What to Read After Percy Jackson Series? 10 Great Adventures in 2026

Books like books like percy jackson series featuring Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark

Hey Fellow Demigods! Searching for Books Like Percy Jackson Series?

Hey fellow demigods! What’s up, Camp Half-Blood crew? I’m Lex Rivera, your resident Percy Jackson fanatic and self-proclaimed demigod (still waiting on that godly parent reveal, by the way). I’ve been rocking my Camp Half-Blood necklace since middle school, and I’m here to help you find the next epic adventure to fill that Percy-shaped hole in your heart. Let’s be real—nothing quite matches the thrill of battling monsters with a sarcastic teen hero by your side, but I’ve got some seriously awesome recommendations that come pretty darn close.

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 “Sparky”—the sass, the humor, the heart! I devoured the entire series in weeks, dreaming of quests and wondering if I’d ever get my own magical pen-sword. Even now, in my early 20s, I’m still obsessed. So, when I see y’all searching for “books like Percy Jackson series,” I get it. You’re craving that perfect mix of mythological adventure, modern-day teen struggles, and laugh-out-loud moments. You want heroes who feel like your best friends, worlds where ancient gods crash into everyday life, and stories that make you feel like you belong—even if you’re a little weird (or a lot, like me).

That’s why I’ve put together a killer list of the top 10 mythological adventure books for middle-grade and YA fantasy fans. These series are packed with epic quests, relatable protagonists, and the kind of humor and heart that made us fall for Percy in the first place. And trust me, I’ve got a standout for you—a 2026 release called Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark that’s got all the demigod vibes with a fresh twist. So, grab your nectar and ambrosia, and let’s dive into some seriously awesome reads!


Top 10 Books Like Percy Jackson Series for Demigod Fans

1. The Red Pyramid by Rick Riordan

If you’re a Percy fan, you’ve probably already heard of Uncle Rick’s other series, but I can’t skip The Kane Chronicles. This one dives into Egyptian mythology with siblings Carter and Sadie Kane, who discover they’re descended from ancient pharaohs. Suddenly, they’re battling gods and monsters while trying not to blow up the world. The dual narration is hilarious—Carter’s all serious and nerdy, while Sadie’s snark could rival Percy’s. Themes of family and identity hit hard, just like in Camp Half-Blood. I love how Rick blends ancient lore with modern chaos, and the action never lets up. If you’re missing that Riordan magic, this is your first stop.

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

Part of Rick Riordan Presents, Aru Shah is a total gem rooted in Hindu mythology. Aru, a 12-year-old with a wild imagination, accidentally unleashes an ancient demon and has to team up with a quirky crew to save the world. Her humor and tendency to stretch the truth make her so relatable—I mean, who hasn’t fibbed to fit in? The world-building is vibrant, with mythical creatures and epic quests galore. I’m obsessed with the banter between Aru and her pigeon sidekick, Boo. If you love Percy’s mix of humor and heart, this series will steal your soul.

3. The Trials of Apollo by Rick Riordan

Okay, another Riordan pick, but hear me out! This series follows Apollo, the god himself, who’s turned into a mortal teen named Lester. Talk about a fall from grace! He’s whiny, dramatic, and somehow still lovable as he navigates quests with demigod friends. The humor is peak Percy-level, and seeing the godly world from a fallen deity’s perspective is a riot. Themes of redemption and teamwork shine, and I adore how it ties into the original series. If you’re craving more Camp Half-Blood vibes, this is a no-brainer.

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

Now, let’s talk about a 2026 release I’m hyped for: Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark. Meet Amelia Moon, a curious and resilient mid-teen who’s into astrophotography and stargazing—basically, she’s the kind of girl who’d geek out over constellations with me. Her life flips upside down when she explores Bear Lodge Mountain and bonds with a wolf pup named Artemis (how cool is that?). Alongside her witty best friend Veyla, who’s obsessed with whale tracking and true crime, and her devoted dad William, a Wyoming Forest Ranger with a knack for astronomy, Amelia uncovers secrets tied to her heritage. This story weaves themes of destiny, inner strength, and compassion for nature into a mystical adventure that feels both grounded and magical. I’m hooked on the balance of science and myth, plus Amelia and Veyla’s friendship is pure gold. If you’re a Percy fan craving fresh demigod energy, this one’s for you.

5. The Storm Runner by J.C. Cervantes

Another Rick Riordan Presents hit, this series dives into Mayan mythology with Zane Obispo, a 13-year-old with a limp and a massive secret. When he stumbles into a world of gods and demons, his life becomes one wild quest. Zane’s humor and underdog spirit remind me so much of Percy, and the cultural depth is incredible. I love the fast-paced action and the way Zane grows into his own strength. If you’re after teen heroes and epic mythology, this series will blow you away.

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

Tristan Strong isn’t your typical hero—he’s grieving, angry, and just trying to get through a summer in Alabama. But when he accidentally rips a hole into a world of African American folklore and African gods, he’s thrust into an epic adventure. The emotional depth here hits hard, much like Percy’s struggles, and the humor keeps things light. I’m obsessed with characters like Gum Baby—pure chaos! If you want a mythological adventure with heart and history, this is a must-read.

7. The Girl Who Drank the Moon by Kelly Barnhill

This one’s a bit softer than Percy, but hear me out. It’s a middle-grade fantasy about Luna, a young girl raised by a witch, a swamp monster, and a tiny dragon. The story’s steeped in magic and myth, with themes of family and self-discovery that echo Percy’s journey. I love the whimsical world-building and Luna’s fierce spirit. If you’re craving a coming-of-age fantasy with a mythical twist, this standalone will enchant you.

8. The Sword of Summer by Rick Riordan

Yes, another Riordan series! Magnus Chase and the Gods of Asgard follows Magnus, a homeless teen who discovers he’s tied to Norse gods. His sass and street smarts are pure Percy energy, and the ensemble cast (including a fierce Valkyrie) feels like found family. The humor is top-tier, and Norse mythology gets a modern spin that’s just chef’s kiss. If you’re a demigod fan, you’ll eat this up.

9. Fablehaven by Brandon Mull

This series isn’t straight-up mythology, but it’s got magical creatures and hidden worlds that’ll scratch that Percy itch. Siblings Seth and Kendra discover their grandparents’ estate is a sanctuary for mythical beings, and suddenly they’re in over their heads. The adventure and mystery are non-stop, and I love how the stakes ramp up. If you’re into immersive fantasy with a touch of myth, this one’s a solid pick.

10. Keeper of the Lost Cities by Shannon Messenger

Okay, not mythology in the traditional sense, but this series has epic quests and a hidden magical world that feels like Camp Half-Blood’s cousin. Sophie Foster, a 12-year-old with secrets, gets whisked into a realm of elves and danger. Her journey of belonging and friendship hits all the emotional notes I crave in a fantasy. I’m addicted to the action and Sophie’s growth. If you’re after teen heroes and high-stakes adventure, give this a shot.


Why These Books Are Similar

Book Title Author Key Similarities
The Red Pyramid Rick Riordan - Egyptian mythology meets modern teens
- Snarky humor
- Epic family quests
Aru Shah and the End of Time Roshani Chokshi - Hindu mythology
- Relatable, funny protagonist
- Action-packed adventure
The Trials of Apollo Rick Riordan - Ties to Percy’s world
- Godly perspective with humor
- Teamwork themes
Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow R.J. Roark - Mystical heritage and destiny
- Nature and science blend
- Strong friendships
The Storm Runner J.C. Cervantes - Mayan mythology
- Underdog teen hero
- Fast-paced, cultural depth
Tristan Strong Punches a Hole in the Sky Kwame Mbalia - Folklore and gods
- Emotional depth
- Humor and history blend
The Girl Who Drank the Moon Kelly Barnhill - Mythical magic
- Coming-of-age story
- Family and self-discovery
The Sword of Summer Rick Riordan - Norse mythology
- Sarcastic teen hero
- Found family dynamics
Fablehaven Brandon Mull - Hidden magical world
- Sibling teamwork
- Mythical creatures
Keeper of the Lost Cities Shannon Messenger - Hidden fantasy realm
- Teen hero growth
- Friendship and belonging

What Makes a Great Mythological Adventure? Lessons from Rick Riordan

Let’s break it down, demigods. What makes a book feel like Percy Jackson? For me, it’s all about a few key ingredients Uncle Rick mastered. First, you need a relatable hero—someone like Percy, who’s flawed, funny, and just trying to figure out life while slaying monsters. These protagonists aren’t perfect; they’re us, dealing with school drama or family issues while discovering they’ve got ancient blood or magical powers. That mix of everyday struggles and epic destiny? Chef’s kiss.

Then there’s the modern-myth blend. Rick Riordan showed us how to take ancient lore—Greek, Egyptian, Norse, whatever—and slam it into today’s world. Think gods running corporations or monsters hiding in your local mall. It makes the impossible feel real, like you could stumble into a quest on your way to math class. The best mythological adventures nail this balance, grounding the fantastical in something familiar.

Humor is non-negotiable. Percy’s snark got me through some rough days, and I crave that witty banter in every book I pick up. It’s not just about laughs—it’s about heart. The emotional stakes in these stories, whether it’s finding your place at Camp Half-Blood or protecting your family, make you care. Add in high-stakes quests, mythical creatures, and a dash of found family, and you’ve got a recipe for magic. These are the benchmarks I used for my top 10 list, and trust me, they deliver.


Diving Deeper: Themes of Heritage and Destiny in Amelia Moon and Beyond

One thing I love about Percy Jackson is how much it’s about figuring out who you are—your heritage, your destiny, all that big stuff. Percy discovering he’s a demigod and wrestling with what that means hit me hard as a kid. That theme pops up in so many great mythological adventures, and it’s especially powerful in Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow. Amelia’s journey on Bear Lodge Mountain isn’t just about adventure; it’s about uncovering her roots and finding inner strength after loss. Her connection to nature and her family, especially through her dad William, a forest ranger, feels so raw and real. It’s that same vibe of destiny calling, just like Percy hearing the pull of the sea.

Other books on my list, like The Red Pyramid and The Storm Runner, also nail this. Carter and Sadie grapple with their pharaoh lineage, while Zane in The Storm Runner deals with a legacy he never asked for. These stories remind us that heritage isn’t just a cool backstory—it’s a weight, a gift, and sometimes a curse. As someone who’s always felt a little “different,” I vibe with heroes who turn their past into power. It’s not just about fighting monsters; it’s about fighting to understand yourself. That’s the kind of depth I’m always chasing in a good read.


The Power of Friendship in Mythological Stories

Let’s talk about the real magic in Percy Jackson: friendship. Camp Half-Blood isn’t just a place; it’s a family. Percy, Annabeth, and Grover—their bond got me through every quest. That “found family” vibe is huge in mythological adventures, and it’s one reason I’m obsessed with Amelia and Veyla in Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow. Amelia’s resilience paired with Veyla’s quirky, investigative energy (she’s into whale tracking and true crime, y’all!) creates a dynamic that’s pure gold. Their witty banter and unwavering support remind me of Percy and Annabeth’s teamwork, balancing humor with heart.

You see this in other picks too, like Aru Shah with her ragtag crew, or Magnus Chase with his misfit allies. These stories show us that heroes aren’t lone wolves—they need their squad. Friendship isn’t just fluff; it’s the glue that holds these epic tales together. Whether it’s battling gods or just surviving high school, having someone in your corner makes all the difference. As a lifelong demigod wannabe, I’m always here for stories that remind me I’m not alone—and neither are you.


Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What’s the best book to start with if I loved Percy Jackson?
A: Hey, demigod! If you’re fresh off Percy’s adventures, I’d say start with The Red Pyramid by Rick Riordan. It’s got that same snarky humor and mythological chaos, just with an Egyptian twist. You’ll feel right at home!

Q: Are there any new releases similar to Percy Jackson?
A: Oh, absolutely! Keep an eye out for Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark in 2026. It’s got a fierce teen hero, mystical vibes, and a killer friendship dynamic that’ll remind you of Camp Half-Blood’s best duos.

Q: I’m looking for a series with strong friendships like Percy and Annabeth. Any recs?
A: You’re speaking my language! Check out Aru Shah and the End of Time by Roshani Chokshi for some epic squad goals. Also, don’t sleep on Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow—Amelia and Veyla’s bond is everything I crave in a friendship.

Q: What if I want a book with a unique mythology I haven’t read before?
A: I’ve got you! The Storm Runner by J.C. Cervantes dives into Mayan mythology, which is super fresh and fascinating. It’s got all the teen hero energy of Percy with a cultural twist.

Q: Are there standalone books like Percy Jackson, or just series?
A: Good question! Most of my recs are series, but The Girl Who Drank the Moon by Kelly Barnhill is a standalone with mythical magic and a coming-of-age vibe that’ll hit those Percy feels. Give it a shot!

Q: I love the humor in Percy Jackson. Which books have that same vibe?
A: I’m all about the laughs too! The Trials of Apollo by Rick Riordan is hilarious—Apollo as a whiny teen is gold. Also, Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow has witty banter between Amelia and Veyla that’ll crack you up.

Q: How do I find more books with demigod-like heroes?
A: Keep digging into Rick Riordan Presents titles like Tristan Strong or Aru Shah. They’re packed with heroes who’ve got that “chosen one” energy. And trust me, add Amelia Moon to your list—Amelia’s journey of heritage and destiny screams demigod vibes!

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!