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Any attempt to create an essential fantasy reading list must first begin with deciding what makes such a list of works essential. And one must decide to whom such a list is essential. The essential reading list for writers should be different from the essential list for people new to the genre. Here is an annotated list of essential reading for the literate writer who wishes to experience the most influential modern works in the genre.

The Lord of the Rings. J. R. R. Tolkien. This trilogy is the most influential work of high fantasy ever written. It's story is not really about a magic ring, a hobbit, wizards and wars. It is really the story of a place: Middle Earth. It is a travelogue, a picaresque that takes us into a new world that is as realistically drawn as any ever created. It is the foundational work in the category of world creation.

The Chronicles of Narnia. C. S. Lewis. This series of seven young adult novels is as vital for the mature reader as it is entertaining for children. Whereas Tolkien is a master of world creation, Lewis is the master of allegory and symbolism. That being said, one must understand that Lewis claims to dislike allegory. Lewis informs us that the novels are not allegories, in the vein of Pilgrim's Progress, but stories that are infused with a Christian world view so fully that it is impossible to read them without seeing the parallels with the Christ story.

The Once and Future King. T. H. White. This wonderful novel is a re-telling of the King Arthur myth. The passages regarding Arthur's youth and growth are magnificently original, and the entire work is both relevant and respectful of the original canon.

The Princess Bride. William Goldman. This is advised reading. Do not read this novel if you have seen the film version and that's all you want. Goldman's novel makes forays into the real world where Goldman discusses his disappointments with his son, and his relationship with his own father. In spite of these moments where the real world intrudes into the "good parts version" that Goldman wants to tell, the story of Princess Buttercup and her true love Wesley is charming and fun. More importantly, this is a post-modern telling of a fantasy tale and Goldman's cheeky wit is priceless.

Titus Alone. Mervynn Peake. This novel is the first of a trilogy. It is filled with allegory and Dickensian characters. Where Tolkien creates a universe, Peake focuses on a very limited stage: a massive castle. But that castle is as carefully nurtured

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