Books About Magic Realism

The Best Magic Realism Books for Kids

Looking for excellent children's books about magic realism? This collection brings together Bookroo's highest-rated and most useful picks in one place.

Start with our editorial favorites, then browse recommendations organized by reading stage to find the right book for your reader.

The Shortlist

Our 5 Favorite Books About Magic Realism

The Boy, the Bird & the Coffin Maker
Sale price
$759
Chapter Book · Ages 8–12 · 2017

The Boy, the Bird & the Coffin Maker

By Matilda Woods, Anuska Allepuz (Illustrator)

A lonely coffin maker and a scared boy find hope and friendship in a magical town.

208 pages· 29,164 words· Est. 4 hour read
4.2 Goodreads · 1,954 ratings
$7.99Save 5%
Paperback
Summary: In the enchanting town of Allora, where fish fly and houses gleam, Alberto, a solitary coffin maker, encounters a magical bird and a frightened boy named Tito. As Tito seeks refuge from danger, an unexpected friendship blossoms, offering both a chance to heal and escape their past shadows. Can they find safety and warmth in each other's company amidst the magic surrounding them? This tale of friendship and magical realism invites readers to discover the power of connection and hope in a world where the extraordinary feels possible.
The Time Garden
Sale price
$759
Chapter Book · Ages 8–12 · 1958

The Time Garden

By Edward Eager, N. M. Bodecker (Illustrator) · Book #4 in the Tales of Magic series

Magic thrives at Mrs. Whiton's house, where time bends and adventures await with a mysterious guide.

202 pages· 36,369 words· Est. 5 hour read
4.1 Goodreads · 4,478 ratings
$7.99Save 5%
Paperback
Summary: The children from Knight's Castle yearn for magic, but it requires the right place and time—or thyme. At Mrs. Whiton's house, magic flourishes wildly, offering olden, future, and common time. Guided by the enigmatic Natterjack, a toadlike creature, they embark on unpredictable adventures. With time on their side, anything can happen. Will they uncover the secrets of this magical realm, or will time itself become their greatest challenge? Dive into a world where the ordinary meets the extraordinary, and every moment holds the promise of wonder.
The Paper Crane
Sale price
$759
Picture Book · Ages 4–8 · 1985

The Paper Crane

A magical paper crane revives a struggling restaurant.

32 pages· 453 words· Est. 4 min read-aloud
3.9 Goodreads · 745 ratings
$7.99Save 5%
Paperback
Summary: In a once-thriving restaurant, hope flickers when a mysterious stranger pays with a magical paper crane. As the crane dances, the restaurant's fortunes begin to change. Can this enchanting gift truly transform their fate? Discover the magic and mystery that unfolds in this captivating tale.
Stranger Things
Sale price
$574
Chapter Book · Ages 6–8 · 2013

Stranger Things

A mysterious coin turns Ed's world upside down with bizarre happenings and unexpected responsibilities.

96 pages· 5,485 words· Est. 1 hour read
3.7 Goodreads · 350 ratings
$5.99Save 4%
Paperback
Summary: Ed's life takes a wild turn when he discovers a coin inscribed with 'strange, stranger.' Suddenly, his friend is suspended in midair, his brother becomes a pool float, and his sister's food defies gravity. As chaos unfolds, Ed must unravel the coin's secrets, leading to a surprising revelation and a new responsibility. What mysteries does this coin hold, and how will Ed handle the strange new world it has unleashed?
I Hate to Read!
Sale price
$1597
Picture Book · Ages 6–9 · 1992

I Hate to Read!

A boy's hatred for books is challenged by magical creatures on a whimsical night.

32 pages· 480 words· Est. 4 min read-aloud
3.1 Goodreads · 105 ratings
$16.99Save 6%
Hardcover
Summary: Victor despises reading, but a peculiar night changes everything. Encountering a peg-legged parrot, a boot-wearing rabbit, and a coin-hoarding mouse, he discovers the magic within printed words. Can these enchanting creatures transform his stubborn disdain into wonder? Dive into a whimsical adventure where books come alive, and anything is possible.