Fans pick 62 books like Remarkables

By Margaret Peterson Haddix,

Here are 62 books that Remarkables fans have personally recommended if you like Remarkables. Shepherd is a community of 12,000+ authors and super readers sharing their favorite books with the world.

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Book cover of This Present Darkness

Keith Perrin Author Of The Road to Chidarra

From my list on captivating Christian fantasy fiction.

Why am I passionate about this?

I chose these books for you to enjoy because they are 5 of my favorites for different reasons. You see, deep down, I am an unapologetic Bible-reading sci-fi, fantasy, and old-school monster movie-loving nerd. Books like these have helped shape my love for fiction and great storytelling as they teleported me to Narnia or Mordor. Soaring the spaceways as The Galadorian Spacekinight or the veil between flesh and spirit being revealed in This Present Darkness. These books and many like them helped shape my writing style, and I want you to share in the enjoyment of reliving them over and over again like me!

Keith's book list on captivating Christian fantasy fiction

Keith Perrin Why did Keith love this book?

This book was a game changer when it first came out in the Christian fiction genre. The supernatural elements of Angels and demons in Christian fiction novels were not as prevalent in the '80s and '90s. Especially the inner workings of how the battle between good and evil works and strategizes on a personal level for the souls of men in the invisible supernatural spiritual realm.

The battle is real and has eternal consequences, and this book definitely shines the light on that in this exciting supernatural thriller. It is a must for Christian and secular lovers of the supernatural genre.

By Frank Peretti,

Why should I read it?

8 authors picked This Present Darkness as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

A powerful audio abridgement of this top-selling novel about a prayerful pastor and a skeptical reporter who find themselves fighting a plot to subjugate the human race.


Book cover of Trylle: The Complete Trilogy: Switched, Torn, and Ascend

Shelby King Author Of Forest of Realms

From my list on that transport you to another realm.

Why am I passionate about this?

My love of realms and fantastic imagination comes from growing up in the backwoods of Alabama. The woods inspired me and beckoned me to dance and build and imagine among the trees. I created characters and worlds and could be a witch, a fairy, a troll, or a girl lost in time. I owe my love of creating characters to the woods that built me and one day I will go back and thank them for the beautiful life they gave me.

Shelby's book list on that transport you to another realm

Shelby King Why did Shelby love this book?

Trylle is the story of a girl caught between realms. She discovers the mystery of her birthright and her mother's hatred of her. She is forced into an unknown future clinging to a traumatic childhood and faces dangers at every turn. 

This book fed my soul and took me along with Wendy into realms unknown. Wendys inner dialouge and determination reminded me of myself and I related to her in magical ways.

By Amanda Hocking,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Trylle as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it. This book is for kids age 12, 13, 14, and 15.

What is this book about?

Enter the magical world of the Trylle with the full e-book collection: Switched, Torn, and Ascend from New York Times bestselling author Amanda Hocking.

SWITCHED

When Wendy Everly was six years old, her mother was convinced she was a monster and tried to kill her. Eleven years later, Wendy discovers she is a changeling who was switched at birth. Now she is about to journey to a magical world she never knew existed, one that's both beautiful and frightening. Nothing is as it seems

TORN

Wendy knew her life would never be the same. Now she learns there is more…


Book cover of Eyes of the Blind

Shelby King Author Of Forest of Realms

From my list on that transport you to another realm.

Why am I passionate about this?

My love of realms and fantastic imagination comes from growing up in the backwoods of Alabama. The woods inspired me and beckoned me to dance and build and imagine among the trees. I created characters and worlds and could be a witch, a fairy, a troll, or a girl lost in time. I owe my love of creating characters to the woods that built me and one day I will go back and thank them for the beautiful life they gave me.

Shelby's book list on that transport you to another realm

Shelby King Why did Shelby love this book?

Most fantasy books take so long to tell the story. This series starts quickly and enchants the entire time! A hero who defends a blind priest against all manner of evil and danger. This is a story you will fall in love with and will not be able to put down! Without revealing too much... Not all heroes wear capes 

By D.A. Godwin,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Eyes of the Blind as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

A blind priest. A book that can't be seen. Can a young hero protect one long enough to save the other?

Tormjere has never left his home valley, peaceful in its isolation from both monsters and men. His first journey into the outside world meets with disaster, thrusting him into the realities of a kingdom on the brink of war.

To save the life of a friend, he pledges himself to a path for which he is ill-prepared: guiding a blind priest on a quest to retrieve a sacred relic that only he can find.

As their pursuit leads them…


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Book cover of Worcester Glendenis, Kid Detective

Worcester Glendenis, Kid Detective By Jon Glass,

Worcester Glendenis is a 12-year-old wannabe private detective. He models himself on his hero, the fictional private eye Philip Marlowe, of course without the booze, cigarettes, and violence. After all, he is only twelve.

He's a likable and smart kid with two pesky 7-year-old twin sisters, and a Mum and…

Book cover of The Portal

Shelby King Author Of Forest of Realms

From my list on that transport you to another realm.

Why am I passionate about this?

My love of realms and fantastic imagination comes from growing up in the backwoods of Alabama. The woods inspired me and beckoned me to dance and build and imagine among the trees. I created characters and worlds and could be a witch, a fairy, a troll, or a girl lost in time. I owe my love of creating characters to the woods that built me and one day I will go back and thank them for the beautiful life they gave me.

Shelby's book list on that transport you to another realm

Shelby King Why did Shelby love this book?

This series is so enthralling! A perfect series to inspire and transport you. A young girl finds herself taken from her time and flung into servitude 500 years ago. So many twists and turns and truly enchanting moments. I finished this series in a day. It is that good! I also now want to own a greenhouse. You will understand why. 

By Kathryn Lasky,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked The Portal as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it. This book is for kids age 8, 9, 10, and 11.

What is this book about?

"Kathryn Lasky's latest is a sleight-of-hand that will have you clapping your hands. With the brio and big-heart that characterizes all of Lasky's work, this opening salvo of a new series can be heralded with trumpet fanfares and clouds of rose petals." -Gregory Maguire, author of Wicked and Egg & Spoon

For fans of the Royal Diaries series and Gail Carson Levine, Newbery Honor-winning author Kathryn Lasky delivers the first enchanting adventure in a compelling new middle grade series about a newly orphaned girl who finds herself time-travelling between the present day and the court of the two most memorable…


Book cover of Dungeon Critters

Mike Lawrence Author Of Star Scouts

From my list on to hear your kids laugh out loud.

Why am I passionate about this?

I’m a stay-at-home working dad, and have handed my boys countless books to keep them entertained so I could get some work done. There’s something magical about giving your kid a book that sparks their love of reading. In my own experience, adventure books that made my boys laugh out loud would captivate my kids for hours…and keep them out of my hair.

Mike's book list on to hear your kids laugh out loud

Mike Lawrence Why did Mike love this book?

Dungeon Critters might be one of the funniest comics I’ve read in years. On top of all the great jokes and gags, there is so much heart in this book. Riess and Goetter have created a cast of characters that are so lovable and have such great chemistry that it makes me want to be a better writer. It’s truly a delight from beginning to end. Bonus: as a D&D nerd who runs a campaign for his kids and their friends, the Dungeon Critters band of adventurers fits right at home in my geeky little heart.

By Natalie Riess, Sara Goetter,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Dungeon Critters as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it. This book is for kids age 8, 9, 10, and 11.

What is this book about?

Quests! Plots! Evil Plants! Magic and mayhem!

Join a tight-knit squad of animal companions on a wild adventure investigating a sinister botanical conspiracy among the furry nobility. Motivated by rivalries, a strong moral compass, and a lust for adventure, the critters navigate not only perils and dangers of the natural world, but also perils and dangers . . . of the heart! Their journey takes them through haunted dungeons, swamps, and high society balls, and brings them closer together as friends.


Book cover of The Murderer's Ape

Nadine Wild-Palmer Author Of The Tunnels Below

From my list on to escape reality.

Why am I passionate about this?

I have always been a very imaginative individual and even now I think of my imagination as a place I can escape to. I build worlds and dimensions in my head and visit them often especially when I'm writing my own books, poems, or drafting characters. I'm a very visual individual and pay attention to detail so these imagined worlds can become quite complex and intricate. That's why I have always loved adventure, it's such a privilege to be given access to other worlds and minds through the medium of books. You get a chance to wander around someone else's imagination – what a way to escape, what an adventure in and of itself!

Nadine's book list on to escape reality

Nadine Wild-Palmer Why did Nadine love this book?

A real tour de force that for me was reminiscent of Phileas Fogg's adventures in Around the World in 80 Days. The story follows the life of an intelligent gorilla who although lacking the power of speech is an extraordinary, loveable protagonist. It is accompanied by black and white illustrations that feel like etchings and that only enhance the wistful and nostalgic window through which we observe this gorilla’s world and life experience. It's a lengthy book and so at first may seem like a big commitment especially as it is aimed at children (it also have some grown-up themes) but once you begin the journey I defy anyone to try and get off as the mystery and magic unfold alongside a powerful story of friendship and love. Another brilliant example of how to escape the reality of the every day and be whisked into a world of mystery,…

By Jakob Wegelius,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked The Murderer's Ape as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it. This book is for kids age 12, 13, 14, and 15.

What is this book about?

Sally Jones is not only a loyal friend, she's an extraordinary individual. In overalls or in a maharaja's turban, this unique gorilla moves among humans without speaking but understanding everything. She and the Chief are devoted comrades who operate a cargo boat. A job they are offered pays big bucks, but the deal ends badly, and the Chief is falsely convicted of murder.

For Sally Jones this is the start of a harrowing quest for survival and to clear the Chief's name. Powerful forces are working against her, and they will do anything to protect their secrets.


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Book cover of The Case of the Zombie Ninjas

The Case of the Zombie Ninjas By Erik Christopher Martin,

Twelve-year-old supernatural sleuth Dotty Morgan becomes embroiled in an ancient conflict between rival Japanese factions, and the timing couldn't be worse. A new girl in town creates jealousy between Dotty and her girlfriend, and her mother invites a nightmare houseguest to stay with them. She must put the drama aside…

Book cover of The Girl of Ink & Stars

Gita Ralleigh Author Of The Destiny of Minou Moonshine

From my list on magic realism chosen by a children’s author.

Why am I passionate about this?

I'm a writer and poet who loved reading books set in fantasy worlds like Narnia as a child. When I began writing for children, I realised my own magical experiences had been on family trips to India, where goddesses and temples, palaces swarming with monkeys, ice-capped mountains, and elephant rides were part of everyday life. The term ‘magic realism’ seemed to better fit my own fantasy world, Indica. Here, elemental magic is rooted in the myths and culture of young hero Minou Moonshine, expanding her experiences and guiding the search for her destiny. The children’s books I've chosen also contain supernatural and magical elements which are intrinsic to the protagonist’s world – no wardrobe needed!

Gita's book list on magic realism chosen by a children’s author

Gita Ralleigh Why did Gita love this book?

It's hard to believe that Kiran Millwood Hargrave’s The Girl of Ink and Stars only came out in 2016.

The book has become a modern classic, combining beautifully poetic writing with the compelling first-person voice of Isabella, the mapmaker’s daughter. When Isabella ventures into the mysterious interior of the island of Joya Governor, to search for her friend, the Governor’s daughter, she must navigate a mysterious labyrinth, supernatural demon dogs, and a volcano-dwelling deity.

The magic elements here are inspired by the indigenous culture of the Canary Isles. 

By Kiran Millwood Hargrave,

Why should I read it?

2 authors picked The Girl of Ink & Stars as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it. This book is for kids age 8, 9, 10, and 11.

What is this book about?

The magical bestseller: a classic story to read again
and again.



Winner of the Waterstones Children's Book Prize 2017

Winner of the British Book Awards Children's Book of the Year
2017

Shortlisted for the Branford Boase Award

Shortlisted for the Jhalak Prize





Beautiful, thrilling and magical, Sunday Times bestselling-author
Kiran Millwood Hargrave's critically-acclaimed first
novel is a modern classic.

'Absolutely loved it from start to finish' TOM
FLETCHER

'I read it, I loved it' MALORIE BLACKMAN

'Kiran Millwood Hargrave creates a spellbinding world of magic,
myth and adventure' EMMA CARROLL

Forbidden to leave her island, Isabella dreams of the faraway…


Book cover of Penguinaut!

Wendy Greenley Author Of Lola Shapes the Sky

From my list on kids who celebrate being themselves.

Why am I passionate about this?

A former microbiologist and attorney turned children’s book author, I’m delighted to advocate for children’s self-confidence and critical thinking skills in literature. I like to write about things that I know, to share my passion, and about things I don’t know—to learn more. Stories have been an escape and a learning tool for me and I want to share stories that do the same for children today.

Wendy's book list on kids who celebrate being themselves

Wendy Greenley Why did Wendy love this book?

Penguins are adorable! Used in children’s books, they are the perfect stand-in for children. In many cases, using a non-child character makes it easier for a child to enjoy the story without focusing on the message. So, when a penguin announces to its zoo pals that it wants to explore space, kids just want to go along for the ride! The subtle messages of self-esteem, friendship, and community play off each other in the climax (no spoilers!)

By Marcie Colleen, Emma Yarlett (illustrator),

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Penguinaut! as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it. This book is for kids age 3, 4, 5, and 6.

What is this book about?

Orville lives at the zoo, surrounded by animal pals who go on exciting
adventures. A hang gliding rhino! A deep-sea diving giraffe!

Orville struggles to keep up, until one day he concocts an adventure
all his own: build a spaceship and fly to the moon all by himself.

Can one tiny penguin get there alone? Or will Orville find that sometimes
you need a little help from your friends?

Marcie Colleen's playful text and Emma Yarlett's charming, whimsical
illustrations are sure to delight both children and their parents.


Book cover of Treasure in the Lake

Carolyn Watson Dubisch Author Of Deluge: The People That Melt in the Rain #1

From my list on YA graphic novels about a magical world that are not Harry Potter.

Why am I passionate about this?

As an author and illustrator, I much prefer to present my writing with visuals. It’s how I write, by “seeing the story” in my mind. I have written and illustrated many graphic novels and comics on my own and as a part of a team. The art in comic books can be so much work it is often broken into stages: penciled art, then inked, and then colored. These graphic novels are some of the best magical stories for kids that I’ve ever read, and as someone who reads all the time, that’s saying a lot.    

Carolyn's book list on YA graphic novels about a magical world that are not Harry Potter

Carolyn Watson Dubisch Why did Carolyn love this book?

Iris and her best friend Sam are your average bored middle schoolers. One day, they discover a river that’s gone dry and a hidden city that’s re-emerged. I’ve always been fascinated by “ghost towns” that were submerged in lakes. This book has it all: mystery, fantasy, adventure, and a strong message about friendship.

The art is stunning, with a soft palette of blues and purples. The little hints hidden in the art really add to the book.

By Jason Pamment,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Treasure in the Lake as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it. This book is for kids age 8, 9, 10, and 11.

What is this book about?

Grand adventures stories often begin where you least expect them…

Iris knows this because she’s read them all. However, as a thirteen-year-old stuck in the tiny town of Bugden, real adventure seems like a distant dream. But when Iris and her best friend, Sam, stumble upon an unusually dry river on the outskirts of town, they’re led to a discovery beyond anything Iris has ever read about: a hidden city and a forgotten tale of friendship.

In Jason Pamment's middle grade graphic novel debut, perfect for fans of Hilda and This Was Our Pact, can Iris and Sam uncover the…


Book cover of A Little Bit Brave

Karla Clark Author Of Three Ways to Be Brave: A Trio of Stories

From my list on children’s books about bravery.

Why am I passionate about this?

The best parts of my life have come when I was brave: getting married, having children, embarking on a career. The worst parts of my life have been mitigated by being brave: losing friends and relatives, dealing with illness and disability among family members. A huge part of raising my son who has autism was helping him to be brave. I've always admired brave people. Not daring or reckless, but truly brave. I've found that all the great stories include an element of bravery! I wrote my picture book as a way to help young children navigate the path to courage and resilience. I’m also the co-founder of National Be Brave Day.

Karla's book list on children’s books about bravery

Karla Clark Why did Karla love this book?

I love this book because although it was written before the pandemic, it hits home about being stuck inside—in this case, by choice! The first line is, “Logan was a stay-at-home bunny.” I’m a sucker for bunnies and the friends in this book—Logan and Luna—actually display personalities similar to that of my sons! One of my sons is daring and brave; the other, shy and unadventurous. This story shows that we may think that we are not brave at all, but when we dig deep down, we can all find our brave. Sometimes just a little bit of bravery is enough. The good news is we are all braver than we think!

By Nicola Kinnear,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked A Little Bit Brave as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it. This book is for kids age 3, 4, 5, and 6.

What is this book about?

Logan is a stay-at-home bunny - but he's about to discover
how brave he really is.
It's time for his first adventure, and he doesn't want to go.

But there's an amazing world outside, if he can just pluck up
courage to look . . .

Children will fall in love with Logan, the scaredy-rabbit
hero who fights off a wolf with a tin of home-baked biscuits.



Warm and reassuring - ideal for every child who is anxious about
new experiences

Stylish illustrations and hilarious characterisation - a future
classic

Bold, striking cover with gold foil for gift appeal

With…


Book cover of This Present Darkness
Book cover of Trylle: The Complete Trilogy: Switched, Torn, and Ascend
Book cover of Eyes of the Blind

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