Best Fantasy Books April 2025

The Great Good Thing

Twelve-year-old Sylvie lives within the pages of a storybook, yearning for adventure beyond her scripted role. When a reader’s imagination transports her into the real world, she discovers a realm of endless possibilities. Navigating this strange new landscape, Sylvie grapples with her identity as both character and explorer. Townley’s enchanting tale blurs the lines between fiction and reality, inviting readers to ponder the magic of storytelling and the power of imagination. A whimsical journey that will captivate book lovers of all ages.

The One and Only Bob

Bob, the scrappy mutt from “The One and Only Ivan,” is back in this heartwarming adventure. Life’s been good since leaving the mall, but Bob’s world is turned upside down when a hurricane hits. Suddenly, he’s on a wild journey to find his long-lost sister. With his canine wit and unlikely courage, Bob discovers what it truly means to be a hero. It’s a tale that’ll make you laugh, cry, and hug your own furry friend a little tighter.

Flora & Ulysses

Flora Belle Buckman, a self-proclaimed cynic, never expected her life to change dramatically when she rescued a squirrel from a vacuum cleaner. But that’s exactly what happened. Ulysses, the squirrel, develops superpowers and an affinity for poetry, leading Flora on a whimsical adventure filled with quirky characters and unexpected friendships. As Flora navigates her parents’ divorce and her own insecurities, she discovers that sometimes, the most extraordinary things can happen in the most ordinary places. DiCamillo’s charming tale reminds us that hope and magic can be found in the unlikeliest of circumstances.

Wishtree

Red, a wise old oak tree, has watched over the neighborhood for generations. As the town’s “wishtree,” people tie their hopes and dreams to Red’s branches. But when a new family moves in and faces intolerance, Red takes an unprecedented risk. With the help of animal friends, Red embarks on a heartwarming mission to foster acceptance and bring the community together. Applegate’s touching tale reminds us of the power of kindness and the importance of embracing diversity, all through the gentle wisdom of a beloved tree.

Crenshaw

In this poignant tale, Applegate weaves a touching story of friendship, imagination, and resilience. Jackson, a young boy facing homelessness, finds solace in the unexpected return of his childhood imaginary friend, Crenshaw—a giant, talking cat. As Jackson grapples with his family’s struggles, Crenshaw’s whimsical presence offers comfort and hope. Applegate’s gentle prose and heartfelt exploration of poverty’s impact on children make this a powerful, unforgettable read that will resonate with both young and adult readers alike.

The One and Only Ivan

Ivan, a silverback gorilla, has spent 27 years behind the glass walls of his enclosure at the Big Top Mall. Resigned to his captivity, he rarely thinks about his past in the jungle. But when Ruby, a baby elephant, arrives, Ivan’s world changes. Through art and friendship, he finds the courage to confront his own history and fight for a better future. A touching tale of hope, resilience, and the power of unexpected connections.

The Long Dark Tea-Time of the Soul

In this delightfully quirky sequel, Douglas Adams plunges us back into the chaotic world of holistic detective Dirk Gently. When a check-in desk at Heathrow Airport explodes in a ball of fire, Dirk finds himself entangled in a web of Norse gods, angry eagles, and refrigerators with attitude. Adams’ trademark wit shines through as he weaves together seemingly unconnected events, leading readers on a madcap journey that’s equal parts hilarious and thought-provoking. A must-read for fans of absurdist humor and clever wordplay.

Dirk Gently’s Holistic Detective Agency

Imagine a detective who solves cases by embracing the interconnectedness of all things. That’s Dirk Gently, a chaotic yet charming sleuth who stumbles through life, unraveling mysteries in the most unexpected ways. Adams’ wit shines as he weaves together electric monks, time travel, and a sofa stuck on a staircase. It’s a delightfully absurd romp that’ll leave you chuckling and pondering the universe’s quirks long after the last page.

Mostly Harmless

In this hilarious finale to the Hitchhiker’s trilogy, Arthur Dent finds himself stranded on a primitive planet, longing for a decent cup of tea. As he stumbles through parallel universes, he encounters familiar faces and new absurdities. Adams’ wit shines as he pokes fun at bureaucracy, probability, and the meaning of life. With its blend of sci-fi satire and philosophical musings, “Mostly Harmless” is a fitting end to a beloved series that still makes me chuckle years later.

So Long, and Thanks for All the Fish

In this hilarious fourth installment of the Hitchhiker’s series, Arthur Dent returns to Earth, which he thought was destroyed. Bewildered but thrilled, he falls in love with Fenchurch, a woman who shares his bizarre experiences. Together, they embark on a quest to unravel the mystery of Earth’s apparent resurrection and the cryptic dolphin message. Adams’ witty prose and absurd humor shine as Arthur navigates this familiar yet strange world, pondering life’s big questions with a perfect blend of sarcasm and wonder.