All books provide an escape from modern life; but arguably none more than those in this genre. Fantasy whisks readers from magical multi-dimensional universes to dark underworlds, immersing you in the unexplainable. It’s also one of the oldest book genres, dating back to ancient mythology, folklore and classics like The Iliad and Beowulf.

Although there is some debate about what exactly defines the genre, the Cambridge Dictionary broadly defines fantasy fiction as “a type of story that is set in a magical world, often involving traditional myths and magical creatures and sometimes ideas or events from the real world.” In other words, it could go a lot of different ways. And just like romance and mystery, the fantasy genre is full of subgenres (epic fantasy, magical realism, sword and sorcery, romantic fantasy, grimdark fantasy, to name a few), and just as many readers who loyally read within their favorites.

Sure, these magical worlds transport us by plucking us from our lives for just awhile, but fantasy invites us to explore heavier themes like betrayal, war, love and power that mirror real-world challenges within the safe bounds of a mythical world. Often it takes a reality-bending story to clearly see our own world, challenge our long-held perceptions and expand our perspectives.

“Fantasy invites us to explore heavier themes like betrayal, war, love and power that mirror real-world challenges within the safe bounds of a mythical world.”

While we tend to think of young readers as the ones with the active imaginations, the adult fantasy genre is booming with mega hits like The Lord of the Rings, A Game of Thrones and Outlander—proving that not all the mind-bending fun is for the kids. But of course, juvenile and YA fantasy fiction remain as popular as ever with The Hunger Games and A Court of Thorns and Roses—series that appeal to both young and old alike.

For a look at the otherworldly favorites enjoyed by readers in the Libby app, check out this list of the most popular fantasy ebooks and audiobooks of all time for kids, teens and adults. If you’re a fantasy fan, how many have you read from this list? And if you’re not, what are you waiting for? Make your reading list more magical with these enthralling escapes.

*Title availability may vary by region.