If you loved Inkheart for Meggie and Mo's perilous journey to rescue loved ones and restore order to a world where stories come alive, you'll be swept away by September's adventure to liberate Fairyland from a tyrannical Marquess. Both stories are driven by a young protagonist on a mission, braving fantastical dangers to save friends and magical realms.

If you enjoyed the dynamic interplay between Meggie, Mo, Dustfinger, and the rest of Inkheart’s vibrant ensemble, you’ll love following Nathaniel, the powerful and prickly djinni Bartimaeus, and a host of scheming magicians. The shifting loyalties and distinctive personalities make for a similarly rich and entertaining cast.

If you were drawn to Meggie’s journey as she discovers her voice—both literally and figuratively—in Inkheart, you’ll be charmed by Sophie’s transformation from a self-doubting hat maker into a bold heroine who learns to wield magic and change her destiny. Both stories offer heartfelt growth and self-discovery.

If you were captivated by the lovingly described settings and living stories of Inkheart, you’ll be fascinated by the House and its ever-shifting wonders in The Thief of Always. Barker’s world is as intoxicating, strange, and immersive as Funke’s, packed with enchanting details and hidden dangers.

If you were thrilled by Inkheart’s magical premise—where characters step out of books and readers shape the fate of stories—you’ll be enchanted by Bastian’s journey into Fantastica, where reading literally alters the world. Both novels celebrate the power of storytelling in beautiful, meta ways.