by Scarlett May 01,2025
The fantasy genre has captivated and inspired readers for centuries, enchanting them with its ability to transport them to realms beyond imagination. In 1858, Scottish author George MacDonald penned Phantastes: A Faerie Romance for Men and Women, widely regarded as the first "modern" fantasy novel. This seminal work influenced many subsequent authors, including Lord Dunsany, whose book The King of Elfland's Daughter was a favorite of J.R.R. Tolkien. Fast forward to 2025, and the allure of fantasy remains as strong as ever, with readers eagerly following their favorite authors into wondrous worlds filled with surreal characters and fantastical creatures. Now is the perfect time to reflect on the most influential fantasy authors and explore the reasons behind their lasting impact through their vibrant and imaginative storytelling.
J.R.R. Tolkien stands as one of the most influential writers of all time, transcending the fantasy genre with his groundbreaking Lord of the Rings series. His revolutionary approach to world-building and creation of new languages has captivated fans for nearly a century. Tolkien's influence extends from George Lucas, who drew inspiration from The Hobbit for Star Wars, to iconic authors like Ursula Le Guin and George R.R. Martin. He is nearly synonymous with fantasy, having been one of its earliest breakthrough authors. Many beloved aspects of fantasy, from religious undertones to stunning landscapes and unique fictional languages, were popularized by Tolkien's expansive works set in Middle Earth. Even adaptations of his work, such as Peter Jackson's Lord of the Rings films, have inspired countless fantasy imitators over the years.
C.S. Lewis's enchanting tales of the mystical world of Narnia have exerted a magical influence on children's literature and fantasy since the publication of The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe in 1950. Over the next six years, he released six more books, completing his Chronicles of Narnia series with Prince Caspian, The Voyage of the Dawn Treader, The Silver Chair, The Horse and His Boy, The Magician's Nephew, and The Last Battle. Since their initial release, these books have never gone out of print, with over 100 million copies sold in nearly 50 languages. Lewis cited Phantastes as a significant influence, and the Narnia series has inspired countless children worldwide, including authors like Katherine Paterson of Bridge to Terabithia. The series has been adapted multiple times, from the classic BBC TV specials to Disney movies, and soon, a new version will be brought to life by Greta Gerwig at Netflix.
Ursula Le Guin is renowned for her groundbreaking fantasy novels, particularly the Earthsea series, which follows a young mage's journey to find his place and freedom in the fictional world of Earthsea. Her work earned her the distinction of being the first woman to win both the Hugo and Nebula awards for best novel, introducing her already popular books to an even broader audience. Le Guin's philosophical and whimsical storytelling has inspired creators like Hayao Miyazaki and his son, who adapted Earthsea into a film. Beyond her contributions to fantasy, Le Guin was a radical thinker, advocating for a better world through her stories and real-life activism. Even after her passing in 2018, her optimistic views on the end of capitalism and hope for humanity continue to resonate, making her work as powerful in 2025 as ever.
George R.R. Martin's epic Game of Thrones series has not only been a massive commercial success but has also transformed television with its high budgets, intense gore, and notable nudity. However, what truly sets Martin apart is his exceptional world-building, considered among the best in fantasy literature. From the detailed renditions of Westeros to his expansive fictional histories and ephemera, Martin immerses readers in his richly crafted worlds. Beyond Game of Thrones, Martin has influenced TV and film through his work on shows like the 2000s reboot of The Twilight Zone, the cult classic Max Headroom, and the underrated 1989 Beauty and the Beast series. More recently, his chilling supernatural noir series Dark Winds was adapted by AMC and renewed for a fourth season.
While Octavia Butler is increasingly recognized for her pioneering work in science fiction, she is also a vital part of the fantasy canon. Her imagination spanned from vampires to time travel, with her most well-known book, Kindred, described by Butler herself as "a kind of grim fantasy." Butler's unique approach to genre fiction seamlessly integrates real-world experiences, addressing issues like racism and sexism within her narratives of time travel, vampires, and dystopias. Her ability to blend relatable issues with imaginative world-building makes her one of the most influential and powerful genre authors of all time, and it's heartening to see her finally receiving the recognition she deserves.
Terry Pratchett's Discworld series blends the cozy charm of Tolkien's hobbits with absurdist comedy and vibrant fantasy, making him a pioneer of the cozy fantasy movement. Pratchett's work is not only entertaining but also rich with satirical commentary, earning him numerous awards in the fantasy genre. Like many authors on this list, Pratchett aimed to change the real world through his writing, famously stating, "Fantasy isn't just about wizards and silly wands. It's about seeing the world from new directions." He used fantasy as a tool for comfort, entertainment, and broadening readers' perspectives. Pratchett was also a vocal advocate for human rights and, following his Alzheimer's diagnosis, for the right to die with dignity.
Diana Wynne Jones, a significant influence on Terry Pratchett, is the creative mind behind Howl's Moving Castle and the Chronicles of Chrestomanci. Her children's books have inspired generations of avid readers, inviting them into dreamworlds they can imagine themselves inhabiting. Even those unfamiliar with her name have likely encountered her work through Studio Ghibli's beloved adaptation of Howl's Moving Castle. Jones's impact extends to other authors, with many believing that her distinctly British take on magic, growing up, and discovering personal power may have influenced the creation of the boy who lived.
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