88 books like Rhymes from the Wicked Nursery

By J.D. Estrada,

Here are 88 books that Rhymes from the Wicked Nursery fans have personally recommended if you like Rhymes from the Wicked Nursery. 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 Chocolat

Jaclyn Reding Author Of The Second Chance

From my list on finding a new way in the crossroads of life.

Why am I passionate about this?

I find myself drawn to stories about second chances and starting over because I find that, as a reader, I feel empowered whenever a character I have come to care about rises above their circumstances. I've always been drawn to characters who overcome, who find their own way in difficult times, and who do so with honor and integrity, especially when faced with adversaries who may be bigoted, self-absorbed, or even dangerous. I am drawn more to historical or exotic settings or even quirky everyday places, but I love writers who create almost an additional character with their sense of setting, giving it its own personality.

Jaclyn's book list on finding a new way in the crossroads of life

Jaclyn Reding Why did Jaclyn love this book?

This book is a beautiful tale that demonstrates the ugliness of first impressions when it comes to viewing others. When Vivienne is looked down upon by the local mayor for being a single mother and nomadic traveler, he is making assumptions based on his own narrow-minded authority. 

I love how, despite his attempts to harm her financially, she continues to show how being an individual who is true to oneself means more than trying to fit the mold of what someone else might think you should be. 

By Joanne Harris,

Why should I read it?

7 authors picked Chocolat as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

Even before it was adapted into the Oscar-nominated film starring Juliette Binoche and Johnny Depp, Chocolat entranced readers with its mix of hedonism, whimsy, and, of course, chocolate.

In tiny Lansquenet, where nothing much has changed in a hundred years, beautiful newcomer Vianne Rocher and her exquisite chocolate shop arrive and instantly begin to play havoc with Lenten vows.

Each box of luscious bonbons comes with a free gift: Vianne's uncanny perception of its buyer's private discontents and a clever, caring cure for them. Is she a witch?

Soon the parish no longer cares, as it abandons itself to temptation,…


Book cover of Coraline

T. Alan Horne Author Of Secret Sky: The Young Universe

From my list on middle grade books that adults can appreciate.

Why am I passionate about this?

As an author of experimental and genre-bending books, I evangelize people not only to read more books but to read books outside of their comfort zone. And while it doesn’t take much work to get adult readers to consider Young Adult titles, getting them to read Middle-Grade books has been a much greater challenge, which is a shame because middle school has a lot to offer. Some of the best and most life-changing books exist within the Middle-Grade category. My own Middle-Grade books were written with readers of many age ranges in mind. 

T.'s book list on middle grade books that adults can appreciate

T. Alan Horne Why did T. love this book?

It’s quite possibly the scariest book ever written. Much scarier than most adult horror books. Adult horror books rely on cheap shock value to elicit cheaper scares. It provides the same (or greater) level of unease without resorting to the gratuitous.

I cannot fathom how this book managed to pull that off. But I can say that this book has more to offer adults than it can give to children. An adult can see the subtext of a story where a child disappears because a stranger offers them candy and toys, as well as the implication that such strangers may not be entirely human.

And I can’t tell you what makes it so great without spoiling the whole story. I was so engrossed in this story that it practically kidnapped me. I can’t recommend it enough.

By Neil Gaiman, P. Craig Russell (illustrator),

Why should I read it?

16 authors picked Coraline as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it. This book is for kids age 10, 11, 12, and 13.

What is this book about?

"Sometimes funny, always creepy, genuinely moving, this marvellous spine-chiller will appeal to readers from nine to ninety." - "Books for Keeps". "I was looking forward to "Coraline", and I wasn't disappointed. In fact, I was enthralled. This is a marvellously strange and scary book." - Philip Pullman, "Guardian". "If any writer can get the guys to read about the girls, it should be Neil Gaiman. His new novel "Coraline" is a dreamlike adventure. For all its gripping nightmare imagery, this is actually a conventional fairy story with a moral." - "Daily Telegraph". Stephen King once called Neil Gaiman 'a treasure-house…


Book cover of The Neverending Story

Zachary Chopchinski Author Of Webley and The World Machine

From my list on fantasy that transport you to unimaginable places.

Why am I passionate about this?

I’ve always loved portal fantasy. The idea that you could go on this great adventure and be transported into another world, really speaks to my inner child. That’s why I write portal fantasy. I wanted to create a series of worlds that could give readers a place to escape to. My therapist tells me to “speak” to the child version of myself. My books are my way of doing that. I get to give my child self a place to escape to, a grand adventure to go on, and a large cast of characters to call family. I hope the books on this list help you escape into a great adventure too!

Zachary's book list on fantasy that transport you to unimaginable places

Zachary Chopchinski Why did Zachary love this book?

The Neverending Story was always one of my favorites growing up. The idea that a kid could get pulled into this amazing world full of adventure really spoke to me as a kid (I’m sure you’re starting to see the theme here). I loved that I could follow along and it felt like I was also going on these grand adventures.

By Michael Ende, Ralph Manheim (translator),

Why should I read it?

7 authors picked The Neverending Story as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it. This book is for kids age 10, 11, 12, and 13.

What is this book about?

Read the book that inspired the classic coming-of-age film! From award-winning German author Michael Ende, The Neverending Story is a classic tale of one boy and the book that magically comes to life.

When Bastian happens upon an old book called The Neverending Story, he's swept into the magical world of Fantastica--so much that he finds he has actually become a character in the story! And when he realizes that this mysteriously enchanted world is in great danger, he also discovers that he is the one chosen to save it. Can Bastian overcome the barrier between reality and his imagination…


Book cover of The Sugar Queen

Jennifer Moorman Author Of The Baker's Man

From my list on magical realism to enchant you and lift your spirits.

Why am I passionate about this?

I’ve been fascinated with the extraordinary ever since I read Madeleine L ’Engle’s A Wrinkle in Time in middle school. I was also enchanted by Dorothy’s trip from black-and-white Kansas into colorful Oz. I once heard Neil Gaiman mention the “hyperreality” of life, and I thought, Yes! That’s how I want to see the world—the magic everywhere. I voraciously read not only magical realism books but also fantasy. These stories heighten my awareness of the wonder in everything and in everyone, and they deepen the richness of the stories I tell and write.

Jennifer's book list on magical realism to enchant you and lift your spirits

Jennifer Moorman Why did Jennifer love this book?

From the first chapter, I was bewitched by the effortless overlay of the fantastical with the everyday.

This delightful sugary read showcases a heroine who craves sweets, connection, and acceptance—I can relate to all of that!

When she succeeds, I feel I do too. I love how this book creates a feeling of hope in a new day within me. 

By Sarah Addison Allen,

Why should I read it?

3 authors picked The Sugar Queen as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

Twenty-seven-year-old Josey is sure of three things: winter in her North Carolina hometown is her favorite season; she's a sorry excuse for a Southern belle; and sweets are best eaten in the privacy of her hidden closet.
For while Josey has settled into an uneventful life in her mother's house, her one consolation is the stockpile of sugary treats and paperback romances she escapes to each night . . .
Until she finds her closet harboring none other than local waitress Della Lee Baker, a tough-talking, tender-hearted woman who is one part nemesis - and two parts fairy godmother .…


Book cover of Bring Out the Magic in Your Mind

Wolfgang Riebe Author Of Discover Your Magic: 7 Steps to a Truly Fulfilling Life

From my list on inspiration that bring out the magic in your life.

Why am I passionate about this?

Having grown up in South Africa in the ’70s & '80s with the whole world against the corrupt, racist government and pretty much cut off from the world, I still managed to achieve my dreams and change the lives of peoples of all races and cultures in over 165 countries globally. My book reflects ‘real-life’ authentic tips to help everyone discover their magic!

Wolfgang's book list on inspiration that bring out the magic in your life

Wolfgang Riebe Why did Wolfgang love this book?

It was the first motivational book I ever read and the start of me changing my thinking and helping others to do so.

The advice I learnt from reading it in the 80’s was way ahead of it’s time, yet remains timeless and many of the tips I still practice today.

By Al Koran,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Bring Out the Magic in Your Mind as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

Reading books is a kind of enjoyment. Reading books is a good habit. We bring you a different kinds of books. You can carry this book where ever you want. It is easy to carry. It can be an ideal gift to yourself and to your loved ones. Care instruction keep away from fire.


Book cover of My Sister Is a Unicorn

Kimberley Paterson Author Of Mysty the Mystical Unicorn

From my list on that capture the magic of unicorns.

Why am I passionate about this?

My only granddaughter and her love and fascination with unicorns is the reason why I dedicated Mysty the Mystical Unicorn to her! I hope that Mysty inspires children everywhere to focus on their imagination, creativity and to always believe in themselves! My desire to write a children’s picture book started at a very young age, reading is a passion of mine that my own children inherited and now my grandchildren too! My wish is that all children will love Mysty and enjoy her adventures as well as the five books that I have recommended. Always keep on believing in magic, miracles, and yourselves!

Kimberley's book list on that capture the magic of unicorns

Kimberley Paterson Why did Kimberley love this book?

This book is a very fun, rhyming story about a little girl who meets her new baby sister, but surprise, she is not just any sister, she is a unicorn! Follow along with the adventures of Ciara and her unicorn sister Tilly as they go from one adventure to another. They take the bus to school, go swimming, travel by airplane, and on and on, their adventures are endless. Children will love this book about sibling friends having fun together and just enjoying being together.

By Elaine Heney,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked My Sister Is a Unicorn as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

What do you do when you discover your sister is a unicorn? This is the story of a little girl who got a big surprise when her new sister appeared one day! Laugh your way through this charming book with this heart-warming unicorn sister story that both adults and kids can enjoy together as Ciara and her unicorn sister get into all types of trouble as they embark on amazing adventures around the world together.

Perfect gift for little ones: Kids will be captivated with the charming and endearing book, full of laughs and giggles for one and all. Perfect…


Book cover of What the Lady's Maid Knew

Nellie H. Steele Author Of Death of a Duchess

From my list on historical fiction with a dash of magic.

Why am I passionate about this?

I’ve always loved history, whether ancient or “modern.” Past societies and how humanity has changed over the years has always fascinated me. As a young mystery reader, I began with Nancy Drew and then quickly graduated to Victoria Holt. I’m not sure there’s a gothic fiction reader out there who won’t be familiar with that name. The stories are a wonderful blend of mystery, history, and a dash of the supernatural. Decades later, I’d write my fourth series, Duchess of Blackmoore Mysteries, in true gothic Victorian style.

Nellie's book list on historical fiction with a dash of magic

Nellie H. Steele Why did Nellie love this book?

Another fabulous London-set book where magic is real! The character of Eliza is a fantastic one to follow through this first book and the series. The web of intrigue will draw you into this alternate-history saga and keep you turning pages way past your bedtime! By now, you probably can tell how much I love magic mixed with the real world, and this book does a fantastic job of blending the two. With a fantastic set of characters, fabulous historical setting, and the mystery of magic, it sets up for a great story and a great series.

By E.E. Holmes,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked What the Lady's Maid Knew as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

London is a powder keg… and Eliza Braxton is the match.

Imagine a London where magic is real… real, but feared. This is Eliza Braxton’s London, and she has always accepted her place in it gladly. As one of the Riftborn, her magic has relegated her to the servant class, where she dutifully serves as the lady’s maid in one of the most powerful households in the country. There, she uses her remarkable powers of persuasion to keep Elder Hallewell’s rebellious daughter in the path to an arranged match of power and prosperity. Eliza has never questioned her loyalty… until…


Book cover of Fated: The First Alex Verus Novel from the New Master of Magical London

Maria Schneider Author Of Tracking Magic

From my list on with heroic, male leads you’ve never heard of.

Why am I passionate about this?

There was a time when women had to use pseudonyms or otherwise pretend to be men to get published. These days, especially in the urban fantasy genre, it seems like there are more female authors and female main characters than male ones! I love dynamic main characters, male or female, and every one of these books has stellar characters with a great story. I wanted to mention so many other authors, but I have narrowed it down to these five. I hope you enjoy my list.

Maria's book list on with heroic, male leads you’ve never heard of

Maria Schneider Why did Maria love this book?

The Alex Versus series's world-building, magic, and plots are very complex and layered. This is some seriously well thought out urban fantasy. 

The main character, Alex, is basically an instant seer, able to see multiple consequences of diving left versus right, shooting someone, running, etc. He doesn’t always have time to evaluate his choices before having to make a decision. And often, there’s no out without loss or a high price to be paid. 

The back story is cleverly woven into the plot and is never boring. This series has one of my favorite side characters ever written—an arachnid with startling insight and wisdom. 

By Benedict Jacka,

Why should I read it?

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

What is this book about?

The start of a compelling new urban fantasy series based in Camden, featuring Alex Verus - a mage with a dark past who can see the future . . .

***The million-copy-selling series***

'Harry Dresden would like Alex Verus tremendously - and be a little nervous around him. I just added Benedict Jacka to my must-read list. Fated is an excellent novel, a gorgeously realized world with a uniquely powerful, vulnerable protagonist. Books this good remind me why I got into the storytelling business in the first place' Jim Butcher, author of the Dresden Files

Camden, North London. A tangled,…


Book cover of Sky Song

Giulietta M. Spudich Author Of The Lost Goddess

From my list on girl-power and magic.

Why am I passionate about this?

I was an avid reader from the age of six. Books inspired me and, as a shy girl, stories helped me find the confidence to be myself. I felt amazed and inspired by reading – finding out about parts of the world I had never been to. Especially as an adult, I’ve been blessed with wonderful, female friends. These are the themes I explore now in my books. I hope to inspire young readers to be themselves and celebrate friendship. I love travelling and nature. I've lived in various parts of the US and England. Through my writing, I hope to share the wonder of different cultures and natural settings.

Giulietta's book list on girl-power and magic

Giulietta M. Spudich Why did Giulietta love this book?

Eska is a girl with a lot of inner fire. She escapes from a magical spell and instead of finding her way home and keeping a low profile, she goes after the evil Ice Queen. Eska is courageous and wants to do what’s right. She has a lovely friendship with a boy named Flint, and together they achieve what they could not do alone. I also love the snowy, icy landscape inspired by the Scottish wilderness.  

By Abi Elphinstone,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Sky Song 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?

A magical wintry story filled with adventure, wonder and edge-of-your-seat excitement, this is the perfect read for fans of Michelle Harrison, Piers Torday and Emma Carroll.

'Once an adventure digs its claws in, there is not an awful lot you can do about it. Especially when magic is involved . . .'

In the snowy kingdom of Erkenwald, whales glide between icebergs, wolves hunt on the tundra and polar bears roam the glaciers. But the people of this land aren't so easy to find - because Erkenwald is ruled by an evil Ice Queen and the tribes must stay hidden…


Book cover of Today I Found a Unicorn

Kimberley Paterson Author Of Mysty the Mystical Unicorn

From my list on that capture the magic of unicorns.

Why am I passionate about this?

My only granddaughter and her love and fascination with unicorns is the reason why I dedicated Mysty the Mystical Unicorn to her! I hope that Mysty inspires children everywhere to focus on their imagination, creativity and to always believe in themselves! My desire to write a children’s picture book started at a very young age, reading is a passion of mine that my own children inherited and now my grandchildren too! My wish is that all children will love Mysty and enjoy her adventures as well as the five books that I have recommended. Always keep on believing in magic, miracles, and yourselves!

Kimberley's book list on that capture the magic of unicorns

Kimberley Paterson Why did Kimberley love this book?

This is a heartwarming story about a special friendship that developed between a little girl and the beautiful unicorn who came to visit her. They shared a wonderful day together playing hide-and-seek and enjoying a picnic lunch on a gorgeous summer day. My granddaughter’s love of unicorns along with the colours pink and purple make this book an excellent choice for her, I am sure plenty of children will love it too!  

By Jack Lewis, Tanya Glebova (illustrator),

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Today I Found a Unicorn as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

This beloved, beautiful story about friendship and the power of imagination is now available as a gorgeously illustrated children’s picture book.

Today I Found a Unicorn has delighted both children and parents with its simple yet elegant tale of a young girl whose day is turned upside down when she discovers a Unicorn on her lawn. Children will be delighted to read how imagination and friendship can change an ordinary day into a magical adventure! It’s the perfect light-hearted book for little ones who love Unicorns and imaginary play, and parents will appreciate the humorous twist at the end.

This…


Book cover of Chocolat
Book cover of Coraline
Book cover of The Neverending Story

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