Read Fantastic Beasts Books In Order : Every Fan MUST Know!

The Fantastic Beasts series, an extension of J.K. Rowling’s renowned Wizarding World, invites readers into a rich, magical tapestry that expands the lore introduced in the Harry Potter books. Set in the early 20th century, this prequel series plunges into the fantastical world of magical creatures, dark magic, and political intrigue. Whether you’re a die-hard Potterhead or someone new to Rowling’s universe, the Fantastic Beasts books offer a compelling and immersive experience that intertwines with the Harry Potter series but stands distinctly on its own.

In this article, we will explore the history and structure of the Fantastic Beasts books, delve into the reading order, analyze what makes the series particularly appealing, and discuss whether it’s necessary to read them in a specific order to fully appreciate the narrative. Let’s embark on this magical journey and discover what makes the Fantastic Beasts saga so captivating.

List Of Fantastic Beasts Books In Order

More On Fantastic Beasts Books In Chronological Order

1. Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them (Original Textbook Edition) (2001)

Oh, this is the one that started it all outside of the Harry Potter series! It’s presented as if Newt Scamander, the magizoologist himself, wrote it as a textbook for Hogwarts students. You get this absolutely charming guide to magical creatures, each with its quirks, dangers, and the occasional hilarious footnote. It’s short, sweet, and packed with that wizarding world flavor, like having a chatty friend show you a collection of magical creatures from around the globe.

2. Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them: New Edition (2017)

Now, this one feels like the book grew up a bit! Released to tie in with the films, this edition is even more interactive, with new notes and insights, and it’s a bit more polished for fans who want to get deeper into Newt Scamander’s adventures. It’s almost like the original book went on a magical diet and came back with extra personality and historical context about the wizarding world. Perfect for both longtime fans and curious newcomers.

3. Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald – The Original Screenplay (2018)

Here’s where it gets really juicy if you’re into following the story of Newt Scamander beyond Hogwarts textbooks. This is the official screenplay of the second film, so reading it is like peeking behind the curtain at all the cinematic magic. You get the dialogue, the scene directions, and the quirky little things the characters do, and it’s written in a way that’s almost like a conversation with the filmmakers themselves. You can practically hear Johnny Depp’s Grindelwald whispering in your ear!

4. Fantastic Beasts: The Secrets of Dumbledore – The Original Screenplay (2022)

The latest official book in the series, and it’s basically like sitting down with your friends to recount this intricate, spellbinding adventure across continents. This screenplay edition is full of plot twists, intense confrontations, and charming, awkward moments with Newt and his ever-loyal beasts. It’s the kind of book where you can’t help but imagine yourself wandering through magical locations while also appreciating the clever details of the wizarding world. It’s fun, thrilling, and slightly emotional-like a magical rollercoaster you don’t want to get off.

Background On Fantastic Beasts Books

The Fantastic Beasts series is not merely a traditional collection of novels. It originates as a companion book to the Harry Potter series, designed to provide background information about magical creatures in the wizarding world. Its inception came in 2001 when J.K. Rowling wrote Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them, a fictional textbook written by Newt Scamander, the protagonist of the series. This book was released as a charity project, meant to benefit Comic Relief, but it sparked the interest of readers and set the stage for what would become a multi-part literary saga.

The Fantastic Beasts series is primarily centered around the adventures of Newt Scamander, a magizoologist-someone who studies magical creatures-whose research and discoveries help shape the understanding of magical creatures within the wizarding world. The books take place decades before Harry Potter’s time, exploring the broader magical world, touching on themes of political discord, the rise of dark forces, and the burgeoning conflict between wizards and Muggles (non-magical people).

The series expands the scope of the wizarding world in exciting ways, incorporating historical settings and global issues, notably the rise of the dark wizard Gellert Grindelwald, who is integral to the plot. Although Fantastic Beasts may be most recognized due to its film adaptations, its literary roots are equally significant, offering detailed backstories and in-depth explorations of magical lore.

Reading Order Explained

To fully immerse yourself in the Fantastic Beasts narrative, it’s essential to follow a clear reading order, especially if you want to understand the progression of events, character arcs, and the intricate details that tie into the wider wizarding world.

1. Fantastic Beasts And Where To Find Them (2001)

   This is the first book in the Fantastic Beasts collection, but it’s not a novel in the traditional sense. It’s a fictional textbook written by Newt Scamander, one of the primary characters in the later books and films. It gives readers an overview of magical creatures in the wizarding world, describing a wide variety of beings from magical beasts to enchanted creatures. While it doesn’t follow a narrative, it serves as a wonderful introduction to the universe and the magical creatures that populate it.

2. Fantastic Beasts And Where To Find Them: The Original Screenplay (2016)

   This screenplay accompanies the first Fantastic Beasts film, which was released in 2016. While this is a screenplay rather than a traditional novel, it still serves as an essential part of the story. The book provides a detailed retelling of the plot and character developments from the movie, along with additional scenes and information not always captured in the film.

3. Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes Of Grindelwald – The Original Screenplay (2018)

   This screenplay mirrors the second Fantastic Beasts movie, The Crimes of Grindelwald, and it picks up right where the first film leaves off. With the dark wizard Gellert Grindelwald now on the loose, the plot shifts toward the growing tension between magical and non-magical societies. The story delves deeper into the pasts of key characters, including the enigmatic Dumbledore and the infamous Grindelwald, while also introducing new characters, creatures, and political dynamics.

4. Fantastic Beasts: The Secrets Of Dumbledore – The Complete Screenplay (2022)

   The third entry in the Fantastic Beasts film series, this screenplay focuses on the battle against Grindelwald’s forces, now escalating into a global conflict. The secrets of the Dumbledore family, particularly his relationship with Grindelwald, are explored more fully, revealing the complexities of their shared history. This book also provides significant details about the larger political forces at play within the wizarding world.

5. Fantastic Beasts: Newt Scamander – The Magizoologist’s Guide To Magical Creatures (Forthcoming)

   This book is an anticipated release that will provide more in-depth insights into the magical creatures Newt Scamander encountered during his travels. It promises to delve into Scamander’s studies, offering a more comprehensive exploration of the magical creatures introduced throughout the series. Though not officially confirmed in the reading order as of yet, it is expected to be another integral addition to the Fantastic Beasts collection.

What I Like About The Series?

The Fantastic Beasts books stand out for a number of reasons, but there are a few specific qualities that make them especially enjoyable for readers.

1. Rich World-Building

   Much like the Harry Potter series, the Fantastic Beasts books provide a detailed, immersive world filled with intricate political systems, magical creatures, and histories. J.K. Rowling’s ability to build a world that feels both expansive and authentic is nothing short of extraordinary. The books take us to different countries, such as the United States and France, showcasing the global nature of the magical world, all while maintaining a consistent, believable tone.

2. Complex Characters

   The characters, particularly Newt Scamander, are a breath of fresh air compared to the more familiar ones from the Harry Potter series. Newt’s quiet, introspective nature makes him an unconventional hero, but one whose care and dedication to magical creatures make him incredibly endearing. The exploration of secondary characters like Leta Lestrange, Theseus Scamander, and even the enigmatic Albus Dumbledore provides depth and richness to the narrative.

3. Dark Themes And Political Intrigue

   Fantastic Beasts isn’t just about magic; it’s also about power, ideology, and the consequences of unchecked ambition. Grindelwald’s rise to power serves as a reflection of darker political forces at play, paralleling real-world concerns about extremism, control, and the division between different factions. The themes of loyalty, choice, and the consequences of one’s actions give the books an emotional weight that resonates beyond fantasy.

4. The Magical Creatures

   Newt Scamander’s passion for magical creatures is contagious. The creatures featured in the books are not mere decorations; they serve as metaphors, plot devices, and even characters in their own right. From the mischievous Niffler to the majestic Thunderbird, the creatures are not only fascinating but also integral to the overall story.

Should You Read Fantastic Beasts Books In Order?

The answer largely depends on how deep you want to dive into the world of Fantastic Beasts. While the reading order of the books is important for understanding the overarching narrative, the companion book Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them (2001) can be read separately since it is more of an informational guide than a narrative.

However, if you want to experience the plot-driven journey and character arcs, following the chronological order of the screenplays-starting with Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them-will give you the most coherent understanding of the storyline. By reading the books in order, you can fully appreciate the complexities of Grindelwald’s rise, the struggles of the characters, and the themes that evolve across the series.