- 14 Short Books That Hit Like a Freight Train - May 16, 2025
- 20 Epic Coming-of-Age Books You Wish You Read Sooner - May 16, 2025
- 10 Massive Books Worth Every Last Page - May 16, 2025
Perry Mason – Erle Stanley Gardner
When it comes to legal thrillers, few names are as iconic as Perry Mason. Created by Erle Stanley Gardner, this legendary series spans 82 volumes, published over an impressive 30-year period from 1933 to 1973. The books follow the sharp-witted defense attorney Perry Mason as he navigates the twists and turns of the American justice system, regularly pulling off dramatic reveals that leave both the judge and jury stunned. Gardner, who was himself a practicing lawyer, infused the series with enough real courtroom drama to keep even the most seasoned mystery fans guessing. Perry Mason’s popularity spilled over to a groundbreaking television show that ran for nine seasons, further cementing the character in American pop culture. The books have sold over 300 million copies worldwide, making Perry Mason one of the best-selling book series ever. The series’ ability to combine complex legal puzzles with human drama is a significant reason why it has stood the test of time.
Discworld – Terry Pratchett
Terry Pratchett’s Discworld is not just a fantasy series—it’s a cultural phenomenon. Spanning 41 volumes between 1983 and 2015, Discworld takes readers on a wild ride across a flat world balanced on the backs of four elephants standing atop a giant turtle. Pratchett’s sharp wit and playful satire target everything from politics and bureaucracy to religion and technology, making each novel both hilarious and insightful. The series is divided into several mini-arcs, each focusing on different beloved characters like the inept wizard Rincewind, the no-nonsense Granny Weatherwax, and the ever-dutiful Sam Vimes. Discworld’s legacy includes numerous stage adaptations, a TV miniseries, and animated films, reflecting its lasting appeal. Over 100 million Discworld books have been sold globally, and a 2024 poll by The Guardian named it one of the “Top 10 Most Influential Fantasy Series of All Time.” Pratchett’s work continues to inspire readers and writers, proving the enduring power of satire.
Nancy Drew – Carolyn Keene (pseudonym)
Since she first appeared in 1930, Nancy Drew has become an icon for generations of young mystery lovers. Written under the pseudonym Carolyn Keene, the Nancy Drew series boasts over 175 main books, alongside countless spinoffs and adaptations. Nancy Drew isn’t just any teen detective—she’s smart, fearless, and determined, serving as a role model for countless young readers, especially girls. Each book draws readers into a new puzzle, blending suspense with everyday challenges and social issues. The series has sold over 80 million books worldwide, a testament to its enduring influence. In 2019, Nancy Drew was reimagined for a new generation in a hit TV series, introducing the beloved character to modern audiences. Nancy Drew’s ability to adapt and remain relevant is a key reason why it continues to inspire budding sleuths everywhere.
The Hardy Boys – Franklin W. Dixon (pseudonym)
The Hardy Boys series, created under the pen name Franklin W. Dixon, has been entertaining readers since 1927. With over 190 volumes, this mystery franchise is one of the most enduring in literary history. Frank and Joe Hardy, the intrepid brothers at the heart of the series, tackle everything from art theft to espionage, using their wits and bravery to solve cases that stump even the adults. The Hardy Boys have evolved with the times, spawning graphic novels, video games, and several TV adaptations, including a 2020 streaming reboot that drew rave reviews. The series has sold more than 70 million copies globally, and it continues to captivate new readers with its blend of action, suspense, and wholesome values. The Hardy Boys’ adventures have proven that clever storytelling and relatable heroes never go out of style.
The Wheel of Time – Robert Jordan (and Brandon Sanderson)
The Wheel of Time is a monumental achievement in epic fantasy, originally started by Robert Jordan and later completed by Brandon Sanderson after Jordan’s passing in 2007. The series spans 15 volumes, including a prequel, and took more than two decades to finish, with the final book released in 2013. The story unfolds in a richly detailed world, weaving together elements of prophecy, magic, and politics as a group of unlikely heroes battles the forces of darkness. The series has sold over 90 million copies, making it one of the best-selling fantasy series ever. In 2021, The Wheel of Time was adapted into a high-profile television series, drawing millions of viewers and introducing the sprawling saga to a wider audience. With its complex characters, intricate lore, and grand scope, The Wheel of Time stands as a cornerstone of modern fantasy.
Goosebumps – R.L. Stine
If you ever wanted to know what kept kids up at night in the 1990s, look no further than Goosebumps. R.L. Stine’s wildly popular series, with over 60 books in the original run and more than 200 including spinoffs, has sold over 400 million copies worldwide. Each book offers a new standalone horror tale, filled with spooky monsters, haunted houses, and jaw-dropping twists—making Goosebumps a rite of passage for young horror fans. Stine’s knack for delivering scares with a dash of humor has made the series beloved across generations. Goosebumps has led to several TV shows, movies, and even a musical, proving that the appetite for fun frights is never-ending. In a 2023 interview, Stine revealed he still receives fan mail from adults who credit Goosebumps for sparking their love of reading.
In Death – J.D. Robb (Nora Roberts)
With over 50 novels and counting, the In Death series by J.D. Robb (a pseudonym of bestselling author Nora Roberts) plunges readers into a futuristic New York City where detective Eve Dallas hunts down murderers with relentless determination. The series began in 1995 and has released new installments every year, each blending gritty crime with elements of romance and science fiction. The books have sold more than 60 million copies as of 2024 and have been translated into dozens of languages. Fans praise the series for its strong female protagonist, intricate plots, and the evolving relationships among its core cast. In Death’s unique blend of genres has earned it a dedicated following, with readers eagerly awaiting each new mystery.
Animorphs – K.A. Applegate
Animorphs, written by K.A. Applegate, is a science fiction adventure series that captured the imagination of young readers in the late 1990s and early 2000s. Consisting of 54 main books and 10 companion volumes, Animorphs follows a group of teenagers who gain the power to morph into animals in order to fight a covert alien invasion. The series doesn’t shy away from tough topics, exploring issues like war, trauma, and moral ambiguity in a way that’s accessible to middle-grade readers. Animorphs sold more than 35 million copies and inspired a TV show and graphic novel adaptations. Recent years have seen a resurgence of interest, with a new generation discovering the series through social media and library reprints. The blend of action, emotion, and thought-provoking themes keeps Animorphs relevant today.
The Baby-Sitters Club – Ann M. Martin
The Baby-Sitters Club, created by Ann M. Martin, is a staple of middle-grade fiction, boasting 131 main books and a vast array of spinoffs and adaptations. The series debuted in 1986 and quickly became a phenomenon, chronicling the lives of a group of friends who run a babysitting business in Stoneybrook, Connecticut. Each book tackles relatable issues like friendship, family, and growing up, making it a touchstone for millions of readers. The Baby-Sitters Club has sold over 180 million copies and was revived as a hit Netflix series in 2020, introducing the heartfelt stories to a new audience. The enduring popularity of the series highlights the universal appeal of stories about friendship and self-discovery.
The Destroyer – Warren Murphy & Richard Sapir
For action and adventure lovers, The Destroyer is a tour de force. Created by Warren Murphy and Richard Sapir, the series has over 150 volumes, following the exploits of Remo Williams, a secret agent trained in the deadly martial art of Sinanju. The books blend fast-paced action with biting satire and humor, attracting a cult following since the first volume in 1971. The Destroyer’s influence can be seen in numerous action franchises, and the character has appeared in comics and a 1985 feature film. As of 2024, new entries continue to be published, proving that the appetite for high-octane adventure is alive and well. The series’ mix of outrageous plots and memorable characters keeps readers coming back for more.
Redwall – Brian Jacques
Redwall, written by Brian Jacques, is a beloved fantasy series filled with heroic mice, epic battles, and sumptuous feasts. Spanning 22 volumes from 1986 to 2011, Redwall introduces readers to a richly imagined world where animals take on the roles of knights, villains, and wise elders. The series is renowned for its vivid descriptions, moral lessons, and sense of adventure, making it a favorite for readers young and old. Over 20 million Redwall books have been sold, and the series has inspired an animated TV show and stage productions. Redwall’s legacy endures, with new fans discovering its timeless tales every year.
Left Behind – Tim LaHaye & Jerry B. Jenkins
Left Behind, the Christian apocalyptic fiction series by Tim LaHaye and Jerry B. Jenkins, consists of 16 volumes that captivated millions with its depiction of the Rapture and the rise of the Antichrist. The series, first published in 1995, became a publishing sensation, selling over 80 million copies and sparking intense debate about its themes and theology. Left Behind’s blend of suspense, prophecy, and moral choices struck a chord with readers worldwide, leading to a series of films and graphic novels. The books remain a subject of discussion in both religious and literary circles, reflecting their impact on contemporary fiction.
Dune – Frank Herbert & successors
Dune, created by Frank Herbert and expanded by his son Brian Herbert and author Kevin J. Anderson, is one of science fiction’s most expansive universes. Frank Herbert wrote the original six novels, but with the addition of over 20 sequels and prequels by Brian Herbert and Anderson, the Dune saga now encompasses more than 25 books. Dune’s complex world-building, political intrigue, and philosophical depth have made it a touchstone for science fiction fans. The series has sold over 30 million copies and inspired major film adaptations, most recently the blockbuster 2021 and 2023 movies. Dune’s influence can be seen in everything from Star Wars to Game of Thrones, making it a must-read for any fan of speculative fiction.
The Barsoom Series – Edgar Rice Burroughs
The Barsoom series by Edgar Rice Burroughs whisks readers away to a fantastical Mars, known as Barsoom, in 11 thrilling volumes published between 1912 and 1943. The stories follow Earthman John Carter as he battles strange creatures and navigates complex Martian societies, blending swordplay with early science fiction. The series has been credited with inspiring generations of writers and filmmakers, including Ray Bradbury and George Lucas. Barsoom’s legacy includes comic books, radio dramas, and the 2012 Disney film “John Carter.” The books remain in print over a century later, proving the lasting power of Burroughs’ imagination.
Honor Harrington – David Weber
Honor Harrington, created by David Weber, is a military science fiction series that has grown to 14 main novels and numerous spinoffs since 1992. The books center on Honor Harrington, a starship captain whose tactical genius and moral fortitude make her a standout figure in the genre. The series is praised for its detailed world-building, realistic space battles, and political intrigue, drawing comparisons to classics like Horatio Hornblower. Over 7 million Honor Harrington books have been sold, and the series has inspired a dedicated online fan community. Its blend of military strategy, personal drama, and futuristic technology keeps readers engaged through every installment.
The Saga of Recluce – L.E. Modesitt Jr.
L.E. Modesitt Jr.’s Saga of Recluce is a fantasy epic with 23 volumes (and counting as of 2025), each exploring the eternal struggle between order and chaos. The series began in 1991 and has since captivated readers with its deep philosophical themes, intricate magic system, and interconnected storylines. Each book can be read as a standalone or as part of a larger tapestry, giving readers flexibility in how they experience the world of Recluce. The series has sold over 3 million copies, and Modesitt continues to release new entries, keeping the story fresh and engaging. The complex interplay of characters and ideas makes Recluce a favorite for fans of thoughtful fantasy.
Sweet Valley High – Francine Pascal (creator)
Sweet Valley High, launched in 1983 by Francine Pascal, is a landmark in teen drama, chronicling the lives of twins Jessica and Elizabeth Wakefield through 181 main books. The series dives into the ups and downs of high school—romance, rivalry, secrets, and scandal—with a soap opera flair that has kept readers hooked for decades. Sweet Valley High has sold over 60 million copies and inspired a TV series, graphic novels, and even a musical. Its blend of relatable drama and over-the-top plot twists makes it a nostalgic favorite for readers who grew up in the ’80s and ’90s and a fun discovery for new fans.
Tom Swift – Victor Appleton (house pseudonym)
Tom Swift is one of literature’s earliest science fiction heroes, first appearing in 1910 under the house pseudonym Victor Appleton. With more than 100 books spread across multiple series, Tom Swift has inspired generations of young inventors and dreamers. The stories follow Tom’s adventures as he builds futuristic gadgets and explores cutting-edge science, reflecting America’s fascination with innovation. The series has evolved over the decades, with new versions reimagining Tom for each era. Tom Swift’s spirit of curiosity and adventure continues to resonate, making it one of the longest-running sci-fi franchises ever.
Besides founding Festivaltopia, Luca is the co founder of trib, an art and fashion collectiv you find on several regional events and online. Also he is part of the management board at HORiZONTE, a group travel provider in Germany.
