 181 pages)

Overview: The Ocean at the End of the Lane is a wondrous and captivating fantasy novel by Neil Gaiman. Following the unnamed protagonist‘s return to his childhood hometown, the story delves into his mysterious encounters with a young girl named Lettie Hempstock, who believes her pond is an ocean. Throughout this enchanting tale, you’ll explore the power of memory, magic, and imagination.

Reasons to Read: From the very first page, you’ll be drawn into this magical world that seamlessly weaves together darkness and wonder. You’ll be captivated by the vivid imagery and intricate storytelling that showcase themes of childhood innocence, self-discovery, and the profound impact of our past experiences. Indulge yourself in this delightful novel and experience the mesmerizing power of Gaiman’s storytelling firsthand.

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

2. “The Last Unicorn” by Peter S. Beagle (1968, 294 pages)

Overview: The Last Unicorn is a captivating fantasy novel written by American author Peter S. Beagle. The story follows a unicorn who believes she is the last of her kind and embarks on a quest to find out what happened to the other unicorns. With a rich setting and memorable characters, the novel has captured the imaginations of readers since its publication in 1968.

Reasons to Read: One of the many reasons to read this classic tale is the timeless and enchanting story that continues to resonate with readers of all ages. Peter S. Beagle’s enchanting storytelling immerses you in a world of magic and wonder as you follow the unicorn on her journey. The beautifully written prose and well-crafted characters will keep you engaged as you explore the themes of love, loss, and the nature of identity within the story.

So, if you’re a fan of fantasy novels or looking to discover a new classic, give The Last Unicorn a read. Its captivating plot, unforgettable characters, and the author’s stunning writing style are bound to leave a lasting impression on your imagination. Don’t miss the opportunity to experience this beautiful tale for yourself!

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

3. “The Tombs of Atuan” by Ursula K. Le Guin (1971, 146 pages)

Overview: The Tombs of Atuan, a captivating fantasy novel by Ursula K. Le Guin, is the second book in the acclaimed Earthsea series. The story follows Tenar, a young priestess navigating the mysterious and ominous Tombs of Atuan, as she encounters the powerful wizard Ged. This engaging novel explores themes of identity, power, and the struggle between darkness and light.

Reasons to Read: As an enchanting addition to the Earthsea series, The Tombs of Atuan offers a compelling look into the life of Tenar and her quest for self-discovery. Le Guin’s unique narrative voice and artful writing style draw you into the mystical world of Earthsea, as the characters engage in a gripping battle of good and evil. Dive into the depths of this imaginative story and immerse yourself in the captivating journey of Tenar and Ged.

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

4. “The Forgotten Beasts of Eld” by Patricia A. McKillip (1974, 247 pages)

Overview: The Forgotten Beasts of Eld is a fantasy novel, written by Patricia A. McKillip, revolving around Sybel, a young sorceress, and her journey within an enchanting world inhabited by mythical creatures. Alongside its captivating storyline, this award-winning book features intricate and evocative prose that will immerse you in a magical realm. With its timeless themes and vivid imagination, this book promises to leave you spellbound.

Reasons to Read: If you’re a fan of rich world-building and mesmerizing storytelling, this compact fantasy tale is perfect for you. The novel not only offers engaging characters and intricate plotlines but also encompasses themes of love, power, and the pursuit of knowledge, which make it a compelling read. Dive into the magical world of The Forgotten Beasts of Eld and discover for yourself the enchanting essence that has captured the hearts of countless readers.

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

5. “The Little Prince” by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry (1943, 93 pages)

Overview: The Little Prince, a beloved novella written and illustrated by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry, tells the enchanting story of a young prince who travels through space, meeting various inhabitants of different planets. This whimsical tale is a delightful fusion of fantasy and philosophy, exploring themes such as love, friendship, and the true meaning of life. You’ll be captivated by the adventures of the Little Prince, along with the profound wisdom he gains from his encounters.

Reasons to Read: Embarking on this literary journey will immerse you in a world filled with vivid imagination and timeless life lessons. You’ll gain insights from the poignant themes, which encompass both personal growth and the complexities of human relationships. Lastly, Saint-Exupéry’s unique writing style and enchanting illustrations make this novella an enduring classic that you’ll want to revisit time and again. Dive into the world of The Little Prince and discover the magic it holds for yourself!

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

6. “The Alchemist” by Paulo Coelho (1988, 197 pages)

Overview: The Alchemist is a fantasy novel by Paulo Coelho that follows the journey of a young shepherd named Santiago in search of his personal treasure. Along the way, Santiago encounters a series of mystical and prophetic characters that help guide him toward his destiny. With its enchanting blend of magic and wisdom, this tale of self-discovery has captivated readers worldwide.

Reasons to read: One of the most appealing aspects of The Alchemist is its allegorical nature, which allows for a deeper exploration of universal themes such as love, purpose, and overcoming obstacles. The story is rich with vivid imagery and symbolism, and Coelho’s writing style gracefully creates a timeless, magical atmosphere. If you’re seeking an inspiring read that takes you on an enchanting journey in pursuit of your dreams, The Alchemist is the perfect choice for you.

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

7. “The Blue Sword” by Robin McKinley (1982, 248 pages)

Overview: In Robin McKinley’s The Blue Sword, a captivating young adult fantasy novel, the story centers around Angharad “Harry” Crewe, an orphaned young woman who moves to a remote desert outpost in colonized Damar, where her brother is stationed in the Homeland military. Within this desert kingdom, magic flows through its people’s veins and ties together destinies. As Harry embraces her newfound connection to the land, she becomes entwined in an epic adventure that will leave readers eager for more.

Reasons to Read: The Blue Sword exemplifies world-building at its finest, with a richly crafted and mystical land that will leave you yearning to explore its corners. The characters are well-developed, and Harry’s growth from an outsider to a powerful and respected member of the community is equally compelling and satisfying. With intriguing themes of identity, belonging, and the power of choice, this book will capture your imagination and inspire you to embark on your own journey into Damar’s enchanting realm.

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

8. “The Last Wish” by Andrzej Sapkowski (1993, 292 pages)

Overview: The Last Wish is a collection of short fantasy stories written by Polish author, Andrzej Sapkowski, revolving around the adventures of Geralt of Rivia, a Witcher who hunts monsters for a living. These tales delve into a unique blend of traditional folk and fairy tale narratives combined with elements of high fantasy. Through these stories, you’ll explore the rich and complex world that serves as the backdrop for the larger Witcher series.

Reasons to Read: Fans of imaginative and atmospheric storytelling will find themselves immediately drawn into this gripping anthology, which sets the stage for the beloved Witcher novels. The short stories provide insight into Geralt’s character development, allowing readers to appreciate his motivations and the complexities of the world he inhabits. With its distinctive mix of folklore-inspired tales and thrilling action, The Last Wish invites you to embark on an unforgettable journey through a meticulously crafted, fantastical realm.

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

9. “The Gunslinger” by Stephen King (1982, 231 pages)

Overview: The Gunslinger is the first in The Dark Tower series by renowned author Stephen King. This dark fantasy novel revolves around the adventures of the protagonist, Roland Deschain, a gunslinger, as he embarks on a quest to reach the enigmatic Dark Tower. Along the way, you’ll encounter a world filled with mystery, danger, and captivating characters that will keep you hooked.

Reasons to Read: If you’re a fan of Stephen King’s work or the dark fantasy genre in general, this book is a must-read. The Gunslinger’s intricate plot is filled with twists and turns, immersing you in its unique blend of dark fantasy, science fantasy, horror, and Western elements. The character development, intricate themes, and King’s signature writing style make this novel an engaging experience and a great starting point to explore the rest of the series. So why wait? Dive into the world of The Gunslinger and embark on a thrilling journey with Roland through the mysterious realm of the Dark Tower.

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

10. “The Sorcerer of the Wildeeps” by Kai Ashante Wilson (2015, 212 pages)

Overview: Dive into the world of The Sorcerer of the Wildeeps, a captivating 2015 LGBT science fantasy novella by Kai Ashante Wilson. Follow the journey of Demane, an earthbound demigod, and Captain, as they navigate through the dangerous and mysterious Wildeeps. Get ready for a page-turning adventure that expertly mixes fantasy, science fiction, and raw human emotions.

Reasons to Read: If you’re looking for a fresh and thought-provoking take on the genre, this novella combines solid world-building with a heartfelt exploration of love and identity. The diverse cast of characters and their growth throughout the story will engage you at every turn. With its evocative writing style and unforgettable plot, The Sorcerer of the Wildeeps promises an enchanting experience that you won’t want to miss.

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

11. “The Thief” by Megan Whalen Turner (1996, 280 pages)

Overview: The Thief is a young adult fantasy novel, the first in The Queen’s Thief series by Megan Whalen Turner. The story follows the adventures of Gen, a skilled thief who claims he can steal anything. This captivating tale is filled with intrigue, fascinating characters, and a world steeped in mythology.

Reasons to Read: If you’re searching for a short, engaging fantasy read, The Thief is the perfect choice. The novel delivers a compelling mix of political intrigue, character development, and Megan Whalen Turner’s unique writing style. So go ahead, dive into Gen’s thrilling escapades and experience the world of the Queen’s Thief for yourself!

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

12. “The Riddle-Master of Hed” by Patricia A. McKillip (1976, 240 pages)

Overview: The Riddle-Master of Hed is a captivating fantasy novel by Patricia A. McKillip. In this enchanting tale, you’ll follow Morgon, a prince of the humble farmers of Hed, as he ventures on a heroic quest in a world where wizards have vanished and knowledge is locked within riddles. Discover the thrilling adventure and unravel the mysteries that lie within the novel’s rich Celtic mythology-inspired setting.

Reasons to Read: If you’re looking for a brief yet immersive fantasy read, this book is perfect to satisfy your craving. McKillip’s rich writing style paints an extraordinary world filled with magic, riddles, and well-developed characters. Dive into this engaging story and experience the wonders of The Riddle-Master of Hed as you embark on an unforgettable journey alongside Morgon and his companions.

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

13. “Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland” by Lewis Carroll (1865, 96 pages)

Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland, written by Lewis Carroll, is a captivating short fantasy novel that tells the story of a young girl named Alice who falls down a rabbit hole into a mysterious world filled with anthropomorphic creatures. This 1865 classic is a delightful example of literary nonsense and has become a staple in children’s literature. The novel introduces extraordinary characters and fantastical adventures that will surely catch your attention.

If you’re looking for a timeless tale to dive into, Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland is an excellent choice. You’ll be enchanted by Carroll’s clever use of wordplay, riddles, and striking imagery which all contribute to an unforgettable reading experience. Through Alice’s encounters with bizarre creatures like the White Rabbit, the Cheshire Cat, and the Queen of Hearts, you’ll be drawn into a whirlwind of curiosity and amusement.

Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland is a must-read not only for its imaginative plot but also for its unforgettable characters, clever humor, and thought-provoking themes. Don’t miss the chance to join Alice on her magical journey and explore the peculiar world of Wonderland for yourself.

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

14. “The Sorcerer’s Stone” by J.K. Rowling (1997, 223 pages)

Overview: Dive into the magical world of Harry Potter with J.K. Rowling’s first novel in the series, Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone. This fantasy novel introduces readers to young Harry Potter, a boy who discovers he’s a wizard and enters the enchanting realm of Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. Alongside friends Ron and Hermione, Harry uncovers a mysterious plot surrounding a secret artifact: the Sorcerer’s Stone.

Reasons to Read:

What makes this book truly captivating is its immersive world filled with magical creatures, spells, and potions that invite your imagination to run wild. Rowling’s engaging writing style, memorable characters, and intricate plotlines will keep you enthralled from start to finish. If you’re a fan of imaginative tales and enchanting adventures, this book is perfect for you. So, grab a copy and allow yourself to be swept away by the wonder of Harry Potter’s world.

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

15. “Coraline” by Neil Gaiman (2002, 162 pages)

Overview: Coraline is a dark fantasy horror children’s novel by the renowned British author Neil Gaiman. The story follows Coraline Jones, a young girl who discovers a secret door in her family’s new home that leads her to an alternate reality. In this strange world, she meets her “Other Mother” and “Other Father” who seem kind and attentive at first, but their darker intentions slowly unravel.

Reasons to Read: Immerse yourself in a hauntingly atmospheric narrative that expertly blends chilling elements with a delightful sense of wonder and adventure. Gaiman’s masterful storytelling is enhanced by the book’s stunning illustrations by Dave McKean, adding depth to the story’s creepy ambiance. Coraline’s journey through her eerie parallel world serves as a fantastic exploration of courage, individuality, and the importance of being true to oneself.

Be captivated by the lush prose and vivid imagery, with themes like curiosity, bravery, and identity, making Coraline a perfect read for both young and older fans of dark fantasy literature. You’ll appreciate the exciting twists and turns as you accompany Coraline on her thrilling adventure. Step into the imaginative world of Coraline and experience a chilling modern classic that will forever leave an unforgettable impression on your mind.

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Those Were Our 15 Short Fantasy Books

As you wrap up this adventure through our list of short fantasy books, take a moment to imagine yourself on a well-deserved holiday. The question remains: which of these enchanting tales will be your ultimate companion? Will it be a whimsical escape to distant lands, a heartwarming story of courage, or a magical journey that lingers in your mind long after the pages are closed? The choice is yours, dear reader. So go ahead, pick your perfect book, and let the magic of these short fantasies sweep you away on a delightful holiday of the mind. Happy reading, and may your imagination know no bounds!

What fantasy book should I read as a beginner?

You’ll love “Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone” by J.K. Rowling! It’s a perfect start with its magical world, relatable characters, and captivating plot. Get ready to be enchanted on this unforgettable journey! 📚✨

What makes a book low fantasy?

Hey there! Low fantasy features magical elements within our real world. It’s like discovering a hidden realm in everyday life. Magic’s subtle, impacting events modestly. Enjoy the blend of familiar and enchanting in these tales! 📚✨

What is the oldest fantasy book?

“Epic of Gilgamesh” is your answer. Dating back to ancient Mesopotamia, this tale of gods, heroes, and quests is your oldest fantasy fix. Dive into the past and enjoy the magic! 📚✨

What age is fantasy books for?

Hey, fantasy books are ageless wonders! They cater to all ages, from kids to adults. Whether you’re young or young at heart, there’s a fantastical adventure waiting just for you. Dive in and enjoy the magic! 📚✨

Let us know, which of the short fantasy books you love the most and don’t forget to leave us a comment below to tell us about your experience!📚✨

15 Short Fantasy Books: Discover Captivating Tales for Quick Escapes