Fans pick 100 books like The Thief Who Sang Storms

By Sophie Anderson, Joanna Lisowiec (illustrator),

Here are 100 books that The Thief Who Sang Storms fans have personally recommended if you like The Thief Who Sang Storms. 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 A Girl Called Owl

Tamsin Mori Author Of The Weather Weaver

From my list on middle grade with wonderful weather magic.

Why am I passionate about this?

Ever since I was small, I’ve been fascinated by weather magic. Whenever we visited our Shetland family, I’d spend the last few days trying to conjuring fog, to ground the planes, and keep us there a little longer. Reader, it worked! My parents were not happy. I was over the moon and thereafter, utterly convinced that I had magical powers. This is a list of magical middle grade books guaranteed to delight anyone who’s ever been told they have their head in the clouds. Up with sky gazing, daydreaming, and chasing rainbows!

Tamsin's book list on middle grade with wonderful weather magic

Tamsin Mori Why did Tamsin love this book?

This story sparkles with intrigue and winter magic—it has all the delight of the first fat flakes of snow falling on a December morning. I love that the story feels so utterly grounded in the real world, before the magic begins to creep in. What would you do if frost patterns appeared on your skin? Try to ignore it, or follow the call of adventure? A frosty tale with a huge warm hearthighly recommended.

By Amy Wilson,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked A Girl Called Owl as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

A glittering story of frost and friendship, with writing full of magic and heart, the Branford Boase-longlisted A Girl Called Owl is a stunning debut about family and the beauty of the natural world.

It's bad enough having a mum dippy enough to name you Owl, but when you've got a dad you've never met, a best friend who needs you more than ever, and a new boy at school giving you weird looks, there's not a lot of room for much else.

So when Owl starts seeing strange frost patterns on her skin, she's tempted to just burrow down…


Book cover of A Storm of Sisters

Tamsin Mori Author Of The Weather Weaver

From my list on middle grade with wonderful weather magic.

Why am I passionate about this?

Ever since I was small, I’ve been fascinated by weather magic. Whenever we visited our Shetland family, I’d spend the last few days trying to conjuring fog, to ground the planes, and keep us there a little longer. Reader, it worked! My parents were not happy. I was over the moon and thereafter, utterly convinced that I had magical powers. This is a list of magical middle grade books guaranteed to delight anyone who’s ever been told they have their head in the clouds. Up with sky gazing, daydreaming, and chasing rainbows!

Tamsin's book list on middle grade with wonderful weather magic

Tamsin Mori Why did Tamsin love this book?

This is the latest book in the Pinch of Magic series and I’ve avidly awaited each one (as have the younger readers in our household). My favourite thing about these stories is the entirely believable relationship between the three Widdershins sistersfull of all the banter and bickering, love and loyalty of real family life. Add a generous pinch of unpredictable magic and the result is utterly gripping and occasionally laugh-out-loud funny.

By Michelle Harrison,

Why should I read it?

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

What is this book about?

There are secrets hidden beneath the ice . . . bring the magic home in the frosty fourth instalment of the bestselling Pinch of Magic Adventures, from the award-winning author Michelle Harrison.

When the Widdershins sisters and Granny are called away in deepest winter to look after cousin Clarissa, it doesn't take long for adventure - or trouble - to find them. The town of Wilderness has plenty to explore with its frozen lake and winter market, as well as being haunted by a doomed highwayman and his secret love. But the legends are true and seeing a ghostly figure…


Book cover of Rainbow Grey

Tamsin Mori Author Of The Weather Weaver

From my list on middle grade with wonderful weather magic.

Why am I passionate about this?

Ever since I was small, I’ve been fascinated by weather magic. Whenever we visited our Shetland family, I’d spend the last few days trying to conjuring fog, to ground the planes, and keep us there a little longer. Reader, it worked! My parents were not happy. I was over the moon and thereafter, utterly convinced that I had magical powers. This is a list of magical middle grade books guaranteed to delight anyone who’s ever been told they have their head in the clouds. Up with sky gazing, daydreaming, and chasing rainbows!

Tamsin's book list on middle grade with wonderful weather magic

Tamsin Mori Why did Tamsin love this book?

Weather, magic, the power to control the weather, and the power of friendship… This story has all the ingredients I love. Perfect for slightly younger readers, it’s packed with quirky cartoony illustrations and has a wonderful cast of characters, including my favourite: the farting cloud cat, Nim. A gentle magical adventure that will leave young readers looking up at the sky and wondering…

By Laura Ellen Anderson,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Rainbow Grey as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it. This book is for kids age 7, 8, 9, and 10.

What is this book about?

A magical new series from best-selling author and illustrator, Laura Ellen Anderson!

Ten-year-old Ray Grey lives in the magical Weatherlands, high in the sky. Ray is surrounded by Weatherlings with astounding weather power at their fingertips . . . but she doesn't have ANY magic!

Then, after a trip to Earth, Ray's life changes forever. She is transformed from Ray Grey into RAINBOW GREY! With the help of her best friends (and exploding cloud cat, Nim) now all Ray has to do is master her powers AND save the world from a mysterious, powerful enemy . . .


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Book cover of Wand

Wand By Landra Jennings,

Eleven-year-old Mira wishes everything could go back to the way it was. Before she changed schools and had to quit gymnastics. Especially before Papa died. Now she spends her days cooking and cleaning for her stepsisters and Val—who she still won’t call mom and still won’t forgive for the terrible…

Book cover of Ghostcloud

Tamsin Mori Author Of The Weather Weaver

From my list on middle grade with wonderful weather magic.

Why am I passionate about this?

Ever since I was small, I’ve been fascinated by weather magic. Whenever we visited our Shetland family, I’d spend the last few days trying to conjuring fog, to ground the planes, and keep us there a little longer. Reader, it worked! My parents were not happy. I was over the moon and thereafter, utterly convinced that I had magical powers. This is a list of magical middle grade books guaranteed to delight anyone who’s ever been told they have their head in the clouds. Up with sky gazing, daydreaming, and chasing rainbows!

Tamsin's book list on middle grade with wonderful weather magic

Tamsin Mori Why did Tamsin love this book?

This is an edge-of-the-seat mystery that will keep you reading long past bedtime. The story begins in a grimy underworld beneath the Battersea power station, but rapidly expands into the sky. I’d recommend this book to readers who like their magic with a thrillthe stakes are high and it’s an absolute page-turner. I particularly love the fact that Alma (a friendly ghost who befriends the main character), can change the shape of clouds. How many hours have I spent trying to do that through sheer willpower!

By Michael E. Mann,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Ghostcloud as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it. This book is for kids age 9, 10, 11, and 12.

What is this book about?

'A superbly inventive and magical debut'
Piers Torday

'Beautifully written and filled with unforgettable characters ... a diamond of a book'
Ross MacKenzie

'Utterly original, thrilling, strange and cracking good fun ... every chapter is packed full of wild imagination'
Liz Hyder

Catch the wind. Find your freedom.

A riveting, magical adventure set deep underneath a richly reimagined London for 9+ readers.

Kidnapped and forced to shovel coal underneath a half-bombed, blackened power station, 12-year-old Luke's life is miserable. Then, he discovers he can see things others can't. Ghostly things. Specifically, a ghost-girl named Alma. Alma, who can ride clouds…


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 Winter's Child

K.A. Mulenga Author Of Chuck the Cheetah

From my list on with an important life lesson.

Why am I passionate about this?

My passion is writing. I started writing when I was 10 years old and my passion was reignited by my 11-year-old son. Writing runs in my blood as my late father was a journalist and the first black editor of the Zambia Daily Mail and my late brother was a poet. To date, I have published 17 children's books. I love writing children’s books with a positive message and also to make them laugh and entertained.

K.A.'s book list on with an important life lesson

K.A. Mulenga Why did K.A. love this book?

A lovely, imaginative, and brilliant book all round.

This is a lovely rhyming book with cute illustrations. I love the author’s imagination about a winter world. It is a unique and inventive book that will open up a child’s mind. The activities at the end will be a hit with kids.

By J. S. Burke,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Winter's Child as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

How can one child end the long, fierce Winter?
Original Fairytale written in rhyming verse with the magic of friendship.
The story and colorful illustrations will delight young readers 8 to 98!
* * * * * * * * * * *
Winter has lasted for many long years;
No babies were born during this time of fears.

Mariah surprises the world with her birth.
Can she bring back Spring, with its laughter and mirth?

The kids have grown up and they work hard each day.
She's too young to help, so she's left out to play.

At last…


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Book cover of Funny Folk Tales for Children

Funny Folk Tales for Children By Allison Galbraith,

These are the funniest folktales in the world. You will be amazed at the intelligent animals and LOL at the ridiculous scrapes the humans get themselves into in these short stories. Discover why dogs are our best friends, learn how to change a cow into a zombie, and meet a…

Book cover of I Shall Return with Winter

Jamie Edmundson Author Of An Inheritance of Ash and Blood

From my list on dark characters, dark sorcery, or dark age history.

Why am I passionate about this?

I published my first book in 2017 and I’m currently working on book number 11. In that time, I’ve got to know some great indie authors and read some great indie fantasy. These five titles are a selection. I could easily have done this exercise ten times over with different authors and titles. But if you’re looking to see what indie fantasy has to offer, or simply searching for your next engrossing read, I think these will do the trick.

Jamie's book list on dark characters, dark sorcery, or dark age history

Jamie Edmundson Why did Jamie love this book?

CF Welburn writes beautifully, and this book is no exception.

We begin with a revenge plot, but this story takes us in unexpected directions. There is an air of mystery around Oben’s journey to take revenge on his Viking-inspired enemies – is he an agent of prophecy? How will his experiences change him, and those he meets?

Book cover of Spellbound

Jami Gigot Author Of Seb and the Sun

From my list on with a bit of magic and a lot of heart.

Why am I passionate about this?

I am an author and illustrator of several picture books including My Daddy Can Fly, Starboy - Inspired by the Life and Lyrics of David Bowie, Imagination Vacation, Seb and the Sun and Mae and the Moon. I’ve always been a curious person filled with wonder at our amazing world, and I love letting my imagination get taken away by a good book. I find picture books to be the perfect format to blend my love of illustration and story, and some of the stories I love the most are those that are imaginative and magical, but also give a little tug at the heartstrings, fill us with warmth and make us want to read them again and again. 

Jami's book list on with a bit of magic and a lot of heart

Jami Gigot Why did Jami love this book?

When looking for picture books with magic and heart, this book is simply perfect. Willow, who has always captivated her family’s attention with her cuteness and spells, is no longer the center of attention when her new baby brother Rowan is born. Willow knows that Rowan is a very dangerous wizard indeed and will not be mesmerized by his hypnotic enchantments, but even she cannot resist Rowan’s power in this story of sibling relationships and the magic of love. 

By Jess Townes, Jennifer Harney (illustrator),

Why should I read it?

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

What is this book about?

A funny, fresh twist on new-sibling relationships and the magic of love.
Willow's world is perfectly magical, until Rowan is born. When her new baby brother seems to enchant everyone he meets, Willow becomes convinced he is an actual, real-life wizard. Can Willow put a stop to his hocus pocus, or is Rowan's magic too powerful to resist?

Author Jess Townes brings fresh and expressive writing that's sure to appeal to young children, while illustrator Jenn Harney's unique and colorful art style brings this wonderful, whimsical story to life.


Book cover of Egyptian Magic

Melusine Draco Author Of The Atum-Re Revival: Ancient Egyptian Wisdom for the Modern World

From my list on exploring Ancient Egyptian Magic.

Why am I passionate about this?

Having first discovered the mystery of ancient Egypt as a small child via my father’s war-time souvenirs, this interest grew over the years until it became a serious magical under-taking, culminating in Initiation into the magical order of the Temple of Khem. I became Principal tutor of the Order in 1998 and published Liber Ægyptius: The Book of Egyptian Magic in the same year. I continue to teach the Egyptian Mystery Tradition to those willing to submit themselves to the exacting discipline needed to enter the priesthood, and remain a member of the Egypt Exploration Society to keep up-to-date with the current archaeological discoveries in Egypt.

Melusine's book list on exploring Ancient Egyptian Magic

Melusine Draco Why did Melusine love this book?

The world of the ancient Egyptians was a world so permeated with magic, which controlled every facet of life that traces still linger in Egypt to this day. Dr. Jacq is an authority on ancient Egyptian religious texts and it was an encounter with these traces in the form of a family of snake-charmers, which kindled his interest in Egyptian magic. I particularly liked this Aris & Phillips version because it has an Introduction by Rosalie David and in later editions, it was omitted.

By C. Jacq,

Why should I read it?

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

What is this book about?

Text: English, French (translation)


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Book cover of Serendipity

Serendipity By Maria de Fátima Santos,

Serendipity is a magical story told by a grandmother to a granddaughter, introducing us to the traditional way of living of the Scottish Travellers and their Cant language.

A fantasy tale for children of 8 years old and older inspired by three real places in Scotland. Serendipity takes us to…

Book cover of Island Magic

Anne Holloway Author Of Korakas

From my list on lead you gently into the world of magic realism.

Why am I passionate about this?

I grew up in a house of books and storytelling, often reading books beyond my full comprehension, yet absorbing their essence, enjoying the narrative. I place my trust in authors to lead me through a narrative (without every detail spelled out, my imagination free to explore). I want my readers to bring themselves on the journey, allow their narratives to become part of mine. I've always had a sense that things may not always be what they appear, even seemingly ordinary people have secrets and powers that we know nothing of as we pass them on the street, places and objects hold memories and there is no solid explanation for that!

Anne's book list on lead you gently into the world of magic realism

Anne Holloway Why did Anne love this book?

I read this book as a teenager, and it was the writing rather than the story itself which made a huge impression on me. It made me feel afraid in parts, not because the book is a scary story, but the location is so real, I can feel the presence of spirits in the paths that Rachell walks! The island itself is as much a character as Rachell, the kick-ass heroine. It is about pain and loss and love and passion and, magic. 

By Elizabeth Goudge,

Why should I read it?

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

What is this book about?

Amidst the beauty of the Channel Islands in 1888, Rachell and Andre du Frocq and their five rambunctious children struggle to keep their rundown farm. Their hope is revived when they take in Ranulph, a shipwreck survivor. Is he an answer to prayer? A heartwarming story of commitment, perseverance, and family devotion!


Book cover of A Girl Called Owl
Book cover of A Storm of Sisters
Book cover of Rainbow Grey

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