Secrets of Droon book cover

The Secrets of Droon Series in Order

The Secrets of Droon series can be read in any order, though starting with The Hidden Stairs and the Magic Carpet provides the clearest introduction to the setting and recurring characters. Three friends from the upper world—Eric Hinkle, Julie Rubin, and Neal Kroger—discover a rainbow staircase in a basement closet that leads to the magical land of Droon, where they join Princess Keeah and others to battle dark forces like Lord Sparr.

🟡 Mostly Standalone · Start Anywhere

How to Read the Secrets of Droon series

🟡 Mostly Standalone · Start Anywhere

Mostly standalone stories with recurring characters in a shared setting.

The Secrets of Droon books do not need to be read in order. Each volume tells a complete story with its own central quest and resolution, allowing readers to jump in anywhere without confusion. Continuity is limited to the shared fantasy world of Droon and its recurring characters, so reading out of order only means missing minor background details about ongoing friendships and the larger struggle between good and evil.

About the Secrets of Droon series

Series Premise

The Secrets of Droon follows ordinary kids who stumble into an extraordinary fantasy realm through a hidden portal. Each book sends the group on a new quest across Droon’s varied landscapes to thwart evil sorcerers and protect the land’s fragile peace, blending portal fantasy with quick-paced adventures suitable for elementary readers.

Main Characters

The core group consists of Eric Hinkle, a thoughtful leader; Julie Rubin, brave and quick-witted; and Neal Kroger, the humorous friend who often lightens tense moments. In Droon they team up with Princess Keeah, a young wizard-in-training, the ancient wizard Galen Longbeard, and Max, a spider-troll companion, forming a loyal alliance against recurring threats.

Setting

Droon is a vast, magical land filled with deserts, cloud cities, underwater realms, and ancient palaces, connected to the ordinary world by a shimmering rainbow staircase that appears only at certain times. The setting shifts dramatically with each book, offering new environments while maintaining a consistent undercurrent of hidden dangers and enchanted wonders.

Tone & Themes

The series maintains a light, adventurous tone with fast action, imaginative creatures, and moments of humor amid mild peril. Central themes include friendship and loyalty, courage in the face of the unknown, and the idea that ordinary kids can make a difference in extraordinary circumstances.

Is This Series Worth Reading?

This series appeals to children ages 7–10 who enjoy accessible fantasy, portal stories, and short chapter books that deliver satisfying adventures without overwhelming length or complexity. It suits readers transitioning from early readers to more involved middle-grade fantasy or those seeking quick, engaging stories with a mix of magic, teamwork, and exploration.

Content Warnings and Heat Level

Mild fantasy violence involving battles with sorcerers and creatures; no language, romance, or intense scares beyond typical good-vs-evil conflict suitable for its young audience.

The Secrets of Droon series offers a welcoming entry into fantasy for young readers through its episodic structure and vivid world. Its blend of familiar character dynamics and ever-changing quests makes it easy to pick up at any point while still rewarding return visits to Droon.

FAQ

How many books are in the Secrets of Droon series?

35 books

When will the next book in the series be released?

No new book is currently scheduled. The latest book, The Lost Empire of Koomba, was published in October 2009.

When was the most recent book released?

The Lost Empire of Koomba was published in October 2009.

What was the first book in the series?

The first book in the series is The Hidden Stairs and the Magic Carpet, published in June 1999.

What genre is the Secrets of Droon series?

The series primarily falls into the Fantasy genre.

Do you need to read the Secrets of Droon series in order?

No, the books do not need to be read in order. Each story stands on its own, but recurring characters and the shared setting connect the series.

What is the Secrets of Droon series about?

The Secrets of Droon follows ordinary kids who stumble into an extraordinary fantasy realm through a hidden portal. Each book sends the group on a new quest across Droon’s varied landscapes to thwart evil sorcerers and protect the land’s fragile peace, blending portal fantasy with quick-paced adventures suitable for elementary readers.

Is the Secrets of Droon series finished?

The series does not currently have a new book scheduled.