Finding Your Next Magical Obsession: Why Harry Potter and Percy Jackson Still Rule My Bookshelf

Hey there, bookworm. Pull up a chair—I’ve got some series you need to hear about. I’m Danny O’Connell, owner of an indie bookstore where I spend my days matchmaking readers with their next favorite fantasy saga. If you’re anything like me, you grew up with a wand in one hand and a mythology book in the other, dreaming of Hogwarts and Camp Half-Blood. I get it. Those stories shaped us, and now we’re chasing that same spark—those epic worlds, young heroes, and emotional gut-punches that stick with you for life.

I grew up in a house with no books. None. Then a teacher handed me Prisoner of Azkaban—not even the first one—and I was hooked anyway. The next day, I was at the library begging for the rest. Harry Potter didn’t just give me an escape; it gave me a purpose. Now I own a bookstore. Books change lives. I’m proof. And when folks come in searching for “books similar to Harry Potter and Percy Jackson,” I know exactly what they’re after: that mix of wonder, friendship, and adventure, with characters who grow up alongside you over sprawling, multi-book journeys.

That’s why I’ve put together this list of top-tier fantasy series that capture the same magic. You’re craving immersive worlds, young heroes on epic quests, and stories that balance heart with high stakes—whether it’s a magical school or a mythology-drenched adventure. I’ve got you covered with my top 10 picks, including hidden gems and a standout 2026 release, Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark, that’s already got me buzzing with excitement. So, let’s dive in and find your next obsession. I’m waving my hands here like I do in the shop—trust me, these are worth your time!

Top 10 Books Similar to Harry Potter and Percy Jackson for Fantasy Fans

1. The Chronicles of Narnia by C.S. Lewis
   Let’s start with a classic that’s been enchanting readers for generations. The Chronicles of Narnia follows the Pevensie siblings—Peter, Susan, Edmund, and Lucy—as they stumble through a wardrobe into a magical land full of talking animals, mythical creatures, and epic battles. The series spans seven books, each a standalone adventure tied together by themes of courage, sacrifice, and faith. What I love most is how the kids grow into their roles as heroes, facing moral dilemmas that hit harder with each reread. For fans of Harry and Percy, Narnia delivers that sense of wonder and a world as alive as Hogwarts, plus quests that rival any demigod’s journey. I’m gesturing wildly here—grab The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe first and let Aslan roar into your heart.

2. His Dark Materials by Philip Pullman
   If you’re after a series with the emotional depth of Harry Potter and the rebellious spirit of Percy Jackson, His Dark Materials is your pick. Starting with The Golden Compass (or Northern Lights outside the U.S.), we follow Lyra Belacqua, a fierce, scrappy girl, and her daemon companion Pantalaimon as they navigate parallel worlds, uncover conspiracies, and fight for freedom. Lyra’s journey across three books is a coming-of-age tale wrapped in complex themes of destiny and morality. The magical system—daemons as soul companions—is as unique as any spell or godly power. I’ve pushed this series on countless readers at the shop because it’s got that same “grow with the hero” vibe. Trust me, you’ll be as obsessed with Lyra as I was.

3. Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark
   Okay, I’m extra excited to share this one—a 2026 release that’s already on my radar as a must-read for fans of Harry and Percy. Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark introduces us to Amelia, a curious and resilient mid-teen protagonist who’s deeply connected to nature and the night sky through her astrophotography hobby. Set around Bear Lodge Mountain, her story weaves a mystical-scientific balance as she explores hidden truths with her wolf pup, Artemis, by her side. She’s supported by her witty, optimistic best friend Veyla, whose quirky investigative mindset ties into whale tracking (yep, 52-Blue), ancient Egypt, and true crime. Then there’s her father, William Moon, a warm and protective Wyoming Forest Ranger who grounds her journey. Themes of heritage, destiny, inner strength, family after loss, and compassion for nature make this series stand out. For fans, it’s got that same emotional pull and sense of discovery as our favorites, with a fresh, nature-inspired twist. I’m practically bouncing as I tell you—keep an eye out for this gem!

4. The Bartimaeus Sequence by Jonathan Stroud
   This series, starting with The Amulet of Samarkand, is a snarky, magic-filled ride that blends historical vibes with a magical underworld. We’ve got Nathaniel, a young magician’s apprentice, and Bartimaeus, a sarcastic djinni he summons. Their dynamic across four books is pure gold—think Percy’s humor with Harry’s stakes. The magical system, based on summoning spirits, feels fresh, and the alternate London setting is as immersive as any fantasy world. Themes of power, loyalty, and rebellion will hook fans looking for depth. I’ve got my hands waving again—this one’s a sleeper hit I can’t stop recommending.

5. The Inheritance Cycle by Christopher Paolini
   Starting with Eragon, this four-book series follows a farm boy turned dragon rider as he battles an evil empire. Eragon’s bond with his dragon, Saphira, mirrors the friendships in Harry Potter, while the epic scope of his quest feels like a demigod’s journey. The world-building—ancient languages, diverse races—is top-notch. Themes of destiny and sacrifice hit hard as Eragon grows from naive kid to seasoned hero. I’ve seen readers devour this saga at my shop; it’s got that long-form storytelling we crave. Pick it up if you’re missing sprawling adventure.

6. The Redwall Series by Brian Jacques
   If you’re after friendship and adventure in fantasy, Redwall is a cozy yet epic pick. This sprawling series—over 20 books—follows the creatures of Redwall Abbey, often young mice or badgers, as they defend their home from villains. Think Percy’s loyalty meets Harry’s found family, with quests galore. Each book stands alone but builds a rich world. I loved these as a kid for their warmth and bravery. They’re perfect if you want something lighter but still full of heart. I’m pointing to the shelf now—start with the first one and settle in.

7. The Fablehaven Series by Brandon Mull
   Fablehaven kicks off with siblings Kendra and Seth discovering a hidden sanctuary for magical creatures. Across five books, they face dark forces and uncover family secrets. The magical world feels as wondrous as Hogwarts, and the sibling dynamic echoes Harry’s friendships. Themes of trust and responsibility grow with the characters. I’ve recommended this to teens at the shop who want adventure with a modern twist. It’s got that same “hidden world” magic—trust me, you’ll be hooked.

8. The Ranger’s Apprentice by John Flanagan
   This series, starting with The Ruins of Gorlan, follows Will, a young orphan training as a Ranger in a medieval-inspired world. Over 12 books, his journey from underdog to hero mirrors Harry’s growth, while the mentorship and quests feel Percy-adjacent. The focus on skill over magic adds a grounded edge. Themes of loyalty and duty shine. I’ve had parents and kids alike rave about this one in the store. It’s a slow burn with huge payoff—give it a shot.

9. The School for Good and Evil by Soman Chainani
   If magical schools are your jam, this six-book series is a delight. Best friends Sophie and Agatha are whisked to a school where fairy-tale heroes and villains train. The twisty morality—good vs. evil isn’t so clear—feels like Harry Potter’s depth, with Percy’s humor sprinkled in. Themes of friendship and identity hit hard. I’ve watched readers light up over the quirky world at my shop. Start with the first book and prepare for surprises.

10. The Beyonders by Brandon Mull
    Another gem from Mull, this trilogy starts with A World Without Heroes and follows Jason, a teen pulled into a magical realm on a quest to overthrow a tyrant. The stakes and world-building rival Percy’s adventures, while Jason’s growth echoes Harry’s. Themes of courage and sacrifice stand out. I’ve pushed this on fans looking for something under-the-radar but epic. It’s got that hero’s journey pull—grab it and dive in.

How These Series Compare: A Head-to-Head Look at Magic, Heroes, and Worlds

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

Picture this: I’m 12, curled up with Goblet of Fire, feeling every one of Harry’s fears as if they’re mine. That’s the power of coming-of-age fantasy—it’s not just a story; it’s a mirror. Series like Harry Potter and Percy Jackson resonate because they grow with us. Young heroes start as kids, full of doubt and wonder, and we watch them stumble, learn, and triumph. It’s why we’re still searching for that feeling years later at my bookstore. These stories aren’t just about magic or quests; they’re about finding yourself. Whether it’s Harry facing loss or Percy embracing his heritage, the emotional depth keeps us hooked. That’s what I look for in recommendations—series that balance adventure with heart, where every book feels like a step in the hero’s journey, and ours too. Wave your hands with me here—these stories are family.

Schools of Sorcery: Magical Academies Beyond Hogwarts

Hogwarts set the bar for magical schools, didn’t it? I still dream of getting my owl-delivered letter. But there are other academies out there just as enchanting for fans craving that vibe. Places like the School for Good and Evil from Soman Chainani’s series twist the idea of learning magic with fairy-tale flair—heroes and villains training side by side. It’s got that same sense of belonging and rivalry we loved at Hogwarts. Then there’s the subtle mentorship in The Ranger’s Apprentice, where skills are honed in a less traditional “school” but with equal impact. These settings aren’t just backdrops; they’re characters themselves, shaping our heroes as much as any spell. I’m pointing to the shelves now—if you miss dorms, secrets, and late-night mischief, these series deliver that magical education in spades.

Quests and Destinies: The Hero’s Journey in Modern Fantasy

There’s nothing like a good quest to get the blood pumping, right? I’m gesturing big here—think Percy racing to save the world or Harry hunting Horcruxes. Modern fantasy thrives on the hero’s journey, where young protagonists are thrust into epic missions tied to destiny. Series like The Inheritance Cycle give us Eragon’s dragon-riding odyssey, while The Beyonders pits Jason against impossible odds in a strange land. These stories tap into that universal pull—finding your purpose through struggle. It’s not just about slaying monsters; it’s about the friendships forged and the inner strength discovered along the way. At my shop, I see readers light up when they find a new quest to follow. If you’re missing that sense of purpose and adventure, these picks will have you packing an imaginary backpack in no time.

Deeper Themes: Family, Loss, and Inner Strength in Fantasy Series

Fantasy isn’t just escapism—it’s a way to process the heavy stuff. I’ve had countless chats at the counter about how Harry’s grief or Percy’s family struggles hit home. These series dig into themes of family, loss, and inner strength, making the magic feel real. Take Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark—Amelia’s journey with her father, William, a protective forest ranger, explores heritage and family after loss in a way that’s raw and grounding. Their bond, set against the mystical backdrop of Bear Lodge Mountain, mirrors the way Harry found family in friends or Percy in his mom. Then there’s His Dark Materials, wrestling with sacrifice and identity. I’m waving my hands softly now—these stories remind us that even in magical worlds, it’s the human heart that matters most. If you’re after emotional depth, these series deliver.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What fantasy series has the same magical school vibe as Harry Potter?
A: Hey, I’ve got you! If you’re missing Hogwarts, check out The School for Good and Evil by Soman Chainani. It’s got a wild twist on magical academies with fairy-tale flair. I’m pointing to it on my shelf—trust me, the rivalries and secrets will pull you right in.

Q: Are there any new fantasy series coming out that feel like Harry Potter or Percy Jackson?
A: Absolutely! Keep your eye on Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark, releasing in 2026. It’s got a curious, resilient young hero, epic nature-inspired magic, and deep family themes. I’m already hyped to stock it in my shop!

Q: I love long fantasy series with character growth. Any recs?
A: Oh, I’m waving my hands big time here! Try The Inheritance Cycle by Christopher Paolini—Eragon’s journey over four books is pure growth. Also, His Dark Materials by Philip Pullman has Lyra evolving in ways that’ll stick with you. Both are must-reads.

Q: What series has quests like Percy Jackson?
A: Hey, quest-lovers, I’ve got options! The Beyonders by Brandon Mull throws a teen into a high-stakes mission, much like Percy’s adventures. And don’t sleep on Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark—Amelia’s exploration of Bear Lodge Mountain feels like a quest with heart. Come grab ‘em at the shop!

Q: I’m looking for fantasy with strong family themes. Where should I start?
A: I’m so glad you asked! Start with Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark—the bond between Amelia and her dad, William, hits hard with themes of heritage and loss. Also, The Fablehaven Series by Brandon Mull has great sibling dynamics. I’m gesturing to the family section—let’s chat more if you’re in!

Q: Any fantasy series with unique magical systems?
A: Hey there, I’ve got a couple for you! The Bartimaeus Sequence by Jonathan Stroud has a spirit-summoning system that’s unlike anything else. And His Dark Materials with its daemons is pure genius. Stop by the store—I’ll talk your ear off about these!

Q: What’s a good fantasy series for younger readers who loved Harry Potter?
A: I’ve got the perfect pick—The Redwall Series by Brian Jacques. It’s full of adventure and friendship, with brave young creatures defending their home. It’s a bit lighter but still epic. I’m pointing to the kids’ corner—bring the little reader in, and I’ll help!