Magic is a method of controlling the forces of the universe with spells, potions, and will. Magic plays a prominent role in much fantasy.

Although magic is generally perceived to be a feature of fantasy rather than science fiction, note Arthur C. Clarke's Third Law: "Any sufficiently advanced technology is indistinguishable from magic." Thus some authors go to great lengths to provide a scientific explanation for magical powers.

Magic, magicians, and wizards often appear in fantasy. Sometimes the wielder of magic is a force for good, sometimes for evil. Sometimes magical forces compete for dominance.

Often the fantasy is about a magician or wizard coming into and learning to control powers; such stories are typical coming-of-age stories.

Again, J. R. R. Tolkien provides an archetypal wizard in the person of Gandalf.

Three prominent series of novels for young adults feature young wizards discovering and learning to use their powers:

• The Chronicles of Prydain by Lloyd Alexander
• The Earthsea books by Ursula K. Le Guin
• The Harry Potter books by J. K. Rowling

For titles, see

• Browse by Fantasy Topic: Magic