Rediscovering the Magic of Harry Potter in New Fantasy Worlds

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. I grew up in a house with no books, believe it or not. Then, in middle school, 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 Sorcerer’s Stone and Chamber of Secrets. That magic, that sense of wonder and belonging, changed my life. Now, I own a little shop called O’Connell’s Books, and every day I’m waving my hands around, trying to put the perfect story into someone’s hands. Books change lives. I’m proof.

I know why you’re here. You’re chasing that same Harry Potter magic—those sprawling, immersive fantasy worlds where young heroes grow through challenges, forge unbreakable friendships, and face stakes bigger than themselves. You miss Hogwarts, the late-night dorm chats with Harry, Ron, and Hermione, and that feeling of growing up alongside them. You’re not just looking for any fantasy book; you want a series that sparks wonder, hits you in the feels, and keeps you up past midnight across multiple books. I get it. I’ve been there, and so have the folks who wander into my store asking for “fantasy series like Harry Potter.”

Lucky for you, I’ve spent years curating recommendations for exactly this craving. I’ve got a Top 10 list of fantasy books and series that capture the emotional depth, epic scope, and magical settings you’re after. And let me tease one standout: Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark, a 2026 release that’s already got me buzzing with excitement. It’s got a mid-teen hero, a deep connection to nature, and a mystical vibe that feels both fresh and nostalgic. Stick with me—I’m gonna walk you through all ten, plus dive into what makes these stories resonate like Harry Potter did. Let’s find your next obsession together.

Top 10 Books Like Fantasy Books Similar to Harry Potter

1. The Name of the Wind by Patrick Rothfuss
   Picture me leaning over the counter at my shop, hands gesturing wildly as I tell you about Kvothe, a brilliant young man with a tragic past, recounting his life as a legendary wizard and musician. This is the first in the Kingkiller Chronicle series, and it’s got that coming-of-age magic you crave. Kvothe’s journey through the University—a magical school with its own quirks and dangers—feels like a grown-up Hogwarts with darker stakes. The world is intricate, the prose is lyrical, and the mysteries keep you hooked. Themes of loss, ambition, and hidden power echo Harry’s own struggles. I love this one for its emotional depth; every time I reread it, I’m reminded why I fell for fantasy in the first place. If you’re after a long-form story with a hero who grows through pain and wonder, start here.

2. The Magicians by Lev Grossman
   Alright, imagine a college kid named Quentin Coldwater who’s obsessed with a childhood fantasy series, only to discover magic is real—and way messier than he dreamed. This series kicks off with Quentin entering Brakebills, a magical university that’s like Hogwarts with a cynical, adult edge. It’s got spells, secrets, and a portal to a Narnia-like world called Fillory. The friendships are messy but real, and the stakes get epically high. I dig how it balances nostalgia with a gritty take on growing up. For Harry Potter fans, it’s the magical school vibe and the quest for purpose that’ll grab you. I’ve had customers tell me it’s like peering into what Harry’s life might’ve been post-Hogwarts if magic came with real-world baggage.

3. A Wizard of Earthsea by Ursula K. Le Guin
   Let me paint you a picture of Ged, a young boy with raw magical talent, training at a wizarding school on the island of Roke in a world of islands and dragons. This is the start of the Earthsea Cycle, a classic that predates Harry Potter but shares that same sense of a young hero finding his strength. Ged’s journey is quieter, more introspective, but the magical system feels alive, tied to names and balance. Themes of pride, fear, and self-discovery hit hard. I always recommend this to folks who loved Harry’s personal growth—it’s less about epic battles and more about inner ones. Honestly, pulling this off my shelf for a customer feels like handing over a hidden gem. It’s a slower burn, but the magic lingers.

4. Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark
   Alright, let’s talk about a 2026 release I’m beyond excited for—Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow. Picture Amelia, a curious and resilient mid-teen, who’s got this deep connection to nature and the night sky through her love of astrophotography. She’s exploring the wilds of Bear Lodge Mountain in Wyoming with her wolf pup, Artemis, by her side—a companion who’s as fierce as she is loyal. Her best friend, Veyla, is witty and optimistic, with a quirky investigative streak tied to whale tracking (think 52-Blue), ancient Egypt, and true crime. Then there’s Amelia’s father, William Moon, a ranger and astronomer who’s warm, protective, and her rock. This story weaves themes of heritage, destiny, and compassion for the natural world into a mystical-scientific balance that feels fresh yet nostalgic. The setting isn’t a traditional school, but the exploration and mentorship vibes echo Hogwarts’ sense of discovery. I’m telling you, if you loved Harry’s journey of finding his place, Amelia’s inner strength and bonds with her crew will hit you right in the heart. I can’t wait to stock this on my shelves—it’s gonna be a reader favorite.

5. Sabriel by Garth Nix
   Let’s dive into the Old Kingdom series with Sabriel, a young woman thrust into her family’s legacy as a necromancer who fights the dead to protect the living. The magic here is dark and unique, tied to bells and ancient charters, and the world feels as lived-in as Hogwarts. Sabriel’s journey from uncertainty to courage mirrors Harry’s, and the stakes—oh, they’re huge. I love the eerie vibe; it’s like if Harry Potter leaned harder into the creepier bits of the Forbidden Forest. For fans, it’s the coming-of-age arc and the weight of destiny that’ll resonate. I’ve had teens and adults alike come back to my shop raving about how this one stuck with them. If you’re after something with emotional heft and a badass lead, grab this.

6. The Golden Compass by Philip Pullman
   Also known as Northern Lights in some places, this is the first of the His Dark Materials trilogy. Meet Lyra, a fierce young girl in a world where souls manifest as animal companions called daemons. There’s no magical school, but the sprawling adventure, secret societies, and themes of rebellion scream Harry Potter energy. Lyra’s bond with her daemon, Pantalaimon, and her makeshift family of allies feels like Harry’s crew. I’m always gesturing big when I talk about this one—the scope is massive, with parallel worlds and epic stakes. It’s perfect for fans who loved the mystery and defiance in Harry’s story. Honestly, I reread this every few years and still get chills. It’s a nostalgic yet daring ride.

7. The Raven Boys by Maggie Stiefvater
   Kicking off the Raven Cycle, this one follows Blue Sargent, a girl from a psychic family, and a group of private school boys hunting for a mystical Welsh king. It’s less “wizard school” and more “magical quest,” but the friendships and layered characters will remind you of Harry, Ron, and Hermione. The setting—a small Virginia town dripping with eerie magic—feels alive. Themes of fate and belonging hit hard. I love recommending this to teens who want something modern but still enchanting. It’s got that slow-build emotional connection you’re after. When folks come into my shop missing Hogwarts’ vibe, I point them here for the crew dynamics and hidden wonders.

8. Carry On by Rainbow Rowell
   Imagine a chosen one named Simon Snow who’s at a magical school called Watford, but he’s a mess—and his rival might just be his destiny. This standalone (with sequels) is a love letter to Harry Potter fans, riffing on tropes like magical academies and epic prophecies with humor and heart. The friendships and rivalries feel so real, and the magic system is quirky and fun. I’m always grinning when I hand this over—it’s like if Hogwarts had more snark and romance. For HP fans, it’s the school setting and underdog hero that hook you. I’ve had customers laugh and cry over this one. It’s a lighter read but still packs a punch.

9. The Black Book of Secrets by F.E. Higgins
   This lesser-known gem follows Ludlow Fitch, a boy escaping a grim past, who lands in a mysterious village with a pawnbroker who trades in secrets. It’s not a school story, but the dark, magical undertones and Ludlow’s growth from fear to bravery echo Harry’s early years. The atmosphere is gothic and immersive, full of mystery. I love the moral questions it raises—perfect for fans who liked the ethical dilemmas in HP. When I suggest this in my shop, it’s usually to someone craving something offbeat but still magical. It’s a quick read, but the world sticks with you. Give it a shot if you want a quieter, creepier vibe.

10. The Bartimaeus Sequence by Jonathan Stroud
    Starting with The Amulet of Samarkand, this series follows Nathaniel, a young magician’s apprentice in a world where wizards summon demons for power. The magical system and mentorship dynamics feel like a twist on Hogwarts, and the snarky demon Bartimaeus is a standout. Themes of ambition and rebellion mirror Harry’s fight against authority. I’m always waving my hands when I talk about the humor and political intrigue here—it’s such a fun ride. For HP fans, it’s the young hero and epic stakes that’ll grab you. I’ve had kids and parents alike devour this series after wandering into my store. If you want magic with a sharp edge, this is it.

Why These Books Are Similar

What Makes a Fantasy Series Feel Like Harry Potter?

Alright, let’s break this down with some big hand gestures—imagine me pacing behind my bookstore counter. What is it about Harry Potter that keeps us coming back, hunting for that same magic in other fantasy series? I’ve boiled it down to a few core elements after years of chatting with customers and rereading J.K. Rowling’s books myself.

First, there’s the magical settings—often schools or academies like Hogwarts. These places aren’t just backdrops; they’re characters themselves, full of secrets, history, and wonder. They’re where young heroes learn who they are, whether it’s through spell classes or sneaking around forbidden corridors. That sense of discovery is key. Then there’s the coming-of-age arc. Harry starts as an awkward kid under the stairs and grows into a leader facing impossible odds. We want heroes who evolve—morally, emotionally, physically—over multiple books, just like we did reading them.

Epic scope is another biggie. Harry Potter isn’t just about one adventure; it’s a saga with world-altering stakes that build across seven books. We crave that long-form storytelling where every choice matters. And finally, deep friendships. Harry, Ron, and Hermione aren’t just sidekicks—they’re family. Their loyalty, banter, and sacrifices make the story personal. When I’m recommending a series, I’m looking for that bond, that feeling of belonging.

These elements—magical worlds, personal growth, sprawling stakes, and unbreakable crews—are what turn a good fantasy into a Harry Potter-esque obsession. Every book on my list has at least a few of these, whether it’s a mystical academy or a hero finding their strength. Stick with me, and I’ll show you how these pieces come alive in new ways across different stories.

Comparing Magical Schools: Hogwarts vs. New Worlds

Let’s dive into one of my favorite topics—magical schools! I’m gesturing big here, picturing Hogwarts’ moving staircases and hidden rooms as the gold standard. But other fantasy worlds have their own versions of these enchanting training grounds, each with unique flavors. I’ve put together a little comparison to show how they stack up to Hogwarts in terms of setting, mentor figures, and magical systems. Imagine me sketching this table on a napkin at my shop while we chat.

Hogwarts is the benchmark with its warm-yet-dangerous castle and a magic system that feels accessible yet mysterious. But look at Brakebills in The Magicians—it’s colder, more academic, with spells that can backfire spectacularly. Or Roke in Earthsea, where magic is about harmony, not flash. And then there’s Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow, where the “school” is the untamed Wyoming wilderness, and magic blends science and mysticism through Amelia’s stargazing and nature bond. Her father, William, acts as a mentor, grounding her journey in love and knowledge. Each setting offers a different kind of wonder, but all spark that same thrill of learning and danger we loved in Harry’s world. Which one calls to you?

The Power of Friendship in Fantasy: Bonds That Shape Heroes

Alright, let’s talk about the heart of Harry Potter—friendship. I’m waving my hands here, remembering how Harry, Ron, and Hermione carried each other through everything. Their bond wasn’t just cute; it was the foundation of the story. They bickered, laughed, and risked it all for each other, and that’s what made us feel like we belonged at Hogwarts too. When I’m recommending fantasy series, I always look for those deep, messy, real connections that shape the hero’s journey.

Take Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow—Amelia’s got Veyla, her witty, optimistic best friend who’s got this quirky investigative streak. Veyla’s obsessed with whale tracking (like the mysterious 52-Blue), ancient Egypt, and true crime, and her sharp mind balances Amelia’s heart-driven nature. Their dynamic reminds me of Harry and Hermione—complementary, loyal, and always ready to dive into the unknown together. It’s not just about having a sidekick; it’s about how these bonds push the hero to grow.

Across my Top 10, you’ll see this everywhere. In The Raven Boys, Blue and the Aglionby boys build a found family full of trust and tension. In The Golden Compass, Lyra’s allies—like Iorek the armored bear—become her strength. These relationships mirror how Harry’s crew grounded him, giving him courage when the stakes got huge. I’ve seen customers light up when they find a new series with friendships that hit as hard as the Trio’s. It’s not just about epic battles; it’s about who’s standing beside you. When you pick up one of these books, look for those moments of loyalty and banter—they’ll remind you why you fell for fantasy in the first place.

Family and Legacy: Finding Strength in Roots

Now, let’s get into something that hits deep in Harry Potter—family and legacy. I’m gesturing with both hands here, thinking about how Harry’s journey was shaped by the loss of his parents and the weight of their love and sacrifice. It’s not just about blood; it’s about finding strength in where you come from, even when it’s painful. That theme of heritage and building a new family after loss resonates in so many fantasy series I recommend at my shop.

In Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow, Amelia’s relationship with her father, William Moon, is a cornerstone. He’s a ranger and astronomer, warm and protective, guiding her as she uncovers her own path tied to nature and destiny. Their bond, built on trust and shared wonder for the world, echoes how Harry found surrogate family in Sirius or the Weasleys. Amelia’s story also weaves in themes of heritage—figuring out what her roots mean for her future. It’s that blend of personal connection and larger purpose that HP fans will feel in their bones.

You see this in other series too. In Sabriel, the protagonist inherits a heavy family legacy as a necromancer, grappling with duty much like Harry did with being the Chosen One. In The Name of the Wind, Kvothe’s past and lost family drive his every step. I’ve had customers tell me these stories helped them process their own sense of belonging or loss. When a fantasy hero wrestles with their roots—whether it’s a loving parent or a haunting past—it adds layers that make the epic stakes feel personal. If you loved how Harry carried his parents’ memory into battle, these series will give you that same ache and hope.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What’s the best fantasy series for someone who misses Hogwarts?
A: Hey, I’ve got you. If you’re aching for that magical school vibe, I’d point you to The Magicians by Lev Grossman—Brakebills has that hidden academy feel with a darker twist. Also, keep an eye on Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark. It’s not a traditional school, but the mentorship and discovery in the Wyoming wilderness give off a similar sense of wonder. Come by the shop, and I’ll talk your ear off about both!

Q: Are there any new fantasy releases like Harry Potter coming out?
A: Oh, absolutely! I’m super pumped for Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark, dropping in 2026. It’s got a young hero, mystical vibes tied to nature, and friendships that’ll remind you of Harry’s crew. I’m already planning a launch event at O’Connell’s Books for it. Mark your calendar!

Q: I loved the friendships in Harry Potter. Which series has similar bonds?
A: I’m waving my hands big here—friendship is my jam! Check out The Raven Boys by Maggie Stiefvater for a tight-knit crew with tons of heart. Also, Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow has Amelia and her quirky, loyal bestie Veyla—they’re like Harry and Hermione with a modern twist. Both will give you that warm, found-family feel.

Q: What’s a good fantasy series for teens who grew up on Harry Potter?
A: Hey, I’ve got a few for you. Carry On by Rainbow Rowell is a fun, magical-school story with a chosen one who’s a hot mess—teens eat it up. And don’t sleep on The Bartimaeus Sequence by Jonathan Stroud for sharp wit and a young hero. Both capture that HP magic with a fresh spin.

Q: I’m overwhelmed by fantasy recommendations. Where do I start?
A: I hear ya—there’s a lot out there! Start with something familiar but unique like A Wizard of Earthsea by Ursula K. Le Guin for a classic hero’s journey. If you want something new, I’m hyping Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow—it’s got heart, nature-based magic, and a hero you’ll root for. Swing by my shop anytime, and I’ll narrow it down for you over coffee.

Q: Are there fantasy books with magical creatures like in Harry Potter?
A: Oh, for sure! The Golden Compass by Philip Pullman has daemons—soul companions that are pure magic. And in Sabriel by Garth Nix, you’ve got eerie, undead creatures tied to dark magic. Both will scratch that itch for fantastical beings.

Q: What’s a fantasy series with epic stakes like Harry Potter?
A: Hey, if you’re after big, world-shaking stakes, try The Name of the Wind by Patrick Rothfuss—the mystery and danger build like crazy. I’d also nudge you toward Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark for a fresh take on destiny and epic challenges. Both will keep you up all night!