Harry Potter

It's one of the bestselling series of all time. If you've managed to avoid reading the books or seeing the movies, you're probably dead. Yes, they're for children. They're also charming, well written and easy to read. Why it's on this list Considering its popularity and sales numbers, there's no way the series wasn't going to be on this list. But why should you read them? Firstly, even though the last books big volumes, they're quick reads. They're not bogged down with terminology or worldbuilding details. It's one of Rowling's greatest skills: The ability to describe an idea we've never encountered in the most succinct way. Non-fantasy readers are often put off with overly descriptive writing, which is one of the reasons this series is the perfect introduction to fantasy. The themes in the book – family, love, loyalty, friendship and sacrifice – are there, but Rowling doesn't dwell on the concepts for too long – preferring to show rather than tell. Complex fantasy is great, but sometimes it's a relief to experience a narrative where good is only good and evil is pure. There aren't many gray areas in the series. And Voldemort is as big a Big Bad as any. Even though the series was aimed at children, Rowling does an admirable job of developing her characters as they go from wide-eyed to battle-hardened – without losing the essences of their personalities. She's also written a strong female protagonist, the kind that you'd want your daughters aspiring to. Remember when you dreamed of being someone extraordinary and fully believed it was possible? It's probably been a while since then, but the Harry Potter books tap into that period in childhood where anything was possible. If you've been reading gritty or dark fantasy, then this series is the perfect way to take a break from grim realism and enjoy a few hours in the kind of world that your inner child longs for.