High Fantasy
J. R. R. Tolkien
Often considered the "Father of High Fantasy," J. R. R. Tolkien's several books of Middle Earth are rightfully well-beloved. Combining adventure, quests, archetypes, language and Catholic Christian morals, Tolkein towers above all of modern fantasy.
His works, therefore, are unabashedly recommended. Top
Alfred, Lord Dunsany
Another one of the founding fathers of modern fantasy, Lord Dunsany is perhaps best known for his lyrical prose and haunting images. A must for any fantasy scholar! Top
Terry Brooks
Best known for his Shannara series, Terry Brooks is often identified, by Tolkein fans, as "the guy who ripped off Tolkein." Regardless, the original Shannara trilogy, as well as its sequel quatrilogy (the Scions of Shanarra series) are fairly good in plot, language, and morals. The good people are good, the bad people are bad.
The further prequels and sequels (indicitive of the genre's newest trend of dead horse beating) are best approached with caution. Those who enjoyed his Shanarra stories will be tempted to gobble these up as well - however Druidism as well as other questionable wordviews are introduced here.
The same, unfortunately, applies to his Magic Kingdom for Sale - SOLD! series of books, which are weak in plot, language and morals. Top
His other works appear to degenerate.
Robert Jordan
Another of the dwarves, Jordan is reknowned for his Wheel of Time series, which, apparently, will conclude sometime after his death. For those who want to read an entire series now, Jordan's ongoing cycle will prove frustrating. For those who don't mind, I can only give a hesitating encouragement. Top
Stephen Donaldson
The author of the "Thomas the Unbeliever" series, as well as others, Donaldson frequently falls into the same trap of ying-yang philosophy with a Christian veneer. Reviewer SimoneM comments. Top
Terry Goodkind
A rather brief page - you'll see why immediately. Top
David Eddings
Fun to read - but skewed worldview make Eddings a curious fellow to study, and worth more than a moment's glance. Top
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Updated 22 July, 2007
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