Following the trailer’s release, ‘A Minecraft Movie’ has received mixed reactions fromfans and critics. While some eagerly await the film’s release, others feel that the trailer leaves a lot to be desired. Regardless of where you stand, Minecraft’s longstanding reputation for compelling storytelling spans more than just the upcoming film.
From simple YouTube skits to massively in-depth story games likeMinecraft: Story Mode, the Minecraft universe has always fostered an environment for creative stories. That’s why we’ve compiled a collection of some of the best, most highly-rated Minecraft books and graphic novels for fans who can’t get enough. Explore stories taking place in the Minecraft universe, as adventurers face the same enemies and harsh environments that the players encounter in-game.
Minecraft: Mobestiary
Minecraft: Wither Without You Boxed Set (Graphic Novels)
Want more Minecraft-themed collectibles and merchandise in your life? Consider checking out Game Rant’s articles showcasing thenewest LEGO Minecraft sets, and the all-newPDP Realmz Minecraft Switch Controller.
The Best Minecraft Books and Comics to Enjoy Before the Movie Comes Out
Minecraft: The Island: An Official Minecraft Novel
Minecraft: The Islandis a must-have for fans of all ages. This New York Times Best Seller follows the journey of a lone adventurer who wakes up and finds himself stranded on a strange blocky island with no one to keep him company other thana cow. Written by Max Brooks, author of World War Z, this family-friendly adventure takes you on a journey of discovery. Learn the origins of the unnamed main character and uncover the secrets that this mysterious island holds.
Minecraft Boxed Set (Graphic Novels)
Enjoy a boxed set of the first-ever Minecraft-themed graphic novel, authored and illustrated by Sfé R. Monster and Sarah Graley. This complete set comes with the first three volumes of the Minecraft Graphic Novel, plus a bonus poster featuring art by the illustrator.
Minecraft: The End
Minecraft: The End is an official Minecraft novel that follows the lives of two Endermen named Fin and Mo. Having only ever lived in the mysterious landscape known as the End, they find their peace disturbed by human invaders looking to slay the Ender Dragon. As they come face to face with the human invaders, Fin and Mo discover that everything they’ve ever known has been put into question.
Minecraft: Gather, Cook, Eat! Official Cookbook
While not a story book like others on this list,Minecraft: Gather, Cook, Eat!brings Minecraft into the real world via food. Learn how to make recipes from the game, like suspicious stew, Potion of Nightvision, cake, cookies, and bread. This recipe book also introduces unique dishes like a Mooshroom burger, Nether Portal rolls, Dragon’s Breath and Slimeball tea.
Minecraft Woodsword Chronicles: The Complete Series
This boxed set collection features the first six books of the Minecraft Woodsword Chronicles, making it an excellent deal for those who want the best bang for their buck. In the series, five close friends find themselves suddenly transported from the real world into the perilous world of Minecraft. Luckily for them, this friend group were active players of the game and now must use everything they know in order to survive.
Minecraft Dungeons: The Rise of the Arch-Illager: An Official Minecraft Novel
Minecraft Dungeons: The Rise of the Arch-Illager is the official prequel story to the dungeon crawler spin off Minecraft Dungeons. This highly-rated novel explores the tragic origins of the main villain in Minecraft Dungeons, the Arch-Illager known as Archie. Before his appearance in the game, Archie lived a simple but difficult life where he found himself shunned and mistreated by his fellow Illagers, and in an effort to find an accepting home, he came across the Orb of Dominance.
Minecraft: Mobestiary is an official Mojang creation. This fully illustrated bestiary serves as a detailed guide for new and experienced adventurers. Explore facts and hidden lore about common and uncommon Minecraft mobs, from Cow– to Creeper– to The Ender Dragon. With over 100 pages, each entry features a unique, full-color field sketch.
Minecraft: Wither Without You is another official Minecraft comic series. Written and illustrated by Kristen Gudsnuk, this series follows the journey of twin Monster Hunters known as Cahria and Orion. After losing a difficult battle to an enchanted Wither boss, the twins come across a strange ally—Atria — who has been cursed as a monster lure. The three band together in order to discover a way to break Atria’s curse, while also attempting to uncover a way to defeat the Enchanted Wither.
Finding The Best Minecraft Books
Fans of the Minecraft universe may be excited to know that there are countless books available, all set in the world you know and love. However, with all of these options, it can be hard to find the perfect book, and there’s a chance that you may find yourself with one that’s left you less than satisfied. While that’s a risk you take with any genre, Game Rant organized this collection of books based on several factors to ensure that there’s something for everyone.
While short stories appeal to most, some options in this list may be better for older audiences. Options likeMinecraft: Mobestiaryand theMinecraft: Gather, Cook, Eat!cookbook are best for longtime fans of the game, offering a fun yet polished piece of media to enjoy in conjunction with Minecraft. Younger fans may gravitate towards the relatable storytelling found in some of the short stories and graphic novels, likeMinecraft: The Woodsword Chroniclesor The Minecraft Graphic Novel.
Regardless of what style of media you prefer, chances are there will be something to catch your eye.
Best Overall Minecraft Book to Enjoy Before the Movie Comes Out
When looking for the best option to tide you over until the release of the film, Minecraft: The Island can’t be beat. Largely because theaudiobook version of Minecraft: The Islandis fully narrated by Jack Black.
Following a similar story to the film, Minecraft: The Island throws you into an adventure full of questions and mystery. The unnamed protagonist finds himself stranded alone on a strange island with no idea where or who he is. Much like in the game, he relies on his creativity and endurance to survive, encountering creepers, skeletons and many other dangers.
Best Minecraft Comic
This comic series is a great option for all, as it features an extremely relatable story that many may find comfort in. The main character, Tyler, finds his life turned totally upside down after his parents reveal to him that his family is moving away from his hometown. Now having to leave his friends, school and life behind, Tyler finds comfort in exploring the world of Minecraft with his close friends. Told entirely through the lens of friends playing on a Minecraft server, follow along on their journey as they overcome challenges in game and in person.
Best Minecraft Coffee Table Book
Minecraft: The Mobestiary is a great option for a fan of any age. Although this book is a few years old, and doesn’t include all the most recent mobs, it has over 100 pages filled with facts and pieces of lore that explain the origins and behavior of most Minecraft mobs. This includes passive, neutral, utility, hostile, tameable and boss mobs. Set up like an in-depth field study, the Mobestiary takes an almost scientific approach to explaining these unique creatures.
FAQ
Q: Are Minecraft books good for kids?
Yes! These books take place in a familiar setting, and may encourage kids to want to read more. Although some may worry that the quality of a Minecraft-themed book may not be as good as others, many official Minecraft books are written by award-winning authors and tell captivating stories.
Q: What ages are Minecraft Books best for?
Although Minecraft books can be enjoyed by most, the average age range for Minecraft books is between ages 6-12.