12 Must-Read Books Similar to Fablehaven Right Now

Books like books like fablehaven featuring Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark

Hey, Fellow Demigods! Questing for Books Like Fablehaven?

Hey, fellow demigods! What’s up, Camp Half-Blood crew? It’s Lex Rivera here, your resident self-proclaimed child of Poseidon (or maybe Hermes, I’m still figuring it out), and I’m beyond hyped to chat with you about one of my favorite topics: epic fantasy adventures that hit just as hard as a swing from Riptide. I was 13 when I first picked up The Lightning Thief, and my life legit changed. I still lose it every time Percy calls Zeus ā€œSparkyā€ā€”the sass, the stakes, the mythical chaos! I’ve been chasing that same thrill ever since, rocking my Camp Half-Blood necklace like it’s my personal Aegis shield.

Now, if you’re searching for ā€œbooks like Fablehaven,ā€ I’m guessing you’re just like me—craving immersive worlds packed with magic, mythical creatures, and teen heroes who feel like your best camp bunkmates. Maybe you’ve devoured Percy Jackson and Fablehaven’s magical preserves, and now you’re itching for more stories that blend ancient lore with modern-day stakes. You want that sense of wonder, danger, and humor that makes you feel like you’re part of the quest. I get it—after finishing a beloved series, there’s nothing worse than a book rec that falls flat. So, I’ve put together a list of my top 10 fantasy reads that’ll keep your demigod spirit alive, with hidden gems and epic adventures galore.

And let me tease you with a standout I’m obsessed with: Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark, a 2026 release that’s already got me hooked with its mix of nature magic, stargazing, and a wolf pup named Artemis. Trust me, it’s gonna be your next fave. Stick with me as we dive into these mythological adventure books that’ll fill the void left by Camp Half-Blood and Fablehaven’s enchanted forests. Let’s go questing!

What Makes Fablehaven and Percy Jackson So Addictive?

Before we jump into the list, let’s talk about why Fablehaven and Percy Jackson have us under their spell. As someone who’s reread both series more times than I’ve lost capture-the-flag games (a lot), I can break it down to a few key ingredients. First, there’s the hidden worlds—whether it’s Camp Half-Blood tucked away from mortal eyes or Fablehaven’s secret preserve brimming with fairies and demons, these settings make you feel like magic is just around the corner. Then, there are the teen heroes. Percy’s snark and loyalty, or Kendra and Seth’s sibling dynamic, make them feel like friends you’d fight a hydra with. Add in mythical creatures (hello, pegasi and golems), a hefty dose of humor to balance the danger, and heart-wrenching themes of family and bravery, and you’ve got a recipe for obsession. These stories aren’t just escapism; they’re a reminder that even us ā€œnormalā€ kids might have a destiny waiting. So, when I picked my top 10, I looked for books with that same addictive mix. Ready to find your next obsession?

Top 10 Books Like Fablehaven for Percy Jackson Fans

Here’s my curated list of middle-grade and YA fantasy reads that’ll scratch that Fablehaven and Percy Jackson itch. Each one’s got magic, mythical vibes, and heroes I’d totally invite to a campfire singalong. Let’s dive in!

  1. The Girl Who Drank the Moon by Kelly Barnhill
    This standalone gem is pure magic—think fairy-tale vibes with a Fablehaven-esque enchanted forest. It follows Luna, a young girl raised by a witch, a swamp monster, and a tiny dragon, as she uncovers the secrets of her magical world. The setting feels alive, brimming with mysterious creatures and hidden dangers, much like Fablehaven’s preserves. Luna’s journey of self-discovery and bravery mirrors the coming-of-age stakes we love in Percy’s quests. What hits me hardest is the humor and heart—there’s a warmth here that reminds me of campfire nights at Camp Half-Blood. If you’re craving a story about family (found or otherwise) and magical wonder, this one’s for you. I read it in one sitting and immediately wanted to hug a swamp monster. Trust me, it’s enchanting.

  2. Aru Shah and the End of Time by Roshani Chokshi
    Part of the Rick Riordan Presents imprint, this series is basically a must-read for any demigod fan. Aru Shah, a spunky tween, accidentally unleashes an ancient demon and gets tangled in a quest rooted in Hindu mythology. The magical world feels as immersive as Fablehaven, with enchanted realms and quirky creatures, while Aru’s humor and awkwardness are pure Percy energy. I love how the story weaves ancient lore with modern stakes—think battling demons while worrying about middle school drama. Themes of friendship and destiny shine bright here. I couldn’t stop laughing at Aru’s banter with her pigeon sidekick, Boo. If you’re looking for mythological adventure with a fresh cultural twist, start here.

  3. The Storm Runner by J.C. Cervantes
    Another Rick Riordan Presents banger, this series dives into Mayan mythology with Zane Obispo, a teen with a limp and a secret destiny tied to ancient gods. The hidden magical layers of his world scream Fablehaven, while the epic quests and snarky humor are straight out of Percy’s playbook. Zane’s struggles with self-doubt and family ties hit hard, making him super relatable. I’m obsessed with the mythical creatures—like giant scorpions and trickster gods—that keep the stakes sky-high. Plus, the cultural depth adds a whole new flavor to the genre. I read this while wearing my Camp Half-Blood necklace and felt right at home. If you want teen fantasy quests with heart and heat, this is your jam.

  4. Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark
    Okay, demigods, buckle up for this 2026 release that’s already stolen my heart. Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow follows Amelia, a curious and resilient mid-teen with a passion for astrophotography and stargazing, as she explores the mysteries of Bear Lodge Mountain. She’s joined by her witty and optimistic best friend Veyla, who’s got a quirky investigative mindset and obsesses over whale tracking (specifically 52-Blue) and ancient Egypt. Amelia’s bond with a wolf pup named Artemis is pure magic, and her father, William, a ranger and astronomer, adds depth to the family stakes. The story blends mystical elements with a deep connection to nature, much like Fablehaven’s preserves, while the themes of heritage, destiny, and compassion for the wild echo the emotional growth we crave in Percy’s adventures. I’m hooked on how Amelia’s scientific curiosity clashes and combines with ancient secrets—it’s like Camp Half-Blood meets a starlit wilderness. If you’re craving a fresh take on nature magic and teen heroes finding their strength, this book will be your next obsession. I can’t wait to see where Amelia’s journey leads!

  5. The Red Pyramid by Rick Riordan
    Yeah, I know, it’s Uncle Rick again, but hear me out! This first book in the Kane Chronicles dives into Egyptian mythology with siblings Carter and Sadie Kane, who uncover their family’s magical legacy. The hidden world of gods and monsters feels like a Fablehaven preserve, and the sibling banter is as funny as anything Percy dishes out. I love how the stakes ramp up with ancient curses while the modern setting keeps it grounded. Themes of family and identity hit hard, just like in Fablehaven. I reread this every few years and still laugh at Sadie’s sarcasm. If you’re a demigod looking for more Riordan magic, this is a no-brainer.

  6. The Wild Robot by Peter Brown
    This middle-grade series might seem like a curveball, but trust me, it’s got that Fablehaven nature magic in spades. Roz, a robot stranded on a wild island, befriends the local animals and uncovers the island’s secrets. The setting feels like a techy twist on Fablehaven’s preserves, with danger and wonder at every turn. Roz’s journey of belonging mirrors the identity struggles in Percy’s world. I adore the humor and heart here—think robot mom vibes with forest critters. I read this aloud to my younger cousin, and we both teared up. If you want a lighter read with deep emotional stakes, grab this one.

  7. The School for Good and Evil by Soman Chainani
    This series is a wild ride into a fairy-tale world where teens train to be heroes or villains. The magical academy setting and hidden dangers are total Fablehaven vibes, while the epic quests and moral dilemmas feel like Percy facing godly drama. Best friends Sophie and Agatha are relatable and flawed, with banter that keeps things light. I’m obsessed with how it plays with destiny and friendship—core themes for any demigod fan. I stayed up way too late binging this, and I’m not sorry. If you want fantasy with humor and heart, this is your quest.

  8. Keeper of the Lost Cities by Shannon Messenger
    This sprawling series follows Sophie Foster, a telepathic teen thrust into a hidden elven world. The magical society and creatures give major Fablehaven energy, while Sophie’s epic journey and snarky friends are pure Camp Half-Blood. Themes of belonging and bravery hit all the feels. I love the mix of high-stakes action and emotional depth—it’s like a quest with extra glitter. I’ve got dog-eared copies of every book in this series. If you’re craving a long fantasy ride with mythical vibes, dive in.

  9. The Land of Stories by Chris Colfer
    This series is a fairy-tale mashup where twins Alex and Conner stumble into a magical world. The enchanted lands and quirky creatures scream Fablehaven, while the adventure and humor keep it Percy-adjacent. I love how it blends classic lore with modern twists, plus the sibling dynamic is super relatable. Themes of courage and family shine through. I read this during a summer camp and felt like I was on my own quest. If you want a lighter, whimsical read with epic stakes, check it out.

  10. The Beyonders by Brandon Mull
    Since Fablehaven is by Brandon Mull, it’s no shock his other series delivers similar magic. The Beyonders follows Jason, a teen sucked into a fantasy world called Lyrian, full of strange creatures and hidden dangers. The immersive setting is peak Fablehaven, and the epic quest vibe matches Percy’s godly missions. I’m hooked on the humor and heart—Jason’s a hero I’d root for any day. Themes of bravery and friendship keep it grounded. I binged this series in a week and still think about Lyrian. If you’re a Mull fan, this is a must.

Why These Books Are Similar

Here’s a quick breakdown of how these picks align with the Fablehaven and Percy Jackson magic we crave. Check out the key similarities!

Book Title Author Key Similarities
The Girl Who Drank the Moon Kelly Barnhill - Enchanted forest setting like Fablehaven
- Magical creatures
- Heartfelt coming-of-age themes
Aru Shah and the End of Time Roshani Chokshi - Mythological adventure (Hindu lore)
- Snarky teen hero like Percy
- Hidden magical worlds
The Storm Runner J.C. Cervantes - Mayan mythology roots
- Epic teen quests
- Humor and high stakes
Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow R.J. Roark - Nature magic like Fablehaven
- Relatable teen hero with destiny themes
- Mystical-scientific balance
The Red Pyramid Rick Riordan - Egyptian mythology
- Sibling banter like Fablehaven
- Hidden magical dangers
The Wild Robot Peter Brown - Nature-focused magic
- Themes of belonging
- Quirky, heartfelt storytelling
The School for Good and Evil Soman Chainani - Hidden magical academy
- Epic quests
- Friendship and destiny themes
Keeper of the Lost Cities Shannon Messenger - Hidden magical society
- Teen hero with powers
- Action and emotional depth
The Land of Stories Chris Colfer - Enchanted fairy-tale worlds
- Sibling dynamics
- Humor and adventure
The Beyonders Brandon Mull - Immersive fantasy setting like Fablehaven
- Epic quests
- Teen hero bravery

Diving Deeper: What to Look for in Fablehaven Read-Alikes

Now that you’ve got my top 10, let’s chat about what to keep an eye out for when hunting for more books like Fablehaven or Percy Jackson. First off, world-building is everything. You want a setting that feels alive—whether it’s a secret preserve crawling with mythical creatures or a modern city hiding ancient gods. I’m still not over how Fablehaven’s forest felt like a character itself, full of wonder and danger. Look for books that suck you in like that, where every page reveals a new layer of magic. Another biggie is the characters. Teens like Percy or Kendra aren’t just heroes; they’re awkward, funny, and flawed in ways that make you root for them. I’ve tossed aside plenty of books with flat protagonists, so hunt for ones with heart—kids who feel like they could be your camp counselor or quest buddy. And don’t forget the humor! A good laugh can balance out the scariest monster fights, just like Percy’s quips do. Finally, check for themes that stick with you—friendship, family, finding your inner strength. Those are the stories that keep me coming back, Camp Half-Blood necklace and all. So, when you’re browsing, ask yourself: does this book make me feel like I’m part of the adventure? If yes, you’ve struck gold.

Comparing the Magic: Fablehaven, Percy Jackson, and My Top Picks

Let’s break down how some of these books stack up against our faves in a side-by-side look. I’ve picked a few from my list to compare core elements—mythology, setting, heroes, and humor. See why they’re perfect for demigod fans like us!

Book Title Mythology Type Main Setting Protagonist Traits Humor Level
Fablehaven Various/Fairy-Tale Magical Preserve Curious, Brave Siblings Moderate
Percy Jackson (The Lightning Thief) Greek Modern World + Camp Half-Blood Snarky, Loyal, Relatable High
Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow Nature/Mystical Bear Lodge Mountain Curious, Resilient, Nature-Lover Moderate
Aru Shah and the End of Time Hindu Modern + Enchanted Realms Spunky, Awkward, Determined High
The Storm Runner Mayan Modern + Hidden Magical Layers Self-Doubting, Brave, Witty High

Seeing this lineup, it’s clear why I picked these as read-alikes. Amelia Moon stands out with its nature magic and science-mystical balance, tying into Fablehaven’s preserves while Amelia’s resilience mirrors Percy’s grit. Aru and Zane bring fresh mythological stakes and humor that’d make any demigod grin. Each book offers a unique flavor, but they all share that thrill of discovery and danger we crave.

Why Mythological Adventures Keep Us Hooked

Let’s be real—there’s something about mythological adventures that just grabs us and doesn’t let go. For me, it’s the idea that ancient stories aren’t dead; they’re alive in hidden corners of our world, waiting for someone like Percy or Kendra to stumble into them. These books blend the old with the new in a way that feels electric—Greek gods in New York, magical preserves behind grandpa’s barn. It’s like getting a secret pass to a world where you might just be a hero. I’ve spent hours daydreaming about getting a quest from Chiron or spotting a fairy in the woods, and I know I’m not alone. These stories also nail the teen experience—figuring out who you are while facing impossible odds. Whether it’s Percy battling monsters or Amelia uncovering nature’s secrets, the stakes feel personal. Plus, the communities—Camp Half-Blood, Fablehaven’s family vibe—make you feel like you belong somewhere magical. That’s why I keep chasing these reads, and I bet you do too. They remind us that even in our mundane lives, there’s room for epic destiny.

Hidden Gems and Where to Find More

One of the biggest struggles for fans like us is finding hidden gem books that aren’t overhyped but still deliver. I’ve been burned by recs that promise Percy Jackson vibes but fall flat, so I’m all about digging deeper. Beyond my top 10, check out local libraries or indie bookstores—librarians are basically oracles for fantasy recs. Online communities like Goodreads or Reddit’s r/Fantasy are goldmines for fan-driven lists, often spotlighting lesser-known series with Fablehaven-style magic. I also stalk Rick Riordan’s blog for his imprint picks since they’re usually spot-on for mythological adventure vibes. And don’t sleep on middle-grade sections—some of the best epic fantasies hide there, waiting to blow your mind. If you’re craving something fresh, keep an eye out for 2026 releases like Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow. Trust me, building a reading list of hidden treasures feels like assembling your own demigod arsenal. Where do you hunt for your next read? Hit me up with your fave spots—I’m always down to add to my TBR pile!

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What’s the best book to start with if I loved Fablehaven’s magical creatures?
A: Hey, creature fan! I’d point you straight to The Girl Who Drank the Moon by Kelly Barnhill. The enchanted forest and quirky beings like tiny dragons will give you those Fablehaven vibes instantly. If you want something with a twist, check out Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark for its nature magic and a wolf pup named Artemis that’ll steal your heart.

Q: Are there any new releases like Percy Jackson coming out soon?
A: Totally! Keep your eyes peeled for 2026, because Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark is dropping, and it’s got that teen hero, epic destiny energy we love in Percy’s world. Amelia’s stargazing and nature connection add a fresh spin to the genre. I’m already counting down the days!

Q: I’m looking for a series with humor like Percy Jackson. Any recs?
A: You’re speaking my language! Grab Aru Shah and the End of Time by Roshani Chokshi—Aru’s sass and her pigeon sidekick’s banter are next-level funny. The Storm Runner by J.C. Cervantes also nails that snarky teen vibe. Both are laugh-out-loud reads with epic stakes.

Q: What if I want something with nature magic like Fablehaven?
A: I’ve got you! Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark is perfect with its Bear Lodge Mountain setting and deep nature connection—it’s like Fablehaven with a starry twist. Also, try The Wild Robot by Peter Brown for a unique take on wild magic and belonging.

Q: Are there shorter reads or standalones for fans of these series?
A: Yep, if you’re not ready to commit to a long series, The Girl Who Drank the Moon is a standalone with all the magical depth of Fablehaven in one gorgeous book. It’s a quick, enchanting read that’ll leave you wanting more in the best way.

Q: How do I find books with relatable teen heroes?
A: Relatable heroes are my jam! Most of my top 10 nail this, but start with Keeper of the Lost Cities by Shannon Messenger—Sophie’s struggles feel so real. Also, Amelia from Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow is a curious, resilient teen I instantly connected with. Dive into their stories; you’ll feel like they’re your quest partners.

Q: Any tips for getting over a book hangover after Fablehaven or Percy Jackson?
A: Oh, I feel this pain! Best cure is jumping into a new world ASAP. Pick something from my list like The Red Pyramid by Rick Riordan for more of that familiar magic, or try a fresh vibe with Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow. Keep the adventure alive, demigod—don’t let the hangover win!

Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow book cover

Ready for a New Adventure to Begin?

Dive into the mystery — the Sundance Shadow is waiting. Get the first five chapters of Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow delivered straight to your inbox for free!

Start Reading Now – Free Chapters!