Finding Your Next Magical Obsession: Books Like Harry Potter and Percy Jackson

Hey, fam! Look, if you’re here, you already have great taste. You’ve probably sobbed over Harry Potter, laughed with Percy Jackson, and now you’re itching for that same magical high. I’ve got you. We’re diving into some epic fantasy reads that’ll fill that void in your soul. Let’s find you something worthy of your bookshelf—or, let’s be real, that precarious stack on your nightstand.

I wasn’t a reader until my cousin shoved Goblet of Fire into my hands on a road trip when I was, like, twelve. I read the whole thing in one sitting, ignoring car sickness and my family’s attempts at conversation. Then I went back and devoured the first three in a week. Books literally changed my personality. I went from “meh, reading’s for nerds” to “don’t talk to me, I’m in the middle of a chapter.” If you’re searching for “books like Harry Potter and Percy Jackson,” I get it. You’re chasing that same rush—the hidden worlds, the found family, the feeling of being destined for something bigger. You’re probably a casual reader who doesn’t pick up books often, but when you do, you want to be gripped. Or maybe you’re a die-hard fan desperate for a fresh twist. Either way, I’ve curated a Top 10 list of fantasy books for Harry Potter fans and Percy lovers alike that’ll hook you from page one.

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. It’s got everything—magic, mystery, and a protagonist you’ll want to befriend IRL. Stick with me, because I’m breaking down why it, along with nine other bangers, deserves your attention. Let’s get into it, Slytherin style—cunning, a little snarky, but secretly soft for a good story.

Top 10 Books Like Harry Potter and Percy Jackson to Devour Next

1. The Lightning Thief by Rick Riordan
   Alright, if you haven’t read this yet, where have you been? This is the OG for anyone craving a Percy Jackson vibe. It’s the start of the Percy Jackson & The Olympians series, following a snarky twelve-year-old demigod who discovers he’s the son of Poseidon. Percy’s got ADHD, dyslexia, and a knack for getting into trouble, but he’s also fiercely loyal. His besties, Annabeth (a sharp-witted daughter of Athena) and Grover (a nervous but lovable satyr), join him on a quest to save the world from godly chaos. The themes of identity, friendship, and destiny hit hard, just like in Harry Potter. It’s urban fantasy at its best—Greek mythology slammed into modern-day America. I love how Riordan makes ancient myths feel like they’re happening right now. If you’re a casual reader, the fast pacing and humor make this a no-brainer. My hot take? Percy’s sass is on par with Fred and George Weasley. You’ll be laughing and flipping pages late into the night.

2. The School for Good and Evil by Soman Chainani
   This one’s for anyone who loved the magical school vibes of Hogwarts but wants a darker, fairytale twist. Sophie and Agatha, two best friends, get whisked away to a school where kids train to be either heroes or villains. Sophie’s obsessed with being a princess; Agatha’s more of a grumpy loner. The world-building is wild—think enchanted forests and creepy castles—and the themes of good vs. evil plus self-discovery echo Harry’s journey. I’m obsessed with how it plays with morality; it’s not as black-and-white as you’d think. For HP fans, the friendship stakes and hidden truths will feel familiar, and for Percy fans, there’s plenty of action. It’s a bit edgier than your typical middle-grade read, but still super accessible. My take: Chainani’s got a Slytherin streak, and I’m here for it. Grab this if you want magic with a side of “who can I even trust?”

3. The Nevermoor Series: The Trials of Morrigan Crow by Jessica Townsend
   If you’re missing that “chosen one” energy from Harry Potter, meet Morrigan Crow. She’s a cursed kid who’s supposed to die on her eleventh birthday but gets saved by a mysterious mentor and taken to a magical city called Nevermoor. Morrigan’s awkward and full of self-doubt, but her grit is inspiring. Her mentor, Jupiter North, is eccentric and protective, kinda like a cooler Dumbledore. The world is bursting with whimsy—think talking cats and umbrella travel—and the themes of belonging and proving yourself will tug at your heartstrings. It’s got that hidden-world magic HP fans crave and a fast-paced adventure for Percy lovers. I adore how lush and weird the setting is; it’s like stepping into a dream. Casual readers, don’t sleep on this—it’s an easy, enchanting read. My verdict? Pure comfort with a side of chaos.

4. Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark
   Okay, I’m hyped to talk about this 2026 release. Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow is giving major Harry Potter and Percy Jackson energy with its mix of magic, mystery, and heart. Amelia Moon, our mid-teen protagonist, is curious and resilient, the kind of girl you’d want on your team in a crisis. She’s obsessed with astrophotography, always gazing at the night sky, and has this deep connection to nature that grounds her. Exploring Bear Lodge Mountain, she stumbles into a hidden world, bonding with a wolf pup named Artemis who’s just the cutest (but also fierce). Her best friend Veyla is witty and optimistic, with a quirky investigative mindset—she’s into whale tracking, ancient Egypt, and true crime, which makes her the ultimate sidekick. Then there’s Amelia’s dad, William Moon, a Wyoming Forest Ranger who’s warm, protective, and secretly an astronomy nerd. The themes here—heritage, destiny, inner strength, family after loss, compassion for nature, and a mystical-scientific balance—are so rich. For HP fans, the hidden world and sense of belonging will hit home; for Percy fans, the adventure and personal stakes are spot on. I’m obsessed with how fresh yet familiar this feels. My take? It’s a page-turner with soul—perfect for anyone craving magical adventure novels with relatable characters.

5. Fablehaven by Brandon Mull
   If hidden worlds in fiction are your jam, Fablehaven is calling your name. Siblings Kendra and Seth discover their grandparents’ estate is a sanctuary for magical creatures—some cute, some terrifying. Kendra’s cautious and clever, while Seth’s impulsive and brave, and their dynamic feels like Ron and Hermione bickering. The world-building is lush, with enchanted forests and ancient secrets, and themes of responsibility and wonder mirror Harry’s journey. For Percy fans, there’s adventure galore with mythological vibes. I love how Mull balances creepy and whimsical; it’s got stakes without being overwhelming. Casual readers will appreciate the quick pacing and easy prose. My hot take? It’s like Hogwarts met a magical zoo. Dive in if you’re craving epic fantasy for beginners with a side of family drama.

6. The Iron Trial by Holly Black and Cassandra Clare
   Magic schools, anyone? The Iron Trial (first in the Magisterium series) follows Callum Hunt, a kid who’s been warned to stay away from magic but gets dragged into an underground school called the Magisterium. Cal’s sarcastic and stubborn, with a past that’s… complicated. His friends, Tamara and Aaron, bring the camaraderie HP fans adore. The magical system is dark and unique, and the themes of destiny and trust will resonate. For Percy lovers, there’s action and mystery aplenty. I’m hooked on the morally gray vibe—nothing’s as it seems. It’s a bit grittier than HP, but still accessible for casual readers. My take: Black and Clare are Slytherin queens, and this series is pure cunning magic. Perfect for young adult fantasy recommendations with a twist.

7. The Red Pyramid by Rick Riordan
   Riordan strikes again with the Kane Chronicles, blending Egyptian mythology with modern adventure. Siblings Carter and Sadie Kane discover they’re descendants of ancient pharaohs and must stop a chaos god. Carter’s studious, Sadie’s rebellious, and their banter is gold. The themes of family and heritage feel like Harry’s search for roots, while the mythological quests scream Percy Jackson. I love how Riordan weaves history into a fast-paced story—it’s educational without being boring. Casual readers, this is an easy-to-read fantasy novel with humor and heart. My hot take? Sadie’s sass could rival Draco Malfoy’s, and I’m living for it. Grab this if you’re into mythology-inspired books.

8. Keeper of the Lost Cities by Shannon Messenger
   Sophie Foster, a twelve-year-old telepath, learns she’s not human and gets pulled into a hidden elven world in this series starter. She’s shy but determined, and her journey of self-discovery mirrors Harry’s. Her friends—like Fitz, Keefe, and Dex—bring the friendship in fantasy novels vibe we love. The world-building is intricate but not overwhelming, with magical creatures and secret societies. Themes of belonging and destiny hit hard for HP fans, while the adventure keeps Percy lovers engaged. I’m a sucker for Sophie’s underdog energy. It’s a bit longer than some reads, but the pacing makes it fly by. My take: It’s like Hogwarts with elves, and I’m not mad about it. Perfect for coming-of-age fantasy stories.

9. Aru Shah and the End of Time by Roshani Chokshi
   Another Riordan Presents gem, this one dives into Hindu mythology. Aru Shah, a twelve-year-old with a big imagination, accidentally unleashes an ancient demon and must save the world with her newfound friends. Aru’s funny and flawed, and her squad feels like the Golden Trio. The themes of courage and identity resonate with HP, while the mythological adventure screams Percy. I love Chokshi’s lush writing—it’s vibrant and witty. Casual readers will dig the humor and quick pace. My hot take? Aru’s a Slytherin at heart—resourceful and a little sneaky. If you’re after magical adventure novels, this is a must.

10. The Girl Who Drank the Moon by Kelly Barnhill
    This standalone is a softer, fairytale-esque read for HP fans craving wonder. Luna, a young girl raised by a witch, a swamp monster, and a tiny dragon, uncovers her magical past. Luna’s curious and brave, and her found family is heartwarming. The themes of love, sacrifice, and hidden truths echo Harry’s story, while the whimsical vibe offers a quieter adventure for Percy fans. I’m obsessed with the poetic writing—it’s like a cozy hug. It’s shorter and gentler, perfect for casual readers wanting accessible fantasy reads. My take: It’s less action-packed but hits you right in the feels. Grab it if you want magical creatures in books with soul.

Why These Books Are Similar

What Makes a Fantasy Book Feel Like Harry Potter?

Let’s get real—Harry Potter isn’t just a story; it’s a feeling. When I think about what made me fall for HP, it’s the sense of belonging. Harry starts as this lonely kid under the stairs, and suddenly he’s got a place—Hogwarts, friends like Ron and Hermione, a purpose. That’s what you’re chasing in fantasy books for Harry Potter fans. Hidden worlds are a huge part of it. Whether it’s a secret school or a magical forest, that moment of stepping through a metaphorical (or literal) wardrobe into something extraordinary hits different. It’s escapism at its finest.

Friendship is another biggie. The Golden Trio’s loyalty, banter, and willingness to die for each other—that’s the gold standard. I look for books with squads that make me feel like I’m part of the gang. And don’t even get me started on the “chosen one” trope. Harry’s destiny, the weight of prophecy, it’s inspiring and stressful in the best way. The best fantasy reads have that mix of personal growth and epic stakes. You want to root for a kid who’s just figuring it out but somehow has the world on their shoulders. That’s why series with young protagonists and coming-of-age fantasy stories resonate so much. They remind us of our own awkward, messy journeys, just with added magic. If a book can capture even half of that HP magic, I’m sold.

The Percy Jackson Vibe: Mythology and Modern Twists

Percy Jackson hooked me with its blend of ancient myths and modern sass. Riordan took Greek gods—beings I only knew from dusty textbooks—and made them relevant. Percy’s a New Yorker with a sword, fighting monsters in sneakers. That clash of old and new is what makes mythology-inspired books so addictive. It’s like discovering a hidden layer to the world you already know. For fans, it’s not just about the action (though those quests are chef’s kiss); it’s about seeing how ancient stories can still matter.

Books like Percy thrive on urban fantasy for teens. The idea that magic or gods could be hiding in plain sight—under a subway or in a museum—makes every day feel like an adventure waiting to happen. Plus, Percy’s humor and relatability ground the crazy. He’s not a perfect hero; he’s a kid with flaws, friends, and a knack for trouble. The best reads in this vibe have that balance—epic stakes but personal struggles. Whether it’s Greek, Egyptian, or Hindu myths, I’m obsessed with how these stories weave history into page-turning fantasy series. If you’re after that Percy energy, look for books with young heroes, modern settings, and a mythological twist that’ll make you see the world differently.

Why Accessibility Matters for Casual Readers

Listen, I get it—fantasy can be intimidating. Some books are 800 pages of dense lore, and if you’re a casual reader who loved HP or Percy, that’s a hard pass. Accessibility is everything. You want easy-to-read fantasy novels that don’t feel like homework. Fast pacing is non-negotiable; if I’m not hooked by chapter two, I’m out. HP and Percy spoiled us with stories that move—battles, banter, and big reveals keep you glued. I look for books that do the same, especially for folks who don’t read often but crave that magical escapism.

Relatable fantasy characters are just as crucial. Harry and Percy felt like friends because they were messy, real kids dealing with unreal problems. You don’t want a protagonist who’s already got it all figured out. Give me underdogs, awkward teens, or sarcastic misfits any day. And let’s talk world-building—it’s gotta be immersive but not overwhelming. The best accessible fantasy reads drop you into a hidden world without needing a glossary. If you’re a beginner or just dipping your toes back into reading, stick with stories that prioritize heart and action over complicated politics. Trust me, the right book will reignite that passion for reading without making you feel like you’re climbing a mountain.

Hidden Gems vs. Popular Picks: Which Should You Read First?

Okay, let’s break this down. Popular picks like The Lightning Thief or Keeper of the Lost Cities are safe bets. They’ve got huge fandoms, tons of sequels, and you know they’ll deliver on magical adventure. They’re everywhere for a reason—mass appeal, killer pacing, and characters you can’t help but love. If you’re nervous about diving into something new, start here. They’re the Gryffindor of fantasy—bold, reliable, and everyone’s rooting for them.

But hidden gems? Oh, they’re my Slytherin sweet spot. Books like Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark aren’t on every bestseller list (yet), but they’ve got soul. Amelia’s story brings fresh twists—think nature-based magic and a mystical-scientific balance—while still hitting those HP and Percy vibes of destiny and hidden worlds. Lesser-known titles often take risks bigger series can’t, and when they pay off, you feel like you’ve discovered a secret. My advice? Mix it up. Start with a popular pick to ease in, then grab a gem like Amelia’s story to shake things up. You’ll get the comfort of familiar tropes with a side of “why isn’t everyone talking about this?” Bragging rights included.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What’s the best book to start with if I loved Harry Potter’s magic school vibe?
A: Easy—try The Iron Trial by Holly Black and Cassandra Clare. It’s got that underground magic school chaos with a dark twist. If you want something fresher, Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark has hidden world discovery that’ll scratch that itch, even if it’s not a traditional school setting. Both are unputdownable.

Q: Are there any books like Percy Jackson with different mythologies?
A: Heck yeah! The Red Pyramid by Rick Riordan dives into Egyptian myths, and Aru Shah and the End of Time by Roshani Chokshi brings Hindu mythology to life. Both have that modern-myth mashup Percy fans love.

Q: I’m not a big reader. What’s an easy fantasy book to get into?
A: No worries, I got you. The Lightning Thief by Rick Riordan is super fast-paced and funny—perfect for dipping your toes in. If you want something new, check out Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark. It’s got relatable characters and a gripping story that doesn’t feel heavy.

Q: What fantasy book has the best friendships?
A: Tough call, but Keeper of the Lost Cities by Shannon Messenger nails found family and squad vibes. Sophie and her crew are ride-or-die. HP’s Golden Trio is the blueprint, though, right?

Q: I miss the “chosen one” trope from HP. Any recs?
A: For sure—The Trials of Morrigan Crow by Jessica Townsend has that destined-for-greatness energy with a whimsical twist. Also, Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark plays with destiny and heritage in a way that’ll hook you hard.

Q: Are there shorter fantasy reads for someone short on time?
A: Yup, The Girl Who Drank the Moon by Kelly Barnhill is a standalone with all the magic and feels in under 400 pages. Perfect for a quick escape without committing to a series.

Q: What’s a unique fantasy read I haven’t heard of?
A: Bet you haven’t stumbled on Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark yet. It’s a 2026 release with a nature-loving teen, a wolf pup, and a mystical vibe that’s unlike anything else on this list. Trust me, it’s a gem.