If you enjoy reading books by Philip Pullman then you might also like the following authors:
C.S. Lewis is an author whose imaginative storytelling and rich fantasy worlds appeal to readers who enjoy Philip Pullman’s thoughtful narratives. His famous book, “The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe,” is the first published in “The Chronicles of Narnia” series.
The story follows siblings Lucy, Edmund, Susan and Peter, who stumble upon an old wardrobe that leads them to the magical land of Narnia.
It’s a place filled with talking animals, a villainous White Witch who traps Narnia in eternal winter, and the powerful, mysterious lion named Aslan.
The children must navigate loyalty, betrayal, and courage as they work alongside their new Narnian friends to free the land from the Witch’s cruelty.
Lewis creates a vivid, captivating world that is both magical and thoughtful, filled with symbolism and meaningful questions, sure to resonate with fans of Pullman’s books.
If you enjoy Philip Pullman’s imaginative adventures and complex worlds, you may also appreciate the works of J.R.R. Tolkien. Tolkien is famous for creating epic fantasy realms filled with detailed histories, intriguing creatures, and compelling heroes.
One of his most influential works is “The Hobbit,” which follows the cozy and reluctant Bilbo Baggins who finds himself on an unexpected quest to reclaim lost treasure from a dangerous dragon.
Alongside a band of dwarves and the wise wizard Gandalf, Bilbo encounters goblins, elves, and trolls as he ventures far from home. This classic tale explores courage, friendship, and adventure in a richly imagined world.
Books by Ursula K. Le Guin often explore imaginative worlds full of moral and philosophical depth, themes that readers of Philip Pullman will appreciate.
In her novel “A Wizard of Earthsea,” Le Guin introduces readers to Ged, a gifted young magician whose reckless use of power unleashes a dangerous shadow upon the world.
The novel follows Ged on his journey through the islands of Earthsea as he tries to master himself and confront the consequences of his actions.
It is a powerful story about magic, responsibility, balance, and growth, all wrapped in a richly drawn fantasy world that feels real and thoughtful.
Diana Wynne Jones is a captivating author whose fantasy worlds and moments of wonder may appeal to readers who enjoy Philip Pullman’s vivid storytelling.
In her book “Howl’s Moving Castle,” readers meet Sophie, a practical eldest daughter who never expects adventures or misfortune. But one day, a curse changes Sophie from a young woman into an elderly one overnight.
Determined to break the curse, she seeks out the mysterious and famously heartless wizard Howl and his constantly shifting, magical castle.
Along the way, Sophie uncovers magic and mysteries, meets fire demons, and learns much more about bravery, friendship, and self-discovery than she expected. Wynne Jones weaves together humor, magic, and warmth into a memorable and imaginative reading experience.
Susan Cooper is an author whose writing resonates with readers who enjoy Philip Pullman’s blend of fantasy, mythology, and adventure.
In her book “The Dark is Rising,” young Will Stanton discovers on his eleventh birthday that he’s destined to become part of an ancient battle between the forces of Light and Darkness.
Set against a vivid English countryside filled with snow-covered fields, strange symbols, and mysterious figures, the story effortlessly weaves together Arthurian legend and modern-day magic.
Cooper’s storytelling builds tension naturally, pulling readers into Will’s unique journey as he struggles to learn his role in protecting the world from a rising darkness older than history itself.
If Philip Pullman’s worlds of hidden magic and rich myth grab you, then Susan Cooper’s engaging, thoughtful narratives could provide another exciting reading experience.
Alan Garner is an English author known for blending fantasy, folklore, and history in imaginative and thought-provoking ways. If you’re a fan of Philip Pullman’s immersive storytelling and vivid worlds, Garner’s work might resonate with you.
His novel “The Owl Service” explores old Welsh myths set in modern-day Wales. In a small and isolated valley, three teenagers find an ancient set of dinner plates decorated with owl patterns.
Their discovery awakens an old legend, forcing them to relive a tragic story from the mythical past. Garner skillfully weaves together adolescence, mythological mystery, and the power of repeating histories, keeping readers curious until the last page.
Neil Gaiman is a storyteller who combines fantasy, mythology, and emotion into narratives that resonate deeply. Readers who enjoy Philip Pullman’s imaginative worlds and thoughtful storytelling will likely find Gaiman’s work appealing.
In his book “The Graveyard Book,” Gaiman brings you into the mysterious life of young Nobody Owens, whose family is tragically murdered. Only the child survives, finding shelter among ghosts in a graveyard.
The graveyard spirits raise him as one of their own, teaching him ghostly powers while he discovers secrets about the dangers of the living world. This story blends suspense, warmth, and imagination into a unique journey of growing up between two worlds.
Books by Garth Nix might appeal to readers who have enjoyed Philip Pullman’s adventures between parallel worlds. Nix creates vivid fantasy worlds, magic systems, and strong, thoughtful characters. One of his best-known books is “Sabriel,” which begins the “Old Kingdom” trilogy.
This story follows Sabriel, the daughter of a powerful necromancer known as the Abhorsen. After her father’s mysterious disappearance, Sabriel sets out on a dangerous journey through a kingdom full of dark magic, undead threats, and intriguing lore.
As she navigates this perilous quest, Sabriel discovers unsettling truths about her own abilities and the responsibilities she has inherited. Fans of Pullman’s Lyra from “His Dark Materials” might especially enjoy the depth and bravery that Sabriel exhibits on her own adventure.
Terry Pratchett was an English author famous for his clever humor, imaginative world-building, and sharp social commentary. His series, “Discworld,” provides a smart and whimsical reflection on society and humanity.
One standout from the series is “The Golden Compass” fans might particularly enjoy: “Nation.” After a massive storm devastates their islands, two young survivors, Mau and Daphne, must rebuild their world together.
Their struggles lead to powerful discoveries about beliefs, beliefs that are personal and beliefs shared by entire cultures.
Full of thoughtful adventure, humor, and a deep exploration of faith and reason, “Nation” offers readers a rich story with depth similar to Pullman’s best works.
Readers who enjoy Philip Pullman’s imaginative worlds might appreciate the storytelling of Cornelia Funke. Funke creates vivid fantasies full of adventure, magic, and relatable characters.
Her novel “Inkheart” introduces Meggie, a young girl whose father, Mo, can bring fictional characters to life when he reads aloud. Things take a dark turn when Mo accidentally summons villains from the pages, pulling Meggie into danger and mystery.
The story explores the power of books and the consequences of storytelling, themes fans of Pullman are likely to enjoy.
Jonathan Stroud is an English fantasy author best known for his imaginative storytelling and memorable characters. If you enjoy Philip Pullman’s vivid worlds, clever narratives, and engaging protagonists, Stroud’s work will likely resonate with you too.
His novel “The Amulet of Samarkand,” first in the Bartimaeus Trilogy, offers a fascinating journey into magical London. The story promises plenty of wit and adventure as we follow Nathaniel, a young ambitious magician’s apprentice who summons the sarcastic djinni Bartimaeus.
Together they navigate the tricky world of magic, politics, and power struggles. If a tale full of humor, excitement, and magical charm sounds appealing, this novel might be your next favorite read.
Lloyd Alexander is a wonderful author for readers who enjoy fantasy adventures and storytelling filled with meaningful characters, similar to Philip Pullman’s style.
His book “The Book of Three,” the first in “The Chronicles of Prydain” series, introduces readers to young assistant pig-keeper Taran, whose quiet life changes dramatically when his prophetic pig, Hen Wen, runs away.
To find her, Taran sets off on a journey that takes him into mystery and danger, bringing him face-to-face with magical beings, valiant companions, and fearsome foes.
The story is inspired by Welsh mythology and vividly captures themes such as courage, friendship, and growing up, themes that fans of Pullman will appreciate. Alexander’s approach is warm and engaging. He delivers storytelling that is both imaginative and heartfelt.
Books by Madeleine L’Engle often blend fantasy, science fiction, and themes of good versus evil. If you enjoyed Philip Pullman’s emphasis on parallel worlds and profound ethical choices, Madeleine L’Engle offers a similar depth with warmth and accessible storytelling.
Her classic novel, “A Wrinkle in Time,” follows young Meg Murry, her friend Calvin, and her brother Charles Wallace across space and time, to rescue Meg’s father from a sinister cosmic force.
The journey leads them through strange planets and encounters with fascinating beings, such as Mrs. Whatsit, Mrs. Who, and Mrs. Which, who guide the children on their dangerous quest.
Like Pullman, L’Engle explores brave characters and complex ideas about morality, courage and love in imaginative worlds that readers can vividly enter.
If you enjoy Philip Pullman’s blend of imagination, thought-provoking themes, and character-driven storytelling, Patrick Ness might catch your interest.
Ness is known for creating worlds that feel both magical and deeply emotional, confronting the struggles and triumphs of young characters in extraordinary situations.
In his book “A Monster Calls,” we follow young Conor, who faces the strain of his mother’s serious illness and recurring vivid nightmares. When a mysterious monster visits him at night, rather than scaring Conor, the creature tells him powerful stories.
Through these encounters, Conor gradually confronts truths he has been avoiding. Ness seamlessly weaves fantasy elements into a moving story about courage and acceptance, offering rich emotional depth similar to Pullman’s memorable narratives.
Lev Grossman is an author whose work often combines fantasy elements with contemporary settings, making his books appealing to those who enjoy Philip Pullman’s imaginative storytelling.
In “The Magicians,” Grossman introduces us to Quentin Coldwater, a gifted but bored teenager who unexpectedly enrolls at Brakebills, a secretive college for magic hidden in New York state.
Gradually Quentin realizes that magic, although fascinating, isn’t the solution to all his problems. His journey involves complex friendships, emotional struggles and dangerous adventures.
Readers who enjoy Pullman’s blend of realism and the fantastic in “His Dark Materials” would appreciate the thoughtful characters and imaginative worlds in Grossman’s novel.