Step into the sparkling world of Rainbow Magic, where fairies, friendship, and a sprinkle of mischief create unforgettable adventures! Since 2003, the Rainbow Magic series by Daisy Meadows has enchanted young readers with its whimsical tales of two best friends, Rachel Walker and Kirsty Tate, as they team up with magical fairies to outsmart the villainous Jack Frost. Perfect for children aged 5–9, this beloved children’s fantasy series blends magic and heart, making it a staple in early chapter books.
How Rainbow Magic Began
The Rainbow Magic series was born in the creative minds at Working Partners, a British storytelling group, and brought to life by Orchard Books. Daisy Meadows, a pseudonym for four talented authors—Narinder Dhami, Sue Bentley, Linda Chapman, and Sue Mongredien—crafts these stories with a shared vision of sparking imagination. Launched with Ruby the Red Fairy in 2003, the series grew from a simple idea of fairies tied to colors into a global phenomenon, with over 200 books published across themed mini-series.
The Heart of Rainbow Magic
At its core, Rainbow Magic follows Rachel and Kirsty as they visit the enchanting Rainspell Island, meeting fairies who need their help to save Fairyland. Key books like Ruby the Red Fairy introduce the Rainbow Fairies, seven sisters who keep Fairyland vibrant until Jack Frost scatters them. In Crystal the Snow Fairy, the girls aid the Weather Fairies to restore snowy weather stolen by goblins. Katie the Kitten Fairy from the Pet Fairies series sees Rachel and Kirsty rescuing magical pets, while Bethany the Ballet Fairy from the Dance Fairies series saves a dance ribbon from chaos.
The series shines through its themes of friendship, teamwork, and clever problem-solving. Each book, typically six chapters, features vivid illustrations by Georgie Ripper and simple language ideal for new readers. The formulaic yet comforting structure—girls meet a fairy, face Jack Frost’s goblins, and save the day—offers suspense without fear, wrapped in a “girly” aesthetic of sparkly outfits and magical settings. From Jewel Fairies to Sporty Fairies, the series explores diverse interests, ensuring every child finds a fairy to love.
Why Rainbow Magic Resonates
Rainbow Magic has sold over 40 million copies worldwide and was the most-borrowed children’s series in UK libraries in 2010 and 2011. Its repetitive yet engaging plots build confidence in young readers, while its vast collection encourages a love for reading. Fans cherish the nostalgia, with adults in their 20s rereading favorites and passing box sets to younger generations. By celebrating diversity in fairy characters and empowering girls to be brave and kind, the series remains a gateway to fantasy for kids everywhere.
- Publication Years: 2003–present
- Number of Books: Over 200
- Target Age: 5–9
- Publishers: Orchard Books (UK), Scholastic Inc. (US)
Ready to sprinkle some magic into your reading? Grab Ruby the Red Fairy and dive into Rainbow Magic’s enchanting world of fairies and friendship!