Books About Magic Realism

The Best Magic Realism Books for Kids

By the Bookroo Editors

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 Boy, the Bird & the Coffin Maker
The Shortlist

Our 5 Favorite Books About Magic Realism

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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
4.2/5 Goodreads · 1,940 ratings
$7.99Save 5%
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.
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
4.1/5 Goodreads · 4,475 ratings
$7.99Save 5%
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.
Picture Book · Ages 4–8 · 1985

The Paper Crane

A magical paper crane revives a struggling restaurant.

Boston Globe–Horn Book Award (1986)
32 pages· 453 words· Est. 4 min read-aloud
3.9/5 Goodreads · 742 ratings
$7.99Save 5%
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.
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
3.7/5 Goodreads · 350 ratings
$5.99Save 4%
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?
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
3.1/5 Goodreads · 105 ratings
$16.99Save 6%
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.
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