Literary Fantasy Books

Judging something to be Literary Fantasy is a bit like defining pornography: you know it when you see it. The “Literary” label seems snobbish to some, unnecessary to others (“it's a book, of course it's literary!”), but entirely appropriate when you consider that these are works that will stick with you long past the first time you read them.

Literary Fantasy Characteristics

• Level of Magic

Depictions of magic are subtle and treated as not exceptional.
limited and subtle. When depicted, magic is often treated as part of normal reality.

• Level of Characterization

Depictions of magic are subtle and treated as not exceptional but rather limited and subtle. When depicted, magic is often treated as part of normal reality.

• Level of Plot Complexity

Ironically, a complex plot handled skillfully can seem less busy than in other types. Also, the fact that these stories take place in a more real “real world” means there is less strangeness to absorb and keep track of.

• Level of Violence 

Varies.