If you’re a fan of Harry Potter and the magical Wizarding World J.K Rowling created, you’ll also want to read the Fantastic Beasts books in order.
The Fantastic Beasts series is a spin-off of the Harry Potter universe and focuses on magical creatures and the adventures of magizoologist Newt Scamander.
The series is set in the same Wizarding World but takes place several decades before the events of the Harry Potter books.
This is the complete list of Fantastic Beast books in order.
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Fantastic Beasts Books in Order: Complete Guide
You can choose to read the Fantastic Beasts books in the order of your preference. The films follow a chronological order, but the books are more reference materials and not traditional novels.
If you want to follow the story in order of events, you would start with the first screenplay and proceed in order from there.
However, if you’re interested in the creatures and lore, you might want to read the 2001 textbook first.
If you’re looking for more reading inspiration why not check out my other book lists and book reviews. I have book reviews listed by author and book reviews listed by genre. I also have author reading lists and series order lists to help inspire you.
How Many Fantastic Beasts Books Are There?
At the time of writing there are four Fantastic Beasts books, including the 2001 textbook and three screenplays.
Fantastic Beasts Books in Order: Standalone Textbook
Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them (2001)
This book is presented as Newt Scamander’s textbook that Harry Potter and his friends use at Hogwarts. It’s a comprehensive guide to magical creatures, including their classifications and habits.
Originally published in 2001, this book gives us a glimpse into the Wizarding World’s fascination with magical creatures. With vivid descriptions and detailed illustrations, it’s a treat for any magical creatures enthusiast.
Fantastic Beasts Books in Order: Screenplays
Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them: The Original Screenplay (2016)
This book was published in 2016 as a tie-in to the film of the same name. The book is not a traditional novel but rather a script that serves as the screenplay for the movie.
The story is set in 1926 and follows the adventures of Newt Scamander, a magizoologist and author of the fictional textbook “Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them,” as he arrives in New York City with a suitcase full of magical creatures.
The creatures escape, leading to a series of events that involve magical law enforcement and a dark force endangering the wizarding and non-wizarding communities.
Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald – The Original Screenplay (2018)
This book is based on the second instalment of the Fantastic Beasts film series, written by J.K. Rowling herself.
It picks up where the first film left off, as Newt Scamander and his friends are thrust into a dark and complex plot involving the notorious dark wizard, Gellert Grindelwald.
This screenplay immerses us in the suspense and intrigue of the wizarding world’s past.
Fantastic Beasts: The Secrets of Dumbledore – The Original Screenplay (2022)
This book is based on the third instalment of the Fantastic Beasts film series.
It features magical creatures, intricate plotlines, and the return of beloved characters, including Newt Scamander and Albus Dumbledore.
Fantastic Beasts Books in Order: Summary
The Fantastic Beasts books provide a delightful opportunity to dive back into the enchanting Wizarding World.
From the enchanting creatures in the first book to the compelling screenplay adaptations, each instalment adds depth to the wizarding world’s lore.
So, whether you’re a devoted Potterhead or a newcomer to the wizarding world, these books offer a captivating escape into a realm of fantasy and adventure.
Fantastic Beasts Books in Order: Related Lists
All Harry Potter Books in Order