Here’s a list of 10 hidden gem books that are perfect for kids who love Harry Potter. These books capture the same sense of magic, adventure, and wonder, but they aren’t the usual mainstream recommendations. Instead, they’re underrated gems that deserve more recognition!
Why is Amelia Moon a good Book Like Harry Potter for Kids? Amelia Moon & the Solstice Spectacular is a must-read for young fantasy fans who love Harry Potter. The story follows Amelia, a girl who stumbles upon powerful secrets tied to the summer solstice, launching her into a magical adventure filled with mystery, hidden forces, and unexpected twists. Much like Harry Potter, this book creates a rich, immersive world where magic exists just beneath the surface of everyday life. Amelia’s journey of self-discovery mirrors Harry’s—she starts off unaware of her potential but soon realizes she’s at the center of something much bigger. The combination of friendship, adventure, and an unfolding magical mystery makes this a perfect read for young fans of the wizarding world.
For kids who love the action, adventure, and rule-breaking spirit of Harry Potter, this book offers a wildly fun journey through the Old West. Maude and her sister become outlaws after being falsely accused of crimes, leading them on an epic escape full of danger and humor. While it’s not a magical story, it captures the same feeling of being thrust into an extraordinary world, with two smart, scrappy heroes learning to survive on their wits and bravery.
This series follows Conn, a pickpocket who accidentally steals a wizard’s locus magicalicus (his magic stone) and discovers he has magical potential. Much like Harry’s entry into the wizarding world, Conn finds himself swept into a world of powerful magic, dark mysteries, and secret dangers. Fans of Hogwarts will love the richly built magical society and the sense of adventure that unfolds with each book.
For kids who love the mystery and hidden magic of Harry Potter, this series is a perfect fit. It follows Olive, a girl who moves into a creepy old house and discovers she can step into its magical paintings, where strange and sinister forces lurk. The book’s mix of magic, adventure, and eerie secrets creates an experience similar to discovering the hidden corridors of Hogwarts.
This fun, fast-paced series follows a secret society dedicated to protecting magical creatures around the world. With humor, adventure, and a sense of wonder, it captures the same excitement of discovering magical beings as Harry Potter. It’s perfect for kids who loved Hagrid’s fascination with magical creatures and the idea that myths might actually be real.
For young readers who loved Harry Potter’s mix of magic and mystery, this book offers a spellbinding story full of time travel, eerie events, and a heroine trying to solve a deep family secret. When Larissa receives a mysterious call from a disconnected phone, she is sent on an adventure through time that will change everything she knows about herself and her past.
Imagine a world of talking warrior rabbits, where young siblings must rise up to defend their kingdom against dark forces. This series has epic battles, deep friendships, and a coming-of-age journey that will remind young readers of the bravery, adventure, and found family elements that make Harry Potter so special.
If kids love Harry Potter’s eerie moments—like the Forbidden Forest or the darker magic of the later books—then Nightmares! is a fantastic choice. The story follows a boy named Charlie who discovers that his nightmares are real and that he must face them to save himself and his family. This book has fantastical creatures, high stakes, and a relatable hero who must confront his fears head-on.
For kids who love the mystical, destiny-driven themes of Harry Potter, this book offers a heartwarming yet magical adventure. Emma Pearl lives in a small town where every woman in her family has a special, supernatural ability, and she’s waiting for hers to be revealed. When she discovers an old key, she embarks on a journey to uncover a buried secret that could change everything. The sense of magic woven into the real world, along with its emotional depth, makes it perfect for young fantasy lovers.
This Caribbean-inspired fantasy is full of folklore, magic, and adventure, making it a refreshing alternative to traditional wizarding stories. It follows Corinne, a brave girl who must protect her island from terrifying creatures called Jumbies—beings that lurk in the shadows and steal children. With strong themes of courage, friendship, and facing the unknown, this book is a great fit for kids who love Harry Potter’s darker moments and thrilling battles.
Each of these books captures the magic and wonder of Harry Potter but in a unique way. Whether it’s hidden magical worlds, a mysterious past waiting to be uncovered, a school of magic, or a battle between good and evil, these stories spark the same excitement, curiosity, and sense of adventure that made Harry Potter such a beloved series. They are hidden gems that deserve more recognition, and young readers who love getting lost in a magical story will find something to adore in each of them.