Finding your next immersive reading experience can feel as daunting as a quest to Middle-earth. The commitment to a series is significant, but the reward-a deep dive into a richly built world with characters that feel like old friends-is unparalleled. This guide is crafted for readers seeking not just a single book, but an entire universe to get lost in. We've curated a definitive list of the best book series to read, spanning genres from epic fantasy to groundbreaking science fiction and everything in between.
Whether you're a seasoned series reader or just starting, prepare to discover the sagas that have captivated millions and defined their genres. Each entry is designed to help you make an informed choice, detailing not just the plot but the unique experience each series offers, why it resonates with so many, and the correct reading order to follow. As you embark on your next great literary adventure, you might also find that reading offers an unexpected benefit. You can explore if and how can reading help you fall asleep as you delve into these sprawling worlds. Let's find your next unforgettable journey.
1. Harry Potter Series by J.K. Rowling
The Harry Potter series is a cultural phenomenon that has defined a generation of readers, making it a cornerstone of any list of the best book series to read. This seven-book epic follows the journey of a young, orphaned boy who discovers on his eleventh birthday that he is a wizard. Whisked away to Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, Harry Potter navigates the complexities of magic, friendship, and the looming threat of the dark wizard, Lord Voldemort.
Rowling's masterful storytelling grows with the reader. The series begins with the wonder and whimsy of a children's story in Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone but gradually matures, tackling profound themes of love, loss, prejudice, and sacrifice. This unique evolution makes it an enduring favorite for both young readers and adults. The world-building is second to none, with a rich history and a meticulously crafted magic system that feels both believable and enchanting. Its global impact is undeniable, with over 500 million copies sold and translations into more than 80 languages.
### Getting Started with the Series
To fully appreciate the narrative arc and character development, it is essential to follow the chronological publication order. Each book builds directly upon the last, creating a single, cohesive story.
- Reading Order:
- Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone (or Philosopher's Stone in the UK)
- Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets
- Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban
- Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire
- Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix
- Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince
- Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows
For an even richer experience, consider exploring the companion books like Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them and The Tales of Beedle the Bard after completing the main series to deepen your understanding of the wizarding world.
2. A Song of Ice and Fire by George R.R. Martin
George R.R. Martin's A Song of Ice and Fire is a monumental work of epic fantasy, renowned for its gritty realism and complex political intrigue, solidifying its status as one of the best book series to read. Set in the fictional continents of Westeros and Essos, the series weaves a sprawling tapestry of interconnected narratives as noble houses vie for the Iron Throne. Beyond the brutal human conflicts, an ancient, supernatural threat stirs in the frozen north, promising a winter that could end the world of men.
Martin's storytelling is a masterclass in subverting traditional fantasy tropes. The series is celebrated for its morally gray characters, shocking plot twists, and the unflinching principle that no character is safe. This unpredictability creates a high-stakes narrative that has captivated millions of readers and heavily influenced modern fantasy literature. Famously adapted into the HBO series Game of Thrones, the books offer a far deeper and more nuanced exploration of the world and its vast cast of characters. With over 90 million copies sold, its impact on the genre is undeniable.
### Getting Started with the Series
To fully grasp the intricate web of politics and prophecies, the series must be read in its intended publication order. Each book is a direct continuation of the last, with perspectives and plotlines that are crucial to understanding the overarching story.
- Reading Order:
- A Game of Thrones
- A Clash of Kings
- A Storm of Swords
- A Feast for Crows
- A Dance with Dragons
For those who wish to dive deeper into the rich history of Westeros, Martin has also written prequel novellas collected in A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms and the historical account Fire & Blood. You can find a comprehensive guide to the works of George R.R. Martin on booksinorder.org to plan your extended reading journey.
3. The Lord of the Rings by J.R.R. Tolkien
J.R.R. Tolkien's The Lord of the Rings is not just a story; it is the foundational epic of modern fantasy, making it an essential entry on any list of the best book series to read. The trilogy chronicles the perilous quest of the hobbit Frodo Baggins to destroy the One Ring, an artifact of immense power created by the Dark Lord Sauron. Accompanied by his loyal friend Sam and a diverse fellowship, Frodo's journey across the richly detailed world of Middle-earth is a masterclass in myth-making and heroic storytelling.
Tolkien, a philologist and scholar, created a world with unparalleled depth, complete with its own languages, histories, and mythologies. The narrative explores profound themes of good versus evil, friendship, courage in the face of overwhelming odds, and the corrupting nature of power. Its influence is immeasurable, having inspired generations of fantasy authors and shaping the genre as we know it today. The series' enduring legacy is also cemented by its translation into over 40 languages and the critically acclaimed film adaptations by Peter Jackson.
### Getting Started with the Series
For the best experience, it's recommended to read the prequel, The Hobbit, before diving into the main trilogy. The appendices in The Return of the King are also crucial for a deeper understanding of Middle-earth's lore.
- Reading Order:
- The Hobbit (Prequel)
- The Fellowship of the Ring
- The Two Towers
- The Return of the King
For those captivated by the world's extensive history and mythology, exploring The Silmarillion after the main series offers a comprehensive look at the creation of Middle-earth. Delve deeper into some of the best fantasy series on booksinorder.org to find more worlds as immersive as Tolkien's.
4. Dune Chronicles by Frank Herbert
The Dune Chronicles is a monumental work of science fiction that has shaped the genre for decades, earning its place among the best book series to read. Frank Herbert’s saga unfolds in a distant future where noble houses vie for control of planets within a feudal interstellar empire. The story centers on the desert planet Arrakis, the sole source of the universe's most valuable substance, the spice melange, which grants extended life and heightened consciousness. The series begins with the young Paul Atreides, whose family takes stewardship of this dangerous world, setting in motion a story of politics, religion, ecology, and human evolution that spans millennia.
Herbert's world-building is incredibly dense and philosophical, exploring complex themes of power, messianic prophecy, and humanity's relationship with technology and nature. Dune is more than an adventure; it's a profound social and ecological commentary that has influenced countless works, from Star Wars to modern video games. Its intricate plot and richly imagined universe, further popularized by Denis Villeneuve's recent film adaptations, offer a deeply rewarding, albeit challenging, reading experience. For those interested in ambitious narratives that blend action with deep thought, this iconic space opera book series is an essential journey.
### Getting Started with the Series
To navigate the complex world of Arrakis, it is highly recommended to start with Frank Herbert’s original six novels in their publication order. Many readers find the first book to be a satisfying standalone story, while the full series offers a complete, epic arc.
- Reading Order:
- Dune
- Dune Messiah
- Children of Dune
- God Emperor of Dune
- Heretics of Dune
- Chapterhouse: Dune
New readers may find it helpful to keep a glossary of the series' unique terminology nearby. Focusing on the overarching themes of power and ecology can also help prevent getting lost in the intricate political and mystical details.
5. The Wheel of Time by Robert Jordan
Robert Jordan's The Wheel of Time is a monumental achievement in epic fantasy, making it an essential entry on any list of the best book series to read. This sprawling fourteen-book saga follows Rand al'Thor, a humble sheepherder who discovers he is the Dragon Reborn, a prophesied figure destined to either save the world from the Dark One or destroy it in the process. The series is celebrated for its incredibly detailed world-building, intricate magic system, and a vast cast of characters that rivals any in literature.
Inspired by European and Asian mythologies, the series weaves a complex tapestry of politics, war, and philosophy. After Robert Jordan's passing, the series was masterfully completed by acclaimed fantasy author Brandon Sanderson, ensuring a satisfying conclusion to the epic tale. Its immense scope and thematic depth have influenced a generation of fantasy writers and captivated millions of readers, leading to a recent popular television adaptation on Amazon Prime. It is a true marathon of a series that rewards patient readers with one of the most immersive fantasy experiences ever written.
### Getting Started with the Series
The sheer length of The Wheel of Time can be daunting, but the journey is best experienced by following the publication order. The main narrative is entirely sequential, with each book building upon the last toward the climactic Last Battle.
- Reading Order:
- The Eye of the World
- The Great Hunt
- The Dragon Reborn
- The Shadow Rising
- The Fires of Heaven
- Lord of Chaos
- A Crown of Swords
- The Path of Daggers
- Winter's Heart
- Crossroads of Twilight
- Knife of Dreams
- The Gathering Storm (by Robert Jordan and Brandon Sanderson)
- Towers of Midnight (by Robert Jordan and Brandon Sanderson)
- A Memory of Light (by Robert Jordan and Brandon Sanderson)
The prequel, New Spring, can be read after A Memory of Light to avoid spoilers and appreciate the added context it provides for key characters.
6. The Stormlight Archive by Brandon Sanderson
Brandon Sanderson's The Stormlight Archive is a monumental work of modern epic fantasy, solidifying its place as one of the best book series to read for fans of immersive world-building and intricate magic. Set on the storm-swept world of Roshar, the series follows a diverse cast of characters, including a tormented soldier, a troubled artist, and a high-prince facing a crisis of faith. Their individual journeys intertwine as they rediscover the lost powers of the Knights Radiant and confront an ancient, cyclical threat known as the Desolation.
What sets The Stormlight Archive apart is its sheer scale and ambition. Sanderson has crafted a world with unique ecologies, sprawling cultures, and one of the most detailed magic systems in fiction, all while exploring deep themes of mental health, leadership, and honor. The series is the flagship of his interconnected Cosmere universe, where attentive readers will find subtle crossovers and a grander, overarching narrative. With a dedicated global fanbase and a reputation for meticulous plotting, this series is a rewarding commitment for any serious fantasy reader.
### Getting Started with the Series
The series is known for its length and complexity, so a structured approach is recommended. While part of the larger Cosmere, it can be enjoyed as a standalone epic, though reading other Cosmere books can enhance the experience.
- Reading Order:
- The Way of Kings
- Words of Radiance
- Edgedancer (Novella)
- Oathbringer
- Dawnshard (Novella)
- Rhythm of War
For those new to Sanderson's vast universe, starting with a more accessible entry point like Mistborn can be a great way to ease into his style. To explore how this series fits into the wider Cosmere, you can learn more about the complete Brandon Sanderson reading order.
7. The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy by Douglas Adams
The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy is a landmark in comedic science fiction, solidifying its place as one of the best book series to read for those who appreciate wit, absurdity, and philosophical humor. This "trilogy in five parts" begins with the very unfortunate day Earth is demolished to make way for a hyperspace bypass. Arthur Dent, a bewildered Englishman, is saved at the last second by his friend Ford Prefect, who turns out to be an alien researcher for the titular guidebook. What follows is a chaotic and hilarious journey across the galaxy.
Douglas Adams's genius lies in his ability to blend bizarre scenarios with sharp social satire and genuinely thought-provoking concepts. The series isn't driven by a tight plot but by its wonderfully eccentric characters, endlessly quotable lines, and a profound sense of whimsical nihilism. Its cultural impact is immense, popularizing phrases like "Don't Panic" and the number "42" as the answer to the ultimate question of life, the universe, and everything. The narrative encourages readers to embrace the absurdity and find humor in the vast, indifferent cosmos.
### Getting Started with the Series
To fully enjoy the escalating absurdity, you should read the books in their original publication order. The humor builds on itself, with recurring jokes and characters evolving throughout the journey.
- Reading Order:
- The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy
- The Restaurant at the End of the Universe
- Life, the Universe and Everything
- So Long, and Thanks for All the Fish
- Mostly Harmless
For a different yet equally authentic experience, consider listening to the original BBC radio series, which is where the story first began. This version offers a unique take on the narrative and is beloved by many fans.
8. Foundation Series by Isaac Asimov
The Foundation Series is Isaac Asimov's monumental work of science fiction, an epic that stands as one of the genre's most influential pillars and a must-read for anyone seeking the best book series to read. The story centers on Hari Seldon, a mathematician who develops psychohistory, a science that allows him to predict the future on a galactic scale. Foreseeing the imminent collapse of the Galactic Empire followed by a 30,000-year dark age, Seldon creates two "Foundations" at opposite ends of the galaxy to preserve humanity's collective knowledge and shorten the interregnum to a mere thousand years.
Asimov’s storytelling is grand in scope, focusing on ideas and concepts over individual characters. The series explores sociology, history, and politics through the lens of a crumbling empire, creating a timeless and intellectually stimulating narrative. Its impact is immense, influencing countless science fiction authors and even earning a Hugo Award for "Best All-Time Series." The recent Apple TV+ adaptation has introduced this classic to a new generation, proving its enduring relevance and captivating power. This is not just a story about the future; it's a profound examination of human civilization itself.
### Getting Started with the Series
For the best experience, reading the original trilogy first is highly recommended. Asimov later wrote prequels and sequels that expand the universe, but the core story is best understood by following the publication order. This approach allows you to experience the unfolding mystery and scale of Seldon's plan as initially intended.
- Recommended Reading Order (Publication):
- Foundation
- Foundation and Empire
- Second Foundation
- Foundation's Edge
- Foundation and Earth
- Prelude to Foundation
- Forward the Foundation
After completing the main series, you can explore Asimov's Robot and Empire series, as he later integrated them into a single, massive timeline that enriches the overarching narrative of humanity's future.
9. The Chronicles of Narnia by C.S. Lewis
A classic of children's literature, The Chronicles of Narnia is a timeless fantasy series that has enchanted readers for generations, securing its place as one of the best book series to read. This seven-book collection transports readers to the magical land of Narnia, a world of talking animals, mythical beasts, and epic battles between good and evil. The stories primarily follow the adventures of various children from our world who find their way into Narnia and become central figures in its history, guided by the wise and powerful lion, Aslan.
C.S. Lewis masterfully weaves adventure with profound allegorical themes of faith, redemption, and courage. The series begins with the discovery of a magical wardrobe in The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe and expands to cover the entire history of Narnia, from its creation to its final days. The world-building is both whimsical and deeply resonant, creating a setting that feels both fantastical and strangely familiar. Its enduring appeal lies in its ability to be enjoyed as a straightforward adventure story or explored for its deeper, symbolic meanings, making it a rewarding read for all ages.
### Getting Started with the Series
A notable point of discussion among fans is the reading order. While the books can be read in the order they were published, many prefer the chronological order which follows the timeline of Narnian history. We recommend the chronological order for a cohesive narrative experience.
- Reading Order (Chronological):
- The Magician's Nephew
- The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe
- The Horse and His Boy
- Prince Caspian
- The Voyage of the Dawn Treader
- The Silver Chair
- The Last Battle
This series is an excellent choice for family read-alouds, sparking important conversations about its underlying themes. Each book works well as a standalone adventure, allowing new readers to jump in without feeling lost.
Top 9 Book Series Comparison
| Series Title | Implementation Complexity | Resource Requirements | Expected Outcomes | Ideal Use Cases | Key Advantages |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Harry Potter Series | Moderate - progressive complexity | Moderate reading time, youth-friendly | Engaging coming-of-age fantasy experience | Middle grade to adult fantasy readers | Strong world-building, emotional depth, universal themes |
| A Song of Ice and Fire | High - multiple POVs and complex plots | High - dense prose, mature themes | Deep political intrigue and unpredictable story | Adult readers seeking mature epic fantasy | Sophisticated characters, subverts tropes, rich detail |
| The Lord of the Rings | Moderate - classic narrative style | Moderate - lengthy prose | Timeless epic fantasy with rich mythology | Teen to adult fantasy enthusiasts | Foundational work, poetic prose, classic good vs evil |
| Dune Chronicles | High - complex sci-fi themes and universe | High - challenging prose, terminology | Thought-provoking sci-fi with political/ecological depth | Adult sci-fi readers | Sophisticated world-building, environmental relevance |
| The Wheel of Time | Very High - massive scope and cast | Very high - long series, detailed world | Immersive epic fantasy saga with strong magic system | Dedicated fantasy readers | Detailed magic, character depth, full plot resolution |
| The Stormlight Archive | High - complex magic and worldbuilding | High - long books, ongoing series | Innovative fantasy with deep themes | Teen to adult fantasy readers | Unique magic system, diverse characters, consistent output |
| The Hitchhiker's Guide to Galaxy | Low to Moderate - episodic and humorous | Low - accessible and fast read | Lighthearted sci-fi comedy | Readers seeking humor and satire | Humor, unique blend of sci-fi, cultural impact |
| Foundation Series | Moderate - idea-driven, less character focus | Moderate - concept-heavy reading | Intellectual sci-fi exploring civilization | Readers interested in science and sociology | Groundbreaking sci-fi ideas, intellectual rigor |
| The Chronicles of Narnia | Low - straightforward, allegorical stories | Low - short and accessible books | Moral lessons through fantasy | Children and family reading | Accessible, timeless morals, imaginative world |
Continue Your Journey with the Right Reading Order
The worlds within these pages offer countless hours of escape, intrigue, and wonder. From the magical corridors of Hogwarts in the Harry Potter series to the sweeping political conflicts of A Song of Ice and Fire, each saga provides a unique doorway into another reality. Visionary authors have left a permanent mark on literature, and we've explored some of the very best book series to read, spanning high fantasy, epic science fiction, and whimsical comedy.
Choosing which adventure to embark on is the thrilling first step. The next, and equally important, step is ensuring you experience it as the author intended. The true magic of a series lies in its carefully constructed narrative, where character arcs build, mysteries unravel, and plot twists land with maximum impact. Reading out of sequence can diminish this experience, accidentally revealing spoilers or disrupting the flow of the story.
Why Reading Order Matters More Than You Think
For many of the series we've highlighted, the correct reading path is not always straightforward. This is especially true for series with prequels, novellas, and interconnected stories that expand upon the core narrative.
Complex Universes: For a sprawling world like Robert Jordan's The Wheel of Time, publication order is essential to grasp the epic scope and developing lore. Jumping ahead could leave you lost in a web of prophecies and relationships.
Interconnected Works: Isaac Asimov's Foundation series connects to his Robot and Empire novels. Understanding the recommended chronological or publication path transforms stand-alone stories into a cohesive, galaxy-spanning history.
Prequels and Spinoffs: J.R.R. Tolkien's Middle-earth includes The Hobbit and The Silmarillion alongside The Lord of the Rings. Knowing where to begin and when to read the supplemental material is key to fully appreciating the depth of his creation.
Embracing a series in its proper order is not just about following a list; it's about respecting the author's craft and allowing their story to unfold with the suspense, surprise, and emotional weight they meticulously planned.
Your next great adventure is waiting, and getting the sequence right is the best way to honor it. By following a reliable reading order, you ensure that every reveal hits home and every character's journey resonates perfectly. The incredible sagas we've shared represent some of the best book series to read, and a structured approach will guarantee you don’t miss a single moment of their brilliance. Now, all that's left is to turn the first page.
Ready to dive into these epic sagas without the guesswork? For expertly curated and easy-to-follow reading lists for every author and series mentioned here and thousands more, visit Books In Order. Find the perfect sequence for your next literary journey at Books In Order and start reading with confidence today.
Tags: best book series to read, epic fantasy series, must-read books, sci-fi book series, popular book series