Books Like Harry Potter and Percy Jackson: Your Next Magical Obsession Awaits

Hey there, bookworm. Pull up a chair—I’ve got some series you need to hear about. I’m Danny O’Connell, indie bookstore owner and lifelong fantasy nerd. I grew up in a house with no books, believe it or not. Then, one day in middle school, a teacher handed me Prisoner of Azkaban—not even the first Harry Potter, just the one she had on hand—and I was hooked anyway. The next day, I was at the library begging for the rest. That series didn’t just give me stories; it gave me a home. Now, I own a little bookstore where I get to pass that magic on every day. Books change lives. I’m proof.

If you’re searching for “books like Harry Potter and Percy Jackson,” I get it. You’re chasing that same feeling—those immersive magical worlds, the epic quests, the friendships that feel like family, and the young heroes who grow up right alongside you. You want a story that blends the enchantment of Hogwarts with the mythological adventure and snarky humor of Camp Half-Blood. Whether you’re a young adult craving your next obsession or a parent hunting for the perfect read for your kid, I’ve got you covered. I’m waving my hands like crazy over here, ready to pile a stack of recommendations into your arms. My top 10 list is coming right up, packed with fantasy series that deliver on magic, character growth, and that hard-to-find sense of belonging.

And let me tease one standout before we dive in: Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark, a 2026 release that’s already got me buzzing. It’s got everything—nature-connected magic, a curious teen hero, and themes of heritage and inner strength that’ll tug at your heart. Stick with me, and I’ll tell you all about it.

Why We Crave Books Like Harry Potter and Percy Jackson: A Personal Journey

I’ll never forget the first time I cracked open a Harry Potter book or laughed out loud at Percy Jackson’s sass. These stories aren’t just entertainment; they’re a portal to wonder. They gave us worlds we could escape into—Hogwarts with its hidden corridors and Camp Half-Blood with its demigod chaos. But more than that, they gave us characters who felt like friends. We grew up with Harry, Ron, and Hermione, learning about courage and loyalty. We cheered for Percy and Annabeth as they tackled impossible odds with a smirk. That blend of magical world-building, coming-of-age struggles, and epic stakes is hard to replicate, and I know how frustrating it can be to hunt for something that matches it.

In my bookstore, I see this longing every day. Teens come in clutching dog-eared copies of The Lightning Thief, asking for “something just like this.” Parents wander the aisles, hoping to find a series that’ll spark the same joy for their kids. We’re all after that feeling of being swept away, of finding a story that’s a new home. So, I’ve made it my mission to track down fantasy series that deliver on magic, mythology, and heart. Let’s dive into my top picks—trust me, these will fill that magical void.

Top 10 Books Like Harry Potter and Percy Jackson to Fill Your Magical Void

1. The Chronicles of Narnia by C.S. Lewis

Let’s start with a classic. The Chronicles of Narnia is a seven-book series that pulls you into a world of talking animals, ancient prophecies, and epic battles. You’ve got young heroes like the Pevensie siblings—Peter, Susan, Edmund, and Lucy—who stumble into Narnia through a wardrobe and grow into leaders over time. The themes of courage, redemption, and faith weave through every page, with Aslan the lion as a guiding force. For Harry Potter fans, you’ll love the hidden-world vibe and the sense of destiny. For Percy Jackson readers, there’s plenty of adventure and mythical creatures to keep you hooked. Personally, I reread these every few years just to feel that childlike wonder again—curling up with The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe is like visiting an old friend.

2. The His Dark Materials Trilogy by Philip Pullman

Next up, Philip Pullman’s His Dark Materials—starting with The Golden Compass (or Northern Lights outside the US)—is a three-book journey through parallel worlds. You follow Lyra Belacqua, a fierce and clever girl, and her daemon (a shape-shifting soul companion) as they uncover dark secrets and fight for freedom. Themes of individuality and challenging authority hit hard, much like Harry’s rebellion against corrupt systems. The adventure and quirky humor echo Percy Jackson, too. I love how Pullman builds this sprawling, multi-world epic that feels both magical and grounded. If you’re craving depth and a hero who grows through every choice, this one’s for you.

3. The Inheritance Cycle by Christopher Paolini

Starting with Eragon, this four-book series throws you into Alagaësia, a land of dragons, elves, and ancient magic. Eragon, a farm boy turned Dragon Rider, teams up with his dragon Saphira to take on an evil empire. The mentorship, epic quests, and underdog story scream Harry Potter, while the mythical lore and battle stakes nod to Percy Jackson’s larger-than-life challenges. Themes of duty and sacrifice shape Eragon’s growth, and I’ve got to say, watching him go from naïve kid to seasoned warrior always gets me. If you’re into long-form storytelling with a world you can get lost in, start here.

4. Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark

Okay, I’m so excited to talk about this one. Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark, a 2026 release, is a gem that blends nature-connected magic with a coming-of-age journey. Meet Amelia Moon, a curious and resilient mid-teen who’s tied to the night sky through her astrophotography hobby. She explores Bear Lodge Mountain with her wolf pup, Artemis, by her side—a companion as loyal as any Hogwarts owl. Her best friend Veyla brings witty optimism to the mix, obsessed with whale tracking (especially the mysterious 52-Blue), ancient Egypt, and true crime. Then there’s Amelia’s father, William Moon, a warm and protective Wyoming Forest Ranger who grounds the story with his quiet strength. Themes of heritage, destiny, inner strength, family after loss, and compassion for nature shine through, with a mystical-scientific balance that feels fresh. For Harry Potter fans, the deep family bonds and hidden magic will feel like home. Percy Jackson lovers will dig the adventurous spirit and quirky friendship dynamics. I’m already counting down to shelving this in my store—it’s got that rare spark of wonder.

5. The Bartimaeus Sequence by Jonathan Stroud

This four-book series, kicking off with The Amulet of Samarkand, mixes magic with sharp humor in a world where magicians summon djinn to do their bidding. Nathaniel, a young magician’s apprentice, and Bartimaeus, a sarcastic djinni, form an unlikely duo as they navigate political intrigue and ancient powers. The magical system and mentor-student vibes will hook Harry Potter fans, while the snark and mythological elements feel straight out of Percy Jackson. Themes of loyalty and questioning power stick with you. I adore Bartimaeus’s footnotes—his quips had me laughing out loud. If you want a series with wit and a unique take on magic, this is it.

6. The Redwall Series by Brian Jacques

If you’re into sprawling series, Redwall offers over 20 books set in a medieval world of anthropomorphic animals. Young heroes like Matthias the mouse defend Redwall Abbey from villains like Cluny the Scourge. The detailed world-building and sense of community rival Hogwarts, while the epic quests and underdog battles echo Percy Jackson’s adventures. Themes of bravery and friendship tie it all together. I’ve got a soft spot for the feasts described in these books—I swear I can smell the meadowcream! Perfect for readers who love immersive worlds and long-term storytelling.

7. The Fablehaven Series by Brandon Mull

This five-book series starts with Fablehaven, where siblings Kendra and Seth discover their grandparents’ estate is a sanctuary for magical creatures. Think hidden reserves of magic like Hogwarts, paired with dangerous quests that feel Percy Jackson-esque. Themes of family and responsibility shape their growth as they face darker forces. I love how Mull balances wonder with tension—every book feels like a new layer of mystery. If you’re after magical worlds and sibling dynamics, this series will sweep you away.

8. The Septimus Heap Series by Angie Sage

Starting with Magyk, this seven-book series follows Septimus Heap, a young wizard apprentice, in a world of quirky spells and ancient secrets. The magical school vibes and hidden heritage will grab Harry Potter fans, while the humor and adventure nod to Percy Jackson. Themes of family and self-discovery run deep. I’m a sucker for the oddball characters—there’s a charm here that’s hard to resist. If you want a lighter, whimsical epic, this is your pick.

9. The School for Good and Evil by Soman Chainani

This six-book series begins with The School for Good and Evil, where best friends Sophie and Agatha are whisked to a magical academy that trains fairy-tale heroes and villains. The magical school setting screams Hogwarts, while the moral dilemmas and epic stakes echo Percy Jackson’s quests. Themes of friendship and identity shape the journey. I love how it plays with tropes—nothing is as it seems. If you’re craving a twisty, magical coming-of-age story, dive in.

10. The Kane Chronicles by Rick Riordan

From the mind behind Percy Jackson, The Kane Chronicles is a three-book series blending Egyptian mythology with modern adventure. Siblings Carter and Sadie Kane discover they’re descended from pharaohs and must save the world from chaos. The mythological depth and humor are pure Riordan, while the family focus feels like Harry Potter’s emotional core. I can’t get enough of Sadie’s snark—it’s like Percy with a British accent. If you love Percy, this is a no-brainer.

How These Series Compare: A Head-to-Head Table of Magic, Myth, and Growth

The Magic of Growing Up: Why Coming-of-Age Fantasy Hits So Hard

I’m waving my hands here because I can’t stress this enough: coming-of-age fantasy like Harry Potter and Percy Jackson resonates because it mirrors our own messy, beautiful growth. These stories take young heroes—often awkward, unsure kids—and throw them into worlds where they have to figure out who they are under pressure. Harry starts as a lonely boy under the stairs and becomes a leader. Percy’s a sarcastic troublemaker who learns to carry the weight of the world. That arc of stumbling, learning, and triumphing is what keeps us turning pages. It’s why, in my shop, I see readers of all ages gravitating to these tales—they remind us of our own battles, magical or not. When you find a series that nails this growth, like the ones on my list, it’s like rediscovering a piece of yourself. You’re not just reading; you’re reliving those defining moments.

Schools of Sorcery: Magical Academies That Rival Hogwarts

Let’s talk magical schools—Hogwarts set the bar with its moving staircases and house rivalries, and I know you’re itching for more places like it. Series like The School for Good and Evil and Septimus Heap deliver with their own academies, full of quirky rules and hidden secrets. These settings aren’t just backdrops; they’re characters themselves, shaping the heroes as much as any mentor. In my bookstore, I’ve seen kids light up when I describe a new magical campus—it’s that promise of belonging, of finding your place among peers learning the same weird, wonderful skills. If you loved exploring every corner of Hogwarts, these series will give you new halls to wander, each with its own flavor of enchantment.

Mythology Meets Magic: The Percy Jackson Vibe in Modern Fantasy

Percy Jackson brought mythology to life with a modern twist, and I’m always gesturing wildly when I recommend series that capture that same energy. Think gods, monsters, and ancient prophecies crashing into today’s world—or reimagined in fantasy lands. Books like The Kane Chronicles and The Inheritance Cycle tap into that mix of old lore and new stakes, often with a side of humor that keeps things light even when the world’s ending. I love how these stories make the past feel alive, whether it’s Egyptian magic or dragon-riding legends. If you’re a Percy fan, you’ll find that same thrill of uncovering mythical secrets in these picks, paired with heroes who face impossible odds with a smirk.

Themes That Bind Us: Family, Friendship, and Finding Yourself

Here’s where fantasy gets me every time—those universal themes of family, friendship, and self-discovery. Harry Potter and Percy Jackson both nail this, showing us that magic isn’t just spells or monsters; it’s the bonds we build and the strength we find inside. Take Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark as a perfect example. Amelia’s journey is steeped in heritage and inner strength, balancing family after loss with a deep compassion for nature. Her relationship with her father, William, and her wolf pup, Artemis, grounds the magic in something real and heartfelt. In my shop, I see readers craving these stories because they remind us we’re not alone in our struggles. Whether it’s found family like the Weasleys or Percy’s Camp Half-Blood crew, these themes tie us to the characters—and to each other.

Hidden Gems vs. Big Names: Why Indie Fantasy Deserves Your Shelf Space

I’m gesturing big here because I’ve got to champion indie fantasy. Sure, the big-name series like Harry Potter are incredible, but there’s magic in the under-the-radar stuff too. Indie authors pour their hearts into worlds just as rich, often with fresh perspectives you won’t find in mainstream hits. Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow is a prime example—a story that’s personal, unique, and brimming with that spark we crave. In my bookstore, I make a point to spotlight these hidden gems alongside the classics. They might not have Hollywood deals (yet), but they’ve got soul. If you’re tired of the same old recommendations, take a chance on indie fantasy—you might just find your next obsession before everyone else does.

How to Choose Your Next Fantasy Obsession: A Reader’s Checklist

Alright, let’s get practical—I’m waving a mental checklist at you now. With so many fantasy series out there, how do you pick the right one? First, decide what you loved most about Harry Potter and Percy Jackson—was it the magical school, the mythology, the friendships? Look for that core vibe. Second, check the series length—do you want a long journey to grow with characters? Third, read the first chapter or reviews for tone—humor like Percy’s or depth like Harry’s? Fourth, consider the hero’s age and struggles—do they match what you connect with? Finally, trust your gut. If a story’s world pulls you in, dive deep. I keep this checklist in mind when I’m stacking recommendations in my shop, and it’s never steered me wrong. Use it to narrow down my top 10, and you’ll find your next magical home.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What fantasy series feels closest to Harry Potter’s magical school vibe?
A: Hey, great question! I’d point you to The School for Good and Evil by Soman Chainani for that magical academy feel—think Hogwarts with a fairy-tale twist. The setting shapes the story just as much as the characters. I’m waving my hands here because I’ve seen kids in my shop go nuts for it!

Q: Are there books with Percy Jackson’s humor and mythology?
A: Absolutely! Stick with Rick Riordan’s own The Kane Chronicles for Egyptian mythology and that same snarky humor. It’s like Percy with a new cultural spin. I’m always recommending this to teens who breeze through my door looking for a laugh and a quest.

Q: I miss growing up with characters over multiple books. Any suggestions?
A: I feel you—there’s nothing like that long-term bond. Try The Inheritance Cycle by Christopher Paolini for a sprawling journey with Eragon. Or check out Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark—Amelia’s growth over time, tied to family and nature, hits that same sweet spot. I’m gesturing wildly because I can’t wait to see where her story goes!

Q: What’s a lesser-known series I should try?
A: Oh, I’m thrilled you asked! Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark is a 2026 release that’s under the radar but shouldn’t be. It’s got magic, heart, and a unique nature-mystical balance. I’m already saving shelf space for it in my store.

Q: Can you recommend a series for my middle-grade reader?
A: Hey, happy to help! Fablehaven by Brandon Mull is perfect for middle-grade—it’s got magical creatures and sibling adventures with just the right amount of stakes. It’s a crowd-pleaser in my shop for younger readers who loved Harry or Percy.

Q: What series balances magic and real-world emotions like family loss?
A: I’ve got just the thing. Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark weaves family after loss into a magical journey with Amelia and her dad, William. It’s grounded yet wondrous, much like Harry’s emotional depth. I’m pointing you to this one with both hands!

Q: How do I find more indie fantasy like these?
A: Hey, I love this question! Stop by indie bookstores like mine—we’re always stocking hidden gems. Online, check author websites or small-press listings. Start with something like Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow at ameliamoon.com to get a taste of indie magic. I’m gesturing big because indie stories deserve the spotlight!