Step into the enchanting world of the Magic Kingdom of Landover, where a Chicago lawyer trades courtrooms for a crown in a fantastical realm brimming with dragons, wizards, and talking dogs! Terry Brooks’ beloved fantasy series, spanning six novels, follows Ben Holiday’s journey from grief-stricken attorney to king of a magical kingdom facing chaos and charm in equal measure. With humor, adventure, and heart, this series invites readers to escape into a world where courage and camaraderie reign supreme.
Unlike Brooks’ epic Shannara saga, Magic Kingdom of Landover offers a lighter, more whimsical take on fantasy, blending fairy-tale wonder with modern sensibilities. It’s a delightful romp for anyone craving a magical escape with a touch of wit.
How Magic Kingdom of Landover Began
In 1986, Terry Brooks, already a fantasy legend thanks to The Sword of Shannara, ventured into new territory with Magic Kingdom for Sale—Sold!, the first book in the Landover series. Inspired by a desire to craft a standalone fantasy with a contemporary twist, Brooks imagined a disillusioned lawyer purchasing a magical kingdom, only to find it in disarray. The concept, blending real-world cynicism with fairy-tale optimism, struck a chord with readers, leading to a six-book saga that concluded in 2009 with A Princess of Landover.
Brooks’ knack for world-building and character-driven storytelling shines in Landover, a series that feels like a love letter to classic fantasy while poking fun at its tropes. His legal background informed Ben Holiday’s pragmatic approach, making the series a unique blend of modern and mythical.
The Heart of Magic Kingdom of Landover
The series kicks off with Magic Kingdom for Sale—Sold! (1986), where Ben Holiday, reeling from personal tragedy, buys Landover for a million dollars, only to discover a kingdom in ruin, complete with a dragon, a bumbling wizard, and a throne no one respects. In The Black Unicorn (1987), Ben faces a magical disguise and a quest to save a mystical creature, deepening the series’ exploration of identity and trust. Wizard at Large (1988) sees court scribe Abernathy, a talking dog, accidentally sent to Earth, blending humor with cross-world chaos. A Princess of Landover (2009) shifts focus to Ben’s daughter, Mistaya, as she navigates rebellion and a dangerous library, adding a fresh perspective to the saga.
Landover’s themes of resilience, leadership, and found family resonate throughout. Ben’s transformation from skeptic to steadfast king mirrors the kingdom’s revival, while characters like Questor Thews, the inept wizard, and Willow, a sylph with tree-like tendencies, bring humor and heart. The setting—a small, rural kingdom surrounded by fairy mists—feels intimate yet boundless, with magical creatures and quirky societies creating a vibrant backdrop. Brooks’ lighthearted style, peppered with witty dialogue, makes the series accessible and endlessly entertaining.
Why Magic Kingdom of Landover Resonates
The Magic Kingdom of Landover series has carved a niche in fantasy for its blend of humor and heroism, offering a refreshing contrast to darker, epic tales. Fans praise its relatable protagonist and quirky cast, with reviews on Goodreads and Amazon highlighting its ability to evoke laughter, tears, and awe. While less sprawling than Shannara, Landover’s smaller scale amplifies its charm, making it a beloved escape for teens and adults alike.
Its lasting appeal lies in its timeless message: hope can flourish in the unlikeliest places. By grounding a fantastical world in human struggles, Brooks crafted a series that feels both magical and deeply personal, inspiring readers to embrace their own journeys with courage.
- First published: 1986
- Number of books: 6
- Key characters: Ben Holiday, Questor Thews, Abernathy, Willow
- Setting: Landover, a magical kingdom
Grab Magic Kingdom for Sale—Sold! and dive into Landover’s whimsical world of fantasy and adventure!