Magical Realism Books
Magical realism is one of my favorite book genres because it seamlessly weaves magic into everyday life. Some people call this genre fantasy-light. It is one of my favorite genres and I wanted to make a list of my favorites.
When I was looking through my list of fantasy books, I was more than a little bit surprised at how many books fit into my magical realism book list.
What is magical realism? Well, in this list, you will not find faeries or vampires, hidden magic schools, or new worlds. The magic is woven into the story so realistically, that it leaves you wondering could it happen? Did it happen that way? What you will find, is a list of books that we have read and loved.
The Best Magical Realism Books
Each colorful block below represents the best book in a subgenre of magical realsm. Click on the arrow to reveal my “best” pick in any category. You’ll also be able to use a page jump to see more books in that section.
Best New Magical Realism Book
Vanishing of Josephine Reynolds- Click here to read the review and see more books in this category
Best Contemporary Fiction Magical Realism
House on the Cerulean Sea- Click here to read the review and see more books in this category
Best Literary Fiction Magical Realism
One Hundred Years of Solitude – Click here to read the review and see more books in this category
Best Historical Fiction Magical Realism Books
Magic Strings of Frankie Presto- Click here to read the review and see more books in this category
Best Romance Magical Realism Books
The Seven Year Slip – Click here to read the review and see more books in this category
Best Celebrity Book Club Picks with Magical Realism
Family Lore- Click here to read the review and see more books in this category
Best Family Drama with Magical Realism
Nothing to See Here – Click here to read the review and see more books in this category
Best Magical Realism Books About Books
The Starless Sea- Click here to read the review and see more books in this category
Best Award Winning Books with Magical Realism
Underground Railroad – Click here to read the review and see more books in this category
Best Short Story Magical Realism Books
The Curious Case of Benjamin Button- Click here to read the review and see more books in this category
*Post contains affiliate links. Purchases made through links result in a small commission to us at no cost to you. Some books have been gifted. All opinions are our own.
New Magical Realism Books
The Vanishing of Josephine Reynolds
Author: Jennifer Moorman
Year: 2025
Genre: Magical Realism
Spice Rating:💋
Age Range: 14+
Plot
Josephine Reynolds is widowed at thirty-five and feels like her life is over as well. She lost herself in her marriage and now that her husband is gone, she feels like she has nothing left. She makes a wish that changes everything. Convinced that she needs a new start, Josephine’s sister sends her a link to their family home that has fallen into some disrepair and is for sale.
When Josephine finds the home’s original door, she installs it only to discover that she is transported back to 1927. There, she meets her great-grandmother, Alma, who runs a speakeasy out of the house’s basement. Soon Josephine discovers that by stepping into the past, she may have put her own future in jeopardy. Suddenly, things in the present begin disappearing like pieces of furniture and photos. She realizes that if she wants to save herself, she will need to save Alma as well.
Trigger Warnings
Death of a Husband (off the page)
Why Jackie loves it
Josephine’s grief at the beginning of the book is palpable and yet, it does not weigh the story down. As Josephine fights to save Alma, she also learns to fight for herself as well. I love the way the story developed and the touch of magic makes to story feel hopeful. This is perfect for historical fiction fans as well.
Find this book in: Magical Realism Books / Books Set in the 1920s
Plot
Cassie works in a bookstore in NYC. When one of her favorite customers dies, she finds the book he was reading with an inscription leaving it to her. It’s the Book of Doors which allows Cassie to open any door and go anywhere she wants to – London, Paris, or any door she can picture in her head.
Soon, she is approached by a stranger named Drummond Fox, a librarian for a collection of books just like Cassie’s telling her she’s in danger. People have searched for The Book of Doors for years and will do anything to get their hands on it.
Now, Cassie finds herself entwined in a dangerous game of cat and mouse as she tries to stay alive and keep the Book of Doors away from those who want it for nefarious purposes. #gifted
Trigger Warnings
Death
Why Jackie loves it
OMG. I did not know what to expect when I picked up this book. It is unlike anything I had ever read and I loved every minute of the story! I loved I had to think about how the doors would work and how the story comes together in the end.
Find this book in: Books About Books / Magical Realism Books to Read Now / Books About Bookstores / Summer Reads 2024 / Best New Fantasy Books / Best Adult Fantasy Novels
The Rainfall Market
Author: You Yeong-Gwang
Year: 2025
Genre: January 21, 2025
More info: Translated by Slin Jung
Age Range: 14+
Plot
There is a house outside of Rainbow Town where you can send a letter telling all your troubles. If they send you a ticket, you can bring it to the house on the first day of the rainy season you are granted admission to the Rainfall Market. Once inside, you have a week to find what your perfect life will look like. But if you cannot, you will be left to wander the Rainfall Market forever.
Serin longs for a chance to enter the Rainfall Market. Her sister is gone, she struggles with school, and she and her mother struggle financially. When she receives the coveted ticket, she is determined to find a better life.
When she enters, she meets a magical cat named Issha who acts as her guide as they travel through the magical stores in the market. Will she find the happy ending she is longing for?
Why Jackie loves it
I loved this magical realism book. It is unique and unlike anything I have read before. Even though the book has some deeper themes, the book feels light-hearted throughout. I loved the magical journey Serin takes to find herself and her happiness.
Find this book in: Best Magical Realism / Best Books in Translation
Contemporary Magical Realism Books
House in the Cerulean Sea
Author: T.J Klune
Year: 2020
Genre: Fantasy
More info: Cerulean Chronicles #1
Spice Rating:💋
Age Range: 14+
Plot
Linus Baker is a caseworker in the Department in Charge of Magical Youth. He is sent on a mission to a secret orphanage isolated on an island where 6 of the world’s most dangerous youth live.
Linus is sent to determine if the children are being cared for properly. Linus, who lives his life by the book, will have to look deeper to try and find the real answers to his questions.
Trigger Warnings
Child abuse
Why Jackie loves it
This story was so much more than the sum of its parts. I felt like I had met each of the children in the story. Even though the story has magic, it somehow seems completely relevant to our society now. The magic and the orphan aspect are all reminiscent of Harry Potter.
Find this book in: Magical Realism Books / Feel-Good Books / Book for Book Club / Books About Friendship / Books With Color in the Title / Best Beach Reads / Adult Books Similar to Harry Potter
One Italian Summer
Author: Rebecca Serle
Year: 2022
Genre: Magical Realism
Spice Rating:💋💋
Age Range: 16+
Plot
Rebecca Serle has done it again with this book set in Italy. Katy’s mother, Carol, has died and left Katy to take their trip to Positano alone. When Katy leaves, she is uncertain about everything and whether she will return to her marriage.
Then, the impossible happens, and Carol appears at Katy’s hotel. She is in perfect health and thirty years old. She is not the woman Katy thought she knew. As she gets to know her mother, she realizes more about herself.
Why Jackie loves it
This is a beautiful, well-written book with a touch of magic. I loved how Katy and Carol are able to develop a relationship in Italy after Carol died. It is unique and wonderful.
Find this book in: Contemporary Fiction / Book Set in Italy / Book About Grief / Best Magical Realism Books / Books About Mothers/ Books Set on a Beach / Books with Summer in the Title
Invisible Life of Addie LaRue
Author: V.E. Schwab
Year: 2020
Genre: Fantasy
More info: #1 New York Times Bestseller
Spice Rating:💋
Age Range: 16+
Plot
Addie LaRue is trying to escape a life of marriage to a man she doesn’t know or love. She makes a deal with the devil to live a life free and unknowingly gives away the ability to be remembered by anyone.
For three hundred years people forget her the minute she is out of sight until she meets Henry. I loved this magical realism book from the first sentence. It’s a must-read.
Why Jackie loves it
Where do I start? I love this magical realism book so much. The prose are beautiful, the story is so clever and the audio narration from Julia Whelan is perfect.
Find this book in: Best Books of 2020 / Magical Realism Books
The Magic Strings of Frankie Presto
Author: Mitch Album
Year: 2015
Genre: Magical Realism
Age Range: 14+
Plot
This is one of the best books that I have ever listened to. It is narrated by “Music” who tells the story of a magician named Frankie Presto.
Frankie was orphaned and lived with his blind music teacher in Spain before he was sent to America with only his guitar and its size magical strings. Frankie’s music has the power to change people’s lives and every time he does, one magic string changes color. Frankie works with musical legends and eventually becomes a star himself before disappearing from the spotlight.
Why Jackie loves it
Multiple people narrate this book, which is more like a play than a book when you are listening. I loved this book and bought a copy which I lent to an unnamed person who loved it and did not return it. My second copy has met the same fate. Third time’s a charm? The story made me feel like I should have known Frankie along with all the great musical legends.
Find this book in: Full Cast Audiobooks / Books About Music / Magical Realism Book / Jackie’s Top 10 All-Time Favorite Books / Adult Fantasy Novels
Literary Fiction Books with Magical Realism
One Hundred Years of Solitude
Author: Gabriel Garcia Marquez
Year: 1967
Genre: Magical Realism
More info: January 2004 Oprah Book Club Pick
Age Range: 14+
Plot
This multi-generational family saga is about the Buendiá family and their hometown, the magical Maconda. It’s a comedy, a tragedy, and it looks at the rise and fall of the town’s founding family.
For the record, I read this book BEFORE Oprah picked it! We spent a semester learning about this family saga in high school. Each person was assigned a symbol to report on throughout the book each week.
Mine was goldfish -part of the symbolism of amnesia and the duality between amnesia and nostalgia. Yep. I still remember the lesson. Maybe the teaching contributed, but this remains one of my favorite books ever.
Why Kirsten loves it
I love this family saga. The writing is brilliant and so is the symbolism. This is not an easy read but it is worth every minute.
Find this book in: Kirsten’s Favorites / Magical Realism Books / Classic Books / Amnesia Books / Best Oprah’s Book Club Books / Best Books in Translation
Life of Pi by Yann Martel
When a boat sinks in the Pacific, the only survivors are a 16-year-old boy named Pi, an orangutan, a hyena, a Bengal tiger, and a zebra. And while this book was written less than 20 years ago, it is already a modern classic.
This is not a sailing novel that once read can be forgotten. I know that some people look at the story as an extended metaphor in which each animal represents a person but personally, I like the book exactly the way it was written, one of the best magical realism books I have read.
There is magic in the pages of this book in all meanings of the word. First, read this book, then, rethink everything. This is a perfect example of a thought-provoking book because no two people view it the same way. If you are looking for animal fiction books, this one is a must.
Plot
This magical realism book is narrated by Death. Death tells the story of Liesel, a young girl in Nazi Germany in 1939. Liesel is living with her foster parents and learning to read from stolen books. She also shares these books with the Jewish man who is hiding in her basement.
Trigger Warnings
Death, Antisemitism, War
Why Kirsten loves it
This book is a brilliant, powerful, poignant, and unforgettable look at Nazi Germany. It’s becoming part of many school curriculums for good reason. I’ve never read a story that encapsulates life for ordinary children during this harrowing time in history.
Find this book in: WWII Books for Kids / YA Historical Fiction Books / Books about the Holocaust / Coming-of-age Books for Teens
Beloved
Author: Toni Morrison
Year: 1987
Genre: Historical Fiction
More info: Pulitzer Prize Winner, New York Times Bestseller,
Age Range: 16+
Plot
Beloved, which is based on the true story of a runaway slave, haunted me while I was reading it. Set just after the Civil War, the story is about a formerly enslaved family whose home is haunted by an angry spirit. The family believes the spirit is the deceased child of Sethe, a nameless baby whose tomb says “Beloved”. The harrowing memories of her life before freedom haunt Sethe, too as Morrison examines the horrors of slavery.
Trigger Warnings
Slavery, Child Death
Why Kirsten loves it
HOW HAVE I NEVER READ TONI MORRISON BEFORE? I swear I thought I had read this book, but after reading The Toni Morrison Book Club, I realized I hadn’t. When my library hold finally came up for this one, I was so excited to read it. Morrison is easily one of the most gifted writers I’ve ever read.
Find this book in: Magical Realism Books / Best Classic Books / Books about Motherhood / Ghost Books
Historical Fiction Books with Magical Realism
The Magic Strings of Frankie Presto
Author: Mitch Album
Year: 2015
Genre: Magical Realism
Age Range: 14+
Plot
This is one of the best books that I have ever listened to. It is narrated by “Music” who tells the story of a magician named Frankie Presto.
Frankie was orphaned and lived with his blind music teacher in Spain before he was sent to America with only his guitar and its size magical strings. Frankie’s music has the power to change people’s lives and every time he does, one magic string changes color. Frankie works with musical legends and eventually becomes a star himself before disappearing from the spotlight.
Why Jackie loves it
Multiple people narrate this book, which is more like a play than a book when you are listening. I loved this book and bought a copy which I lent to an unnamed person who loved it and did not return it. My second copy has met the same fate. Third time’s a charm? The story made me feel like I should have known Frankie along with all the great musical legends.
Find this book in: Full Cast Audiobooks / Books About Music / Magical Realism Book / Jackie’s Top 10 All-Time Favorite Books / Adult Fantasy Novels
The London Séance Society by Sarah Penner
I was so excited about this new book written by the author of The Lost Apothecary, a book on our Ultimate List of Best Historical Fiction Books, and this newest book did not disappoint!
In 1873, The Seance Society is looking for answers about the death of their leader and turned to a renowned spiritualist for help. Out of loyalty and obligation, she leaves Paris and returns to London with her trainee, a woman seeking answers about her dead sister.
If you love magical realism books, this book is a perfect pick. The story takes twists and turns and kept me turning the pages. It was just too good not to include it in our list of best fantasy books for adults as well. If you are looking for a great fall read, this one is for you.
The Ten Thousand Doors of January by Alix. E Harrow
I’ve never read a book quite like this and I have to say that I was very pleasantly surprised. The writing is subtle, the plot is driven by character and intrigue rather than action-packed suspense. It also has a feel of historical fiction about it. Lovers of this genre may love this book as well.
When January is seven years old, she stumbles upon a door that leads her to a different place. When she is reprimanded for lying about the door, she eventually forgets about it until she finds the book “The Ten Thousand Doors of January” years later. January becomes intrigued and the real story begins.
The story alternates between the story of January and the book. The concept is such a fun way to narrate the plot. At times, the plot moved a little bit slowly as one storyline stopped and another began in the alternating chapters. This is such a unique and wonderful magical realism book and is a must-read from fall books.
Once Upon a River by Diane Setterfield
Diane Setterfield has been a must-read author for me since I first read The Thirteenth Tale. Her latest was just as captivating, with a bit of magic and mystery mixed in.
When an almost drowned child is found in the river, three separate families lay claim to her. This story is filled with drama, love, and loss. The story is compelling, but the writing is spectacular and it is a magical realism book that is a must-read.
Romance Books with Magical Realism
The Seven-Year Slip
Author: Ashley Poston
Year: 2023
Genre: Fantasy
More info: A Most Anticipated Book by Entertainment Weekly ∙ Harper’s Bazaar ∙ PopSugar ∙ Real Simple ∙ BookRiot
Spice Rating:💋
Age Range:
Plot
Clementine has had her heart broken one too many times. She has inherited her beloved aunt’s apartment and is constantly mourning her loss. When she comes home one day and finds a man sitting there, she realizes that he exists seven years in the past. When she steps out of the apartment, their paths are uncertain.
And, the more time they spend together, the more she realizes she is falling for him. But she can never figure out when their paths will collide! This is a fantastic pick if you are looking for romantic comedy books.
Why Jackie loves it
Dead Romantics (GMA Book Club Pick July 2022) was one of my favorite books last year and this book did not disappoint! This is such an adorable time travel romance book. And if you are not a fantasy lover this is the perfect one to blur the lines between genres. The story is so unique and refreshing,
Find this book in: Best Rom-Com Books / Ultimate Beach Reads 2023 / Time Travel Romance Books / Best Adult Fantasy Novels
On Fire Island by Jane L Rosen
I absolutely adored this magical realism book. It is a delightful magical realism book. Do not let the fact that it is a paranormal book throw you off if this is not your usual genre. The book is narrated by Julia Moore, a book editor who died at thirty-seven.
She follows her husband to Fire Island, her happy place, to spend one last summer with him and their friends on the Island. I absolutely loved this book. This is a powerful story about love, friendship, and happiness. It is one of the best picks for Ultimate Beach Reads 2023. This paranormal book is a heart-warming, feel-good book rather than spooky or creepy.
Vanessa Yu’s Magical Paris Tea Shop by Roselle Lim
Oh, how I loved this matchmaking book. What could be better than a love story set in a Paris tea shop with a little magic sprinkled on top? This magical realism book is not a complicated or unexpected story. But what it is, is delightful, fun, and lighthearted.
Vanessa Yu never wanted to see people’s future in tea leaves and spent her entire life fighting it. She also knows that this “gift” will stand in the way of having a successful relationship because she cannot stop blurting out truths whether she wants to or not.
When Vanessa’s aunt offers to bring her to Paris to hone her skills and get her life in order, Vanessa goes. As she finally gets to experience Paris, she wonders if she can change her destiny as well. When it comes to matchmaking books, this one is a favorite! And be sure to check out our delectable books about tea.
In a Holidaze
Author: Christina Lauren
Year: 2020
Genre: Holiday Romance
Spice Rating:💋
Age Range: 18+
Plot
Do you love Christmas movies? Are you obsessed with Christmas Romance books? Do you need to swoon? If you answered yes to any of those questions, stop everything and order In a Holidaze. This is possibly my favorite Christmas novel of all time and was a must for best holiday books.
I adored Mae and Andrew’s love story. It’s set up like Groundhog’s Day with Mae repeating the same Christmas vacation until she gets it right.
Why Kirsten loves it
This is a time-travel romance at its best. And man… does she get it right. Peppermint kisses, sexy sledding, snowball fights, Christmas Tree trimming… this book oozes cheer-filled holiday goodness with a few scenes that are steamier than a cup of cocoa.
Why Jackie loves it
I thought a time loop book would become repetitive and this book was definitely not repetitive! I could not get enough of the Christmas cheer and the sweet moments in this book. I was rooting for the characters!
Find this book in: Time Travel Books / Best Books of 2020 / Magical Realism / Time Loop Books / Fantasy Christmas Books / Best Holiday Books / Best Christmas Books of All Time / Christmas Romance Books
Celebrity Book Club Picks with Magical Realism
The Family Lore by Elizabeth Acevedo
August 2023 Good Morning America Book Club Pick
This is the first adult book from National Book Award Winner Elizabeth Acevedo, whose YA novels we devour. #gifted
It’s about the women in a Domenican-American family, their special gifts, and the bonds they share with each other. It starts off with Flor, who has the ability to know the date of people’s death, informing everyone that she wants a living wake.
As her family grapples with what that means, Acevedo explores each woman’s special gift and how it has impacted their lives.
I was fascinated by the magical realism elements of the story, but it was the depth of the characters that drew me in. Rich in culture and exquisitely written, this family saga wove a magical realism story I never wanted to end.
The Other Black Girl by Zakiya Dalila Harris
June 2021 GMA Book Club Pick
Wow. I’m still processing this genre-defying novel. It’s a social commentary and a thriller all in one. It makes me want to sit down and discuss it with everyone.
Nella is the only black girl at her publishing house until Hazel is hired. Thinking she’s found an ally, instead, she begins to wonder if Hazel might be an enemy instead.
As Hazel’s career soars, Nella is left questioning her identity, her ideals, and what it means to be a black woman in the business world while trying to uncover who is behind the scary notes she keeps receiving.
The Scent Keeper
Author: Erica Bauermeister
Year: 2020
Genre: Fiction
More info: February 2020 Reese Witherspoon Book Club Pick, New York Times Bestseller
Age Range: 16+
Plot
The premise of a little girl, Emmeline, growing up on an isolated island learning about scents had me picking up the book, but the hard-life lessons she learned along the way kept me flipping the pages.
Why Kirsten likes it
I snagged a copy of The Scent Keeper because Reese Witherspoon told me I should. I did not know that this pick would be a magical realism book. I usually love her picks and this was no exception. I’ve seen many mixed reviews on this one, but for me, it was a reflective read about what is means to be loved, and the memories that scents hold. And with a touch of magic, this book hit the mark.
Find this book in: Magical Realism Books / Beach Reads 2021 / Reese Witherspoon 2020
Magical Realism Books with Family Drama
Nothing to See Here by
Author: Kevin Wilson
Year: 2019
Genre: Magical Realism
More info: November 2019 Read by Jenna Book Club Pick
Age Range:16+
Plot
This magical realism book is about a woman who becomes a nanny for two children who start on fire when they get mad. There is wonderful humor in this book that is centered around strong and beautiful relationships. I cannot recommend this family drama story highly enough.
Why Jackie loves it
There is so much that I love about this family drama novel. It is such a feel-good book that is more than what it seems. It is well-written and funny and made our top books of 2019 list.
Find this book in: Best Family Drama Books/ Best Adult Fantasy Novels / Magical Realism Books/2024 Read with Jenna Book Club List / Adult Fantasy Novels / Best Books About Siblings / Best Read With Jenna Books
The Enchanted Hacienda
Author: J. C. Cervantes
Year: 2023
Genre: Magical Realism Romance
Spice Rating:💋💋
Age Range: 18+
Plot
After being fired and dumping her boyfriend on the same day, Harlow Estrada flys back to her family flower farm in Mexico. But it’s no ordinary farm. The Estrada women have magical gifts that allow them to heal the hearts, interpret the dreams, and erase the memories of their customers, except for Harlow who believes she was never blessed with magic.
But when watching the flower farm while her mother and aunt are away, magical blooms start to open. When she meets a handsome man and feels drawn to him and his family, she learns of their grandmothers’ connection – and begins to feel one of her own.
Why Kirsten loves it
I felt like I was reading an adult version of Encanto, at least in the beginning. Then, I became so immersed in this cozy romance that I completely lost track of time. It the perfect story to read on a fall day.
Find this book in: Magical Realism Books / Cozy Books
The Minuscule Mansion of Myra Malone by Audrey Burges
This is easily one of the most unique magical realism books I’ve ever read. Myra Malone blogs about a dollhouse mansion and has thousands of followers. But the mansion is more than it seems as rooms disappear and reappear overnight.
Across the country, Alex is shocked to see someone recreating the rooms of his home in miniature form. Alex and Myra correspond to determine their connection and in the process feel a pull to each other.
The Immortalists
Author: Chloe Benjamin
Year: 2018
Genre: Historical Fiction
More info: A “Best Book of the Year”: Washington Post
Instant New York Times Bestseller
Spice Rating:💋
Age Range: 16+
Plot
What would you do if you knew the day that you were going to die? Would want to know? The four Gold children find out the information that will shape their lives in this amazing family drama book. We follow the Gold children over the next 5 decades. Simon heads to the West Coast, Klara becomes a magician in Las Vegas, Daniel becomes an army doctor, and Varya seeks out the research of immortality.
Trigger Warnings
Suicide, Mental Illness
Why Jackie loves it
This book is beautifully written. Ms. Benjamin does a superb job of creating different voices for each of these characters. They are so vivid and unique.
Why Kirsten loves it
This family saga book about grief is un-putdownable and stays with you long after you have finished reading the last page.
Find this book in: Family Sagas / Carnival and Circus Books / Books About Mental Illness / Books Set in the 80s / Best Books About Siblings
Plot
Ursula Todd is born one night in 1910 and died before taking her first breath. She is born again on the same snowy night in 1910 and so the story continues.
Ursula lives her life over and over and hopes that she can get it right and change her story. As she grows, she grapples with family life and WWII.
Why Kirsten loves it
This masterful work by Kate Atkinson is a family drama, historical fiction, and magical realism all rolled into one fantastic book. This unique story is one of the best books I’ve ever read.
Why Jackie loves it
The story is so unique and Atkinson’s writing is wonderful. This story felt fresh, even when watching Ursula live her life over and over again. The story gives such a fresh glimpse of WWII but is also a story about family.
Find this book in: Best WWII Books / Books Like the Time Traveler’s Wife / Magical Realism / Time Loop Books / British Books
Magical Realism Books About Books
The Starless Sea
Author: Erin Morgenstern
Year: 2019
Genre: Fantasy
More info: National Bestseller
Spice Rating:💋
Age Range: 16+
Plot
How to describe this book that is an ode to storytelling…..it’s a love story to books, a fantasy within a love story within a fairy tale. Zachary finds a hidden book in the library stacks filled with romantic love stories – including one from his own life! Soon he’s transported to a magical world in search of answers.
Why Jackie loves it
To say that I was excited about Erin Morgenstern‘s new book might be the understatement of the year. The writing is beautiful- Erin’s signature style of vivid imagery left me completely captivated. I truly loved every minute of this book. It was pointless to predict the story. So, I let it take me away with the lyrical prose.
Find this book in: Books Like The Night Circus / Full Cast Audiobooks / Magical Realism Books / Books About Librarians
Mr. Penumbra’s 24 Hour Book Store by Robin Sloan
This book was not what I was expecting. There was a lot more mystery and action than I thought and a little more magic as well. The characters developed and changed and the story moved quickly.
This was a light and enjoyable magical realism book. When Clay takes a job in a bookstore, he thinks he will be selling books. He doesn’t realize that the “wayback” of the store is more like a library to an elite group of readers.
Mr. Penumbra’s bookstore is exactly the type of store that you will never want to leave.
Why We Love It: This is a book about a bookstore which is always something to love, but this book has puzzles to solve before you can understand why the bookstore is so special.
Find This Book In Books About Puzzles / Books About Bookstores
The Midnight Library
Author: Matt Haig
Year: 2020
Genre: Time Travel Fiction
More info: October 2020 GMA Book Club Pick
Spice Rating:💋
Age Range: 18+
Plot
The story is about a library with books filled with the infinite possibilities of the lives not lived. Have you ever wondered about a choice, or a path not taken?
When Nora finds herself in the library she is forced to face the choices that she made in her life- relationships, education, profession… The books in the library are endless, each an alternate reality of the endless life choices. Nora has to decide what kind of life she wants to live.
Trigger Warnings
Suicide
Why Jackie loves it
I loved Matt Haig’s last book and was so excited to read this one. This is a magical time travel book and I loved every minute of getting to know Nora’s paths untravelled. Matt Haig is a master of magical realism.
Find this book in: Time Travel Books / Books About Books / Time Loop Books / Magical Realism / Best Books of 2020 / Adult Fantasy Novels / Books About Libraries / Ultimate Beach Reads 2021
Award Winning Books with Magical Realism
The Underground Railroad
Author: Colson Whitehead
Year: 2016
Genre: Literary Historical Fiction
More info: August 2016 Oprah Book Club Pick, Pulitzer Prize winner, New York Times Bestseller
Age Range: 16+
Plot
The story is about Cora and Caesar, two run-away slaves in the South who run away to the underground railroad which, in this book, is an actual railroad. Each stop along the way is reminiscent of a different place in history and it is interlaced with actual ads placed for runaway slaves. This book is profound and beautiful and a must-read.
Trigger Warnings
Slavery
Why Jackie loves it
I loved this book, and it was one of the first reviews we did on the blog. I love how this book examined the underground railroad with a touch of magical realism. If you are looking for thought-provoking books, look no further.
Find this book in: Thought-provoking Books / Best Historical Fiction Books / Magical Realism Books / Best Oprah’s Book Club Books
Sing, Unburied, Sing by Jesmyn Ward
This book is an award winner and the writing is undeniably wonderful. The story itself has elements of magic that add to the difficult subject matter. It deals with drugs, violence, and poverty- all of which are completely relevant in today’s society.
Why We Like It: The characters did not develop throughout the story as much as I would have liked, but this ghost book is a worthwhile read when considering the wonderful writing. The paranormal aspect makes this a great book for fall.
Find this book in Fall Books / Jazz Age Books / Ghost Books
Echo
Author: Pam Muñoz Ryan
Year: 2015
Genre: Middle Grade Fantasy
Age: 10 – 12
More info: Newbery Honor Book, New York Times Bestseller, Children’s Literature Legacy Award Winner
Plot
The story is three tales woven together in one with a magical harmonica at the center. The story follows a harmonica as it lands in the hands of Freidrich in Germany, Mike in Pennsylvania, and Ivy in California.
Part fairy tale and part historical fiction, this is one story that is amazing for middle grade and adults alike. Each child has their own adventure but the end brings the three stories together in a beautiful way.
Trigger Warnings
Racism, Antisemitism
Why Kirsten loves it
It’s not often that I find myself contemplating a middle grade story long after I have finished it, but I have thought of this one many times in the years since I read it. My children loved it just as much as I did when we listened to it during a road trip.
Why Jackie loves it
I listened to this feel-good book and it blew me away. The full-cast audiobook plays music so it is a full sensory experience. In our opinion, this story is best in audiobook format.
Find this book in: World War II Books for Kids / Magical Realism Books / Books for 11-Year-Olds / Audiobooks for Kids / Novels About Music / Newbery Award Winners
Magical Realism in Short Stories
The Curious Case of Benjamin Button
Author: F. Scott Fitzgerald
Year: 1922
Genre: Short Story
More info: Inspired Movie starring Brad Pitt and Cate Blanchett
Age Range: 12+
Plot
This short story revolves around a man who aged in reverse – born as a 70-year-old and ending his life as a newborn. He has a chance at love and experiences life’s ups and downs throughout his odd life.
Why Kirsten loves it
I listened to this one while doing the laundry the other night, it’s only an hour long but I rather liked it! I liked it so much that I was frustrated that it wasn’t a full-blown novel.
Find this book in: Best Classic Books /1920s Novels / Short Story Collections
Land of Big Numbers
Author: Te-Ping Chen
Year: 2021
Genre: Short Story
More info: A Best Book of the Year: Barack Obama, NPR, The Washington Post, The Philadelphia Inquirer, Esquire
Age Range: 16+
Plot
This short story collection is utterly captivating. Te-Ping Chen vividly showcases life in China and its nuances, political and otherwise. Some stories are straight fiction while others have a touch of magical realism. My favorite involves a new fruit that inspires strong emotions in the eater.
Why Kirsten loves it
Each story is engaging and could lead to a book of its own. It’s a wonderful debut from a writer known for her work as a reporter for the Wall Street Journal.
Find this book in: Short Story Collections
The Office of Historical Corrections
Author: Danielle Evans
Year: 2020
Genre: Short Stories
More info: Winner of the 2021 Joyce Carol Oates Prize
Named a Best Book of 2020 by O Magazine, The New Yorker, Washington Post
Finalist for: The Story Prize
Age Range: 16+
Plot
This collection of short stories was a thought-provoking delight. Within the pages of each story, Evans was able to shine a spotlight on racism through the lens of history and how it shapes American culture.
Why Kirsten loves it
The titular novella was my favorite of the bunch. It gave me chills and had me thinking it was over too soon.
Find this book in: Short Stories / Magical Realism
What Makes a Book Magical Realism?
The most important thing that makes a book magical realism is that it is set in the real world with an undercurrent of magic. Magical realism books will initially seem to be realistic fiction but will soon blur the lines between fantasy and reality.
One of the most well-known examples of magical realism is the book One Hundred Years of Solitude by Gabriel Garcia Marquez.
What is your favorite magical realism book?
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Thanks for the suggestions. Also loved “The Tiger’s Wife” by Tea Obrecht and “The Wive’s Tales” by Alix Wilbur