Children’s books, especially those that contain illustrations; really have their own unique way of capturing readers’ hearts. There is just something about the combination of words and images that makes the reading experience better. One of the best subgenre of children’s literature is fantasy. The defining characteristic of fantasy novels under children’s literature is the use of elements that do not exist in the real world.
The illustrated fantasy books for children or fantasy books in general have played a vital role in the growth of kids. They helped in developing their creativity, imagination, and perception towards the world. The illustrations also made kids understand the story easily. Hence, provided below are the best illustrated fantasy novels that you should check out!
The Wonderful Wizard of OZ by L. Frank Baum
Written by L. Frank Baum, The Wonderful Wizard of OZ was published on May 17, 1900 by George M. Hill Company. It is the first of the 13 books that completes the fantasy series. It follows the journey of Dorothy in the magical place called Land of Oz. The young farm lady, along with her dong named Toto, was brought to the land after a cyclone hit her home. The Wonderful Wizard of OZ has become one of the most prized books of American literature. What make the book more entertaining apart from the magical fairy tale are the illustrations of W.W. Denslow. It also has some elements that are connected to the life of the author and the real world, such as the character Dorothy, the setting Oz, and more. Furthermore, the book was adapted into different types of media, like film and Broadway play. Even until today, kids and children at heart are hooked to the story and are reading the books.
Inkheart by Cornelia Funke
Although it is known as a young adult fantasy novel, Inkheart by Cornelia Funke has been recognized and listed as one of the Teachers’ Top 100 Books for Children of the 2007 online survey by the National Education Association. It was originally written in German with the title Tintenherz. The book also contains wonderful illustrations made by the author. The story centers on a young girl named Meggie who witnessed a stranger who is gazing at her outside her window. She told her father about the strange man, and he invited him in their home. The stranger named Dustfinger and her father seemed to be acquainted after the man called her father as “Silvertongue.” Meggie followed them and heard about the conversations of the grown up. After that, she was suddenly brought to her aunt’s house. Afterward, her father who is bringing a book called Inkheart was held captive by strange people; and, that’s when Meggie’s adventures begin.
Lizzie and Leopold by Patricia Gummeson
Christian Faith Publishing published the children’s book Lizzie and Leopold by Patricia Gummeson. Every kid has dreams about magical creatures, such as fairies, dragons, and such. They also got some imaginary friends that help in igniting their imaginative minds. The two main characters, Lizzie and Leopold are friends of a child who hang out in the secret garden of the anonymous kid’s grandmother. They tell the kid with tales about the neighborhood. They also let their friends in the garden to the child and they had a lot of fun talking about the things that happened in the garden and their lives. Moreover, the author personally loves sharing amazing tales to her “little ones” and the story about Lizzie and Leopold came to her imagination.
The Adventurers Guild by Nick Eliopulos
Published in 2017 by the Little, Brown Books for Young Readers, The Adventurers Guild truly brings the best adventures to the readers. Zed Kagari and Brock Dunderfel are best friends who possess high hopes for the upcoming future. They are currently in one of the final areas left standing after the planet has been destroyed by monstrous creatures. Zed strongly yearns to be part of the Mages Guild’s ranks while Brock is confident that he will make it to Marchants Guild’s ranks for he is a handsome offspring of merchants. Everything seems like going well and their wishes are coming true; however, they find themselves as part of the Adventurers Guild which is really not the guild that they were dreaming to join. Would they prove that they are worthy to be members of the guild? Read to discover.
Alex Writes 