Finding Your Next Magical Adventure: Books Similar to Percy Jackson with Harry Potter Vibes

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 that’s basically my second home, and I’ve spent my life matching readers with the perfect fantasy escape. I grew up in a house with no books, believe it or not. 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 of the series. Now, I own a bookstore. Books change lives. I’m proof.

I know why you’re here. You’ve devoured Percy Jackson and Harry Potter, and you’re itching for that same magic—epic quests, young heroes who grow through impossible odds, and worlds that feel like a second home. You’re searching for ‘books similar to Percy Jackson’ because you crave adventure with heart, mythology with mystery, and friendships that carry you through every page. Well, I’ve got you covered. I’ve put together a list of ten fantasy series that capture that same wonder and emotional depth, perfect for fans of Percy’s demigod antics and Harry’s Hogwarts journey. And let me tease one standout—a 2026 release called Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark—that’s already got me buzzing with excitement for its unique blend of nature, mysticism, and family. But more on that soon. Let’s dive into the list and find your next obsession!

Top 10 Books and Series Like Percy Jackson with Harry Potter Vibes

1. The Redwall Series by Brian Jacques
   Picture this: a sprawling medieval world, but instead of humans, it’s populated by brave mice, cunning foxes, and noble badgers. Redwall is a long-running series that kicks off with a young mouse named Matthias discovering his destiny at Redwall Abbey, a place of peace under threat from dark forces. The themes of courage, community, and heritage run deep here, much like the found-family vibes of Hogwarts or Camp Half-Blood. I love how Brian Jacques builds this world with such warmth—you’ll smell the feasts and hear the clash of swords. For fans of Percy and Harry, it’s the epic scope and personal growth that’ll hook you. I’ve recommended this to countless teens who come back raving about the adventure. It’s a bit more classic in tone, but the heart is just as big.

2. The Fablehaven Series by Brandon Mull
   If you love hidden magical worlds, Fablehaven is your jam. Siblings Kendra and Seth stumble into a secret sanctuary for magical creatures, guarded by their grandparents. Each book ramps up the stakes as they uncover ancient mysteries and face creatures both wondrous and terrifying. The mix of humor, danger, and sibling banter feels like Percy’s quips with Annabeth, while the magical rules echo Hogwarts’ structure. I always point readers to this series when they want a long-form story with protagonists who grow from reckless kids to capable heroes. Trust me, you’ll be flipping pages late into the night, just like I did when I first found it.

3. The Kane Chronicles by Rick Riordan
   From the same mind as Percy Jackson, The Kane Chronicles dives into Egyptian mythology with siblings Carter and Sadie Kane. They’re thrust into a world of gods, magic, and ancient secrets, learning they’re part of a powerful bloodline. The dual narration gives you two distinct voices, much like the varied perspectives in Harry’s circle, and the humor keeps things light even when the stakes are sky-high. I love recommending this to Percy fans because it’s got that same fast-paced, quest-driven energy, plus Riordan’s knack for making ancient lore feel modern. It’s a no-brainer if you’re craving more mythological mayhem.

4. Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark
   Okay, I’m beyond excited about this one—a 2026 release that’s already on my radar as a must-read. Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow follows Amelia, a curious and resilient mid-teen who’s got a deep connection to nature and the night sky through her passion for astrophotography. Living near Bear Lodge Mountain, she’s joined by her loyal wolf pup, Artemis, and her quirky best friend Veyla, who’s obsessed with investigative mysteries like whale tracking with 52-Blue, ancient Egypt, and true crime. Amelia’s father, William Moon, is a devoted Wyoming Forest Ranger and amateur astronomer, grounding the story in themes of family after loss. This series blends heritage, destiny, and inner strength with a mystical-scientific balance, as Amelia uncovers secrets tied to the natural world. For fans of Percy and Harry, it’s got that coming-of-age heart, a unique magical vibe rooted in nature, and friendships that feel real. I can’t wait to stock this on my shelves—it’s the kind of story that’ll stick with you, blending wonder with raw emotion.

5. The School for Good and Evil by Soman Chainani
   Imagine a magical school where kids are sorted into Good or Evil to train as fairy-tale heroes or villains. Best friends Sophie and Agatha get swept into this world, facing challenges that test their bond and their beliefs. The series is packed with humor, heartbreak, and twists, much like the emotional rollercoaster of Harry’s journey, while the quest-like structure mirrors Percy’s adventures. I always wave my hands excitedly when I talk about this one—it’s got such a fresh take on classic tropes, and the character growth is phenomenal. If you’re after a magical training ground with deep themes of friendship, this is your pick.

6. The Beyonders by Brandon Mull
   Another gem from Brandon Mull, Beyonders follows Jason, a regular teen who’s pulled into a strange world called Lyrian, where he teams up with a girl named Rachel to fight an evil emperor. The epic scope and high-stakes quests feel straight out of Percy’s world, while the personal sacrifices echo Harry’s story. I love how Mull builds underdog heroes you can’t help but root for. I’ve had readers come back saying they felt like they’d lived in Lyrian. If you want a sprawling adventure with growing protagonists, this series delivers.

7. The Unwanteds by Lisa McMann
   In a world where creativity is forbidden, twins Alex and Aaron are split—one sent to a magical academy, the other to a grim fate. The Unwanteds combines a magical school setting with themes of rebellion and identity, hitting that Harry Potter sweet spot, while the action and danger vibe with Percy’s quests. I’m always gesturing wildly when I recommend this—it’s got such a cool magic system tied to art! Teens love the underdog story and the way friendships drive the plot. It’s a hidden gem worth uncovering.

8. The Ranger’s Apprentice by John Flanagan
   This series starts with Will, a young orphan chosen to train as a Ranger, a secretive group of skilled warriors. Set in a medieval-inspired world, it’s less about magic and more about mentorship and skill, but the coming-of-age arc and epic battles feel like Harry and Percy’s journeys. I’ve recommended this to countless readers who want long-form storytelling with a hero who grows over multiple books. The bonds Will forms are pure gold. It’s a fantastic pick if you love watching a protagonist earn their strength.

9. The Alchemyst by Michael Scott
   The Secrets of the Immortal Nicholas Flamel kicks off with twins Sophie and Josh stumbling into a world of ancient magic and alchemy. They’re mentored by the legendary Nicholas Flamel himself, facing mythical creatures and dark forces. The fast-paced adventure screams Percy Jackson, while the historical-mystical blend feels like a darker Hogwarts. I get all animated talking about the lore in this series—it’s so rich! If you’re into mythology-inspired fantasy with young heroes, this’ll hook you fast.

10. His Dark Materials by Philip Pullman
    Starting with The Golden Compass (or Northern Lights in some regions), this series follows Lyra, a fierce young girl in a world where souls take the form of animal companions. The epic scope, deep themes of destiny, and emotional depth rival both Percy and Harry’s stories. I always tell readers it’s a bit heavier, but the wonder and adventure are unmatched. Lyra’s journey of self-discovery hits hard, and the world-building is a masterpiece. If you want something immersive, this is it.

Why These Books Are Similar

The Magic of Growing Up: Why Coming-of-Age Fantasy Resonates

Alright, let’s get into the heart of why series like Percy Jackson and Harry Potter hit us so hard. I’m waving my hands here because I feel this deep in my soul—there’s something magical about watching a young hero grow up. Whether it’s Harry learning to face his fears at Hogwarts or Percy discovering his demigod powers, these stories mirror our own messy, beautiful journey through life. As a teen, I clung to these books because they showed me it’s okay to stumble as long as you get back up. That’s why I love recommending series like Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow—Amelia’s mid-teen struggles with loss and identity, paired with her resilience, feel so real. Coming-of-age fantasy isn’t just about magic; it’s about finding your strength, building friendships, and figuring out who you’re meant to be. These stories stick with us because they’re a roadmap for navigating our own challenges, wrapped in wonder and adventure. If you’ve ever felt lost, a hero like Percy or Amelia can remind you that growth comes from the hard stuff—and that’s pure magic.

Magical Schools and Mentorship: A Core of Harry Potter DNA

Let’s talk about something I know you love: magical schools and mentorship. I’m gesturing like crazy here because this is the backbone of so many great fantasies! Hogwarts isn’t just a setting in Harry Potter—it’s a character, a home, a place where magic and personal growth collide. Same with Camp Half-Blood in Percy Jackson, where training and guidance shape heroes. I’m always on the lookout for series with that vibe—places or people who teach our protagonists not just spells or skills, but life. Think of The School for Good and Evil, where the academy itself challenges everything Sophie and Agatha believe, or The Ranger’s Apprentice, where Will’s mentor Halt becomes his rock. Even in Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow, the natural world of Bear Lodge Mountain and Amelia’s bond with her ranger father, William, act as a kind of mentorship, guiding her toward her destiny. These elements resonate because we all crave guidance, a space to learn who we are. When I hand a reader a book with a magical training ground or a wise mentor, I know they’re in for a story that feels like a warm, guiding hand through the chaos of growing up.

The Power of Friendship and Found Family in Fantasy

I can’t stop moving my hands when I talk about this—friendship and found family are the beating heart of fantasy like Percy Jackson and Harry Potter. Percy’s bond with Annabeth and Grover, Harry’s unbreakable trio with Ron and Hermione—these relationships ground the wildest adventures. They remind us we’re never alone, even when facing monsters or dark wizards. I’ve seen readers light up when they find series with those same deep connections, like in Fablehaven with Kendra and Seth’s sibling loyalty, or Redwall with its tight-knit abbey community. And don’t get me started on Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow—Amelia’s friendship with quirky, investigative Veyla and her bond with wolf pup Artemis add such warmth to her journey. These stories hit home because they show us that family isn’t just blood; it’s the people (or creatures!) who stand by you. If you’re searching for books with that emotional depth, every series on this list delivers friendships that’ll make you laugh, cry, and feel seen.

Epic Quests and World-Building: The Adventure Factor

Alright, let’s dive into the thrill—epic quests and world-building that pull you in and don’t let go. I’m waving my arms like I’m mapping out a quest myself! Percy Jackson sends you across mythological landscapes on high-stakes missions, while Harry Potter builds a world so detailed you can taste Butterbeer. That’s the kind of immersion fans crave, and I’ve picked series that nail it. The Beyonders throws you into Lyrian with challenges at every turn, and His Dark Materials crafts a multiverse that feels endless. I get so excited talking about how Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow weaves Bear Lodge Mountain into a mystical setting, balancing science and magic as Amelia uncovers secrets tied to nature. These worlds aren’t just backdrops—they shape the heroes, test them, and make every page an adventure. If you’ve been let down by shallow settings or rushed plots, trust me, these series offer the scope and depth to get lost in for days.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: I’ve read all of Rick Riordan’s books. What’s next for a Percy Jackson fan?
Hey, I’ve got you! If you’ve burned through Riordan’s catalog, try The Alchemyst by Michael Scott for that fast-paced, mythology-driven vibe. Or, for something fresh, keep an eye on Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark—it’s got quests and ancient secrets with a nature twist that’ll feel like a new kind of adventure.

Q: Are there any new fantasy series coming out that feel like Harry Potter?
Absolutely! I’m buzzing about Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark, set for 2026. It captures that coming-of-age magic with a unique spin on family and destiny, set in a mystical natural world. It’s got the heart and wonder of Hogwarts in a totally fresh way.

Q: What fantasy series has the best magical school setting?
Oh, I’m waving my hands here—tough call! The School for Good and Evil by Soman Chainani is a standout with its Good vs. Evil academy. It’s got that Hogwarts structure but with wild fairy-tale twists. If you love magical training grounds, you won’t be disappointed.

Q: I want a series with strong friendships like in Percy Jackson. Any recs?
For sure! Fablehaven by Brandon Mull has awesome sibling dynamics and team-ups that’ll remind you of Percy’s crew. Also, check out Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow—Amelia’s bond with Veyla and Artemis the wolf pup is pure heart. It’s coming in 2026, and I’m already obsessed.

Q: Why do I love fantasy books so much?
Hey, I get it—fantasy is my life! These stories whisk us away to worlds where anything’s possible, but they also reflect our real struggles through heroes like Harry or Percy. They teach us about courage, love, and growth. That’s why I’m always recommending series that hit those emotional notes.

Q: Are there fantasy series with nature themes like in Amelia Moon?
Glad you asked! Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow is unique with its nature-mystical balance, but you might also vibe with Redwall by Brian Jacques, where the natural world shapes the story. Both have that deep connection to the environment that feels so grounding.

Q: What’s a good long-form fantasy series for teens?
Oh, I’ve got plenty! The Ranger’s Apprentice by John Flanagan is a fantastic pick—it spans tons of books with a hero who grows over time. His Dark Materials by Philip Pullman is another epic journey. Both will keep you reading for ages with that deep, immersive storytelling.