The Books of Ember Books in Order

Jeanne DuPrau's post-apocalyptic young-adult quartet follows the residents of Ember, an aging underground city whose lights are failing, as two teenagers uncover the secret of escaping to the surface and the survivors rebuild a world above. The four novels weave together the origins, fall, and aftermath of the city across an interlocking timeline.

Publication order

In the order the books were originally released.

  1. Cover of The City of Ember (The First Book of Ember)

    The City of Ember (The First Book of Ember)

    2003 · Jeanne DuPrau

    A 2003 novel by Jeanne DuPrau, described as a modern-day classic and the first in an acclaimed adventure series that has sold over 3.5 million…

    Read more →
    Buy on Amazon
  2. Cover of The People of Sparks (Book of Ember #2)

    The People of Sparks (Book of Ember #2)

    2004 · Jeanne DuPrau

    The People of Sparks continues the story of Lina and Doon, who leave the underground city of Ember to explore the world above. They are joined by…

    Read more →
    Buy on Amazon
  3. Cover of The Prophet of Yonwood (Book of Ember #3)

    The Prophet of Yonwood (Book of Ember #3)

    2006 · Jeanne DuPrau

    It is 50 years before the founding of the city of Ember, and the world is facing a crisis. Eleven-year-old Nickie and her aunt travel to the small…

    Read more →
    Buy on Amazon
  4. Cover of The Diamond of Darkhold (Book of Ember #4)

    The Diamond of Darkhold (Book of Ember #4)

    2008 · Jeanne DuPrau

    In this 2008 novel by Jeanne DuPrau, the fourth Book of Ember, Lina and Doon have joined the town of Sparks after escaping the dying city of Ember.…

    Read more →
    Buy on Amazon

Frequently asked questions

What order should I read the The Books of Ember books in?

Read them in publication order, starting with “The City of Ember (The First Book of Ember)”. Start with “The City of Ember (The First Book of Ember).”

How many books are in the The Books of Ember series?

We list 4 books by Jeanne DuPrau , published between 2003–2008.

Where can I buy the The Books of Ember books?

Each title above links to Amazon. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases, at no extra cost to you.

Reading order compiled from author/publisher guidance and verified bibliographic data. Spotted an error? We continuously correct the catalog.