Many readers of genre fiction will, at some time, have composed their own 'favorite books' or 'best authors' list. Readers, fans, and publishers alike have posted these lists on the internet, but since it really comes down to a matter of opinion, and opinions may vary greatly, there is no definitive list of the best fantasy novels.
As a genre, Fantasy fiction has gained much popularity as well as respect within the literary world. This is largely due to an increase in the number of publishers dealing in this style of fiction. It is also due to the variety of coveted awards for books and stories in this style, one of the most famous and recently created of these is the David Gemmell Legend Award.
One of the main components of the genre is magic. The use of magic tends to replace technology, so magical creatures like dragons may be used for transportation, and spells or magic wands may take the place of weapons. Since magic has always been of particular interest to children, in the form of fairy-tales for instance, This type of fiction appeals to young readers and adults alike.
Although most of these stories seem to take place in worlds which are vastly different from out own, it is often the subtle similarities which are most interesting. The aspects of these worlds which we do recognize, or which seem familiar, can force us to consider our own world, and our own lives in a new way.
Characters like elves and dwarves, which are not human, and are often found in this style of writing, can raise some philosophical points about fate and about humanity itself. For example, whether we, as individuals and as a people, are guided or controlled by forces beyond our understanding. As well as the common characteristics we all share which make us human beings.
Authors of the best fantasy novels are able to explore many philosophical ideas in their writing, while at the same time, creating works of magic and adventure which will delight readers of all ages.
As a genre, Fantasy fiction has gained much popularity as well as respect within the literary world. This is largely due to an increase in the number of publishers dealing in this style of fiction. It is also due to the variety of coveted awards for books and stories in this style, one of the most famous and recently created of these is the David Gemmell Legend Award.
One of the main components of the genre is magic. The use of magic tends to replace technology, so magical creatures like dragons may be used for transportation, and spells or magic wands may take the place of weapons. Since magic has always been of particular interest to children, in the form of fairy-tales for instance, This type of fiction appeals to young readers and adults alike.
Although most of these stories seem to take place in worlds which are vastly different from out own, it is often the subtle similarities which are most interesting. The aspects of these worlds which we do recognize, or which seem familiar, can force us to consider our own world, and our own lives in a new way.
Characters like elves and dwarves, which are not human, and are often found in this style of writing, can raise some philosophical points about fate and about humanity itself. For example, whether we, as individuals and as a people, are guided or controlled by forces beyond our understanding. As well as the common characteristics we all share which make us human beings.
Authors of the best fantasy novels are able to explore many philosophical ideas in their writing, while at the same time, creating works of magic and adventure which will delight readers of all ages.