Odd Thomas Books in Order

This reading order guide provides a complete list of Odd Thomas books in order, and is always updated so you won’t miss anything!

About the Odd Thomas Series

The Odd Thomas series, written by bestselling author Dean Koontz, is a unique blend of mystery, supernatural elements, and heartwarming storytelling. At the center of it all is Odd Thomas himself — a humble, kind-hearted young man with extraordinary gifts. He may seem like a regular twenty-year-old working as a short-order cook in a quiet desert town in California, but Odd is far from ordinary. His name is Odd, and his life is even odder.

Odd has the strange and chilling ability to see the spirits of the dead. These ghosts cannot speak to him, but they appear to him, often looking for help, peace, or justice. Some of these spirits are regular people who died too soon, while others are famous ghosts — like Elvis Presley, Frank Sinatra, and even Alfred Hitchcock — who stick around for a while, offering silent companionship. But not all spirits are friendly. Odd can also see terrifying shadow-like creatures called Bodachs, which are signs that something horrible is about to happen. When he sees many Bodachs around a person, Odd knows danger is near. This makes him act fast to prevent tragedy.

What makes Odd such a special and beloved character is not just his paranormal powers, but how he chooses to use them. He doesn’t seek fame or fortune. Instead, he lives a simple life, helping others while trying to stay out of the spotlight. He doesn’t want to be a hero, but time and again, he steps up when people need him most. He trusts his instincts — something he calls “psychic magnetism.” It’s like a sixth sense that pulls him toward the places and people who need his help. Unfortunately, it can also lead him straight into danger.

Throughout the series, readers get to see Odd face many dark and dangerous situations. In the first book, simply titled Odd Thomas, he tries to stop a terrible event he senses is coming. As the story unfolds, we learn more about his past, his tragic family life, and his deep love for his girlfriend Stormy Llewellyn. Their love story adds an emotional layer to the books, making readers root for Odd even more. Despite the ghosts and chaos, at its heart, Odd Thomas is a story about love, courage, and choosing to do the right thing — even when it’s hard.

As the series continues, Odd’s journey takes him to new places and introduces him to strange new characters, like a dangerous woman who practices dark magic, mysterious monks in a quiet monastery, and even creatures that may or may not be zombies. Each book builds on the last, offering deeper insight into Odd’s character and the sacrifices he makes. The stories are suspenseful, often emotional, and filled with moments of dry humor that only Odd could deliver.

The popularity of the Odd Thomas series even led to a movie adaptation in 2013, based on the first novel. Though its release was delayed in some places, fans appreciated how closely the film followed the original story. Dean Koontz also expanded the world of Odd through graphic novels and additional titles, giving fans even more to explore.

If you enjoy mysteries with a touch of the paranormal, the Odd Thomas books are a must-read. But more than just thrills and ghosts, these stories are about a man trying to live a good life, even when surrounded by death and danger. Odd Thomas is not just a character — he feels like a friend, someone you admire for his strength, honesty, and compassion. His story stays with you long after you turn the final page.

For readers new to the series or long-time fans returning for another journey, Odd Thomas offers a thoughtful, gripping, and often touching experience that is truly one of a kind.

How many books are there in the Odd Thomas series?

The series consists of 9 main Odd Thomas novels and 3 graphic novels. The series, written by Dean Koontz, includes the following titles in order: