Hey Fellow Demigods! Let’s Find the Next Percy Jackson Adventure!

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 out my godly parent). I’m rocking my Camp Half-Blood necklace as I type this, and I’m beyond pumped to dive into a quest of our own: finding epic reads that hit the same sweet spot as Percy Jackson and Harry Potter. If you’re anything like me, you’ve been chasing that lightning-in-a-bottle magic ever since you first cracked open a Rick Riordan book.

I was 13 when I picked up The Lightning Thief, and my life legit changed. I still lose it every time Percy calls Zeus “Sparky”—that sass, that humor, that heart! It wasn’t just a story; it was a portal to a world where I felt like I belonged, awkward ADHD quirks and all. And don’t even get me started on Harry Potter. I mean, who hasn’t dreamed of getting their Hogwarts letter? When we search for “books like Percy Jackson and Harry Potter,” we’re not just looking for random fantasy. We’re craving fast-paced mythological adventures, relatable teen heroes, and worlds that blend ancient magic with modern-day messiness. We want humor, emotional gut-punches, and quests that make us feel like we’re discovering our own destiny.

That’s why I’ve put together a Top 10 list of must-reads for middle-grade and YA fantasy fans who need a new Camp Half-Blood to call home. These books are packed with witty banter, epic stakes, and characters you’ll root for through every monster-filled page. And let me tease one standout right now: Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark, a 2026 release that’s already got me howling (pun intended) with excitement. Stick with me, and let’s uncover some hidden gems that’ll reignite that childhood wonder. Ready to embark on this literary quest? Let’s go!

Top 10 Books Like Percy Jackson and Harry Potter

1. The Red Pyramid by Rick Riordan
   Okay, I know, starting with a Riordan book might feel like cheating, but hear me out! The Red Pyramid kicks off the Kane Chronicles, and it’s got all the mythological adventure vibes we love, just with a fresh Egyptian twist. We follow Carter and Sadie Kane, two siblings who discover they’re tied to ancient Egyptian gods. Carter’s a brainy, protective older brother, while Sadie’s a sharp-tongued rebel with a knack for trouble. Their dynamic is pure gold—think Percy and Annabeth-level banter. The story blends modern settings with pharaohs and magic, and the stakes feel just as high as any Titan war. As a Percy fan, I devoured the humor and the way Riordan makes ancient lore feel so now. If you’re craving more demigod-style action but with pyramids instead of Mount Olympus, this is your jam.

2. Aru Shah and the End of Time by Roshani Chokshi
   Let’s talk about Aru Shah, a middle-schooler who accidentally unleashes an ancient demon (oops!). This book, the first in the Pandava series, dives into Hindu mythology with a heroine who’s as snarky and lovable as Percy. Aru’s a bit of a fibber, always spinning wild stories, but she’s got heart for days. Her journey through magical realms with her newfound “sisters” is full of humor and epic quests. I’m obsessed with how Chokshi weaves Indian lore into a modern adventure—it’s like stepping into a whole new mythological playground. For fans of Percy Jackson, this scratches the itch for teen heroes discovering their powers, plus the cultural depth is a refreshing bonus. I couldn’t put it down!

3. The Storm Runner by J.C. Cervantes
   Another Rick Riordan Presents gem, The Storm Runner throws us into Mayan mythology with Zane Obispo, a kid with a limp, a loyal dog, and a secret destiny tied to ancient gods. Zane’s voice is hilarious and relatable—he’s got that underdog charm that reminds me of Percy’s early days. The story’s packed with action, mythical creatures, and a world that feels alive with danger. I love how it tackles disability and identity alongside epic battles. If you’re hunting for books similar to Percy Jackson with a focus on diverse mythologies and teen struggles, this one’s a must. It’s got heart, humor, and a hero you’ll cheer for!

4. Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark
   Oh, buckle up, demigods, because Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark is a 2026 release that’s already stolen my heart. Meet Amelia Moon, a curious and resilient mid-teen who’s obsessed with nature and astrophotography. She’s always stargazing, camera in hand, trying to capture the mysteries of the sky while exploring Bear Lodge Mountain. Her bond with her wolf pup, Artemis, is the cutest thing ever—think Percy and Blackjack, but fuzzier. Amelia’s joined by her witty best friend Veyla, who’s all about investigative quirks and whale-tracking, and her dad William, a warm ranger and astronomer who’s her rock. This story weaves themes of heritage, destiny, and inner strength into a mystical adventure that balances science and magic. It’s got that coming-of-age vibe we love in Percy Jackson, plus a unique connection to nature and family that hits deep. If you’re after a fresh take on mythological adventure with emotional stakes and lovable characters, Amelia’s journey is gonna be your next obsession. Trust me, I’m already counting down to release day!

5. The Sword of Summer by Rick Riordan
   Back to Riordan (sorry, not sorry), The Sword of Summer launches the Magnus Chase series with Norse mythology front and center. Magnus, a homeless teen, discovers he’s tied to Viking gods after—well, dying (no spoilers, I promise). His sarcastic narration is peak Percy energy, and the found family he builds with his quirky crew feels straight out of Camp Half-Blood. The mix of modern Boston and ancient Asgard is so immersive, and the humor keeps you laughing even during intense moments. As a lifelong demigod fan, I adore how Riordan keeps reinventing mythology for us. If you want more epic fantasy for young adults with teen heroes and quests, Magnus has got you covered.

6. Fablehaven by Brandon Mull
   Fablehaven is a bit of a shift from straight-up mythology, but it’s got that Harry Potter-style magical world-building we crave. Siblings Kendra and Seth stumble into a hidden sanctuary for mythical creatures, and let’s just say their summer vacation gets wild. Kendra’s cautious and clever, while Seth’s impulsive and trouble-prone—perfect sibling chaos. The series is full of mystery, danger, and creatures that’ll make your jaw drop. I love how it captures that sense of wonder and hidden destiny we get from Percy Jackson. If you’re into urban fantasy for kids with a hefty dose of magic, this one’s a safe bet.

7. The Girl Who Drank the Moon by Kelly Barnhill
   This standalone novel leans more toward Harry Potter’s whimsical side but still delivers on magical coming-of-age tales. It follows Luna, a young girl raised by a witch, a swamp monster, and a tiny dragon (how cool is that?). The story’s steeped in folklore and explores themes of family and identity with a softer, more emotional tone. As a Percy fan, I was hooked by Luna’s journey to understand her own power. It’s a great pick for middle-grade fantasy novel lovers who want heart over non-stop action, but still has enough magic to keep you enchanted.

8. Tristan Strong Punches a Hole in the Sky by Kwame Mbalia
   This book brings African American folklore and West African mythology to life through Tristan, a kid grappling with grief who accidentally rips into a mythical world. His voice is raw and funny, and the way he channels his pain into strength feels so real. The story’s packed with gods, tricksters, and epic battles, plus a heavy dose of history. I’m obsessed with how it mirrors Percy Jackson’s blend of modern struggles and ancient lore. For fans seeking diverse mythological adventure books, this is a knockout (pun intended).

9. The Spirit Glass by Roshani Chokshi
   Another Chokshi masterpiece, The Spirit Glass dives into Filipino folklore with Corazon, a girl who’s training to be a babaylan (a kind of shaman). Her journey to protect her family’s magic is full of ghostly encounters and lush, vivid settings. Corazon’s determination and sass remind me of Percy’s early grit, and the cultural depth is next-level. As someone who geeks out over mythology retellings, I can’t recommend this enough for YA fantasy series fans looking beyond Greek or Roman tales. It’s hauntingly beautiful!

10. Keeper of the Lost Cities by Shannon Messenger
    Rounding out the list, Keeper of the Lost Cities isn’t mythology-based but nails the Harry Potter vibe of hidden worlds and chosen-one destinies. Sophie Foster discovers she’s not human and gets whisked into a magical society of elves. Her struggles with fitting in and uncovering secrets are super relatable, and the humor keeps things light. I love how the sprawling series builds emotional depth over time, much like our fave demigod sagas. If you’re after action-packed YA reads with epic stakes, this one’s a gem.

Why These Books Are Similar

What Makes a Great Mythological Adventure? Lessons from Percy and Harry

Let’s get real for a sec. What is it about Percy Jackson and Harry Potter that keeps us coming back, even years later? As a lifelong fan who’s basically got The Lightning Thief memorized, I think it boils down to a few key ingredients that make mythological adventures (or magical ones) absolutely addictive. First, there’s the witty narration. Percy’s sarcasm and Harry’s understated snark make every page feel like a convo with a friend. A great story in this genre needs that voice—someone who’s just as confused and messy as we are, but still steps up to save the day.

Then there’s the hidden destiny thing. Both Percy and Harry start as regular (or not-so-regular) kids who uncover mind-blowing truths about who they are. That “whoa, I’m special?” moment hooks us because, deep down, we all want to believe there’s magic in us too. Epic stakes are non-negotiable—whether it’s stopping a Titan war or defeating a dark wizard, the world has to feel like it’s hanging by a thread. And let’s not forget the blend of ancient and modern. Percy Jackson throws Greek gods into New York City; Harry Potter hides magic behind platform 9¾. That collision of old and new is pure catnip for fantasy nerds like me.

Finally, it’s about growth. These stories aren’t just about slaying monsters or waving wands; they’re about figuring out who you are through loss, friendship, and impossible choices. When I’m hunting for books like these, I’m looking for that same balance of humor, heart, and high-stakes action. If a story can make me laugh, cry, and cheer in the span of a chapter, I’m sold. So, whether it’s demigod stories for teens or wizarding escapades, these core elements are what keep us turning pages late into the night.

Exploring New Mythologies: Beyond Greek and Wizarding Worlds

One thing I’ve noticed as a Percy Jackson stan is how hungry I’ve become for mythologies beyond the Greek and Roman stuff I grew up on. Don’t get me wrong, I’ll always love a good Poseidon cameo, but there’s a whole world of ancient lore out there waiting to be explored. That’s why I’m so stoked about books that dive into lesser-known cultural legends, giving us fresh playgrounds for our imaginations. Series like Aru Shah with Hindu myths or Tristan Strong with African folklore show how vast and vibrant these stories can be. They’re not just retellings; they’re modern fantasy adventures that honor their roots while speaking to today’s teens.

Take Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark as another example. While it’s not tied to one specific ancient pantheon, it weaves a kind of nature mysticism that feels timeless, almost like tapping into the earth’s own myths. Amelia’s connection to the wilds of Bear Lodge Mountain and the stars above feels like a new kind of magic, paired with subtle nods to broader lore (think ancient Egypt vibes through her friend Veyla’s quirky investigative streak). Veyla’s obsession with whale-tracking adds this cool, grounded layer to the mystery, blending science with the mystical in a way that’s super fresh. Books like these remind me that mythology isn’t just gods and monsters—it’s the stories we tell about our world, no matter the culture or era. If you’re tired of the same old fantasy tropes, diving into these unique perspectives is like finding a hidden portal at Camp Half-Blood. You won’t look back!

Characters We Root For: Teens Discovering Their Power

If there’s one thing Percy Jackson and Harry Potter nailed, it’s giving us heroes we can’t help but root for. Percy’s a sarcastic mess who doubts himself but still charges into battle. Harry’s got the weight of the world on his shoulders but keeps fighting for his friends. These teen heroes and their quests resonate because they’re us—figuring out who we are while the universe throws curveballs. I’m always on the hunt for characters with that same raw, relatable energy, and the books on my list deliver.

Let’s talk about Amelia Moon from Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow. She’s a mid-teen with a fierce curiosity and resilience that reminds me of Percy’s early grit. Her love for nature and stargazing through astrophotography makes her stand out—she’s not just a hero, she’s a dreamer trying to piece together her place in the world. Her bond with her wolf pup Artemis melts my heart, and her bestie Veyla brings this infectious optimism and investigative flair (seriously, her whale-tracking obsession is the coolest). Then there’s Amelia’s dad, William Moon, a ranger and astronomer who’s this warm, protective presence—kinda like a mortal Chiron. Watching Amelia grow through challenges tied to her heritage and inner strength hits that sweet spot of magical coming-of-age tales. Characters like her, who stumble, doubt, and still rise, are why I keep reading. They remind me that power isn’t just magic or prophecy—it’s the courage to keep going, no matter what.

Why Family and Found Family Matter in These Stories

One of the biggest reasons Percy Jackson and Harry Potter hit so hard is the theme of family—both the one you’re born into and the one you build. Percy’s relationship with his mom, Sally, is everything; it grounds him no matter how crazy things get. Harry’s longing for his parents and the makeshift family he finds with the Weasleys and Hermione tugs at your heartstrings. As someone who’s cried over those bonds more times than I’ll admit, I’m always drawn to stories that capture that same emotional depth.

That’s why books like Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow resonate so much. Amelia’s journey isn’t just about epic quests; it’s about navigating loss and finding connection with her dad, William, and her chosen family, like Veyla and Artemis. The way her story explores heritage and rebuilding after grief feels so real—it’s not just a fantasy trope, it’s a mirror to the messy, beautiful parts of growing up. That “found family” vibe, so central to Camp Half-Blood, shines through in how these characters support each other. Whether it’s through blood ties or bonds forged in adventure, family in these stories reminds us we’re never alone, even when facing the biggest monsters. For me, that’s the true magic of mythological adventure books—knowing someone’s always got your back.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What’s the best book to start with if I’ve just finished Percy Jackson?
A: Hey, demigod, awesome question! If you’re fresh off Percy Jackson, I’d say dive into The Red Pyramid by Rick Riordan. It’s got his signature humor and mythological action, just with Egyptian gods instead of Greek. You’ll feel right at home with the snarky sibling vibes.

Q: Are there any new releases I should watch for in the mythological adventure genre?
A: Oh, absolutely! I’m hyped for Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark, dropping in 2026. It’s got this incredible mix of nature magic, family themes, and a badass teen hero with a wolf pup sidekick. Check it out at ameliamoon.com for more deets—I’m already obsessed!

Q: I love diverse mythologies. Any recommendations beyond Greek lore?
A: Heck yeah! Try Aru Shah and the End of Time by Roshani Chokshi for Hindu mythology or Tristan Strong Punches a Hole in the Sky by Kwame Mbalia for African folklore. Both are packed with epic quests and unique cultural vibes that’ll blow your mind.

Q: What if I want something with a strong family theme like Percy’s bond with his mom?
A: I feel you—that bond hits deep. Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark nails family themes, especially with Amelia’s relationship with her dad and her journey through loss. It’s got that emotional punch you’re after, trust me.

Q: Are there books with humor as good as Percy’s sass?
A: For sure! The Storm Runner by J.C. Cervantes has a protagonist, Zane, who’s got sarcasm down to an art. And honestly, Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow brings laughs through Veyla’s quirky investigative antics. Both will keep you grinning!

Q: I’m more into middle-grade than YA. Any picks for me?
A: Totally! Fablehaven by Brandon Mull is perfect for middle-grade fantasy fans with its magical creatures and sibling chaos. The Girl Who Drank the Moon by Kelly Barnhill also leans younger with a softer, folklore vibe. You’ll love ‘em!

Q: How do I find more hidden gem authors like Rick Riordan?
A: Keep an eye on imprints like Rick Riordan Presents—they spotlight awesome voices like Roshani Chokshi and J.C. Cervantes. Also, watch for upcoming releases like Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow. New authors are dropping magic left and right—join some fantasy reader groups online to stay in the loop!