Fantasy Anthologies: A Gateway to Magical Worlds
As an avid reader and lover of all things fantasy, I am always on the lookout for new and exciting books to add to my collection. And one of my favorite ways to discover new authors and immerse myself in fantastical worlds is through fantasy anthologies. These collections of short stories offer a glimpse into the imaginative minds of various writers, each with their own unique style and storytelling prowess. In this article, I will be sharing my top 6 fantasy anthology books that you should definitely add to your reading list.
1. “The Starlit Wood: New Fairy Tales” edited by Dominik Parisien and Navah Wolfe
This anthology features retellings of classic fairy tales from a diverse range of authors, including Naomi Novik, Catherynne M. Valente, and Garth Nix. The stories are a perfect blend of magic, darkness, and whimsy, making it a must-read for fans of fairy tales. Each author puts their own spin on the original tales, giving them a fresh and modern twist. From mermaids to dragons, this anthology has it all.
2. “The Book of Swords” edited by Gardner Dozois
For those who love epic fantasy, this anthology is a must-read. It features sixteen stories from some of the biggest names in the genre, including George R. R. Martin, Robin Hobb, and Elizabeth Bear. The stories revolve around swords, each with its own unique power and backstory. From swords that can control the weather to swords that can grant immortality, this anthology will take you on an epic journey filled with magic and adventure.
3. “The Djinn Falls in Love and Other Stories” edited by Mahvesh Murad and Jared Shurin
This anthology explores the world of djinns, mythical creatures from Middle Eastern folklore. The stories are a mix of fantasy, science fiction, and horror, showcasing the versatility of the djinn myth. The authors featured in this anthology come from diverse backgrounds, making it a truly global collection. With tales of love, revenge, and redemption, this anthology is a must-read for anyone looking for a unique and diverse fantasy experience.
4. “Unfettered III” edited by Shawn Speakman
This anthology is a collection of short stories from some of the biggest names in the fantasy genre, including Brandon Sanderson, Megan Lindholm, and Naomi Novik. The stories range from epic fantasy to urban fantasy, showcasing the vastness of the genre. What makes this anthology special is that all the stories were written to raise funds for authors who were struggling with medical debt. So not only will you be reading fantastic stories, but you will also be supporting a good cause.
5. “The Book of Magic” edited by Gardner Dozois
This anthology is a tribute to the late Gardner Dozois, one of the most influential editors in the science fiction and fantasy genre. It features stories from some of the best fantasy writers of our time, including Lev Grossman, Ken Liu, and Garth Nix. The stories explore the concept of magic in different ways, from a magical circus to a society where magic is a rare and dangerous gift. With a mix of established and up-and-coming writers, this anthology is a must-read for any fantasy lover.
6. “The Mythic Dream” edited by Dominik Parisien and Navah Wolfe
This anthology is a collection of stories inspired by myths and legends from around the world. It features stories from diverse authors, including Neil Gaiman, Amal El-Mohtar, and Seanan McGuire. Each story is a unique and imaginative take on familiar myths, making it a must-read for anyone interested in folklore. With tales of gods, monsters, and heroes, this anthology will transport you to different worlds and cultures.
In conclusion, fantasy anthologies are a great way to sample different authors and genres within the fantasy realm. They offer a diverse range of stories, each with its own unique magic and world-building. So if you’re looking for a new fantasy adventure, I highly recommend picking up one (or all) of these top 6 fantasy anthology books. Happy reading!