Definition & Meaning of "contemporary fantasy"

What is "contemporary fantasy"?

Contemporary fantasy is a genre that combines elements of fantasy with a modern or present-day setting. These stories typically feature magical or supernatural elements that exist alongside everyday life in the real world. Characters might encounter fantastical creatures, magical powers, or hidden realms while navigating their ordinary lives. Contemporary fantasy explores how these magical elements mix with modern society and often includes themes such as personal discovery and the blending of the fantastical with the mundane.