Finishing Harry Potter can feel like saying goodbye to an entire world. The magic, the friendships, the mysteries, and the thrilling battles between good and evil leave a lasting impression, making it difficult to find another book that captures the same sense of wonder. Fortunately, there are plenty of incredible fantasy books that offer rich world-building, unforgettable characters, and immersive storytelling. Whether you’re looking for a magical school, a hidden world, or an underdog hero discovering their true potential, these ten books will transport you into new realms of adventure.
What makes Harry Potter so compelling is the way it reveals a hidden magical world just beneath the surface of ordinary life. Amelia Moon & The Solstice Spectacular embraces that same sense of discovery, following Amelia as she uncovers the secrets of her town’s annual solstice festival. At first, Sundance, Wyoming, seems like an ordinary place, but as Amelia begins solving riddles and unraveling its cosmic mysteries, she realizes that her world is far more magical than she ever imagined. This book is perfect for Harry Potter fans who love stories about ordinary kids stumbling into something extraordinary, facing thrilling challenges, and embracing their place in a larger destiny.
For those who loved Harry Potter for its magical school setting and whimsical world-building, Nevermoor is a must-read. Morrigan Crow has spent her entire life believing she is cursed, destined to die on her eleventh birthday. Instead, she is swept away to the secret city of Nevermoor by the eccentric Jupiter North and invited to compete for a place in the prestigious Wundrous Society. The magical trials, the ever-changing Hotel Deucalion, and the mystery surrounding Morrigan’s abilities create a captivating world filled with charm, danger, and hidden secrets. Like Harry, Morrigan must prove herself while uncovering the truth about her own extraordinary powers.
One of the reasons Harry Potter is so beloved is its ability to balance humor, adventure, and mythology. Percy Jackson & The Olympians captures that same energy, replacing wands and spells with Greek gods and demigod training at Camp Half-Blood. Percy, much like Harry, is an underdog who suddenly finds himself thrust into a world of ancient prophecies, powerful enemies, and a destiny bigger than himself. The friendships, the clever world-building, and the non-stop action make this series a perfect next step for readers craving another immersive fantasy world with a lovable, reluctant hero at its center.
If the house rivalries and moral complexities of Harry Potter intrigued you, The School for Good and Evil offers a fresh and imaginative take on the concept of magical education. Sophie and Agatha are best friends who are taken to a school where students are trained to become either fairy tale heroes or villains. However, when they are placed in what seems to be the "wrong" schools, they must question everything they thought they knew about good and evil. This series is filled with humor, action, and a deep exploration of fate, friendship, and the expectations placed upon us by the world. Like Harry Potter, it challenges the idea that people fit neatly into categories of "good" or "evil," making for a thought-provoking and thrilling read.
For readers who were drawn to the deeper themes in Harry Potter, His Dark Materials offers a more philosophical and richly complex fantasy world. Lyra Belacqua’s journey takes her across multiple worlds, uncovering hidden truths about the universe, destiny, and the battle between free will and control. Like Harry, Lyra is an orphan who embarks on a journey far greater than herself, navigating a world filled with mystical beings, secret organizations, and powerful adversaries. The world-building is intricate, the characters are compelling, and the series challenges its readers to think deeply about the nature of power and knowledge.
For fans who loved Harry Potter’s epic battles, magical training, and ancient prophecies, The Inheritance Cycle offers a grand fantasy adventure. The series follows Eragon, a farm boy who discovers a dragon egg and learns that he is one of the last Dragon Riders, destined to challenge an evil empire. Like Harry, Eragon undergoes rigorous training, uncovers the truth about his past, and must navigate the burdens of destiny. The world of Alagaësia is vast, filled with elves, magic, and legendary creatures, making it a perfect series for those who crave immersive fantasy storytelling.
For older readers who grew up with Harry Potter and want a more mature take on magical education, The Magicians offers a darker, more introspective look at what it means to wield power. Quentin Coldwater, like Harry, discovers that magic is real and is invited to study at Brakebills, a secretive magical university. However, unlike Hogwarts, Brakebills does not offer simple answers, and Quentin soon realizes that magic does not solve all of life’s problems. The novel explores themes of ambition, disillusionment, and the consequences of wielding great power, making it an intriguing read for those looking for a deeper, more complex fantasy.
For readers who loved Harry Potter’s magical creatures and hidden worlds, Fablehaven offers an equally enchanting experience. When siblings Kendra and Seth visit their grandfather’s estate, they discover that it is actually a sanctuary for mystical creatures—both good and evil. As they explore the secrets of Fablehaven, they realize that powerful forces are at work, and their choices will determine the fate of the preserve. Like Hogwarts, Fablehaven is a place filled with enchantments, dangers, and hidden histories, making it a fascinating world to explore. The mix of humor, adventure, and magical lore makes this series a must-read.
For readers who enjoyed the mythological elements in Harry Potter, Aru Shah and the End of Time brings Hindu mythology to life in a way that feels both fresh and exciting. Aru, a twelve-year-old girl, accidentally unleashes an ancient demon and must set things right by proving herself as a reincarnated Pandava warrior. The story is fast-paced, witty, and filled with fascinating deities, magical trials, and an underdog protagonist who must rise to the occasion. Like Harry, Aru is a reluctant hero who is thrust into a world she barely understands, making her journey all the more compelling.
For readers who loved Harry Potter’s intricate plots, unexpected twists, and morally complex characters, The Queen’s Thief series offers an equally captivating experience. The story follows Gen, a thief who becomes entangled in royal intrigue, prophecy, and a battle for power. Like Harry, Gen is underestimated by those around him but proves himself through wit, resilience, and courage. The series unfolds with masterful storytelling, making it a perfect choice for those who enjoy layered narratives filled with surprises.
Each of these books captures a different element of what made Harry Potter so magical, whether it’s the thrill of discovering a hidden world, the bonds of friendship, the struggle against darkness, or the sheer joy of adventure. Whether you’re looking for a magical school, an epic hero’s journey, or a world filled with ancient mysteries, these books will keep you turning pages long after Hogwarts.