What Are Some Books Similar To Underland?

If you loved 'Underland' for its mix of adventure and introspection, 'The Old Ways' by Robert Macfarlane (same author!) is a must. It’s about paths and journeys, both literal and metaphorical, and it has that same lyrical quality. Another great pick is 'Piranesi' by Susanna Clarke. The protagonist lives in a vast, labyrinthine house that’s almost a character in itself, full of statues and tides. It’s dreamy and mysterious, with a slow unraveling of truth that feels like peeling back layers of the earth. Clarke’s prose is gorgeous, and the way she builds the world makes it feel like you’re discovering it alongside the main character.

Ever since I devoured 'Underland', I've been on a mission to find books that capture that same blend of eerie exploration and poetic darkness. One title that immediately comes to mind is 'The Luminous Dead' by Caitlin Starling. It’s got that same claustrophobic vibe, with a protagonist descending into a cave system that feels almost alive—full of secrets and dangers. The psychological tension is thick, and the way Starling writes about the underground world makes it feel like a character itself. Another gem is 'Annihilation' by Jeff VanderMeer. While it’s not underground, the mysterious, shifting landscape of Area X gives off a similar unsettling energy. The way VanderMeer blends science and surrealism reminds me of how 'Underland' makes the unseen feel tangible.

If you're into the historical and mythological layers of 'Underland', 'The Buried Giant' by Kazuo Ishiguro might hit the spot. It’s a slower burn, but the way it explores memory and legend in a fog-covered land feels like a cousin to Macfarlane’s work. For something more action-packed but still deeply atmospheric, 'The City We Became' by N.K. Jemisin has this incredible sense of place—literally, since the city is alive. It’s urban instead of subterranean, but the way Jemisin writes about hidden layers and forgotten spaces scratches a similar itch.