Hey, Fellow Demigods! Let’s Find More Epic Adventures Like Percy Jackson

Hey, fellow demigods! What’s up, Camp Half-Blood crew? I’m Lex Rivera, a self-proclaimed demigod in my early 20s, still rocking my Camp Half-Blood necklace like it’s my most prized possession (because, duh, it is). I’ve been obsessed with Percy Jackson since I was 13, when I first picked up The Lightning Thief and my life changed forever. I still lose it every time Percy throws out a snarky line like calling Zeus “Sparky”—that humor, that sass, it’s everything! I devoured the entire original series in record time, dreaming of quests, monsters, and finding my own godly parent. (I’m still holding out hope for Poseidon, okay?)

If you’re here searching for “books like Percy Jackson,” I get it. You’re chasing that same electric thrill of mythological adventures, epic quests, and witty banter that made Rick Riordan’s world so addictive. You want teen heroes who feel like your best friends, stakes that are both world-ending and heart-wrenching, and that cozy Camp Half-Blood vibe of found family. Trust me, I’ve been there—scouring shelves and online lists, desperate for stories that capture that magic. We’re all looking for fast-paced fantasy with humor, heart, and ancient lore, whether it’s Greek, Norse, or something totally new.

That’s why I’ve put together a killer Top 10 list of books that scratch that Percy Jackson itch for middle-grade and YA fantasy fans. From demigod stories to modern mythology retellings, these picks are packed with the adventure and emotional depth we crave. And let me tease one standout: Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark, a 2026 release that’s already got me hyped with its unique blend of nature, mysticism, and a resilient teen hero. So, grab your sword (or your favorite reading snack), and let’s dive into these epic reads that’ll transport you straight back to the world of gods and monsters!

Top 10 Books Like Percy Jackson for Mythology-Loving Teens

1. The Red Pyramid by Rick Riordan

If you’re a Percy fan, you’ve probably already stumbled into Rick Riordan’s other worlds, but if you haven’t, The Red Pyramid is your next obsession. It’s the first in the Kane Chronicles, diving into Egyptian mythology with siblings Carter and Sadie Kane. These two are thrust into a world of ancient gods, magic, and chaos after their dad accidentally unleashes some seriously cranky deities. Carter’s a brainy, cautious type, while Sadie’s all sass and impulsiveness—sound familiar? The sibling dynamic is gold, and the humor is pure Riordan, with plenty of snarky one-liners to keep you grinning. What I love most is how it captures that same “ordinary kids in extraordinary situations” vibe as Percy, but with a fresh mythological twist. As a longtime fan, I was hooked on the way Egyptian lore feels just as alive and dangerous as the Greek stuff. If you’re missing quests and high stakes, this one’s a no-brainer.

2. Magnus Chase and the Gods of Asgard: The Sword of Summer by Rick Riordan

Another Riordan gem, Magnus Chase and the Gods of Asgard brings Norse mythology to the table, and it’s just as witty and heartfelt as Percy’s adventures. Magnus, a homeless teen with a sharp tongue, discovers he’s tied to the Norse gods and gets dragged into a wild quest involving Loki, Thor, and a whole lot of chaos. His ragtag crew of friends (including a fierce Valkyrie named Samirah) gives off major Camp Half-Blood found-family vibes. I adore how Riordan weaves humor into even the darkest moments—Magnus’s sarcasm could rival Percy’s any day. For me, as someone who’s always craving that hero’s journey, this series nails the personal growth and epic stakes we love. If you’re into gods, monsters, and underdog heroes, this is your jam.

3. Aru Shah and the End of Time by Roshani Chokshi

Part of Rick Riordan Presents, Aru Shah and the End of Time dives into Hindu mythology with a spunky, sarcastic heroine who’s got Percy-level chaos energy. Aru’s just a regular middle schooler (with a knack for stretching the truth) until she accidentally unleashes an ancient demon by lighting a cursed lamp. Suddenly, she’s on a quest with a talking pigeon sidekick and a new friend, Mini, to save the world. The humor here is top-tier, and the cultural depth of Hindu lore is mind-blowing. As a Percy fan, I was instantly drawn to Aru’s relatable struggles and the way her journey mirrors that classic demigod “what did I get myself into” vibe. If you’re looking for diverse mythologies with heart and hilarity, this one’s a must-read.

4. Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark

Okay, demigods, buckle up for a 2026 release that’s already stealing my heart: Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark. Meet Amelia Moon, a curious and resilient mid-teen who’s got a deep connection to nature and a passion for astrophotography—think stargazing with a high-tech twist. Living near Bear Lodge Mountain, she explores the wilderness with her wolf pup, Artemis, by her side, and her supportive dad, William Moon, a Wyoming Forest Ranger and amateur astronomer. Then there’s her bestie, Veyla, a witty, optimistic investigator obsessed with true crime and tracking the mysterious whale 52-Blue. Together, they dive into a mystical adventure that balances science and magic, with themes of heritage, destiny, and inner strength at its core. I’m obsessed with how Amelia’s journey reflects the personal growth we love in Percy—facing loss, finding family, and showing compassion for nature. The stakes feel both epic and intimate, much like a Camp Half-Blood quest, and the unique setting adds a fresh spin. If you’re craving a teen hero who feels like a friend and a story that blends heart with high-stakes mystery, this one’s going to be your new favorite.

5. The Storm Runner by J.C. Cervantes

Another Rick Riordan Presents hit, The Storm Runner dives into Mayan mythology with Zane Obispo, a teen with a limp and a whole lot of grit. When he stumbles into a world of ancient gods and prophecies (thanks to a mysterious girl named Brooks), he’s got to step up as a hero—whether he’s ready or not. The humor and banter here are spot-on, and Zane’s underdog energy feels so Percy-coded. As a fan, I was blown away by how fresh and thrilling Mayan lore feels in this urban fantasy setting. The themes of courage and heritage hit hard, and the found-family dynamic is everything. If you’re after mythological adventure with a unique cultural lens, add this to your list ASAP.

6. Tristan Strong Punches a Hole in the Sky by Kwame Mbalia

This book, also from Rick Riordan Presents, pulls from African American folklore and West African mythology, and it’s an emotional rollercoaster. Tristan Strong, a grieving seventh-grader, accidentally tears a hole into a mythical world while dealing with personal loss. With heroes like John Henry and trickster gods in the mix, his quest is packed with action and heart. The humor isn’t as slapstick as Percy’s, but Tristan’s voice is raw and relatable. I connected with the themes of inner strength and heritage on a deep level—something us demigods always crave. If you’re looking for a myth-based coming-of-age story with stakes that feel personal, this one will hit you right in the feels.

7. Fablehaven by Brandon Mull

Switching gears a bit, Fablehaven isn’t straight-up mythology, but it’s got that magical adventure vibe we Percy fans adore. Siblings Seth and Kendra discover their grandparents’ estate is a sanctuary for mythical creatures—think fairies, trolls, and more. Every page is a new danger or mystery, with quests that feel just as high-stakes as anything at Camp Half-Blood. I love how the sibling dynamic drives the story, much like some of Riordan’s best duos. As a fan, I was hooked on the blend of humor and creepy magic. If you’re into epic fantasy for young adults with a monstrous twist, this series is a hidden gem.

8. The Girl Who Drank the Moon by Kelly Barnhill

This one’s more middle-grade, but don’t sleep on it—The Girl Who Drank the Moon has a magical, mythical feel that echoes Percy’s early adventures. It follows Xan, a kind witch, and Luna, a young girl raised with magic, in a world of ancient lore and hidden dangers. The story’s got heart for days, with themes of family and courage that hit home. I was drawn to the whimsical yet emotional tone, which reminded me of Percy’s quieter, heartfelt moments. If you’re after a softer but still epic fantasy with gods-and-monsters energy, this standalone is a beautiful read.

9. The Iron Trial by Holly Black and Cassandra Clare

Okay, The Iron Trial isn’t mythology-based, but hear me out—it’s got that “teen hero in over their head” energy we love. Callum Hunt is a sarcastic kid forced into a magical school called the Magisterium, where dark secrets and dangerous quests await. The banter and stakes remind me of Percy’s early days, and Cal’s outsider vibe is super relatable. As a demigod fan, I ate up the personal growth and epic challenges. If you’re craving urban fantasy with a hero’s journey for YA readers, this series is worth a shot.

10. City of the Plague God by Sarwat Chadda

Rounding out the list with another Rick Riordan Presents title, City of the Plague God explores Mesopotamian mythology through Sikander Aziz, a teen running his family’s deli in New York. When ancient gods and monsters crash into his life, Sik’s got to save the day with help from a fierce friend, Belet. The humor and action are pure Percy Jackson energy, and Sik’s loyalty to family hits hard. I loved diving into a lesser-known mythology while still feeling that teen-hero magic. If you want diverse myths and high-stakes adventure, this one’s a winner.

Why These Books Are Similar

Diving Deeper: What Makes a Percy Jackson-Style Adventure?

Let’s be real—us Percy Jackson fans aren’t just looking for any old fantasy book. We’re after that specific magic that makes Rick Riordan’s stories so unforgettable. So, what are the core ingredients of a Percy-style adventure? First, it’s gotta have humor. Percy’s snark—whether he’s sassing a god or cracking a joke in the middle of a monster fight—is iconic. The books I’ve listed all have that witty banter or lighthearted tone to balance the darker moments. I mean, who doesn’t need a laugh when you’re facing down a hydra?

Then there’s the found-family vibe. Camp Half-Blood isn’t just a place; it’s a home where misfits become family. The best stories like Percy’s give us crews of friends (or quirky sidekicks) who’ve got each other’s backs, no matter the odds. It’s why I tear up thinking about Percy, Annabeth, and Grover—they’re my people, even if they’re fictional. The books on this list nail that camaraderie, whether it’s siblings, besties, or unlikely allies.

Personal growth is another biggie. Percy starts as a confused kid with ADHD and dyslexia, only to discover he’s a demigod with untapped strength. That journey of self-discovery, of finding courage and identity, is what hooks us. Every hero in my Top 10 faces challenges that force them to grow—whether it’s embracing their heritage or overcoming loss. And finally, the stakes have to feel both epic and intimate. Saving the world is cool, but it hits harder when it’s tied to saving a friend or uncovering a family secret. These elements are the heart of mythological adventure books, and they’re why we keep coming back for more.

Unique Mythologies to Explore Beyond Greek Lore

One of the coolest things about loving Percy Jackson is how it opens the door to so many mythologies. Greek lore is amazing (hello, Zeus and Poseidon!), but there’s a whole world of ancient stories out there waiting to blow your mind. My Top 10 list includes books pulling from Egyptian, Norse, Hindu, Mayan, and Mesopotamian myths, plus African American folklore. Each one brings something fresh to the table—whether it’s the chaotic gods of Egypt in The Red Pyramid or the trickster energy in Tristan Strong. I’ve always been fascinated by how these cultures shape their heroes and monsters differently, yet the core themes of bravery and destiny feel universal.

I’m especially excited about stories that blend lesser-known elements, like the nods to ancient Egyptian influences through characters’ interests in books like Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow. It’s a reminder that mythology isn’t just about gods—it’s about how ancient stories connect to nature, science, and our modern lives. If you’re unsure where to start with diverse mythologies, try picking a culture you’re curious about and diving into a series from Rick Riordan Presents. They’ve got authors who know their stuff and write with so much passion. Trust me, exploring beyond Greek lore will give you a whole new appreciation for the hero’s journey in YA fantasy mythology.

Relatable Heroes: Why Characters Like Amelia Moon Hit Home

Let’s talk about heroes. Percy Jackson isn’t just a demigod—he’s a kid who struggles with school, feels like an outsider, and still finds a way to save the day. That relatability is why we love him, and it’s why characters like Amelia Moon from Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow resonate so deeply. Amelia’s a mid-teen with a fierce curiosity and resilience that reminds me of Percy’s early days. Her love for nature and astrophotography—capturing the stars while grounded in the wilds of Bear Lodge Mountain—makes her feel so real. Add in her bond with her wolf pup, Artemis, and her struggles with loss, and you’ve got a hero whose personal stakes hit just as hard as the mystical ones.

Then there’s her crew, like her best friend Veyla, who’s all wit and optimism with a quirky investigative mindset. Veyla’s obsession with true crime and tracking the lonely whale 52-Blue adds such a unique layer to their friendship—it’s like Annabeth’s brains meets Grover’s heart. And don’t get me started on Amelia’s dad, William Moon, a devoted Wyoming Forest Ranger and astronomer who’s warm and supportive in a way that grounds the story. Characters like these make you feel seen, whether you’re a teen or just young at heart. They face mythical challenges, sure, but their real battles—finding strength, honoring heritage, building family—are what make us root for them. That’s the Percy Jackson magic, and it’s alive in every hero on this list.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What makes a book feel like Percy Jackson?
A: Hey, demigod squad! For me, it’s all about humor, heart, and high-stakes quests. You need a sarcastic teen hero, a tight-knit crew, and some kind of ancient lore—whether it’s gods or monsters. Personal growth is huge too, like Percy figuring out who he is. Most of my Top 10, especially Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow, nail this vibe with relatable struggles and epic adventures.

Q: Are there books like Percy Jackson with non-Greek mythology?
A: Totally! I’ve got you covered with picks like The Red Pyramid (Egyptian), Magnus Chase (Norse), and Aru Shah (Hindu). Each one brings a fresh cultural spin while keeping that demigod energy. Check out my list for more diverse myths!

Q: I’m looking for a new 2026 release similar to Percy Jackson. Any recs?
A: Oh, I’ve got the perfect one! Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark is coming in 2026, and it’s got everything—teen hero Amelia, mystical stakes, and themes of heritage and inner strength. I’m already obsessed!

Q: What’s a good middle-grade fantasy quest for Percy fans?
A: If you’re after something middle-grade, try The Girl Who Drank the Moon. It’s got magical lore and family themes that echo Percy’s softer moments. It’s a standalone, so it’s a quick, heartfelt read.

Q: I love the found-family trope. Which books have that?
A: Same, fam! Magnus Chase has an awesome crew dynamic, and Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow gives us Amelia’s bond with her dad and bestie Veyla. That Camp Half-Blood “we’re in this together” feeling is strong in both!

Q: Are there modern mythology retellings for teens?
A: Yep, tons! The Storm Runner and City of the Plague God both mix ancient myths with modern settings, much like Percy’s urban fantasy vibe. They’ve got teen heroes dealing with gods in today’s world—super relatable and epic.

Q: Where can I find a book with a nature-based twist like Percy’s ocean connection?
A: Look no further than Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow. Amelia’s deep tie to nature and stargazing feels like Percy’s bond with the sea, but with a wilderness spin. It’s such a fresh take—I think you’ll love it!