7 fantasy book series that would make terrific TV shows

5. Tales of Mithgar by Dennis L. McKeirnan

This is an unusual entry on this list because although there are 17 books that take place in the world of Mithgar, most of them are standalone novels. The common thread is the world, not a specific set of characters set going on an adventure at a specific moment in time. Outside of one trilogy and a couple of two-book sets, these stories take place on different points on a timeline that covers thousands of years. To turn these books into a series might appeal to studios because they could pick and choose which books to feature without a long-term commitment to a single, lengthy storyline.

The three multi-book sets are maybe the most interesting stories, but there are many worthy of adaptation. Most could be told in shorter six-episode seasons, although the stories in those multi-book sets probably should be told over the course of eight or 10 episodes.

McKeirnan is very much a classic fantasy writer, with all the Tolkienian creatures like elves, dwarves, mages, trolls, orcs, goblins, and other magical entities present, as well a some dragons. He also uses a familiar setting, as maps of Mithgar bare close resemblance to Europe, Asia, the Middle East, and Northern Africa with some slight geographical alterations.

The flexibility of shorter seasons and the ability to pick and choose which stories to tell might make this an appealing project for a smaller studio to pursue. Fans will be grateful.

Next up, who wouldn't love a wizard detective?