Madeleine L'Engle authored imaginative children's literature with spiritual themes. Most famously, she created the beloved classic A Wrinkle in Time, enchanting readers with adventures of space, time, and courage.
If you enjoy reading books by Madeleine L'Engle then you might also like the following authors:
Ursula K. Le Guin writes thoughtful fantasy and science fiction stories that explore complex themes like identity, society, and humanity's relationship to nature. Her books blend vivid, imaginative worlds with characters who feel deeply real.
A great example is A Wizard of Earthsea, a beautifully crafted fantasy about Ged, a young wizard learning to accept himself and confront darkness within.
C.S. Lewis creates imaginative and emotionally rich fantasy stories that often deal with questions of good, evil, faith, and redemption. He excels at weaving moral themes into magical worlds accessible to readers of all ages.
His best-known series starts with The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe, in which four siblings discover the incredible world of Narnia through an ordinary wardrobe and become involved in its struggle against darkness.
Susan Cooper writes rich and atmospheric fantasy novels rooted deeply in mythology and folklore. Her stories often feature young heroes navigating dark forces, blending modern life and ancient myths seamlessly.
Her series, beginning with Over Sea, Under Stone, tells the story of children drawn into an ancient magical struggle between the forces of light and darkness.
Lloyd Alexander is known for creating memorable young heroes and embedding stories in vivid fantasy worlds inspired by traditional mythology and folklore. His narratives combine adventure, humor, and meaningful journeys of growth and self-understanding.
His popular book The Book of Three, first in the "Chronicles of Prydain," follows Taran, a young assistant pig-keeper who becomes unexpectedly involved in an epic quest filled with danger, bravery, and friendship.
Diana Wynne Jones delights readers with her whimsical, inventive worlds and clever storytelling. Her stories often cleverly twist traditional fantasy conventions, featuring relatable characters solving magical challenges and discovering deeper truths about themselves.
Howl's Moving Castle is a fantastic example—full of charm and wit, the tale follows Sophie, a girl transformed into an old woman, as she meets the mysterious wizard Howl and confronts her own destiny.
If you enjoy Madeleine L'Engle's blend of fantasy, adventure, and thoughtful storytelling, Philip Pullman might be a perfect next read. Pullman's stories often explore profound questions of morality, faith, and human nature.
His writing style is clear and engaging, frequently involving imaginative worlds and intriguing characters who must grapple with big ideas.
His trilogy His Dark Materials, beginning with The Golden Compass, captures his ability to craft a memorable journey that appeals to both young readers and adults.
Margaret Peterson Haddix creates gripping stories that blend mystery, suspense, and a strong human connection. Her themes often center on identity, freedom, and ethical dilemmas, appealing to readers who love Madeleine L'Engle's thought-provoking science fiction.
Haddix's novel Among the Hidden is a great example: it introduces a shadowy future society where families are strictly limited to two children, and third children must live hidden from the world.
Rebecca Stead writes novels characterized by their emotional depth and careful plotting, often set in everyday settings but touched by a hint of the extraordinary.
If Madeleine L'Engle appeals to you with warm, thoughtful narratives and subtle fantasy elements, you might enjoy Stead's When You Reach Me.
This novel beautifully weaves themes of friendship, time travel, and discovery in a story that echoes back to L'Engle's classic A Wrinkle in Time.
Jeanne DuPrau often builds detailed, believable worlds where young characters must overcome huge odds to save their communities. If L'Engle's imaginative worlds and courageous young protagonists are appealing, DuPrau's novel The City of Ember may draw you in just as thoroughly.
This story takes readers into a mysterious underground city gradually running out of resources, exploring important themes like determination, leadership, and hope.
Much like Madeleine L'Engle, Lois Lowry isn't afraid to tackle tough moral questions head-on in novels that resonate deeply with readers of all ages. Lowry's work often reflects both challenging themes and moments of great tenderness and hope.
Her novel The Giver presents a thought-provoking look at a seemingly idyllic community where truth is hidden and emotions regulated, revealing the importance of memory, choice, and individuality.
Trenton Lee Stewart writes imaginative and thoughtful stories that combine adventure, puzzles, and friendship. His books appeal to readers who enjoy quirky, intelligent characters and clever plot twists, just like Madeleine L'Engle's novels.
In The Mysterious Benedict Society, a group of brilliant kids tackles a mission filled with riddles, teamwork, and plenty of heart.
E.L. Konigsburg creates stories that explore identity, family, and belonging, often through relatable characters who challenge norms.
Her book, From the Mixed-Up Files of Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler, tells the witty and thoughtful story of two siblings who run away to the Metropolitan Museum of Art. It will appeal to fans of Madeleine L'Engle who appreciate novels that focus on self-discovery and adventure.
Katherine Paterson's novels tend to mix realism, compassion, and emotional depth, exploring complex themes like friendship, loss, and redemption.
Her book Bridge to Terabithia beautifully captures friendship and imagination in a way that Madeleine L'Engle's readers are likely to appreciate and find emotionally powerful.
Eva Ibbotson writes charming, imaginative stories featuring magical settings, humor, and warmth. She blends fantasy elements with thoughtful themes about childhood, family, and finding your place in the world.
The Secret of Platform 13 is full of humor and magic, creating the sort of whimsical reading experience fans of Madeleine L'Engle will enjoy.
Norton Juster is known for delightful stories that combine wordplay, adventure, and imaginative exploration.
If you liked Madeleine L'Engle's books, you'll probably enjoy Juster's classic novel The Phantom Tollbooth, a witty and inventive story about a boy who journeys through a strange and wonderful land, learning important life lessons along the way.