20 best books on portals to other worlds – 2023 reading list & recommendations

Are you ready to embark on a literary journey to other dimensions? If you’ve ever dreamt of stepping through a mystical portal and discovering new worlds, then this list is for you. We’ve gathered the 20 best books about portals to other worlds, where ordinary characters find themselves thrust into extraordinary adventures. From magical doorways to hidden gateways, these books will transport you to realms beyond your imagination. So grab a book and get ready to explore the unknown, because the wonders of these portals await!


The Ten Thousand Doors of January

by Alix E. Harrow

The Ten Thousand Doors of January: A Captivating Journey through Portals to Other Worlds

Step into a world where ordinary doors lead to extraordinary places, where hidden passages transport you to realms beyond imagination. Alix E. Harrow’s spellbinding novel, The Ten Thousand Doors of January, invites readers on a thrilling adventure through a plethora of mystical gateways.

Embark on an enchanting odyssey as you follow the footsteps of January Scaller, a young woman who discovers a book that unveils the existence of countless doors to other worlds. Within these pages lies a tale of magic, mystery, and the power of imagination.

Delve into a story that weaves together the allure of historical fiction with the wonder of fantastical realms. Harrow’s exquisite prose paints vivid landscapes, drawing readers into lush landscapes, treacherous forests, and majestic cities that exist just beyond our reach.

Be prepared to be captivated by the themes of adventure, self-discovery, and the unbreakable bonds of friendship. As January embarks on a quest to uncover the truth about her own origins, she must confront her deepest fears and navigate treacherous paths to unlock the secrets of her own destiny.

The Ten Thousand Doors of January is a book that will transport you to faraway lands, ignite your sense of wonder, and remind you of the magic that lies hidden within our own world. With its intricate storytelling and heartfelt characters, it is a portal that will leave you longing for more.

Every Heart a Doorway

by Seanan McGuire

Every Heart a Doorway is a captivating book about portals to other worlds that will transport you into a realm of wonder and mystery. Written by Seanan McGuire, this enchanting novel explores the lives of children who have returned from fantastical realms through portals to other worlds.

The story revolves around Eleanor West’s Home for Wayward Children, a boarding school that provides a safe haven for these displaced children. Each character in the book has experienced their own unique portal journey, whether it be through a magical wardrobe, a rabbit hole, or a hidden doorway in an old house.

As you delve deeper into the pages of Every Heart a Doorway, you will become entwined in the lives of these extraordinary children. The author expertly weaves together elements of fantasy, mystery, and coming-of-age themes to create a truly captivating narrative.

With stunning prose and a richly imagined world, McGuire invites readers to question what it means to find one’s place in the world. The book explores themes of identity, acceptance, and the longing for belonging, making it a powerful and thought-provoking read.

Every Heart a Doorway is a book on portals to other worlds that will transport you to a realm beyond your wildest imagination. Prepare to be captivated by McGuire’s masterful storytelling and embark on a journey that will leave you with a profound sense of wonder.

The Starless Sea

by Erin Morgenstern

Discover a mesmerizing journey through the pages of “The Starless Sea” by Erin Morgenstern, a spellbinding book about gateways to other realms. Embark on an enchanting adventure where secret doors, hidden libraries, and mysterious books transport you to unimaginable worlds.

In this captivating tale, portals to other realms are woven seamlessly into the fabric of reality, waiting to be discovered by those with a keen eye and a curious heart. As you delve deeper into the labyrinthine depths of the story, you’ll find yourself immersed in a world where time stands still, and the boundaries between reality and fantasy blur into beautifully intricate tapestries.

Follow the protagonist, Zachary Ezra Rawlins, as he stumbles upon a mysterious book that leads him to a hidden underground library known as the Starless Sea. Within its hallowed halls, he encounters a myriad of characters, each with their own story to tell. From star-crossed lovers to mythical creatures, their lives intertwine in a web of fate and destiny.

With lyrical prose and a masterful blend of magic and realism, Morgenstern crafts a mesmerizing narrative that leaves readers longing for their own ticket to the Starless Sea. Lose yourself in the evocative descriptions of opulent ballrooms, ancient forests, and forgotten cities, as you journey alongside Zachary in a quest to uncover the truth behind the enigmatic book and the labyrinthine world it holds.

“The Starless Sea” is a book that will transport you to a realm where imagination knows no bounds. So open its pages, step through the portals, and prepare to embark on an unforgettable adventure that will leave you breathless and yearning for more.

The Invisible Library

by Genevieve Cogman

The Invisible Library

Are you ready for a thrilling adventure into the depths of imagination? Step into the world of The Invisible Library, where books hold the power to transport you to mesmerizing realms beyond your wildest dreams.

In this captivating novel, Genevieve Cogman takes us on a journey through a universe of infinite possibilities, where libraries are not just ordinary repositories of knowledge, but gateways to extraordinary dimensions. Here, books are portals to other worlds, offering escape, knowledge, and the chance to shape destinies.

Meet Irene, a dedicated Librarian who travels across different realities, collecting rare and unique books to preserve their knowledge and magic. With her magical abilities and a trusty sidekick, Kai, Irene faces thrilling challenges and dangerous encounters as she navigates the treacherous landscapes of various alternate realities.

But as Irene hunts for a particularly powerful book, she becomes entangled in a deadly game of wits and intrigue, where nothing is as it seems. With each new portal she enters, the stakes grow higher, and the line between friend and foe blurs. Can Irene unravel the mysteries that lie hidden within the pages of these enchanted books before it’s too late?

With its captivating blend of fantasy, mystery, and adventure, The Invisible Library is a must-read for anyone who yearns to journey through portals to other worlds. So grab a cup of tea, open the pages, and let the magic of Cogman’s words transport you to a universe where anything is possible.

The Magicians

by Lev Grossman

Are you ready for an extraordinary adventure into uncharted realms? Look no further than The Magicians by Lev Grossman, a captivating book about gateways to other dimensions.

Step into the shoes of Quentin Coldwater, a brilliant but disillusioned young man who discovers a hidden world beyond his wildest imagination. Drawn into the enchanting Brakebills University for Magical Pedagogy, Quentin embarks on a journey filled with spellbinding wonders and dangerous secrets.

Within these pages, you’ll encounter not just portals, but mystical gateways, arcane doorways, and otherworldly passages. Each one promises to transport you to a realm teeming with mysterious creatures, awe-inspiring landscapes, and unimaginable perils.

But beware, dear reader, for the power of these portals is not to be underestimated. As Quentin and his newfound friends delve deeper into their magical studies, they uncover a darker side to this extraordinary world. They must confront not only external forces of evil but also their own inner demons.

With its richly textured storytelling, The Magicians weaves a spellbinding tapestry of adventure, romance, and self-discovery. Lev Grossman’s masterful prose will transport you to a realm where reality and fantasy intertwine, leaving you breathless and yearning for more.

So, are you ready to embark on a journey through portals to other worlds? Open the pages of The Magicians and let the magic unfold.

A Darker Shade of Magic

by V.E. Schwab

A Darker Shade of Magic is a thrilling and enchanting book about the captivating concept of portals to other worlds. Written by V.E. Schwab, this mesmerizing tale takes readers on an extraordinary journey through multiple parallel universes.

The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe

by C.S. Lewis

The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe is an enchanting book on portals to other worlds that will transport you into a magical realm like no other. Step through the wardrobe and discover a land filled with talking animals, mythical creatures, and an epic battle between good and evil.

In this captivating book about portals to other worlds, four siblings – Peter, Susan, Edmund, and Lucy – stumble upon a hidden entrance to the enchanting world of Narnia. As they venture deeper into this mysterious realm, they find themselves caught in a web of destiny and must fulfill an ancient prophecy.

As the title suggests, a magnificent lion named Aslan plays a pivotal role in their journey. With his majestic presence and unwavering courage, Aslan guides the children through treacherous adventures, teaching them valuable lessons about loyalty, bravery, and the power of love.

This portals to other worlds book is not just a thrilling fantasy, but also a poignant allegory that explores themes of faith, sacrifice, and redemption. Through Lewis’s masterful storytelling, readers are transported into a world where reality and imagination blend seamlessly, leaving them spellbound and eager to read the rest of the Chronicles of Narnia series.

Coraline

by Neil Gaiman

In the mystical world of Coraline, Neil Gaiman weaves a mesmerizing tale about a young girl who stumbles upon a secret door in her new home. This captivating book takes readers on an extraordinary journey through a portal to another realm, where Coraline encounters eerie doppelgangers and uncovers a sinister plot.

The Magician’s Nephew

by C.S. Lewis

The Magician’s Nephew by C.S. Lewis is an enchanting tale that unveils a hidden world of wonder and adventure. This captivating book explores the concept of portals to other worlds as it takes readers on a thrilling journey through time and space.

The Hazel Wood

by Melissa Albert

The Hazel Wood is an enchanting tale that will transport you to a world beyond your wildest imagination. This mesmerizing book takes you on a thrilling journey through portals to other realms, where magic and mystery collide.

The Girl Who Circumnavigated Fairyland in a Ship of Her Own Making

by Catherynne M. Valente

Welcome to the enchanting world of Fairyland! In The Girl Who Circumnavigated Fairyland in a Ship of Her Own Making by Catherynne M. Valente, prepare to embark on an extraordinary journey filled with whimsy, magic, and of course, portals to other worlds!

This mesmerizing book takes readers on an adventure through a fantastical realm where portals act as gateways to incredible realms beyond imagination. Dive headfirst into a world where ordinary objects can transform into extraordinary beings and where the line between reality and fantasy becomes beautifully blurred.

Join our courageous protagonist, a young girl named September, as she discovers a hidden doorway to Fairyland. With a heart full of curiosity and a ship she crafts herself, she sets sail on a thrilling expedition to explore the wonders that lie beyond the portal.

Valente’s vivid and lyrical prose will transport you to a land filled with talking animals, mischievous fairies, and mythical creatures. As September encounters a myriad of captivating characters, she learns valuable lessons about friendship, bravery, and the power of imagination.

Through the enchanting portals to other worlds, the author weaves a tale that captivates readers of all ages. Whether you’re a fan of fantasy adventures or simply yearn for an escape from reality, this book promises to take you on a magical odyssey you won’t soon forget.

So, grab your imagination and get ready to embark on a breathtaking journey full of wonder and discovery. Prepare to be whisked away to Fairyland, a realm where portals to other worlds open doors to infinite possibilities!

The Bone Season

by Samantha Shannon

The Bone Season by Samantha Shannon is a captivating tale that delves into the mysterious realm of interdimensional gateways. This enthralling book takes readers on a mind-bending journey through a world where access to other dimensions is possible through ethereal gateways.

The Passage

by Justin Cronin

The Passage by Justin Cronin is a captivating book about gateways to other dimensions. This thrilling novel takes readers on an extraordinary journey through portals to other worlds.

The Golden Compass

by Philip Pullman

The Golden Compass, written by the acclaimed author Philip Pullman, is an enchanting book that delves into the mesmerizing concept of doorways to alternate realms. Set in a parallel universe where humans have animal companions called daemons, this mesmerizing adventure revolves around the discovery of mysterious gateways to other worlds.

Follow the courageous and curious young protagonist, Lyra Belacqua, as she embarks on a perilous journey through these interdimensional gateways. With her trusty daemon, Pantalaimon, by her side, Lyra unravels the secrets of the enigmatic portals to other realms, encountering fantastical creatures and engaging in a battle against powerful forces.

As Lyra explores these magical gateways, she discovers the existence of a substance called Dust, which connects all worlds. This captivating quest through the portals not only reveals the true nature of Dust but also uncovers a sinister plot that threatens to shatter the balance of multiple universes.

With its enthralling blend of fantasy, adventure, and mystery, The Golden Compass takes readers on an extraordinary journey through doorways to other worlds. Immerse yourself in this captivating tale of exploration and self-discovery, as Lyra’s courage and determination lead her to uncover the secrets hidden within the realms beyond our own.

The Chronicles of Amber: Nine Princes in Amber

by Roger Zelazny

Welcome to the magical world of The Chronicles of Amber: Nine Princes in Amber! This mind-bending novel takes you on an extraordinary adventure through doorways to alternate realms.

Follow the journey of Corwin, a prince of Amber, as he awakens in a hospital with no recollection of his true identity. Desperate to discover the truth, Corwin embarks on a perilous quest, unlocking the mysteries of his past and the secrets of Amber.

This portal-filled masterpiece weaves together elements of fantasy, adventure, and family drama. As Corwin delves deeper into the realms of Amber, he encounters his treacherous siblings, each vying for the ultimate power to rule the multiverse.

With vivid descriptions and captivating prose, Zelazny’s portal-centric tale immerses you in a world where reality is not what it seems. As Corwin battles through shifting landscapes and political intrigue, you’ll find yourself on the edge of your seat, eagerly turning each page to discover what lies beyond the next portal.

The Chronicles of Amber: Nine Princes in Amber is a thrilling journey through the gateways to other dimensions. Prepare to be captivated by Zelazny’s imaginative storytelling and immerse yourself in a world where portals hold the keys to power, destiny, and a mind-bending adventure like no other.

The Wayward Children series: Down Among the Sticks and Bones

by Seanan McGuire

Discover a captivating journey through the enchanting realms beyond our own in the mesmerizing “Down Among the Sticks and Bones” by Seanan McGuire. This breathtaking tale takes readers on an extraordinary adventure into a world of magical gateways and hidden doorways, exploring the boundless wonders that lie beyond the threshold.

Immerse yourself in the enchantment of this spellbinding novel, where portals to other worlds act as gateways to realms brimming with unimaginable beauty, terrifying creatures, and ethereal mysteries. Delve into a story that will transport you to a world where the ordinary is left behind, and the extraordinary awaits.

Amidst the backdrop of a forgotten world, the author weaves a captivating narrative that follows the journey of two sisters, Jack and Jill. Their lives take an unexpected turn when they stumble upon a portal to another dimension, a portal that will forever change the course of their destiny.

As they traverse through the gateway, Jack and Jill find themselves in a realm known as the Moors, a place of dark forests, haunted castles, and eerie creatures. Here, they must navigate the treacherous landscape and confront their own fears and desires, all while discovering the true power that lies within them.

McGuire’s vivid and imaginative storytelling brings to life a world teeming with magic and wonder, drawing readers into a realm where every twist and turn unravels a new secret. With its vivid descriptions and richly developed characters, “Down Among the Sticks and Bones” is a portal to another world that will leave readers spellbound.

Prepare to be swept away on a breathtaking adventure as you journey alongside Jack and Jill, venturing through portals to other worlds and uncovering the extraordinary that lies just beyond our reach. McGuire’s masterful storytelling will transport you to a place where dreams become reality, and where the boundaries of the ordinary are shattered.

The Chronicles of Thomas Covenant the Unbeliever: Lord Foul’s Bane

by Stephen R. Donaldson

The Chronicles of Thomas Covenant the Unbeliever: Lord Foul’s Bane is an enthralling book about gateways to other realms that will transport you on a mind-bending adventure like no other. Brace yourself for a journey through a world where reality intertwines with fantasy, and where the fate of two worlds hangs in the balance.

Thomas Covenant, a leper living in the modern world, finds himself unexpectedly thrust into a parallel universe, known as The Land, through a mysterious portal to another dimension. In this breathtaking realm, Covenant is hailed as the reincarnation of a legendary hero and is given the power to wield the ancient white gold, a magical talisman of immense power.

However, Covenant’s disbelief in the reality of The Land sets him apart from its inhabitants, leading him to be branded as the Unbeliever. As he struggles to come to terms with his extraordinary circumstances, Covenant becomes embroiled in a desperate battle against Lord Foul, the malevolent ruler seeking to unleash chaos and destruction upon both worlds.

With its richly crafted world-building and complex characters, Lord Foul’s Bane is an epic book on gateways to alternate dimensions that will ignite your imagination and keep you on the edge of your seat. Prepare to be captivated by Stephen R. Donaldson’s masterful storytelling and embark on a quest that will challenge your perceptions of reality itself.

The Magicians’ Guild

by Trudi Canavan

Welcome to the extraordinary world of The Magicians’ Guild by Trudi Canavan, a captivating tale that unveils a hidden realm filled with enchantment and wonder. This spellbinding novel takes you on a thrilling journey through a realm of magic and mystery, where portals to other worlds beckon with their secrets.

Immerse yourself in a world where portals to other worlds are the gateway to unimaginable power. The story follows Sonea, a young girl from the slums, who discovers she possesses a rare and dangerous magical ability. As her powers grow, she is reluctantly taken under the wing of the Magicians’ Guild, an elite society that controls the use of magic and guards the portals to other worlds.

As Sonea navigates the treacherous world of the Magicians’ Guild, she uncovers dark secrets and faces extraordinary challenges. With each turn of the page, you will be transported into a world where portals to other worlds hold the key to both salvation and destruction.

The Magicians’ Guild is a thrilling and immersive book that will captivate fans of fantasy and adventure. Prepare to be transported to a realm where portals to other worlds open up endless possibilities and where the fate of the world hangs in the balance.

The Chronicles of Prydain: The Book of Three

by Lloyd Alexander

Are you ready to embark on a thrilling adventure through magical gateways? Look no further than The Chronicles of Prydain: The Book of Three, a mesmerizing tale by Lloyd Alexander. This spellbinding story will transport you to a realm filled with enchantment, danger, and the possibility of venturing into other dimensions.

Within the pages of this captivating book, you’ll discover a world teetering on the edge of chaos. Taran, a young assistant pig-keeper, finds himself unexpectedly thrust into a quest to save Prydain from the clutches of evil. Alongside a cast of unforgettable characters, including the wise and mysterious Prince Gwydion, the fiery princess Eilonwy, and the lovable creature Gurgi, Taran must navigate treacherous landscapes and confront formidable foes.

But what truly sets The Book of Three apart is its exploration of portals to other worlds. These gateways, resembling mystical doorways, serve as conduits between realms. Each step through a portal unveils breathtaking landscapes and introduces Taran to new allies and adversaries. As he traverses these wondrous gateways, Taran uncovers hidden truths, battles mythical creatures, and gains invaluable knowledge about himself.

Alexander’s masterful storytelling will whisk you away to a world where portals to other worlds open up limitless possibilities. Through his vivid descriptions and intricate world-building, you’ll feel as though you’re stepping through those very portals alongside Taran, experiencing the wonders and perils that await him.

So, if you’re yearning for a book brimming with adventure, magic, and the allure of portals to other worlds, The Chronicles of Prydain: The Book of Three is your gateway to an unforgettable journey. Join Taran as he embarks on a quest that will test his courage, forge lifelong bonds, and unravel the mysteries of Prydain.

The Dark Tower series: The Gunslinger

by Stephen King

The Dark Tower series: The Gunslinger by Stephen King is a mesmerizing tale that delves into the mysterious realm of interdimensional gateways. Set in a desolate and hauntingly beautiful world, this book takes readers on a thrilling journey through a universe filled with gateways to alternate realities.

Within the pages of this captivating novel, readers will be transported into a world where portals to other dimensions exist. These gateways, like shimmering doorways, offer a glimpse into parallel worlds, each with its own unique and fantastical elements. As the protagonist, a gunslinger, embarks on a dangerous quest, he navigates through these portals in search of the enigmatic Dark Tower.

Through King’s masterful storytelling, readers will be irresistibly drawn into a world where the boundaries of reality are blurred, and the concept of multiple dimensions becomes a thrilling reality. The gunslinger’s encounters with strange creatures, formidable foes, and unexpected allies all add to the suspense and excitement of the narrative.

As the gunslinger’s journey unfolds, readers will find themselves captivated by the vivid descriptions and atmospheric world-building that King effortlessly weaves throughout the story. The portals to other worlds are not merely plot devices; they become characters in their own right, beckoning readers to explore the unknown and embrace the limitless possibilities that lie beyond.

With its blend of fantasy, horror, and western elements, The Dark Tower series: The Gunslinger is a must-read for fans of thrilling adventures and mind-bending tales. It is a book that will transport readers to a world where portals to other dimensions are gateways to both danger and salvation, where the boundaries between realities are blurred, and where the pursuit of the Dark Tower becomes an unforgettable quest.

Conclusion

In conclusion, if you’re a fan of fantasy and adventure, these 20 best books about portals to other worlds will take you on thrilling journeys beyond your wildest imagination. From ancient doorways to magical wardrobes, these stories will transport you to enchanting realms filled with mystical creatures, epic quests, and unforgettable characters. Whether you’re longing to explore new dimensions or simply seeking an escape from reality, these books are sure to captivate and inspire. So grab a book, open the portal, and embark on an extraordinary adventure today!