The Best Book Series of All Time: From Asimov to Jemisin, and Beyond
Are you looking for a captivating book series that will keep you hooked from start to finish? Look no further! In this comprehensive guide, I have compiled the ultimate list of the best book series of all time. The list ranges from classic works by Asimov to contemporary works by Jemisin. These series have captivated readers for generations, taking them on thrilling adventures, introducing unforgettable characters, and creating immersive worlds that leave a lasting impact.
Timeless Treasures: Delving into the Best Book Series of All Time
Table of Contents:
- The Foundation Series by Isaac Asimov
- The Lord of the Rings Series by J.R.R. Tolkien
- A Song of Ice and Fire Series by George R.R. Martin
- The Harry Potter Series by J.K. Rowling
- The Dune Series by Frank Herbert
- The Chronicles of Narnia Series by C.S. Lewis
- The Hunger Games Series by Suzanne Collins
- The Wheel of Time Series by Robert Jordan
- The Outlander Series by Diana Gabaldon
- The Millennium Series by Stieg Larsson (Starting with "The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo")
- The Percy Jackson and the Olympians Series by Rick Riordan
- The Earthsea Cycle by Ursula K. Le Guin
- The Stormlight Archive and Mistborn Series by Brandon Sanderson
- The Broken Earth Trilogy by N.K. Jemisin
- His Dark Materials Series by Philip Pullman
There is something magical about diving into a book series that takes you on an epic journey across multiple novels. The best book series have the power to transport readers to different worlds, introduce them to unforgettable characters, and keep them eagerly turning the pages until the very end. These series not only entertain but also inspire generations of readers and writers alike.
In this carefully curated list, I have handpicked the finest book series that
have stood the test of time. From fantasy realms to dystopian futures, these
series span various genres and offer something for every reader. Whether you
are a fan of intricate world-building, complex characters, or gripping
plotlines, you are sure to find a series that will captivate your imagination.
So, without further ado, let's embark on a literary adventure as we explore
the best book series of all time!
1. The Foundation Series by Isaac Asimov
The Foundation series by Isaac Asimov is widely regarded as one of the best book series of all time. It is a remarkable science fiction saga written by the American author Asimov, renowned for his contributions to the genre as well as popular science books. Initially, the series consisted of a trilogy: "Foundation," "Foundation and Empire," and "Second Foundation," which were published in 1951, 1952, and 1953, respectively. However, almost three decades later, Asimov added four more books to the series, including two sequels and two prequels. In recognition of its excellence, Asimov's Foundation series was awarded the prestigious Hugo Award for "Best All-Time Series" in 1966.
Isaac Asimov's Foundation series is a seminal work of science fiction that
revolutionized the genre. Set in a future where a galactic empire is on the
brink of collapse, the series follows the efforts of mathematician Hari Seldon
to preserve knowledge and guide humanity through the dark ages. Seldon
establishes the Foundation, an organization aimed at expediting the rise of a
new galactic empire to restore order and stability to the universe.
Related post: 30 Best Science Fiction Books, Novels, and Book Series of All Time: Explore the Finest Works in the Genre
The Foundation series explores grand themes of history, politics, and the
destiny of civilizations. Asimov's visionary storytelling and intricate
plotting have made this series a must-read for science fiction enthusiasts.
If you prefer reading books in publication order, starting with the original
series is a great choice, as it allows you to experience the story as it
unfolded over time. The original trilogy comprises the following books:
- "Foundation" (1951)
- "Foundation and Empire" (1952)
- "Second Foundation" (1953)
Following the original trilogy, Asimov wrote two sequels that continue the
saga:
- "Foundation's Edge" (1982)
- "Foundation and Earth" (1983)
Additionally, Asimov penned two prequels that provide background and further
context to the events of the series:
- "Prelude to Foundation" (1988)
- "Forward the Foundation" (1992)
However, if you prefer to follow the chronological order of events within the
Foundation universe, you may choose to read the books in the following
sequence:
- "Prelude to Foundation" (1988)
- "Forward the Foundation" (1992)
- "Foundation" (1951)
- "Foundation and Empire" (1952)
- "Second Foundation" (1953)
- "Foundation's Edge" (1982)
- "Foundation and Earth" (1983)
Ultimately, the reading order is a matter of personal preference. Whether you
opt for the publication order or the chronological order, delving into
Asimov's Foundation series promises an extraordinary journey through a
captivating science fiction universe.
2. The Lord of the Rings Series by J.R.R. Tolkien
No list of the best book series of all time would be complete without mentioning J.R.R. Tolkien's masterpiece, The Lord of the Rings. Set in the enchanting world of Middle Earth, this epic fantasy series follows the perilous journey of a group of diverse characters as they strive to destroy the One Ring and save their world from the dark forces of Sauron.
Tolkien's meticulous world-building, rich mythology, and intricate plot make
The Lord of the Rings a timeless classic. The series not only introduced
readers to iconic characters like Frodo Baggins, Gandalf, and Aragorn but also
delved into themes of friendship, bravery, and the corrupting influence of
power.
The Lord of the Rings Series by J.R.R. Tolkien consists of the following
books:
- The Fellowship of the Ring (1954)
- The Two Towers (1954)
- The Return of the King (1955)
3. The A Song of Ice and Fire Series by George R.R. Martin
Enter the treacherous world of Westeros with George R.R. Martin's A Song of Ice and Fire series. This epic fantasy series is known for its complex characters, intricate political machinations, and shocking plot twists.
With multiple noble houses vying for power, A Song of Ice and Fire explores
themes of power, honor, and the consequences of human ambition. The series has
gained a massive following due to its unpredictable narrative and realistic
portrayal of morally gray characters.
The books in the A Song of Ice and Fire series by George R.R. Martin:
- A Game of Thrones (1996)
- A Clash of Kings (1998)
- A Storm of Swords (2000)
- A Feast for Crows (2005)
- A Dance with Dragons (2011)
- The Winds of Winter (TBA)
- A Dream of Spring (TBA)
4. The Harry Potter Series by J.K. Rowling
Journey to the magical world of Hogwarts with J.K. Rowling's Harry Potter series. This iconic series follows the extraordinary journey of Harry Potter, a young wizard who discovers his magical heritage and confronts the dark wizard Lord Voldemort.
Rowling's immersive world-building, relatable characters, and intricate plot
twists have captivated millions of readers worldwide. The Harry Potter series
explores themes of friendship, love, and the eternal struggle between good and
evil, making it a must-read for both children and adults.
The Harry Potter Series by J.K. Rowling consists of the following books:
- Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone (1997)
- Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets (1998)
- Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban (1999)
- Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire (2000)
- Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix (2003)
- Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince (2005)
- Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows (2007)
5. The Dune Series by Frank Herbert
Frank Herbert's Dune series is a landmark in science fiction literature. Set in a distant future where interstellar travel and political intrigue reign, the series explores themes of power, religion, and ecological balance.
Dune takes readers to the desert planet of Arrakis, where noble houses,
political factions, and the mysterious Bene Gesserit sisterhood vie for
control of the planet's most valuable resource. Herbert's rich world-building
and thought-provoking themes have made Dune a timeless classic.
The Dune Series by Frank Herbert consists of the following books:
- Dune (1965)
- Dune Messiah (1969)
- Children of Dune (1976)
- God Emperor of Dune (1981)
- Heretics of Dune (1984)
- Chapterhouse: Dune (1985)
6. The Chronicles of Narnia Series by C.S. Lewis
Step through the magical wardrobe and enter the enchanting world of Narnia with C.S. Lewis' The Chronicles of Narnia. This beloved series follows the adventures of four siblings who stumble upon a hidden realm inhabited by talking animals, mythical creatures, and an epic battle between good and evil.
Lewis' masterful storytelling and allegorical elements make The Chronicles of
Narnia a timeless series that appeals to readers of all ages. Each book in the
series offers a new adventure, showcasing the resilience and courage of the
Pevensie children as they navigate the challenges of a fantastical world.
The Chronicles of Narnia Series by C.S. Lewis includes the following books:
- The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe (1950)
- Prince Caspian: The Return to Narnia (1951)
- The Voyage of the Dawn Treader (1952)
- The Silver Chair (1953)
- The Horse and His Boy (1954)
- The Magician's Nephew (1955)
- The Last Battle (1956)
7. The Hunger Games Series by Suzanne Collins
Suzanne Collins' The Hunger Games trilogy takes readers to a dystopian future where teenagers are forced to compete in a brutal televised fight to the death. The series follows the courageous and resourceful Katniss Everdeen as she becomes the symbol of a rebellion against the oppressive Capitol.
The Hunger Games series explores themes of survival, sacrifice, and the
corrupting influence of power. Collins' fast-paced storytelling and
thought-provoking social commentary have made this series a modern-day
classic.
The Hunger Games Series by Suzanne Collins includes the following books:
- The Hunger Games (2008)
- Catching Fire (2009)
- Mockingjay (2010)
- The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes (2020)
8. The Wheel of Time Series by Robert Jordan
Robert Jordan's The Wheel of Time series is a sprawling epic that spans fourteen books. Set in a world where time is a wheel and ages come and go, the series follows a diverse cast of characters as they battle dark forces and seek to fulfill prophecies that will shape the fate of the world.
Jordan's intricate world-building, complex plotlines, and detailed magic
system have made The Wheel of Time a favorite among fantasy enthusiasts. The
series is known for its expansive scope and meticulous attention to detail.
The Wheel of Time Series by Robert Jordan (and later completed by Brandon
Sanderson) comprises the following books:
- The Eye of the World (1990)
- The Great Hunt (1990)
- The Dragon Reborn (1991)
- The Shadow Rising (1992)
- The Fires of Heaven (1993)
- Lord of Chaos (1994)
- A Crown of Swords (1996)
- The Path of Daggers (1998)
- Winter's Heart (2000)
- Crossroads of Twilight (2003)
- Knife of Dreams (2005)
- The Gathering Storm (2009)
- Towers of Midnight (2010)
- A Memory of Light (2013)
9. The Outlander Series by Diana Gabaldon
Step into the captivating world of The Outlander Series by Diana Gabaldon. This enchanting historical fiction saga follows the remarkable journey of Claire Randall, a time-traveling nurse who finds herself torn between two worlds and two loves.
Transporting readers from the battlefields of Scotland to the intrigues of the
18th century court, Gabaldon weaves a tale of romance, adventure, and the
enduring power of love across time. The Outlander Series delves into themes of
loyalty, resilience, and the indomitable spirit of the human heart, immersing
readers in a rich tapestry of history and emotion. Prepare to be swept away by
this extraordinary literary odyssey.
The Outlander Series by Diana Gabaldon features the following books:
- Outlander (1991)
- Dragonfly in Amber (1992)
- Voyager (1993)
- Drums of Autumn (1996)
- The Fiery Cross (2001)
- A Breath of Snow and Ashes (2005)
- An Echo in the Bone (2009)
- Written in My Own Heart's Blood (2014)
- Go Tell the Bees That I Am Gone (2021)
- The 10th book (to be released)
10. The Millennium Series by Stieg Larsson (Starting with 'The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo')
Dive into the gripping world of The Millennium Series by Stieg Larsson, beginning with the electrifying thriller "The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo." This internationally acclaimed crime fiction series follows journalist Mikael Blomkvist and the enigmatic hacker Lisbeth Salander as they become entangled in a web of intrigue, corruption, and dark secrets.
Larsson's masterful storytelling weaves together a complex tapestry of
suspense, exploring themes of social justice, power dynamics, and the
indomitable strength of the human spirit. As the series unfolds, readers are
drawn deeper into a shadowy underworld where nothing is as it seems. With its
unforgettable characters, intricate plotting, and relentless tension, The
Millennium Series is a thrilling rollercoaster ride that will leave you
breathless until the final page.
The Millennium Series by Stieg Larsson begins with the thrilling novel "The
Girl with the Dragon Tattoo" and includes the following books:
- The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (2005)
- The Girl Who Played with Fire (2006)
- The Girl Who Kicked the Hornet's Nest (2007)
- The Girl in the Spider's Web (2015) by David Lagercrantz
- The Girl Who Takes an Eye for an Eye (2017) by David Lagercrantz
- The Girl Who Lived Twice (2019) by David Lagercrantz
11. The Percy Jackson and the Olympians Series by Rick Riordan
Rick Riordan's Percy Jackson & The Olympians series brings Greek mythology to life in a contemporary setting. Follow the adventures of Percy Jackson, a demigod with incredible powers, as he battles mythical creatures, uncovers ancient prophecies, and discovers his true identity.
Riordan's witty writing style, relatable characters, and clever incorporation
of Greek mythology make Percy Jackson & The Olympians a thrilling and
educational read. The series has sparked a renewed interest in mythology and
has inspired readers of all ages to delve deeper into ancient legends.
The Percy Jackson and the Olympians Series by Rick Riordan includes the
following books:
- The Lightning Thief (2005)
- The Sea of Monsters (2006)
- The Titan's Curse (2007)
- The Battle of the Labyrinth (2008)
- The Last Olympian (2009)
12. The Earthsea Cycle by Ursula K. Le Guin
Embark on a remarkable journey through the mystical realms of The Earthsea Cycle by Ursula K. Le Guin. This enchanting fantasy series takes readers to the archipelago of Earthsea, where magic and ancient wisdom shape the lives of its inhabitants.
Le Guin's lyrical prose and vivid imagination bring to life a world brimming
with dragons, wizards, and profound spiritual teachings. The Earthsea Cycle
follows the path of Ged, a young mage who must learn to harness his powers and
confront the darkness within himself. Through his adventures, readers explore
themes of balance, self-discovery, and the consequences of wielding immense
power.
With its timeless storytelling and profound philosophical underpinnings, The
Earthsea Cycle captures the essence of the hero's journey and invites readers
to contemplate the delicate balance between light and shadow in both the world
and within oneself. Prepare to be captivated by Le Guin's mastery of words and
her ability to transport you to a world of wonder and introspection.
The Earthsea Cycle includes the following books:
- A Wizard of Earthsea (1968)
- The Tombs of Atuan (1971)
- The Farthest Shore (1972)
- Tehanu (1990)
- The Other Wind (2001)
13. The Stormlight Archive Series and Mistborn Series by Brandon Sanderson
Embark on two epic journeys with The Stormlight Archive Series and Mistborn Series by the masterful storyteller, Brandon Sanderson.
In The Stormlight Archive, prepare to be swept away to the breathtaking world
of Roshar, where colossal storms shape the land and ancient conflicts threaten
the very essence of humanity. With a rich cast of diverse characters,
Sanderson weaves a complex tale of honor, magic, and the struggle for a
shattered world's redemption. Brace yourself for a riveting adventure filled
with political intrigue, epic battles, and the discovery of hidden powers.
In the Mistborn Series, Sanderson invites you to a world where the sky is red
and the oppressed seek to overthrow a tyrannical empire. Immerse yourself in a
meticulously crafted world of Allomancy, where individuals can harness the
power of metals to gain supernatural abilities. As the intricate plot unfolds,
prepare to be captivated by the interplay of politics, revolution, and the
indomitable spirit of rebellion.
With his meticulous world-building, intricate magic systems, and unforgettable
characters, Sanderson delivers masterpieces that will leave you enthralled and
eager for more. Get ready for immersive storytelling, heart-pounding action,
and a tapestry of interconnected narratives that will ignite your imagination
and keep you turning the pages late into the night.
The Stormlight Archive Series by Brandon Sanderson includes the following
books:
- The Way of Kings (2010)
- Words of Radiance (2014)
- Oathbringer (2017)
- Rhythm of War (2020)
- Knights of Wind and Truth (to be released in November 2024)
The Mistborn Series by Brandon Sanderson consists of multiple trilogies and
standalone novels set in the same universe. The original trilogy includes:
- Mistborn: The Final Empire (2006)
- Mistborn: The Well of Ascension (2007)
- Mistborn: The Hero of Ages (2008)
14. The Broken Earth Trilogy by N.K. Jemisin
Enter the tumultuous world of The Broken Earth Trilogy by the brilliant N.K. Jemisin. This groundbreaking fantasy series takes place in a post-apocalyptic landscape where cataclysmic events have shaped the Earth and given rise to a society on the edge of survival.
Jemisin's masterful storytelling explores themes of oppression, resilience,
and the inherent power of the earth itself. The Broken Earth Trilogy follows
the lives of extraordinary individuals known as orogenes, who possess the
ability to manipulate seismic forces. As the characters navigate a treacherous
and unforgiving world, they confront their own identities, unravel deep-rooted
mysteries, and challenge the oppressive systems that seek to control them.
With its intricate world-building, complex characters, and thought-provoking
narrative, The Broken Earth Trilogy pushes the boundaries of speculative
fiction. Jemisin's evocative prose and exploration of social structures create
a captivating reading experience that will keep you spellbound from the first
page to the last. Brace yourself for a journey of seismic proportions, where
the line between heroism and villainy blurs, and the fate of the world hangs
in the balance.
The Broken Earth Trilogy includes the following books:
- The Fifth Season (2015)
- The Obelisk Gate (2016)
- The Stone Sky (2017)
15. The His Dark Materials Series by Philip Pullman
Embark on an extraordinary adventure through parallel worlds with The His Dark Materials Series by the imaginative Philip Pullman. This beloved fantasy series follows the courageous young protagonist, Lyra Belacqua, as she unravels the mysteries of Dust, uncovers dark secrets, and discovers her own destiny.
Pullman's richly imagined universe spans across multiple dimensions, where
humans have their daemons, sentient manifestations of their souls. From the
bustling streets of Oxford to the icy landscapes of the Arctic, readers are
immersed in a world of magic, theology, and complex moral dilemmas.
The His Dark Materials Series explores profound themes of free will, the
nature of consciousness, and the power of imagination. With its engaging
narrative, vibrant characters, and thought-provoking exploration of religion
and philosophy, this series captivates readers of all ages. Prepare to be
transported to a wondrous realm where adventure, friendship, and the search
for truth intertwine in extraordinary ways.
The His Dark Materials Series includes the following books:
- Northern Lights (also known as The Golden Compass) (1995)
- The Subtle Knife (1997)
- The Amber Spyglass (2000)
Conclusion
In conclusion, the best book series of all time have the power to transport
readers to new worlds, introduce them to unforgettable characters, and explore
timeless themes. From epic fantasy to dystopian futures, these series have
captivated readers for generations and continue to inspire new generations of
readers and writers.
Whether you are a fan of magic and adventure, political intrigue, or
thought-provoking social commentary, there is a series in this list that is
sure to captivate your imagination. So, grab a book from one of these series
and embark on an unforgettable literary journey!
Remember, this list is just the tip of the iceberg. There are countless other
incredible book series out there waiting to be discovered. So, keep exploring
and let the magic of books transport you to new worlds and experiences. Happy
reading!
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