- The Eye of the World by Robert Jordan
Like Williams’s novel, it begins a sweeping fantasy saga with a young protagonist drawn into a larger struggle involving magic and power.
- The Lord of the Rings by J.R.R. Tolkien
Its fellowship, ancient evils, and richly imagined world make it a foundational match for readers seeking an expansive fantasy journey.
- by Terry Brooks
This classic quest fantasy pairs a reluctant young hero with legendary magic and a conflict that reaches across kingdoms.
- The Buried Giant by Kazuo Ishiguro
This subdued journey through a legendary Britain offers a reflective bridge from epic fantasy to questions of memory and loyalty.
- Assassin's Apprentice by Robin Hobb
Its intimate coming-of-age story unfolds amid royal rivalries, making it a strong choice for readers drawn to character and courtly stakes.
- Magician by Raymond E. Feist
A young apprentice’s life expands into a sweeping conflict between worlds in this classic series opener.
- by Guy Gavriel Kay
Its portal into a mythic realm and its ensemble of unlikely heroes offer a similar blend of wonder and large-scale stakes.
- Golem and the Jinni by Helene Wecker
Its two supernatural protagonists bring the wonder of magical creatures into a richly rendered early-twentieth-century city.
- by David Eddings
This approachable series beginning follows a sheltered boy into a world of prophecy, magic, and political danger.
- The Book Of Three by Lloyd Alexander
Its young hero’s adventure through a kingdom of enchantment and danger echoes the youthful discovery at the heart of Williams’s story.
- A Wizard of Earthsea by Ursula K. Le Guin
This classic follows a gifted young wizard whose choices shape a lyrical journey through an intricately imagined world.
- The lions of Al-Rassan by Guy Gavriel Kay
Rather than using overt magic, this intricate historical fantasy explores rival powers and personal loyalties in a world of kingdoms.
- by David Eddings
This series opener combines a threatened throne, a band of companions, and a quest shaped by magic and political intrigue.
- The Black Company by Glen Cook
For readers interested in the darker edges of betrayal and power, this fantasy follows a mercenary company through a dangerous war.
- The Curse of Chalion by Lois McMaster Bujold
A weary former soldier becomes entangled in royal affairs and divine magic in this character-centered fantasy.
- by Hope Mirrlees
Its village set against a mysterious fairy realm offers an unusual, quietly enchanting take on the boundary between ordinary life and magic.
- The Name of the Wind by Patrick Rothfuss
Its richly narrated account of a young man’s education and growing abilities will appeal to readers who enjoy immersive fantasy protagonists.
- The Way of Kings by Brandon Sanderson
This series opener offers an immense secondary world, intersecting character arcs, and a conflict shaped by honor and power.
- by Gordon R. Dickson
Its imaginative dragon-filled adventure provides a lighter route into the magical creatures and perilous quests found in Williams’s novel.
- by William Goldman
This playful adventure turns familiar ingredients—duels, danger, and a quest—into a witty discovery for readers ready for a lighter fantasy.
- by Mary Stewart
This richly atmospheric retelling explores Merlin’s early life amid the politics and legends of a medieval Britain.
- The Once and Future King by T. H. White
Its legendary kings, enchanted episodes, and reflections on rule offer a classic companion to fantasy centered on rulers and their realms.
- The Last Unicorn by Peter S. Beagle
This lyrical quest follows a magical creature through a world of strange companions and fading enchantment.
- by Patricia A. McKillip
Its isolated sorceress, enchanted creatures, and questions of power offer a more compact but resonant form of classic fantasy.