Fantasy Worlds Every Tween Wants to Get Lost In

There’s something truly magical about reading a book that takes you to a world where anything is possible. For tweens, these fantasy worlds offer more than just an escape from homework and chores—they’re places where courage, friendship, and a little bit of magic can make anything happen. From enchanted schools and mysterious islands to worlds teeming with dragons and daring quests, these fantasy books provide the perfect playground for young readers’ imaginations.

If you’re looking to fuel your tween’s sense of wonder and adventure, we’ve rounded up some incredible fantasy series and standalone novels that are sure to captivate them. It’s time to dream big and believe in the impossible! 

Alliana, Girl of Dragons by Julie Abe

Step into a magical world inspired by Japanese folklore with Alliana, Girl of Dragons by Julie Abe. This enchanting tale is a delightful twist on that favorite classic, Cinderella. The story follows Alliana, a young girl whose once-bright dreams have dimmed after the loss of her grandmother. Forced to work endlessly under her cruel stepmother and stepsister, Alliana’s life seems destined for drudgery—until she meets two magical beings: a young nightdragon and Nela, a spirited witch in need of help.

Alliana’s journey with her new companions is one of self-discovery, courage, and the pursuit of her own happily ever after. With rich, detailed world-building and a heartfelt narrative, Alliana, Girl of Dragons is perfect for readers who love fairy tale retellings with a twist of magic and adventure. 

The Forgotten Five Series by Lisa McMann

For tweens who love stories of superpowers, secret identities, and thrilling adventures, The Forgotten Five series by Lisa McMann is a must-read. Kicking off with Map of Flames, this series follows five children of supernatural criminals who have grown up in hiding. Each has unique abilities—like Birdie’s ability to communicate with animals or Seven’s camouflage skills—but they’ve never ventured beyond their secluded island home.

When the five discover a mysterious map and a cryptic message from one of the group’s deceased father, they embark on a journey to Estero City—a world filled with wonders like cell phones and electricity, but where being supernatural is a crime. As they navigate this unfamiliar world, the five must decide who they want to be and how to use their powers for good. 

The Forgotten Five series is a captivating blend of action, mystery, and the age-old struggle of fitting in versus standing out. It’s perfect for readers who love to see characters embrace their differences and rise to the challenge.

Map of Flames was actually featured in our first ever middle grade box!

The School Between Winter and Fairyland by Heather Fawcett

Step into the spellbinding halls of Inglenook School for Magicians with The School Between Winter and Fairyland by Heather Fawcett. This magical tale follows twelve-year-old Autumn, a beastkeeper who dreams of becoming a student at the school. 

While she spends her days caring for dangerous creatures, she’s secretly on a mission to uncover the truth about her twin brother’s disappearance—a mystery everyone else believes ended in tragedy.

When Autumn strikes a deal with Cai Morrigan, a young magician destined to defeat the fearsome Hollow Dragon, the two set off on a quest that unravels secrets about the school, their families, and themselves. Rich with mythical creatures, enchanting spells, and a dash of danger, The School Between Winter and Fairyland is a thrilling read that celebrates the power of hope, courage, and the unbreakable bonds of family.

The Narnia Series by C.S. Lewis

No list of fantastical worlds would be complete without mentioning The Chronicles of Narnia by C.S. Lewis. Narnia is a captivating fantasy world where animals talk, mythical creatures roam freely, and magic is a part of everyday life. This enchanting realm is the backdrop for epic adventures that usually begin when humans find their way from Earth into the magical world of Narnia.

From stepping through a wardrobe into the snow-covered land ruled by the White Witch to sailing the high seas on the Dawn Treader, each book in the series offers a unique journey filled with memorable characters, epic battles, and timeless lessons of courage, friendship, and the enduring fight between good and evil. 

Whether it's battling alongside noble kings and queens or sharing tea with a faun, every page invites readers deeper into a world where imagination reigns supreme. Perfect for tweens craving epic quests, talking animals, and the thrill of discovering hidden realms, 

The Chronicles of Narnia continues to inspire and ignite the imagination of readers young and old. Whether it’s their first journey into Narnia or a nostalgic return, these stories are a must-read for anyone who loves to lose themselves in a world where anything is possible.

Conclusion

From dragons and witches to hidden maps and magical schools, these fantasy worlds are just waiting to be explored. Each book offers an incredible escape into a world where the extraordinary is ordinary, and adventure awaits around every corner. 

And if you’re looking to bring even more magic into your tween’s reading journey, check out our Once Upon a Book Club Tween Book Boxes. Each box comes with an exciting book and interactive gifts that bring the story to life, making reading an adventure they’ll never forget. It’s time to let the magic of reading take over!