Books provide us with the opportunity to immerse ourselves in fantastical worlds where animals play a significant role in the storyline. From real-life animals to mythical creatures, these literary companions capture our hearts and imaginations. Here are the top ten favorite animals, both real and fantasy, in books.

1. Hedwig (Harry Potter series by J.K. Rowling): Hedwig is Harry Potter’s loyal snowy owl who delivers messages and provides comfort to Harry throughout his adventures at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry.

2. Aslan (The Chronicles of Narnia series by C.S. Lewis): Aslan is a majestic lion who serves as a symbol of wisdom, strength, and sacrifice in the mystical land of Narnia.

3. Buck (The Call of the Wild by Jack London): Buck is a powerful and resilient sled dog who embarks on a harrowing journey in the Alaskan wilderness, showcasing the bond between humans and animals.

4. Fangorn (The Lord of the Rings series by J.R.R. Tolkien): Fangorn is an ancient tree-like creature known as an Ent who protects the Fangorn Forest and assists the Fellowship of the Ring in their quest to defeat Sauron.

5. Pegasus (Percy Jackson and the Olympians series by Rick Riordan): Pegasus is a winged horse of Greek mythology who aids demigod Percy Jackson in his battles against monsters and gods.

6. Rikki-Tikki-Tavi (The Jungle Book by Rudyard Kipling): Rikki-Tikki-Tavi is a brave and cunning mongoose who defends a British family from a deadly cobra in colonial India.

7. Saphira (The Inheritance Cycle series by Christopher Paolini): Saphira is a majestic dragon bonded with her rider Eragon, embarking on epic quests to restore peace to the land of Alagaësia.

8. Toto (The Wonderful Wizard of Oz by L. Frank Baum): Toto is Dorothy’s devoted dog who accompanies her on her journey to the magical land of Oz, proving to be a loyal and fearless companion.

9. Falkor (The NeverEnding Story by Michael Ende): Falkor is a luckdragon who helps a young boy named Bastian save the magical land of Fantasia from destruction, embodying wisdom and kindness.

10. Firebird (The Firebird Chronicles by Daniel Ingram-Brown): Firebird is a mystical bird of legend who plays a central role in the battle between good and evil in the realm of Avalonia, captivating readers with its grace and power.

These beloved animals, both real and fantastical, enrich the worlds of literature with their unique personalities, abilities, and relationships with human characters. Whether loyal companions, wise guides, or fierce protectors, these creatures leave a lasting impression on readers and inspire a sense of wonder and magic. Let us cherish these top ten favorite animals in books and continue to celebrate the enduring bond between humans and animals in literature.