Read the Witcher – About

Andrzej Sapkowski is one of the most influential voices in modern fantasy, best known as the internationally bestselling author of The Witcher series and The Hussite Trilogy. What began as a short story about a Witcher named Geralt of Rivia, published in Poland’s leading sci-fi and fantasy magazine, Fantastyka, has grown into one of the most celebrated and evolving fantasy franchises of all time. Translated into over 40 languages and with more than 30 million copies sold worldwide, The Witcher universe continues to expand, attracting new generations of readers.

Known for its morally complex characters, multi-layered plots, and razor-sharp dialogue, The Witcher series subverts traditional fantasy tropes by focusing on nuanced moral choices rather than clear-cut battles between good and evil. Combining political intrigue, folklore, philosophical themes, and high-stakes adventure, the series has played a pivotal role in redefining modern fantasy.

Sapkowski is also the author of The Hussite Trilogy, a blend of historical fiction and fantasy set during the turbulent 15th-century Hussite Wars. Known for its deep historical research, gripping action, and sharp wit, the trilogy showcases Sapkowski’s ability to weave real-world history with supernatural elements, making it a distinctive addition to his body of work.

Sapkowski’s importance to literature has been recognized through numerous prestigious awards, including five Janusz A. Zajdel Awards, the European Science Fiction Society’s Hall of Fame Award (1996), the David Gemmell Legend Award (2009), the European Grand Master Award (2010), the Silver Medal for Merit to Culture – Gloria Artis (2014), and the World Fantasy Award for Life Achievement (2016). His literary contributions have reshaped fantasy, earning him recognition as one of the genre’s most important writers. In 2024, Forbes named The Witcher one of the 30 greatest book series of all time, cementing its status as a modern classic.

Sapkowski’s work has also expanded beyond literature, with The Witcher evolving into a global multimedia phenomenon. CD Projekt Red’s landmark video game adaptations have won hundreds of industry awards, with The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt widely regarded as one of the greatest RPGs ever made. In 2024, the studio announced a new video game saga focusing on Geralt’s protégé, Ciri, marking the next chapter in the franchise.

The Witcher’s success also extends beyond gaming, with Netflix’s live-action series by the same name becoming one of the platform’s most-watched shows, introducing Sapkowski’s world to an even wider audience. Netflix continued to explore this universe with The Witcher: Nightmare of the Wolf in 2021, The Witcher: Blood Origin in 2022, and Sirens of the Deep in 2025.

With its ever-growing fanbase and continued expansion across media, The Witcher is one of the most enduring and influential fantasy worlds today. Sapkowski’s impact has not only shaped modern fantasy but also continues to inspire new adaptations, stories, and creative projects worldwide.