In honor of International Hobbit Day on Sept. 22, a day to honor and explore the world of “The Lord of The Rings” series, here are some other fantastical worlds to explore in your downtime this semester.
Game of Thrones
Book series, HBO series
If you missed the chance to obsess over “Game of Thrones” while it was on air the past nine years, don’t fret. It’s never too late to explore the powerful families of Westeros and all the amazing storylines. This world is full of medieval-style lore, intense battles, memorable drama and world-class manipulation and schemes all focused on trying to earn the coveted seat at The Iron Throne. Even if the ending has been spoiled for you, it is worth the read or watch since not everything in this world has been explored just yet.
The Witcher
Book series, video game series, Netflix series
Based on the 1997 novel by Polish writer Andrzej Sapkowski, “The Witcher” series follows Geralt of Rivia, one of the last “witchers” in the medieval world of the Continent. The popularity of “The Witcher” spiked with the video game series, but also with the successful release of the Netflix series last year. From the intense fight scenes, the gory monsters and complex storylines, each of the main characters shines on the small screen just like they did in the books and gameplay.
Inkheart
Book series, movie
For those who are aware of how much power the written word holds, this is the book series or movie for you. “Inkheart” follows daughter Meggie and father Mo, who soon discover they have the gift of “Silvertongue” — by reading aloud, they can bring characters to life — and an exciting adventure ensues. The film was released in 2008 and followed the plot of the first novel. This original trilogy has recently announced a fourth novel that is expected to release in Fall 2021. As we wait for the arrival of this novel, there is plenty of source material of fantastical adventures that await readers and movie watchers.
The Magicians
Book series, SYFY series
For fans of “Harry Potter” and the idea of urban secrets, the adventures of Fillory are for you. “The Magicians” follows Quentin Coldwater, a young man obsessed with the “Fillory and Further” book series, who, while on his way to an interview for Princeton, gets entranced into Brakebills University, the only magic school in North America. As the story unfolds, you meet compelling characters that follow Coldwater on this life-changing adventure through both the five seasons of the show and the books.
His Dark Materials
Book series, HBO Limited Series, movie
If you have a special love for animals, this is the fantasy world for you. Following young Lyra Belacqua and other characters, people in this world have “daemons” or an animal that serves as an extension of their spirit. As Lyra learns more about the world around her and all the sinister evils that lurk in the shadows, she and her daemon, Pantalaimon, try to save her friends with the help of a special tool known as The Golden Compass. The HBO series premiered last fall, but there are plenty of ways to enjoy all this world has to offer from the book series and movie as well.
