4 Reasons to Read The Dresden Files
Start writing a post
Entertainment

4 Reasons to Read The Dresden Files

Consulting wizards, geeky medical examiners, and kickass female cops? What more could you want from a novel?

271
4 Reasons to Read The Dresden Files
Orbit Books

If you haven't guessed by now, I like to read. Even though when people ask me "What's your favorite book or series?" I still stare at them like a deer in the headlights, but after being introduced to this epic book series, I can say, without a doubt, that "The Dresden Files" by Jim Butcher is definitely my favorite. They have everything and more. Although it would take ages to properly explain each book of the currently 15-book series (with more to come from Mr. B.), I will still give you some highlights that hopefully cause you to check out the "other" wizard whose name is Harry.

Warning: Spoilers ahead for Jim Butcher's bestselling book series, "The Dresden Files." If you have read these books before and want to enjoy the article, scroll on. If you haven't cracked open one of these marvelous narratives, stop reading and go to your local bookstore right away to pick up "Storm Front," book one of this excellent story-line.


These are the four best things about "The Dresden Files," and the aspects of the series that makes them an absolute favorite that you can read again and again.

1. The stellar crew of characters

Characters make a story, and this one is no different. The people who make up this tale are so deep, so flawed and so absolutely complex that if they were real people, you would enjoy just sitting down and talking with them in a coffee shop. Primarily, the main character, Harry Dresden, fits those notions. He is a smart-aleck, witty and overall completely badass manifestation of magical properties and "Star Wars" references. The rest of the crew are just as amazing, but you have to read the books to find out just how awesome they really are.

2. The actual writing

Did I mention that the main character is a sassy nerd? Well, Jim Butcher's writing is so splendid that you will lose yourself after the first page. With page-turners like this, you will wonder just where on earth the last six hours of your life went. These books will have you laughing, crying and most likely throwing the book across your room, especially once you get to "Changes." But that's all I'm saying here. Some of the one-liners in this book are as follows, and you can decide for yourself just how epic these characters really are.

"The building was on fire, and it wasn't my fault." - Blood Rites

"Chicago has a bitchin' morgue." - Dead Beat

"Build a man a fire and he's warm for a day. But set a man on fire, and he's warm for the rest of his life. Tao of Pratchett. I live by it." - Cold Days

3. The heart-stopping and jaw-dropping moments in each book

Every book you read has plot twists, but not every book has a plot twist the size of a reanimated T-Rex or the robbery of the King of the Underworld's most heavily guarded safe. That's why you need to read these books, as each and every one is jam-packed with so much action that you will think you are watching a "James Bond" flick instead of reading a novel

4. All of the little things combined


Dresden's lab, his pets, the snide comments here and there - they are all aspects of the story that you pick up on as you read the books. Some are more obvious than others, but this world is so huge and so difficult that it makes it seem like you've actual been transported to Chicago to assist this consulting wizard on one of his dangerous, often nearly lethal, cases. These books, as you'll notice when reading, are basically a cross of "Sherlock Holmes," "Lovecraft" and about a dozen other things. You will face so much interconnections of text that you'll be wondering about something mentioned five books ago. And then you will have to reread them all over again just to pick up on even more subtle details.


Well done, Jim Butcher, for taking over half of my life. Seriously though, if you are looking for a long series to wind down with this summer, check out "The Dresden Files." You are sure to enjoy them. I know I do.

Report this Content
This article has not been reviewed by Odyssey HQ and solely reflects the ideas and opinions of the creator.
the beatles
Wikipedia Commons

For as long as I can remember, I have been listening to The Beatles. Every year, my mom would appropriately blast “Birthday” on anyone’s birthday. I knew all of the words to “Back In The U.S.S.R” by the time I was 5 (Even though I had no idea what or where the U.S.S.R was). I grew up with John, Paul, George, and Ringo instead Justin, JC, Joey, Chris and Lance (I had to google N*SYNC to remember their names). The highlight of my short life was Paul McCartney in concert twice. I’m not someone to “fangirl” but those days I fangirled hard. The music of The Beatles has gotten me through everything. Their songs have brought me more joy, peace, and comfort. I can listen to them in any situation and find what I need. Here are the best lyrics from The Beatles for every and any occasion.

Keep Reading...Show less
Being Invisible The Best Super Power

The best superpower ever? Being invisible of course. Imagine just being able to go from seen to unseen on a dime. Who wouldn't want to have the opportunity to be invisible? Superman and Batman have nothing on being invisible with their superhero abilities. Here are some things that you could do while being invisible, because being invisible can benefit your social life too.

Keep Reading...Show less
Featured

19 Lessons I'll Never Forget from Growing Up In a Small Town

There have been many lessons learned.

71356
houses under green sky
Photo by Alev Takil on Unsplash

Small towns certainly have their pros and cons. Many people who grow up in small towns find themselves counting the days until they get to escape their roots and plant new ones in bigger, "better" places. And that's fine. I'd be lying if I said I hadn't thought those same thoughts before too. We all have, but they say it's important to remember where you came from. When I think about where I come from, I can't help having an overwhelming feeling of gratitude for my roots. Being from a small town has taught me so many important lessons that I will carry with me for the rest of my life.

Keep Reading...Show less
​a woman sitting at a table having a coffee
nappy.co

I can't say "thank you" enough to express how grateful I am for you coming into my life. You have made such a huge impact on my life. I would not be the person I am today without you and I know that you will keep inspiring me to become an even better version of myself.

Keep Reading...Show less
Student Life

Waitlisted for a College Class? Here's What to Do!

Dealing with the inevitable realities of college life.

133447
college students waiting in a long line in the hallway
StableDiffusion

Course registration at college can be a big hassle and is almost never talked about. Classes you want to take fill up before you get a chance to register. You might change your mind about a class you want to take and must struggle to find another class to fit in the same time period. You also have to make sure no classes clash by time. Like I said, it's a big hassle.

This semester, I was waitlisted for two classes. Most people in this situation, especially first years, freak out because they don't know what to do. Here is what you should do when this happens.

Keep Reading...Show less

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Facebook Comments