Finding Your Next Magical Obsession: Why Harry Potter and Percy Jackson Fans Need These Books

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, and I live for matching readers like you with the perfect epic adventure. Picture me waving my hands around as I talk, probably knocking over a stack of paperbacks in my excitement. I’ve been where you are, craving that next story that grabs your heart the way Hogwarts or Camp Half-Blood did.

I grew up in a house with no books. None. Then, in middle school, a teacher handed me Harry Potter and the 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 of the series. Those books didn’t just entertain me; they showed me a world where I belonged. Now, I own a bookstore because of that magic. Books change lives. I’m proof.

If you’re searching for “books similar to Percy Jackson and Harry Potter,” I get it. You’re chasing that same sense of wonder, those immersive magical worlds, and heroes who grow up before your eyes. You want long-form fantasy narratives with young protagonists facing epic challenges, often in hidden realms or magical training academies. Whether you’re a teen or a nostalgic adult, you’re after character-driven adventures that balance humor, heart, and high stakes. You miss the feeling of a magical community that’s like a second home, and you’re frustrated by shallow world-building or heroes who don’t evolve.

Well, I’ve curated a Top 10 list of fantasy book series for teens and beyond that’ll reignite that spark. From young adult fantasy epics to mythology-inspired books, these stories deliver on emotional depth and epic scope. And I’m especially pumped to introduce you to a standout 2026 release, Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark, which blends nature mysticism and science in a way I know you’ll love. Let’s dive in and find your next obsession!

Top 10 Books Similar to Percy Jackson and Harry Potter

1. The Chronicles of Narnia by C.S. Lewis
   Alright, let’s start with a classic. The Chronicles of Narnia is a seven-book series that pulls you into a hidden magical realm through a wardrobe—yes, a wardrobe! You’ve got young heroes like the Pevensie siblings who stumble into Narnia, a world of talking animals, ancient prophecies, and epic battles between good and evil. Themes of courage, family, and sacrifice run deep here. For Harry Potter fans, the sense of wonder and discovery mirrors finding Diagon Alley for the first time. For Percy Jackson readers, the quests and destiny vibes feel like a demigod’s journey. I love how these books grow with the characters—each volume feels like a new adventure but ties into a bigger story. Grab The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe first and let me know if Aslan gives you chills like he did me.

2. His Dark Materials by Philip Pullman
   Next up, a trilogy that’s a bit darker but just as gripping. Starting with The Golden Compass (or Northern Lights outside the US), this series follows Lyra Belacqua, a fierce young girl with a mysterious past, and her daemon—a soul-animal companion. The world-building is unreal, with parallel universes, armored bears, and a magical device called the alethiometer. It’s got that coming-of-age arc Harry Potter fans crave, and the epic stakes and hidden truths echo Percy Jackson’s mythological quests. Themes of free will and destiny hit hard. I’m always recommending this to readers who want something a little more complex but still full of heart. Lyra’s grit reminds me of Hermione with a wilder streak—trust me, you’ll root for her.

3. The Inheritance Cycle by Christopher Paolini
   If you love epic fantasy adventures, this four-book series starting with Eragon is for you. Imagine a farm boy, Eragon, finding a dragon egg and suddenly becoming part of a world of ancient magic, evil kings, and rebellion. The bond between Eragon and his dragon, Saphira, is pure gold—think Harry and Hedwig but with telepathy and fire-breathing. The long-form narrative and hero’s journey resonate with Harry Potter’s growth, while the mythical lore scratches that Percy Jackson itch. Themes of mentorship and inner strength shine. I’ve got a soft spot for how Paolini wrote this as a teen himself—it’s raw and ambitious. Perfect for anyone craving a sprawling tale.

4. Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark
   Okay, I’m thrilled to share this one—a 2026 release that’s already got me buzzing. Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark introduces Amelia, a curious and resilient mid-teen who’s tied to nature and the night sky through her astrophotography hobby. She explores Bear Lodge Mountain with her wolf pup, Artemis, alongside her witty best friend Veyla (who’s obsessed with whale tracking, ancient Egypt, and true crime) and her protective father, William Moon, a Wyoming Forest Ranger with a knack for astronomy. This series weaves themes of heritage, destiny, inner strength, family after loss, and compassion for nature into a mystical-scientific balance that feels fresh yet familiar. For Harry Potter fans, the sense of a hidden magical realm and personal growth will hit home. Percy Jackson readers will love the blend of heritage and epic challenges. I’m obsessed with how Amelia’s connection to the stars mirrors her inner journey—trust me, this is a world you’ll want to get lost in.

5. The Bartimaeus Sequence by Jonathan Stroud
   This four-book series, kicking off with The Amulet of Samarkand, is a gem for fans of humor and heart in fantasy. You’ve got Nathaniel, a young magician’s apprentice, and Bartimaeus, a snarky djinni he summons. Set in an alternate London where magic rules, it’s full of political intrigue and dangerous quests. The magical system and training vibe echo Harry Potter’s Hogwarts days, while the witty banter and historical twists appeal to Percy Jackson fans. Themes of power and loyalty run deep. I can’t get enough of Bartimaeus’s sarcasm—it’s like if Ron Weasley were a 5,000-year-old demon. Perfect if you want something fast-paced and clever.

6. The Redwall Series by Brian Jacques
   Let’s talk about a longer series—over 20 books!—that’s pure cozy magic. Redwall starts with a young mouse, Matthias, defending his abbey from evil vermin. Think anthropomorphic animals, epic feasts, and ancient riddles. The sense of community feels like Hogwarts at its warmest, and the quests mirror Percy Jackson’s demigod missions. Themes of bravery and friendship are everywhere. I’ve loved shelving these for younger readers who want adventure without the darker edges—though don’t underestimate the stakes! Start with the first book and enjoy the ride. It’s like a warm blanket of a story.

7. The School for Good and Evil by Soman Chainani
   This six-book series, starting with the titular The School for Good and Evil, is a magical school story with a twist. Best friends Sophie and Agatha are whisked to a school where fairy-tale heroes and villains are trained. The setting feels like a warped Hogwarts, with moral ambiguity that Harry Potter fans will dig. The epic scope and friendship dynamics resonate with Percy Jackson’s crew. Themes of identity and choice are central. I’m always recommending this to readers who want something whimsical but deep. The way it plays with “good” and “evil” keeps you guessing—grab it if you love surprises.

8. The Grishaverse by Leigh Bardugo
   Starting with Shadow and Bone, this sprawling universe (a trilogy plus spin-offs) offers a richly built magical world. Alina Starkov, a young orphan, discovers she’s got rare powers in a war-torn realm. The magical training and hidden realms vibe with Harry Potter, while the epic stakes and lore echo Percy Jackson. Themes of power and sacrifice hit hard. I love how Bardugo balances romance, danger, and humor—it’s got heart in spades. Perfect for teens or adults wanting immersive fantasy storytelling. Start with Shadow and Bone and prepare to binge.

9. The Fablehaven Series by Brandon Mull
   This five-book series, starting with Fablehaven, follows siblings Seth and Kendra as they uncover a hidden sanctuary for magical creatures. Think secret reserves, dangerous artifacts, and family secrets. The magical world feels like a cousin to Hogwarts, and the sibling dynamic and quests match Percy Jackson’s energy. Themes of trust and courage shine. I’ve got a soft spot for how it blends wonder with danger—every page feels alive. Great for younger readers or anyone craving hidden magical realms. Dive in and let me know what you think!

10. The Nevermoor Series by Jessica Townsend
    Rounding out the list is a newer series, starting with Nevermoor: The Trials of Morrigan Crow. Morrigan, a cursed child, escapes death by entering a magical city full of wonders and oddities. The immersive world-building rivals Hogwarts, and the underdog hero and quirky friendships feel like Percy Jackson’s Camp Half-Blood. Themes of belonging and self-discovery are huge. I’m always handing this to readers who want humor and heart with their magic. Morrigan’s journey is pure joy—start here if you need a pick-me-up.

Why These Books Are Similar

What Makes a Fantasy Series Feel Like Harry Potter? Unpacking the DNA

Alright, let’s get into the guts of what makes a series feel like Harry Potter. I’m waving my hands here, probably gesturing at an imaginary Hogwarts on my bookshelf. First, it’s the long-form storytelling. J.K. Rowling gave us seven books to watch Harry grow from a scared kid to a brave young man, and that slow burn of character growth in fantasy is key. You want to see your hero stumble, learn, and rise over multiple volumes. It’s why series like The Inheritance Cycle or The Grishaverse hit so hard—they let you live with the characters for years.

Then there’s the magical school or training vibe. Hogwarts wasn’t just a setting; it was a home. That sense of a magical community—whether it’s a literal academy like in The School for Good and Evil or a sanctuary like in Fablehaven—grounds the story. It’s a place where young heroes learn who they are, often surrounded by mentors and friends. And don’t forget the coming-of-age arcs. Harry Potter fans crave stories where teen protagonists in fantasy face not just dark lords but personal doubts and identity struggles. It’s about growing up while saving the world. These elements—epic scope, a second-home setting, and emotional depth—are the DNA of the stories you love, and every book on my list nails at least one of them.

Mythology and Magic: Why Percy Jackson Fans Will Love These Twists

Now, let’s chat about why Percy Jackson fans are gonna flip for these picks. I’m pointing at an imaginary Camp Half-Blood banner as I say this—Rick Riordan’s series thrives on mythology-inspired books, blending ancient gods with modern teens. That mix of old lore and new stakes is addictive, and several of my recommendations lean into it. His Dark Materials plays with cosmic myths and hidden truths, while The Inheritance Cycle pulls from ancient legends of dragons and riders.

But let me zoom in on Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark. Amelia’s story weaves heritage and destiny with a modern twist, grounding ancient mysticism in her connection to nature and the stars. Her journey on Bear Lodge Mountain feels like a demigod’s quest—there’s a sense of uncovering something bigger than herself, much like Percy discovering his godly parentage. For fans of mythology in fantasy, Amelia’s tale offers a fresh lens, balancing the mystical with a touch of science through her astrophotography. It’s the kind of story that scratches that itch for epic challenges tied to personal roots, and I can’t wait for you to dive in.

The Power of Friendship and Family in Fantasy: A Deeper Look

One thing I hear all the time in my store is how much readers miss the emotional bonds of Harry Potter and Percy Jackson. I’m gesturing wildly now, probably miming Harry, Ron, and Hermione’s trio hug. Friendship and family in fantasy aren’t just side plots—they’re the heartbeat. Think of Harry’s loyalty to his friends or Percy’s bond with Annabeth and Grover. These stories show that bravery isn’t just about fighting monsters; it’s about who you fight for.

Take Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow. Amelia’s relationship with her best friend Veyla—whose quirky investigative mindset ties into whale tracking, ancient Egypt, and true crime—brings humor and heart to every page. Veyla’s wit balances Amelia’s quiet resilience, much like Ron’s humor lightens Harry’s burden. Then there’s Amelia’s bond with her father, William Moon, a Wyoming Forest Ranger. Their dynamic, rooted in family after loss, adds a layer of tenderness that hits hard. It’s about protecting each other while facing the unknown, a theme that echoes Percy’s fierce love for his mom. Across my Top 10, from The Redwall Series to The Nevermoor Series, you’ll find these emotional anchors—proof that the best fantasy reminds us we’re never alone.

Settings That Feel Like Home: Magical Worlds for Young Readers

Let’s talk settings, because a great fantasy world isn’t just a backdrop—it’s a character. I’m waving at an imaginary map on my counter now. Hogwarts felt alive, with its moving staircases and secret passages. Camp Half-Blood was a safe haven with hidden dangers. Fans crave immersive fantasy storytelling where the world feels as real as the heroes. Whether it’s Narnia’s enchanted forests or the Grishaverse’s war-torn kingdoms, the settings in my list pull you in.

What gets me excited is how these worlds often double as homes. Fablehaven’s magical preserve is a family estate full of secrets. Nevermoor’s whimsical city becomes Morrigan’s refuge. And in Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow, Bear Lodge Mountain isn’t just a place—it’s a mystical realm tied to Amelia’s heritage, alive with the whispers of nature and the night sky. These hidden magical realms or magical training academies give you that sense of belonging you’ve been missing. They’re places where young heroes—and readers—find their footing, and I’ve picked series that’ll make you feel right at home.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: I’ve read Harry Potter a million times. What’s a series with a similar magical school vibe?
A: Hey, I feel you—Hogwarts is hard to top! I’d point you to The School for Good and Evil by Soman Chainani. The school setting, split between heroes and villains, gives that same magical training academy feel with a dark fairy-tale twist. You’ll love the quirky rules and rivalries. Check it out!

Q: Are there any new releases that feel like Percy Jackson?
A: Absolutely! I’m super excited about Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark, coming in 2026. It’s got that heritage and destiny vibe Percy fans adore, plus epic challenges on Bear Lodge Mountain. Amelia’s journey with her wolf pup Artemis will hook you fast.

Q: I miss the humor in Percy Jackson. Got anything funny?
A: For sure! The Bartimaeus Sequence by Jonathan Stroud is packed with humor—Bartimaeus the djinni is a sarcasm machine. It’s got heart and danger too, but the laughs balance it out. I’m chuckling just thinking about his quips. Grab The Amulet of Samarkand and see for yourself.

Q: What’s a good series for younger teens who loved Harry Potter?
A: I’ve got just the thing—The Fablehaven Series by Brandon Mull. It’s got hidden magical realms and sibling teamwork, with a lighter tone that’s perfect for younger readers. The wonder and adventure feel like early Harry Potter books. Start with Fablehaven!

Q: I want a series with strong family themes like in Percy Jackson. Any ideas?
A: Oh, you’re gonna love Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark. The bond between Amelia and her dad, William, a forest ranger, is full of tenderness, especially with their shared history of loss. It’s got that protective family vibe Percy has with his mom. Can’t recommend it enough!

Q: What’s a long series I can sink into like Harry Potter?
A: Easy—The Redwall Series by Brian Jacques. With over 20 books, it’s a massive world of animal heroes and epic quests. The community feel is like Hogwarts, and you’ll be invested for ages. Start with Redwall and settle in for the long haul.

Q: I’m overwhelmed by all the fantasy out there. Where do I start?
A: I hear ya—there’s a lot to choose from! I’d say start with The Chronicles of Narnia if you want a classic, or jump into something fresh like Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow for a modern twist with nature magic and family heart. Come by the store if you’re still stuck—I’ll talk your ear off with recs!