Comic Fantasy is a genre that made an appearance in the nineteenth century. It features imaginary worlds and creatures and is rich in comedy and/or satire.
Early books feature magic disrupting the everyday order of life, with humorous outcomes. In The Phoenix and the Carpet, a ‘vain and ancient bird accompanies the children on a series of adventures through time and space which, magic being what it is, rarely turn out as they were meant . . .’
Modern day authors of Comic fantasy includes Terry Pratchett (Discworld), Tom Holt (YouSpace), and Diana Wynne Jones (Howl’s Moving Castle).
According to thoughtsonfantasy, elements of this genre include:
- Quirky settings
- Pathetic characters
- Absurd magic rules
- Subverted cliches
- Witty writing
Another key element to place a book in this genre appears to be a comedic-looking cover: