18 Books Like Eragon
If you’re a fan of epic fantasy adventures filled with dragons, magic, and courageous heroes, then you probably fell in love with Christopher Paolini’s “Eragon” series.
But once you’ve journeyed through Alagaësia with Eragon and Saphira, you might find yourself craving more fantastical worlds to explore.
Just for this, we have curated a list of some captivating books that share similar themes and elements to satisfy your hunger for adventure and magic.
Let’s check them out.
Books Like Eragon
1. “The Hobbit” by J.R.R. Tolkien
“The Hobbit” is a timeless classic that introduces readers to the richly imagined world of Middle-earth, where hobbits, dwarves, elves, and dragons dwell.
The story follows Bilbo Baggins, a hobbit who enjoys a comfortable and unambitious life until he is whisked away on an unexpected journey by the wizard Gandalf and a group of dwarves. Bilbo’s adventure leads him to brave dangerous paths, encounter a dragon named Smaug, and find a ring that holds deep power.
Major Similarities: Like “Eragon,” “The Hobbit” features a young protagonist who embarks on a perilous quest that changes the course of their life. Both novels are set in richly detailed, fantastical worlds filled with diverse races and creatures. The themes of courage, friendship, and the battle between good and evil are central to both stories, making them resonate with fans of epic fantasy adventures.
2. “The Golden Compass” by Philip Pullman
“The Golden Compass” is the first book in Philip Pullman’s “His Dark Materials” series. It introduces Lyra Belacqua, a young girl living in a parallel universe where all humans have daemons, animal-shaped manifestations of their soul.
Lyra embarks on a journey to the Arctic in search of her missing friend and uncovers a sinister plot involving stolen children and a mysterious substance called Dust.
Major Similarities: Both “Eragon” and “The Golden Compass” feature young protagonists who discover their significant destiny and become embroiled in a larger conflict involving magical elements. The novels explore themes of bravery, self-discovery, and the fight against oppressive forces. Additionally, the companionship between characters and their magical creatures (dragons in “Eragon” and daemons in “The Golden Compass”) is a unique aspect that binds the two stories.
3. “The Sword of Shannara” by Terry Brooks
“The Sword of Shannara” is the first novel in the Shannara series, set in a post-apocalyptic world that has reverted to medieval technology and is filled with magic.
The story follows Shea Ohmsford, a young man who discovers that he is the last of the Shannara bloodline with the power to wield the Sword of Shannara against the evil Warlock Lord. Joined by his brother and a group of allies, Shea embarks on a quest to find the sword and save the Four Lands.
Major Similarities: Both “Eragon” and “The Sword of Shannara” involve a young, unlikely hero who learns of their destiny and sets out on a quest to defeat a powerful evil force. The novels are set in richly developed fantasy worlds with a mix of magic, ancient lore, and epic battles. The themes of heritage, responsibility, and the journey from innocence to heroism are prevalent in both stories.
4. “The Amulet of Samarkand” by Jonathan Stroud
“The Amulet of Samarkand” is the first book in the Bartimaeus trilogy. It is set in an alternate London where magic is common, and magicians are the ruling class.
The story is told from the perspective of Nathaniel, a young magician’s apprentice, and Bartimaeus, a sarcastic and powerful djinni whom Nathaniel summons. Together, they navigate a complex web of political intrigue, rebellion, and betrayal.
Major Similarities: Similar to “Eragon,” “The Amulet of Samarkand” combines a young protagonist with a powerful, non-human ally. Both books delve into themes of power, the corruption it brings, and the bond between characters from different worlds. The mix of humor, magical elements, and a well-built fantasy setting makes both novels appealing to readers who enjoy stories about growth, adventure, and the complexities of heroism.
5. “Sabriel” by Garth Nix
“Sabriel” is the first installment in the Old Kingdom series. The story follows Sabriel, a young woman who has spent most of her life in a boarding school away from the magical dangers of the Old Kingdom.
Upon her father’s disappearance, Sabriel must return to her homeland to search for him. She inherits the role of the Abhorsen, whose duty is to protect the living from the Dead and to ensure that they stay in Death.
Major Similarities: “Eragon” and “Sabriel” both feature protagonists who inherit significant responsibilities and must learn to wield their powers to combat dark forces. The themes of coming of age, exploring a world filled with magic and danger, and the journey to fulfill one’s destiny are central to both narratives. Additionally, both novels present a well-constructed fantasy world that blends magic with a fight against an encroaching darkness.
6. “The Ruins of Gorlan” by John Flanagan
“The Ruins of Gorlan” is the first book in the Ranger’s Apprentice series. It introduces Will, an orphan who has always dreamed of becoming a knight but instead is chosen as an apprentice to the mysterious Ranger Halt.
Will learns that the Rangers are the true protectors of the kingdom, mastering stealth and archery to guard against threats. Together with his friends, Will embarks on a journey to prevent a war and confront an ancient evil.
Major Similarities: Like “Eragon,” “The Ruins of Gorlan” focuses on a young protagonist who discovers a hidden talent and faces a destiny far greater than imagined. Both novels explore themes of mentorship, the development of skills, and the growth from adolescence into adulthood against a backdrop of impending conflict. The sense of camaraderie, adventure, and the fight against evil resonates strongly in both stories.
7. “Graceling” by Kristin Cashore
“Graceling” is set in a world where certain individuals are born with Graces, a unique ability that sets them apart. The protagonist, Katsa, possesses the Grace of killing, making her a valuable asset to her uncle, the king.
However, Katsa struggles against the moral implications of her gift and seeks a way to use her powers for good. Her journey leads her to uncover a conspiracy that threatens the balance of the kingdoms around her.
Major Similarities: Both “Eragon” and “Graceling” feature protagonists who must come to terms with their extraordinary abilities and the responsibilities that come with them. The novels are set in expansive fantasy worlds where the characters embark on quests that challenge their beliefs and force them to grow. Themes of self-discovery, the fight for freedom, and the impact of one’s choices on their world are explored in depth, making both books compelling reads for fans of fantasy and adventure.
8. “Alanna: The First Adventure” by Tamora Pierce
“Alanna: The First Adventure” is the first book in the Song of the Lioness series, which introduces Alanna of Trebond, a determined girl who disguises herself as a boy to achieve her dream of becoming a knight.
Throughout her training and adventures, Alanna must not only master the arts of war but also navigate the challenges of keeping her true identity a secret. Her journey is filled with magic, mystery, and the discovery of her own unique abilities.
Major Similarities: Like “Eragon,” this novel features a young protagonist who defies the odds to pursue their destiny. Both stories are set in a fantasy world rich with magic, where the characters develop unique powers that set them apart. Themes of personal growth, the struggle with identity, and the fight against evil forces are central to both narratives, appealing to readers who enjoy tales of adventure and self-discovery.
9. “The Naming” by Alison Croggon
“The Naming” is the first book in The Books of Pellinor series. It follows Maerad, a slave girl who discovers she is a Bard with magical abilities, destined to play a key role in the battle against the Dark.
Rescued by a mysterious Bard named Cadvan, Maerad embarks on a journey to unlock her powers and uncover her true identity, facing numerous trials along the way.
Major Similarities: Both “Eragon” and “The Naming” revolve around young protagonists who discover their significant magical heritage and embark on epic quests. The stories are set in elaborately constructed worlds where magic plays a central role. The themes of discovering one’s identity, mastering newfound abilities, and the classic battle between light and darkness are prominent in both books, making them resonate well with fans of epic fantasy.
10. “The Eye of the World” by Robert Jordan
“The Eye of the World” is the first book in The Wheel of Time series. It introduces an expansive world threatened by the Dark One. Rand al’Thor and his friends are forced to flee their home village when it’s attacked by dark forces, setting them on a journey that reveals their destinies are intertwined with the fate of the world.
Guided by the mysterious Aes Sedai, Moiraine, they embark on a quest to prevent the Dark One’s return.
Major Similarities: Like “Eragon,” “The Eye of the World” features a young protagonist thrust into an epic battle between good and evil. Both novels are set in richly detailed fantasy worlds with their own sets of rules, magic, and lore. The journey from innocence to heroism, the discovery of hidden powers, and the formation of alliances against a dark force are key themes that bind these stories together.
11. “The Demon King” by Cinda Williams Chima
“The Demon King” is the first book in the Seven Realms series, which follows Han Alister, a reformed thief, and Raisa ana’Marianna, the princess heir of the Fells.
Their lives intertwine in unexpected ways as both navigate the complex politics, magic, and dangers of their kingdom. Han stumbles upon an amulet that once belonged to the Demon King, setting off a chain of events that could alter the fate of the realms.
Major Similarities: Both “Eragon” and “The Demon King” feature protagonists who come from humble beginnings and are drawn into the larger political and magical conflicts of their worlds. The themes of destiny, the struggle for power, and the journey towards understanding one’s true abilities are prevalent. Additionally, the rich world-building and the blend of magic and political intrigue make both series compelling for fantasy enthusiasts.
12. “Fablehaven” by Brandon Mull
“Fablehaven” is the first in a series about a hidden refuge for magical creatures. When siblings Kendra and Seth visit their grandparents’ estate, they discover it’s actually a sanctuary for mythical beings and that a great battle between good and evil is brewing.
They must learn to navigate this magical world while facing challenges that test their bravery and resolve.
Major Similarities: “Eragon” and “Fablehaven” both immerse readers in a world where the boundary between the known and the mystical is blurred. The novels focus on young characters who face the challenge of protecting a secret realm using their courage and newly discovered magical abilities. Themes of conservation of magic and nature, the journey from innocence to maturity, and the battle against encroaching darkness are central to both stories.
13. “Shadow and Bone” by Leigh Bardugo
“Shadow and Bone” is the first book in the Grisha Trilogy, set in the fantasy world of Ravka, which is divided by a swath of impenetrable darkness called the Shadow Fold, home to monsters that prey on humans.
The protagonist, Alina Starkov, discovers she has a unique power that could be the key to setting her war-ravaged country free from the darkness. As she trains as part of the magical elite known as the Grisha, Alina uncovers secrets that will change the course of her destiny.
Major Similarities: Like “Eragon,” “Shadow and Bone” centers on a young character who discovers they possess a rare and powerful ability that sets them apart. Both novels explore the themes of destiny, the corruption of power, and the struggle to control one’s own fate within a richly developed fantasy world. The journey of self-discovery, coupled with the fight against a dark force, makes both stories captivating reads for fans of fantasy and adventure.
14. “The Black Prism” by Brent Weeks
“The Black Prism” is the first book in the Lightbringer series, which introduces a world where magic is powered by light and color. The protagonist, Kip, is a seemingly ordinary boy who discovers he has the rare ability to draft luxin, the physical manifestation of light, which thrusts him into a complex web of political and magical intrigue.
The story is set against the backdrop of an impending war, with Kip’s journey to master his powers and uncover his true heritage at its heart.
Major Similarities: Both “Eragon” and “The Black Prism” feature young protagonists who discover they possess unique magical abilities, setting them on a path fraught with danger and discovery. The novels are rich in world-building, with a detailed magic system and a backdrop of political intrigue and conflict. Themes of identity, power, and the moral complexities of war and leadership are explored, resonating with readers who appreciate intricate fantasy narratives.
15. “Mistborn: The Final Empire” by Brandon Sanderson
“Mistborn: The Final Empire” introduces a dark, oppressive world ruled by the immortal Lord Ruler. The story centers on Vin, a young street thief who discovers she has the rare ability of Allomancy, the power to ingest metals and gain supernatural abilities.
Under the guidance of the charismatic rebel leader Kelsier, Vin joins a revolutionary group aiming to overthrow the tyrannical regime and bring freedom to the oppressed masses.
Major Similarities: Like “Eragon,” “Mistborn: The Final Empire” revolves around a young, unlikely hero discovering their extraordinary abilities and being thrust into a larger conflict that challenges the established order. Both novels feature detailed magic systems, complex political landscapes, and themes of rebellion, self-discovery, and the fight against oppression. The journey from obscurity to pivotal figure in a revolution is a compelling aspect of both stories.
16. “The Queen of the Tearling” by Erika Johansen
“The Queen of the Tearling” follows Princess Kelsea Raleigh Glynn, who has been in hiding since childhood to protect her from those who wish her dead. Upon turning nineteen, Kelsea must reclaim her rightful throne from her corrupt and tyrannical uncle.
As she navigates her rule, Kelsea discovers that her kingdom is part of a larger, dystopian world with dark magic at play. She must use her wits and newfound powers to restore her kingdom to its former glory.
Major Similarities: Both “Eragon” and “The Queen of the Tearling” feature protagonists who are thrust into leadership roles and must navigate the complexities of ruling while combating dark forces. The themes of ascension to power, moral integrity, and the fight against a corrupt regime are central. Moreover, both novels are set in richly imagined worlds with a blend of magic and political intrigue, appealing to readers who enjoy a mix of fantasy and realism.
17. “Dragonflight” by Anne McCaffrey
“Dragonflight” is the first book in the Dragonriders of Pern series. It introduces the planet Pern, where humans and dragons coexist to combat the deadly Thread, a spore that destroys all it touches.
The story centers on Lessa, a young woman who is the sole survivor of her family’s massacre. She bonds with the dragon queen Ramoth, becoming a Dragonrider tasked with protecting Pern. Together, they must find a way to save their world from destruction.
Major Similarities: “Eragon” and “Dragonflight” both feature strong bonds between humans and dragons, set against the backdrop of an epic struggle to save their world. The novels explore themes of destiny, leadership, and the courage to face seemingly insurmountable challenges. The unique relationship between dragon and rider, coupled with the high stakes of their quests, makes both stories captivating for readers who are drawn to tales of adventure and camaraderie.
18. “The Summoner: The Novice” by Taran Matharu
“The Summoner: The Novice” is the first book in The Summoner series, which follows Fletcher, an orphan who discovers he has the ability to summon demons from another world.
After being forced to flee his village, Fletcher attends a military academy to train as a battlemage. There, he must navigate the challenges of rivalry, friendship, and a looming war that threatens his world. Fletcher’s journey is one of discovery, as he learns about his past and the potential of his powers.
Major Similarities: Similar to “Eragon,” “The Summoner: The Novice” features a young protagonist who discovers a latent magical talent that changes the course of his life. Both novels are set in rich fantasy worlds where the characters undergo rigorous training to hone their skills for the battles ahead. Themes of friendship, loyalty, and the fight against a malevolent force are prominent, appealing to readers who enjoy stories of growth, adventure, and magical companionship.
