Step into the thrilling world of Story Thieves, where books aren’t just stories—they’re portals to adventure! James Riley’s captivating children’s series, which kicked off in 2015, follows Owen Conners and Bethany, two kids who can leap into the pages of their favorite books. Blending fantasy, mystery, and metafiction, this series takes readers on a whirlwind ride through fictional worlds while exploring the magic of storytelling, friendship, and identity.
With its fast-paced plots and clever humor, Story Thieves hooks young readers and book lovers who dream of living inside their favorite tales. Whether you’re dodging spells with Kiel Gnomenfoot or unraveling secrets in the real world, this series promises a delightful escape.
How Story Thieves Began
James Riley, a New York Times bestselling author known for his Half Upon a Time series, launched Story Thieves with a bold idea: what if kids could jump into books and mess with the story? Inspired by his love for fractured fairy tales and genre-blending adventures, Riley crafted a world where the boundaries between reality and fiction blur. Published by Aladdin (Simon & Schuster), the series debuted in 2015, quickly gaining traction for its inventive premise and witty dialogue.
Riley’s knack for engaging young readers shines through, drawing from his experiences meeting fans and weaving their curiosity into the narrative. His goal was to create a series that felt like a love letter to books, encouraging kids to imagine themselves as heroes in their favorite stories.
The Heart of Story Thieves
The series spans five books, each diving into different genres while keeping the core premise of book-jumping. In *Story Thieves* (2015), Owen discovers Bethany’s secret: she’s half-fictional, born to a real mother and a fictional father, and can enter any book. When Owen begs to join her in the Kiel Gnomenfoot series, their meddling sparks chaos, threatening both fictional and real worlds. *The Stolen Chapters* (2016) shifts to a mystery, with Owen waking up with no memory and questions piling up. *Secret Origins* (2017) explores superhero tales, while *Pick the Plot* (2017) plays with choose-your-own-adventure twists. Finally, *Worlds Apart* (2018) wraps up the saga with an epic fantasy showdown.
Themes of friendship and identity anchor the series, as Owen and Bethany navigate trust and self-discovery. The metafictional style—where characters know they’re in a story—adds a playful layer, poking fun at tropes while celebrating the power of imagination. From magical battles to steampunk-inspired settings, Riley’s worlds are vibrant and varied, appealing to fans of *Fablehaven* or *Inkheart*.
Riley’s humor and cultural references keep the tone light, but deeper questions about free will and reality versus fiction give the series heart. The fast-paced action and well-developed characters, like tough Bethany and goofy Owen, make every book a page-turner.
Why Story Thieves Resonates
Story Thieves has carved a niche in middle-grade fiction, selling over 170,000 copies of its first two books by 2016 and earning a spot on the New York Times bestseller list. Its appeal lies in its relatability—every reader has fantasized about stepping into a book. Fans praise its clever plotting and genre-hopping, with reviews calling it “a droll and clever opener” that leaves readers “breathless with laughter and anticipation.”
The series’ legacy endures through its celebration of storytelling, inspiring kids to see books as gateways to adventure. Its mix of humor, heart, and metafiction continues to captivate young readers, making it a standout in children’s fantasy.
- First Book Published: January 20, 2015
- Total Books: 5
- Author: James Riley
- Publisher: Aladdin (Simon & Schuster)
Grab *Story Thieves* and dive into a world where books come alive! Whether you’re a fantasy fan or a mystery lover, this series will whisk you away on an unforgettable adventure.