Fantastic Beasts Books In Order (2026): Full Collection Guide
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The Fantastic Beasts series, created by J.K. Rowling, represents a captivating extension of the magical universe first introduced in the Harry Potter series. While the Harry Potter books delve into the world of young wizards and their battle against dark forces, Fantastic Beasts provides a deeper exploration of magical history, creatures, and the intricacies of wizarding society long before Harry ever received his letter from Hogwarts. This series is rich in lore, history, and character development, offering readers a chance to explore new corners of the magical world while connecting with familiar themes.
Initially presented as a film series, the Fantastic Beasts franchise quickly expanded into a literary form. But as with any extended universe, understanding how to approach the series, particularly when it comes to the reading sequence, can enhance the reading experience. This guide will delve into the books, the recommended reading order, and offer insights into the significance of reading the Fantastic Beasts series in sequence. Whether you’re a long-time Harry Potter fan or new to J.K. Rowling’s wizarding world, this exploration will provide you with a thorough understanding of the magic that binds these books together.
Overview of the Fantastic Beasts Books
The Fantastic Beasts series primarily focuses on Newt Scamander, a magizoologist whose work and adventures form the core of the narrative. However, the books themselves encompass far more than just his story; they explore the rise of dark wizard Gellert Grindelwald, the complex political landscape of the wizarding world in the early 20th century, and the foundations of the magical laws and traditions that we come to understand in the Harry Potter series.
There are two main types of books in the Fantastic Beasts series: the primary narrative-driven novels and the supplementary texts that provide a deeper understanding of the world.
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Fantastic Beasts Books In Chronological Order
Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them (2001) Details Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them: The Original Screenplay (2016) Details Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald – The Original Screenplay (2018) Details Fantastic Beasts: The Secrets of Dumbledore – The Complete Screenplay (2022) Details Quidditch Through the Ages (2001) Details The Tales of Beedle the Bard (2008) Details List Of Fantastic Beasts Books In Order
1. Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them (2001)
This is the first book in the Fantastic Beasts series, though technically a textbook in the Harry Potter universe. Written by Newt Scamander, it’s a magical zoology guide that introduces us to all kinds of magical creatures, from the gentle Hippogriff to the terrifying Hungarian Horntail. The book gives a detailed look at the creatures’ habitats, behaviors, and even conservation status. Plus, Scamander’s cheeky side comments and notes from the Hogwarts students (including Harry, Ron, and Hermione) make it a delightful read, even though it’s not a traditional narrative.
2. Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them: The Original Screenplay (2016)
This one’s a bit of a departure since it’s the screenplay for the 2016 Fantastic Beasts film. Set in 1926, it follows Newt Scamander as he arrives in New York with his magical suitcase of creatures, only to get caught up in a dark magical conflict involving mysterious creatures, an obscurial, and dark wizards. If you’ve seen the film, this book is like a behind-the-scenes pass, offering you all the dialogue, stage directions, and scene details that bring the movie’s magical world to life. You’ll also catch a glimpse of familiar Harry Potter themes, but from an entirely new angle!
3. Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald – The Original Screenplay (2018)
This is the screenplay for the second Fantastic Beasts film, and things are really heating up here! Grindelwald, the dark wizard, is making his big return, and Newt Scamander is caught in the middle of a growing battle between dark and light magic. This book dives deeper into the lore of the wizarding world, introduces new characters (including a young Dumbledore!), and explores the tension between personal choices and the larger fight for magical equality. It’s like a rollercoaster of twists and turns, and if you love the films, this screenplay will give you all the details you might have missed.
4. Fantastic Beasts: The Secrets of Dumbledore – The Complete Screenplay (2022)
Here we have the screenplay for the third film, and oh boy, the stakes are high! This time, Newt Scamander and his friends are facing off against Grindelwald, who’s plotting to take control of the wizarding world. The political and magical intrigue thickens, with Dumbledore playing a more central role, and a series of revelations about his past coming to light. This book ties together a lot of the franchise’s themes of loyalty, power, and the complexities of good vs. evil. It’s jam-packed with plot twists, and if you’re following along with the series, it’s a must-read!
5. Quidditch Through the Ages (2001)
Okay, so this one’s a bit of a curveball in the Fantastic Beasts timeline, but it’s part of the same Hogwarts Library collection. Written by Kennilworthy Whisp, it’s a detailed history of the most famous sport in the wizarding world: Quidditch. It traces the sport’s origins, the evolution of the rules, and, of course, the various teams and their legendary matches. It’s not strictly a Fantastic Beasts book, but it’s a fun exploration of another aspect of wizarding culture and worth reading if you’re a fan of the magical universe.
6. The Tales of Beedle the Bard (2008)
Another one from the Hogwarts Library, but this one’s a collection of wizarding fairy tales. It’s mentioned in Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows, where Dumbledore leaves Hermione a copy of this book, and it’s filled with fables that children (and adults!) in the wizarding world have grown up with. Some of these stories have deeper meanings tied to wizarding history, and if you’re paying attention, you’ll see how they connect to the larger narrative of Harry Potter. The most famous tale, The Tale of the Three Brothers, even explains the origins of the Deathly Hallows!
Primary Narrative Books
- Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them (2016)
- Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald (2018)
- Fantastic Beasts: The Secrets of Dumbledore (2022)
These three books are adapted from the films in the Fantastic Beasts franchise, each detailing a new chapter in Newt Scamander’s life as he faces dark magic, historical challenges, and the growth of dark forces in the wizarding world.
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Supplementary Books
- Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them (2001) – This is a fictional textbook by Newt Scamander that was originally published as a spin-off of the Harry Potter series. It provides an in-depth guide to magical creatures, offering a wonderful blend of world-building and whimsy. While not a traditional narrative, it adds texture and depth to the magical universe.
- Quidditch Through the Ages (2001) – Another supplementary book from the Wizarding World that provides historical insights into the sport of Quidditch.
- The Tales of Beedle the Bard (2008) – Though not strictly part of the Fantastic Beasts series, this collection of wizarding fairy tales offers valuable context to the lore surrounding the magical community and the relationships between wizards and Muggles.
These supplementary books are often enjoyed alongside the main narratives to enrich the reader’s understanding of the world and its history. They provide background on magical creatures, artifacts, and spells, as well as key historical events.
Understanding The Recommended Reading Sequence
When it comes to reading the Fantastic Beasts books, the question of sequencing can be somewhat complex. The Fantastic Beasts series is made up of different kinds of books-those that advance the main plotline of Newt Scamander and his interactions with historical figures, and those that provide supplemental world-building details. Because the supplementary books are designed to expand upon the lore and not necessarily advance the plot, you can read them at any point; however, the primary films and novels follow a chronological timeline in the wizarding world, with each story building upon the events of the previous one.
Recommended Sequence
- Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them (2016) – While this book is based on the film, the movie itself is an introduction to the Fantastic Beasts world. The first book provides a deeper look at magical creatures and introduces the world of magizoology, serving as the foundational piece for the universe.
- Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald (2018) – The second installment of the series directly follows the events of the first book, continuing the story of Newt Scamander and the rise of Grindelwald’s dark forces.
- Fantastic Beasts: The Secrets of Dumbledore (2022) – The third book follows the ongoing confrontation between Grindelwald’s supporters and the forces of good, particularly focusing on Albus Dumbledore’s pivotal role in the narrative.
- Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them (2001) – This fictional textbook is often best read after the main narrative trilogy, as it offers additional insight into magical creatures that are frequently referenced throughout the series.
While the Fantastic Beasts books can technically be read in any order, the sequence above reflects the logical progression of both the film series and the wizarding world’s timeline. Reading the books in order of release will provide you with the clearest narrative flow.
What I Enjoy About The Series
The Fantastic Beasts books offer a refreshing expansion on the Harry Potter universe, providing readers with a different perspective on the magical world. There are several elements that stand out and make the series enjoyable:
- Rich World-Building: The books delve deep into the history of the wizarding world, offering a broader understanding of magical politics, the Ministry of Magic, and the history of dark wizards like Grindelwald. The depth of world-building is impressive, as Rowling weaves historical events and magical lore into the narrative, creating a richly textured environment.
- Complex Characters: While Newt Scamander serves as the primary protagonist, the supporting characters-such as Dumbledore, Grindelwald, Tina Goldstein, and Queenie Goldstein-are layered and complex. Their growth throughout the series provides ample opportunities for readers to become emotionally invested in their personal journeys.
- Moral Complexity: The Fantastic Beasts books move beyond the binary good vs. evil found in the Harry Potter series and explore shades of gray in terms of morality, identity, and power. Characters like Grindelwald challenge the idea of absolute righteousness, which prompts readers to think critically about issues of freedom, justice, and the greater good.
- Exploration of Magical Creatures: Newt Scamander’s love for magical creatures allows readers to discover a wealth of new creatures that are both fascinating and dangerous. The descriptions are often detailed and imaginative, making the magical beasts come alive on the page.
- Historical Depth: The setting of the series in the early 20th century brings a sense of historical context that feels grounded in real-world events, from the rise of fascism to the consequences of war. This historical backdrop enhances the narrative and gives it a gravitas that goes beyond fantasy.
Is It Important To Read Fantastic Beasts Books In Order?
For those who are fans of the Harry Potter universe, reading the Fantastic Beasts books in order is highly recommended. While it is not strictly necessary to follow a chronological order, doing so will enrich your understanding of the broader narrative and provide context for character development and world-building.
The interwoven plotlines, especially the development of Gellert Grindelwald and his relationship with Dumbledore, make following the story in sequence more satisfying. The books gradually build on the events of the previous volumes, with subtle references to earlier plot points that reward attentive readers.
Additionally, reading in order ensures that you experience the full emotional impact of character arcs and key plot twists, particularly those involving Newt, Dumbledore, and the rise of Grindelwald’s dark influence.
