Fantasy maps have accompanied stories for decades─and for good reason. J R. R. Tolkien’s The Lord of the Rings has one, so do many other epic tales like A Game of Thrones by George R. R. Martin, and the Shannara series by Terry Brooks. Each of these geographic masterpieces paint a picture that enriches the story using specific elements that captivate readers long before the plot begins.
A Picture's Worth
It’s said that a picture is worth a thousand words; but fantasy maps paint a different picture than most. These maps provide rich information, which supplements a story in ways that scenes and characters cannot.
Some readers adore fantasy maps, and entire forums like Goodreads have threads dedicated to them.
A great map lends its power to the story, but a poorly done map can upset readers. The map becomes the second cover of a book. When a reader glances at the map, that may determine whether the story gets read.
If a map doesn’t accurately illustrate the story, it can mislead the reader and offer faux expectations. While not every part of a map needs exploring, most of it does.
“The map becomes the second cover of a book. When a reader glances at the map, that may determine whether the story gets read.”
Elements in Fantasy Maps that Readers Love
Morsels that readers savor in fantasy maps may include:
- Scale and breadth of character travel
- Placement of cities, towns, castles, dungeons, etc.
- Names of regions, kingdoms, and landmarks
- The strategic tools of a battle
- Beauty of natural geography
- A different perspective of story
- A subtle sense of the author’s creativity
Some authors add doodads like compass roses with fantasy elements, or intentional smudge marks and worn features that supply emotional and nostalgic depth.
And an author can weave stories into a map, like I did in the map above. You can read more about it in my Ghen’s Atoll post.
The applications of fantasy maps are limitless, and they can only add to a story. Maps capture our explorer instinct, and instill wonder and imagination.
What are your thoughts on fantasy maps? I’d love to hear in the comments below!