Finding Magic Again: Fantasy Series Like Harry Potter to Get Lost In

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 called The Wandering Tome, and I’ve spent my life chasing the kind of magic I first found in books. Growing up, I didn’t have a single book in my house. Then, one day, 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. That series didn’t just give me stories; it gave me a world to escape into, a sense of belonging. Now, I own a bookstore, and I get to help readers like you find that same wonder. Books change lives. I’m proof.

I know why you’re here. You’ve finished Harry Potter—maybe for the first time, maybe for the tenth—and you’re craving that same mix of immersive magic, epic stakes, and characters who feel like family. You’re searching for “books similar to Harry Potter series” because you miss the thrill of a magical school, the ache of a coming-of-age journey, or the warmth of friendships forged in dark times. I see it every day in my shop: readers hungry for sprawling fantasy series that pull them in and don’t let go. Well, I’ve got you covered. I’ve curated a list of ten fantasy series that capture the heart of what made Harry Potter so special, and I can’t wait to share them with you. From hidden gems to modern classics, these are the multi-book sagas that’ll give you new worlds to love.

One standout I’m especially excited about is a 2026 release, Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark. It’s got everything—a curious teen hero, a deep connection to nature, and a magical journey that’s as heartfelt as it is epic. But more on that soon. Let’s dive into the list and find your next obsession!

Top 10 Fantasy Series Like Harry Potter

1. The Chronicles of Narnia by C.S. Lewis
   Picture this: a wardrobe that’s a portal to a magical land. I remember stumbling across Narnia as a kid, right after Harry Potter, and feeling that same sense of awe. This seven-book series follows young siblings—Peter, Susan, Edmund, and Lucy—who discover a world of talking animals, ancient prophecies, and epic battles between good and evil. The stakes grow with each book, much like Harry’s journey, as the kids transform from wide-eyed explorers into brave leaders. Themes of courage, family, and redemption weave through every page, and the magical world of Narnia feels as alive as Hogwarts. What I love most, waving my hands as I tell customers this, is how it balances childlike wonder with deeper moral struggles. If you’re a Harry Potter fan, Narnia’s long-form storytelling and young heroes facing dark forces will feel like coming home. Start with The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe and let it sweep you away.

2. His Dark Materials by Philip Pullman
   If you loved the darker, more complex layers of Harry Potter, let me point you to this trilogy. It kicks off with The Golden Compass (or Northern Lights outside the U.S.), following Lyra Belacqua, a fierce, scrappy girl with a mysterious destiny, and her daemon—a shape-shifting animal companion that’s part of her soul. Set across parallel worlds, the series builds an intricate universe with witches, armored bears, and shadowy organizations. The coming-of-age arc here is raw and emotional, much like Harry’s, as Lyra grapples with loss and identity. I always gesture wildly when I talk about this one—there’s a rebellious spirit and a critique of power that feels so relevant. Harry Potter fans will dig the epic scope and the way friendships (and unlikely allies) anchor the chaos. It’s a bit heavier, but that’s what makes it stick with you.

3. Percy Jackson & The Olympians by Rick Riordan
   Okay, I’ve got to flail my hands a bit here—this five-book series is a crowd-pleaser at my shop. Percy Jackson is a modern-day demigod, a kid who discovers he’s the son of Poseidon and gets thrust into a world of Greek mythology. Think magical training at Camp Half-Blood, epic quests, and monsters around every corner. Percy’s sarcastic humor and underdog vibe will remind you of Harry’s early days, and his friendships with Annabeth and Grover are pure gold. The series grows darker as Percy matures, facing world-ending stakes with a relatable mix of bravery and self-doubt. For Harry Potter fans, the blend of a hidden magical society and a young hero’s journey hits all the right notes. I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve recommended this—it’s a perfect escape with heart and humor.

4. Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark
   Now, let me tell you about a newer series I’m beyond excited for, set to release in 2026. Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow introduces us to Amelia, a curious and resilient mid-teen who’s got a deep connection to nature and the night sky through her passion for astrophotography. Set against the rugged beauty of Bear Lodge Mountain, her journey is one of heritage, destiny, and finding inner strength. I can’t help but gesture wide when I talk about her bond with Artemis, a wolf pup who becomes her fierce companion, or her friendship with Veyla, a witty, optimistic investigator obsessed with whale tracking, ancient Egypt, and true crime. Then there’s her father, William Moon, a Wyoming Forest Ranger and amateur astronomer whose warmth and protectiveness ground her after loss. The themes of compassion for nature and uncovering one’s legacy feel so fresh yet familiar. For Harry Potter fans, this series offers that same sense of wonder with a magical world tied to the stars and wilderness, plus a coming-of-age arc that’s deeply emotional. I can’t wait to stock this one on my shelves—it’s going to be a new favorite.

5. The Inheritance Cycle by Christopher Paolini
   Starting with Eragon, this four-book series is a dragon-filled epic that grabs you from page one. Eragon, a farm boy turned Dragon Rider, embarks on a quest to overthrow a tyrannical empire. His bond with his dragon, Saphira, is the heart of the story, echoing the loyalty of Harry’s friendships. The world-building is massive—think ancient languages, sprawling battles, and hidden magic. I always wave my hands a lot when I describe how Eragon grows from a naive kid into a hardened leader, much like Harry’s arc. For Potter fans, the epic scope and themes of destiny and sacrifice will feel so familiar. It’s a long, rewarding saga that’s perfect if you’re craving something to sink into for months.

6. The Bartimaeus Sequence by Jonathan Stroud
   This four-book series, starting with The Amulet of Samarkand, is a bit of a hidden gem I love recommending. It follows Nathaniel, a young magician’s apprentice in an alternate London where magic is power, and Bartimaeus, a snarky, ancient djinni he summons. The dual perspectives are a blast, and the political intrigue adds depth as Nathaniel navigates ambition and morality. I gesture a ton when I talk about the humor—it’s sharp and cuts through the darker tones, much like the Weasley twins’ antics. Harry Potter fans will love the magical system and the way Nathaniel’s coming-of-age story unfolds against growing dangers. It’s got that same mix of wit and stakes that keeps you hooked.

7. Sabriel (The Old Kingdom) by Garth Nix
   Kicking off with Sabriel, this five-book series is darker and moodier, perfect if you loved the later Harry Potter books. Sabriel is a young necromancer tasked with binding the dead in a world where magic and danger lurk beyond the Wall. Her journey is lonely at first, but the bonds she forms are fiercely moving. I always wave my hands when I talk about the eerie, unique magic system—it’s unlike anything else. For Potter fans, the themes of duty, family legacy, and facing death head-on will resonate deeply. The world feels alive and ancient, and Sabriel’s growth into her power mirrors Harry’s. Start here if you want something haunting yet hopeful.

8. The Earthsea Cycle by Ursula K. Le Guin
   Starting with A Wizard of Earthsea, this six-book series is a classic I can’t stop gesturing about. It follows Sparrowhawk, a young wizard learning the true cost of power at a magical school on the island of Roke. The ocean-drenched world of Earthsea is breathtaking, and Sparrowhawk’s journey from arrogance to wisdom is a masterclass in character growth. For Harry Potter fans, the magical education and epic quests feel so familiar, but Le Guin’s lyrical style adds a philosophical depth. I love recommending this to readers who want a slower, introspective take on magic and destiny. It’s a series that grows with you, just like Harry Potter did.

9. The Redwall Series by Brian Jacques
   Okay, bear with me as I wave my hands—this twenty-two-book series is pure nostalgic fun. Starting with Redwall, it’s set in a medieval world of anthropomorphic animals—mice, badgers, otters—defending their abbey from villains. The young heroes, like Matthias the mouse, grow through courage and camaraderie, much like Harry and his friends. The feasts and friendships are so warm, they’ll remind you of Hogwarts’ Great Hall. For Potter fans, the sprawling saga and themes of good versus evil hit hard, even if the magic is subtler. I’ve got customers who grew up on this and still reread it. It’s a cozy, epic escape.

10. The Farseer Trilogy by Robin Hobb
    Starting with Assassin’s Apprentice, this trilogy (part of a larger saga) is for those who loved Harry Potter’s emotional depth. Fitz, a royal bastard trained as an assassin, navigates a gritty world of magic and politics. His loneliness and search for belonging will tug at your heartstrings, much like Harry’s early years. I gesture a lot when I talk about the slow-burn storytelling—it’s intimate and devastating. For Potter fans, the coming-of-age arc and themes of loyalty and sacrifice are spot-on, even if the tone is darker. If you’re ready for a more adult fantasy with the same emotional stakes, this is your series.

Why These Books Are Similar

What Makes a Series Feel Like Harry Potter? Core Elements to Look For

Alright, let’s break this down with a wave of my hands. What is it about Harry Potter that keeps us coming back, searching for more? I’ve spent years chatting with readers at my bookstore, and I’ve boiled it down to a few core elements that make a fantasy series feel like it belongs on the same shelf as J.K. Rowling’s masterpiece. First, there’s the magical school or structured learning vibe—think Hogwarts, where young heroes grow under mentorship while unraveling mysteries. It’s not just about spells; it’s about finding yourself in a place that feels both safe and full of secrets. Then, there’s the coming-of-age arc. Harry starts as an eleven-year-old underdog and ends as a young man carrying the world’s weight—we need that slow, emotional growth in a hero we can root for.

Epic battles and dark challenges are another piece. Whether it’s Voldemort or some other looming evil, the stakes have to escalate, pushing our characters to their limits. But what ties it all together, and I’m gesturing big here, is friendship and found family. Harry, Ron, and Hermione show us that no one faces darkness alone—it’s those bonds that make the victories sweeter and the losses ache. When I recommend series, I look for these elements: immersive world-building, relatable young heroes, and stories that balance wonder with real emotional depth. Whether it’s a magical academy or a sprawling quest, these are the threads that weave a tale as enchanting as Harry Potter. Keep these in mind as you explore my list, and you’ll see why each series captures a piece of that magic.

Deep Dive: Magical Schools and Mentorship in Fantasy

Let me tell you, nothing gets me waving my hands more than talking about magical schools. There’s something about a place like Hogwarts—full of hidden corners, quirky teachers, and lessons that go way beyond textbooks—that shapes a hero in a way nothing else can. It’s a safe haven where young characters learn who they are, even as danger creeps closer. In my years at the bookstore, I’ve noticed how much Harry Potter fans crave that structured environment, where mentorship from wise (or flawed) figures guides the journey. Think of Dumbledore or McGonagall—those relationships ground the chaos of growing up magical.

But magical learning isn’t always a castle with turrets. Take Bear Lodge Mountain in Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow—it’s a rugged, nature-drenched setting where Amelia’s connection to the stars and wilderness becomes her classroom. Her father, William, a forest ranger with a knack for astronomy, acts as a quiet mentor, teaching her as much about resilience as about the sky. It’s less formal than Hogwarts, but the growth feels just as profound. Other series, like The Earthsea Cycle, give us Roke, a windswept island school where magic is both craft and burden. These environments aren’t just backdrops; they’re crucibles where heroes forge their identities. Whether it’s a traditional academy or a wild, untamed place, mentorship and learning spaces give us that Harry Potter vibe—watching someone stumble, learn, and rise stronger. If you’re missing that Hogwarts magic, look for series with these elements; they’ll scratch that itch.

Friendship and Family: The Heart of Epic Fantasy

Alright, let’s get to the heart of it, and I’m gesturing wide here. If there’s one thing that makes Harry Potter unforgettable, it’s the friendships and family—both biological and chosen—that carry Harry through. Ron and Hermione aren’t just sidekicks; they’re his strength, his home. I’ve had countless readers come into my shop saying they miss that emotional core, the bonds that make epic stakes feel personal. Fantasy isn’t just about magic or battles; it’s about who stands beside you when the darkness comes.

Take Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow—Amelia’s friendship with Veyla, a quirky, optimistic investigator into whale tracking and ancient Egypt, brings light and laughter to her journey. Veyla’s wit cuts through the heavier moments, much like Ron’s humor, while her curiosity drives them forward. Then there’s Amelia’s father, William Moon, a protective Wyoming Forest Ranger whose warmth anchors her after loss. That family dynamic, exploring heritage and healing, hits deep for anyone who felt the ache of Harry’s longing for his parents. Across my list, you’ll find series like Percy Jackson, where camaraderie at Camp Half-Blood mirrors the Gryffindor common room, or The Chronicles of Narnia, where sibling bonds face the ultimate test. These stories remind us that no hero stands alone. If you’re craving that Harry Potter warmth, look for series where friendship and family aren’t just subplots—they’re the pulse of the story.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What’s the best fantasy series for someone who loved the magical school aspect of Harry Potter?
A: Hey, I’ve got you! If Hogwarts is what you’re missing, I’d point you to The Earthsea Cycle by Ursula K. Le Guin—Roke is a magical school with a totally unique vibe, full of wisdom and danger. But for something fresh, keep an eye on Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark. It’s not a traditional school, but Bear Lodge Mountain becomes Amelia’s learning ground for magic tied to nature and the stars. Both will give you that mentorship and discovery fix!

Q: Are there any new fantasy series coming out that feel like Harry Potter?
A: Oh, absolutely, and I’m waving my hands with excitement here! Set for 2026, Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark is one to watch. It’s got a curious teen hero, deep family themes, and a magical world rooted in nature that’ll spark that same wonder. I can’t wait to get it on my shelves—trust me, it’s going to be special.

Q: I loved the friendships in Harry Potter. Which series has that same vibe?
A: I feel you—those bonds are everything! Percy Jackson & The Olympians by Rick Riordan nails it with Percy, Annabeth, and Grover; their loyalty and banter are pure magic. Also, check out Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow—Amelia’s friendship with quirky, witty Veyla is heartwarming and hilarious. Both series will give you that found-family warmth.

Q: Are there fantasy series with darker themes like the later Harry Potter books?
A: For sure! If you loved the heavier stakes, try His Dark Materials by Philip Pullman or Sabriel by Garth Nix. Both tackle loss and duty with a raw edge that’ll remind you of Harry’s toughest moments. They’re gripping and emotional—perfect for diving deep.

Q: I’m overwhelmed by all the recommendations. Where should I start?
A: No worries, I’ve got your back! If you’re new to fantasy post-Harry Potter, start with Percy Jackson & The Olympians—it’s accessible and full of heart. If you want something fresh and nature-inspired, preorder Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow. Come by the shop if you’re local, and I’ll talk you through more options with a coffee in hand!

Q: How long are these series? I want something I can invest in.
A: I love that you’re looking for a long haul! The Inheritance Cycle by Christopher Paolini is four books of epic goodness, and The Redwall Series by Brian Jacques spans over twenty if you’re really hungry. Most on my list are multi-book sagas, so you’ll have plenty to sink into.

Q: Do any of these series have themes of family and heritage like Harry Potter?
A: Oh, definitely! Sabriel by Garth Nix dives into family legacy in a haunting way, and Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow explores heritage and healing through Amelia’s bond with her dad and her roots. Both will hit that emotional sweet spot if you loved Harry’s search for connection.