Fantasy and Horror: A Critical and Historical Guide

This is one of the 743 lists we use to generate our main The Greatest Books list.

View: List Grid Table
  • The Bell In The Fog by Gertrude Atherton

    In this intriguing tale, a successful writer becomes obsessed with a young boy who bears an uncanny resemblance to a lost love from his past. As he delves deeper into the boy's life, he is haunted by memories and the unresolved emotions tied to his former beloved. The story explores themes of memory, obsession, and the supernatural, as the protagonist grapples with the blurred lines between reality and the echoes of his past. The narrative unfolds with a gothic atmosphere, weaving mystery and psychological depth into the protagonist's journey of self-discovery and reconciliation with his haunting memories.

    The 5180th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon
  • Deliver Me From Eva by Paul Bailey

    In "Deliver Me From Eva" by Paul Bailey, the story revolves around Eva, a strong-willed and independent woman who becomes the center of attention for three men. As they each try to win her over, they soon discover that Eva's past and her complicated relationships with her family and friends make it difficult for her to trust and open up. Through a series of unexpected events, the characters are forced to confront their own insecurities and learn the true meaning of love and forgiveness.

    The 6526th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon
  • Zuleika Dobson by Max Beerbohm

    or, An Oxford Love Story

    "Zuleika Dobson" is a satirical novel set at Oxford University, where the beautiful Zuleika, a conjurer by profession, arrives and captivates the male population, including the Duke of Dorset. The Duke falls madly in love with her, but she remains indifferent to his feelings. In a tragic twist, the Duke decides to commit suicide to prove his love, starting a chain reaction among other male students. The novel is a critique of Edwardian Oxford and the foolishness of falling victim to unrequited love.

    The 963rd Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon
  • Getting Into Death by Thomas M. Disch

    The book is a collection of speculative and thought-provoking short stories that explore themes of mortality, identity, and the human condition. Each story delves into different aspects of life and death, often with a darkly humorous or satirical edge. The narratives challenge readers to reflect on the nature of existence, the inevitability of death, and the ways in which people cope with these realities. Through imaginative scenarios and richly developed characters, the book offers a unique perspective on the complexities of living and dying.

    The 6789th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Amazon
  • Fata Morgana by William Kotzwinkle

    "Fata Morgana" is a novel that weaves together elements of fantasy and reality, following the story of a successful screenwriter who embarks on a surreal journey after encountering a mysterious antique mirror. The mirror serves as a portal to an alternate dimension, where the protagonist is confronted with illusions and temptations that challenge his perceptions of life and art. As he navigates through this dreamlike world, he must distinguish between what is real and what is a mirage, all while grappling with his own desires, ambitions, and the seductive allure of the fata morgana—the mirage of water in the desert, symbolizing the elusive nature of his quest.

    The 4938th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon
  • Tales Of The Alhambra by Washington Irving

    A Series of Tales and Sketches of the Moors and Spaniards

    The book is a collection of enchanting stories and reflections inspired by the author's travels and experiences in the Alhambra, a historic palace and fortress in Granada, Spain. Blending history, legend, and personal anecdotes, it captures the mystique and allure of the Alhambra and its surroundings. The narrative weaves together vivid descriptions of the architecture and landscape with tales of romance, adventure, and the supernatural, offering a rich tapestry of the cultural and historical legacy of Moorish Spain. Through these stories, the author evokes the spirit of the Alhambra, bringing to life its past and the enduring magic of its presence.

    The 5180th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon
  • Tales Of A Traveller by Washington Irving

    A Pilgrimage Beyond the Sea

    The book is a collection of short stories and essays that blend elements of travel narrative, folklore, and Gothic fiction. It features a variety of characters and settings, from the eerie and supernatural to the humorous and satirical. The tales explore themes of adventure, mystery, and the supernatural, often with a touch of irony and wit. Through vivid storytelling, the work captures the imagination and transports readers to different times and places, offering a rich tapestry of human experiences and emotions.

    The 2932nd Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon
  • The Knight And Knave Of Swords by Fritz Leiber

    The Adventures of Fafhrd and the Gray Mouser

    In this fantasy novel, readers are taken on a journey with the legendary duo, Fafhrd and the Gray Mouser, as they navigate a series of adventures filled with magic, danger, and intrigue. Set in the richly imagined world of Nehwon, the story explores themes of friendship, loyalty, and the passage of time as the protagonists face new challenges and adversaries. As they confront both external threats and internal struggles, the characters are forced to reckon with their pasts and the evolving nature of their partnership, ultimately leading to a poignant exploration of heroism and the human condition.

    The 8616th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon
  • The Narrative of Arthur Gordon Pym by Edgar Allan Poe

    of Nantucket

    This novel follows the adventures and misadventures of Arthur Gordon Pym, who stows away on a whaling ship called the Grampus. After a mutiny on board, Pym and a few others survive and they journey further south, encountering bizarre creatures and civilizations, including a tribe of black-skinned natives on an island near the South Pole. The book ends abruptly, leaving Pym's fate unknown. The narrative is a mix of adventure, horror, and exploration, with elements of symbolism and metaphysics.

    The 772nd Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon
  • Moby-Dick by Herman Melville

    or, The Whale

    The novel is a detailed narrative of a vengeful sea captain's obsessive quest to hunt down a giant white sperm whale that bit off his leg. The captain's relentless pursuit, despite the warnings and concerns of his crew, leads them on a dangerous journey across the seas. The story is a complex exploration of good and evil, obsession, and the nature of reality, filled with rich descriptions of whaling and the sea.

    The 7th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon
  • The Confidence Man by Herman Melville

    His Masquerade

    "The Confidence Man" by Herman Melville is a satirical novel that takes place on a Mississippi steamboat, where a mysterious man known as the Confidence Man interacts with various passengers, exploiting their weaknesses and manipulating their trust. Through a series of encounters and conversations, Melville explores themes of deception, human gullibility, and the complexities of identity, ultimately challenging the reader's perception of truth and the nature of confidence.

    The 1526th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon
  • The Amber Witch by Wilhelm Meinhold

    The Most Interesting Trial for Witchcraft Ever Known

    Set in a 17th-century Pomeranian village, the story follows the trials of a young woman accused of witchcraft amidst a backdrop of superstition and fear. The narrative is presented as a discovered manuscript by a pastor who defends his daughter, Maria, against the witchcraft allegations. As the community is gripped by hysteria, the pastor's unwavering faith and determination to prove her innocence highlight themes of justice, love, and the struggle against ignorance. The tale unfolds with suspense and drama, ultimately revealing the true nature of the events that led to the accusations.

    The 3301st Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon
  • A Nest Of Nightmares by Lisa Tuttle

    "A Nest of Nightmares" by Lisa Tuttle is a chilling and suspenseful psychological thriller that follows the life of a young woman named Sarah, who moves into a seemingly idyllic small town to start afresh. However, as she settles into her new home, she begins to experience a series of inexplicable and terrifying events that unravel the town's dark secrets. With each twist and turn, Sarah finds herself questioning her sanity and the true nature of the people around her, leading to a shocking climax that will leave readers on the edge of their seats.

    The 4988th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon
  • A Strange Story by Edward Bulwer-Lytton

    The novel weaves a tale of mystery and the supernatural, centered around a physician named Dr. Allen Fenwick, who becomes entangled in a series of inexplicable events after encountering the enigmatic Margrave. As Fenwick delves deeper into the mysteries surrounding Margrave, he grapples with themes of science versus the occult, the nature of the soul, and the limits of human understanding. The story unfolds with a blend of gothic elements and philosophical musings, exploring the tension between rationality and the unknown, ultimately leading to a dramatic confrontation that challenges Fenwick's beliefs and perceptions of reality.

    The 5180th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon
  • Briefing For A Descent Into Hell by Doris May Lessing

    In this novel, a man found wandering the streets of London with no memory is admitted to a psychiatric hospital, where doctors attempt to diagnose and treat his condition. As he remains in a comatose state, the narrative delves into his complex inner world, blending reality with fantastical visions. Through his journey, the book explores themes of identity, the human psyche, and the boundaries between sanity and madness. The narrative challenges the conventional understanding of mental illness and the nature of reality, inviting readers to question the structures of society and the mind.

    The 3203rd Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon
  • Visible And Invisible by E. F. Benson

    The book is a collection of supernatural and ghost stories that explore the eerie and mysterious aspects of the unseen world. Through a series of chilling tales, it delves into themes of the unknown, the afterlife, and the thin veil between reality and the supernatural. Each story is crafted to evoke a sense of suspense and intrigue, often leaving readers questioning the nature of perception and the boundaries of the visible and invisible realms. The narratives are rich with atmospheric detail, creating an immersive experience that captivates and unsettles in equal measure.

    The 2932nd Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon
  • The Green Face by Gustav Meyrink

    The novel is a surreal and mystical exploration set in Amsterdam, where a man named Hauberrisser encounters a mysterious figure with a green face in a curiosity shop. This encounter leads him into a labyrinthine journey through the city's underworld, filled with esoteric symbols, secret societies, and enigmatic characters. As Hauberrisser delves deeper, he grapples with themes of identity, reality, and the supernatural, ultimately confronting the boundaries between the material and spiritual worlds. The narrative weaves a rich tapestry of occult philosophy and existential inquiry, challenging the protagonist to seek deeper truths beyond the visible realm.

    The 5218th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon
  • The Track Of The Cat by Walter Van Tilburg Clark

    "The Track of the Cat" is a gripping and atmospheric novel set in the harsh winter landscape of the Sierra Nevada mountains. The story follows the lives of the Bridges family as they confront their deepest fears and secrets during a snowbound weekend. As tensions rise and a mountain lion stalks their isolated ranch, the family's relationships are tested, revealing the complex dynamics that exist between siblings, parents, and lovers. With vivid descriptions and psychological depth, the novel explores themes of isolation, survival, and the primal instincts that lie within us all.

    The 2143rd Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon
  • Ariosto by Chelsa quinn yarbro

    A Novel of the Vampire

    The book is a historical novel that delves into the life and times of the Italian Renaissance poet Ludovico Ariosto, best known for his epic poem "Orlando Furioso." It weaves a rich tapestry of 16th-century Italy, exploring Ariosto's struggles with patronage, his service to the d'Este family, and his quest for artistic freedom amidst the political and cultural constraints of his era. The narrative captures the complex interplay between art, politics, and personal ambition, providing a vivid portrayal of a creative genius navigating the turbulent waters of courtly life and leaving an indelible mark on Western literature.

    The 4395th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Amazon
  • The Exploits Of Engelbrecht by Maurice Richardson

    The book is a collection of surreal and whimsical tales centered around Engelbrecht, a dwarf surrealist boxer, who navigates a bizarre world filled with eccentric characters and fantastical events. Each story presents a unique and absurd adventure, blending elements of fantasy, satire, and dark humor. Engelbrecht encounters everything from time-traveling chess matches to battles with mythical creatures, all while maintaining a sense of the absurd and the unpredictable. The narrative is a playful exploration of the boundaries of reality and imagination, offering a humorous critique of modern life through its outlandish scenarios and vivid storytelling.

    The 5253rd Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Amazon
  • The Year's Best Fantasy Stories by Lin Carter

    This anthology is a collection of captivating fantasy tales that showcase the imaginative storytelling and diverse worlds crafted by various authors. Each story transports readers to realms filled with magic, mythical creatures, and heroic quests, highlighting the creativity and depth of the fantasy genre. The compilation offers a rich tapestry of narratives, ranging from epic adventures to introspective journeys, providing a glimpse into the limitless possibilities of fantasy literature. Through its varied tales, the anthology celebrates the art of storytelling and the enduring allure of fantastical worlds.

    The 6949th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon
  • Frights by Kirby McCauley

    New Stories of Suspense and Supernatural Horror

    The book is a chilling anthology that brings together a collection of horror stories designed to unsettle and captivate readers. Each tale delves into the eerie and the macabre, exploring themes of fear, the supernatural, and the unknown. The stories vary in style and tone, offering a diverse array of spine-tingling experiences that range from psychological horror to encounters with otherworldly entities. The anthology masterfully evokes a sense of dread and suspense, making it a compelling read for fans of the horror genre.

    The 5672nd Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Amazon
About this list

Book, 722 Books

Fantasy and Horror: A Critical and Historical Guide to Literature, Illustration, Film, TV, Radio, and the Internet, edited by Richard Neil Barron, is an exceptionally comprehensive and well-researched exploration of the history of fantasy and horror literature. Barron, a renowned science fiction bibliographer and scholar, has curated a nearly 800-page volume featuring contributions from numerous experts and academics in the field. This book delves deeply into the evolution of both genres, offering rich discussions and insights into their development and key works.

The book's unique ranking system categorizes notable works of fantasy and horror literature using a variety of labels. These labels serve to highlight different aspects of each book's significance:

** (The Best of the Best)
* (The Best)
F (Best Fantasy)
H (Best Horror)
MF (Modern Fantasy)
EB (Selected by Everett F. Bleiler)
DH (Selected by David Hartwell)
FR (Selected by Franz Rottensteiner)
L1 (Fantasy Literature for Children and Young Adults)
L2 (Higher Ranked Fantasy Literature for Children and Young Adults)
To create a more organized understanding of the books listed, I assigned points based on these labels and devised a smart ranking system, giving each book a score according to its accumulated points. This method allowed for a clearer hierarchy, showcasing the most significant works in the genres.

I highly recommend this guide to anyone interested in a meticulously organized summary of fantasy and horror literature. It is an essential resource for those who wish to explore the depth of these genres and their history in greater detail.

How many contributors are there?
Counting the chapter authors and the three guest critics, you’re looking at roughly two-dozen named specialists. There’s no statement like “X hundred voters” anywhere, because the book never positioned itself as a popularity poll – it’s closer to an annotated canon chosen by experts

This list was originally published in 1999 and was added to this site over 1 year ago.

How Good is this List?

This list has a weight of 60%. To learn more about what this means please visit the Rankings page.

Here is a list of what is decreasing the importance of this list:

  • Voters: Voter Count
  • List: only covers genre fiction(multiple genres)
  • List: only covers 1 specific genre
  • List: contains over 500 books(Quantity over Quality)
  • List: only covers mostly "Western Canon" books

If you think this is incorrect please contact us.

List Information

Number of Voters:
24
Voter Count Unknown:
No
Voter Names Unknown:
No
High Quality Source:
Yes
Location Specific:
No
Category Specific:
Yes