Best Fictional Worlds in YA Books

Looking for new fictional YA book worlds to sink into? If you’re a visual reader like me, then this post will help you discover the best built fantasy worlds in the young adult book genre.

Plus, I’m a total sucker for book maps!

Best Fictional Worlds in YA Books

Hogwarts – Harry Potter

I think we can all agree the magical world created in the Harry Potter books is the best if not one of the best places to read about. And, Hogwarts is definitely where I wanted to live as a 10-year-old.

What makes this fictional book world SO special is the level of detail. J.K. Rowling thought of it all – music, travel, food, books, abilities, creatures, EVERYTHING. Opening the book, everything was fully formed just waiting for the reader to pretend and pray they would get their letter.

Ravka – Shadow and Bone

What I love about the Grisha world is that there’s an air of mystery to it. Many places are on the map that were yet-to-be explored in the trilogy, and are now coming to life via Six of Crows.

PLUS – do you see the Unsee?! It’s creepy as hell, and I love that Bardugo actually takes the story there.

The Seven Kingdoms – Graceling

Graceling + Fire + Bitterblue have my love for life. The magic/fantasy aspect of this book is wholly original in each book.

My favorite world is definitely in Fire – the Dells. There are “monsters” who are vibrant and alluring, and it was brilliantly done.

Erilea – Throne of Glass

Here we are in book 4 of the Throne of Glass series, and new characters, places and plots are popping up. The world of Erilea is great in that we don’t know everything there is to know about it yet.

We’re still peeling back layers of magic and mystery. GIMME MORE, MAAS.

Ixia – Poison Study

Mara V. Snyder explored the world of Ixia with two book series (the second is her Glass series). I liked the military approach to Ixia – it’s uniform and clean cut, while the Southern lands are more of a mystery.

This plays out exactly as you might think in the books, and it was a joy to discover as both series progressed.

Panem – The Hunger Games

I didn’t often think of it while reading, but Panem is supposed to be a futuristic version of the U.S. I enjoyed how each district was known for one main resource/function, as it made for easy reading.

My favorite area of Panem was the Capitol with its diversely dressed and adorned residents and opulence.

Grey, Red, White & Black London – A Darker Shade of Magic

I cannot express my full appreciation for the beautiful simplicity and genius behind the world(s) of A Darker Shade of Magic. Worlds with distinct flavors all accessible to Kell was a DELIGHT in every way.

My fantasy loving mind was captured by the creativity used here, and I hope to “see” more of each London in the remaining sequels.

What are your favorite fictional worlds in YA books?