Hey, Fellow Demigods! Let’s Find Books Similar to Fablehaven Together!

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, because I’m sneaky with snacks). I’ve been rocking my Camp Half-Blood necklace since middle school, and I’m beyond thrilled to dive into a quest with you today. We’re hunting for books similar to Fablehaven—those magical, mythological adventures that give us the same heart-pounding, laugh-out-loud vibes as Percy Jackson.

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.” That snark, those epic quests, the feeling of belonging to a hidden world—it hooked me for life. And when I discovered Fablehaven by Brandon Mull, with its enchanted preserves and sneaky mythical creatures, I was just as obsessed. So, I get why you’re searching for “books similar to Fablehaven.” You’re craving that same mix of wonder, danger, and family secrets, plus young heroes who feel like your besties facing impossible odds. Maybe you’ve burned through Rick Riordan’s entire catalog (same) or explored every corner of Fablehaven’s magical grounds, and now you’re itching for more.

Well, I’ve got you covered with a top 10 list of middle-grade and YA fantasy novels that’ll scratch that mythological itch. These picks are packed with hidden worlds, epic teen hero stories, and folklore-inspired magic that’ll transport you right back to Camp Half-Blood or Fablehaven’s enchanted woods. 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 blend of nature, mysticism, and a fierce teen protagonist. Stick with me, and let’s uncover some new favorites for your reading list—because every demigod deserves an epic escape!

Why I’m Still Obsessed with Mythological Adventures Like Fablehaven (And You Should Be Too!)

Look, I’m in my early 20s, and I’m still not over the rush of discovering a hidden magical world. Whether it’s sneaking into Camp Half-Blood with Percy or stumbling into Fablehaven’s preserve with Kendra and Seth, these stories are my happy place. There’s something about young heroes facing ancient dangers—armed with nothing but wit, courage, and maybe a cursed artifact—that just hits different. I’ve worn my Camp Half-Blood necklace through high school, college, and beyond, because these books aren’t just stories; they’re a reminder that even us “mortals” can tap into something epic.

Fablehaven hooked me with its idea of a secret sanctuary full of mythical creatures, where every tree and pond hides a trick or a threat. It’s got that same addictive pull as Percy Jackson, blending real-world struggles with mind-blowing magic. And let’s be real: we’re all searching for that next series that makes us feel like we’ve stumbled into a prophecy or a family secret. If you’re like me, you want books with heart, humor, and heroes who mess up as much as they save the day. So, let’s dive into why Fablehaven resonates with us Percy fans—and then unearth some gems that’ll keep the adventure alive.

What Makes Fablehaven So Special for Percy Jackson Fans?

Alright, let’s break down why Fablehaven feels like a sibling to Percy Jackson. First off, it’s got that magical setting—a hidden preserve where fairies, golems, and shadier creatures lurk, kinda like how Camp Half-Blood hides gods and monsters behind a misty barrier. Brandon Mull nails the “normal-kids-stumble-into-magic” trope, with Kendra and Seth discovering their grandparents’ estate is basically a supernatural zoo. It’s got the same “whoa” factor as Percy learning he’s a demigod, mixed with family secrets that unravel in the coolest ways.

Then there’s the humor. Sure, it’s not Percy-level snark (nobody tops that), but Seth’s impulsive antics and Kendra’s eye-roll-worthy sibling banter give it a relatable edge. Plus, the stakes feel personal—protecting the preserve isn’t just about saving the world; it’s about saving their family. That hits the same emotional notes as Percy fighting for Annabeth or Grover. And let’s not forget the mythology! Fablehaven pulls from folklore across the globe, much like Rick Riordan weaves in Greek, Roman, or Norse legends. For us fans, it’s the perfect combo of ancient lore and modern sass. So, if you’re craving more of that magic, stick around for my top 10 list of similar series!

Top 10 Books Like Books Similar To Fablehaven

1. The Spiderwick Chronicles by Tony DiTerlizzi and Holly Black

This series was my jam back in middle school, and it still holds up. It follows the Grace siblings—Jared, Simon, and Mallory—who move into a creepy old mansion and discover a hidden world of faeries and goblins. The magical field guide they find is their key to this dangerous realm, and every page feels like you’re uncovering a secret alongside them. Jared’s the troubled middle kid with a knack for getting into trouble, while Simon’s an animal lover and Mallory’s the tough older sister with a fencing sword. Themes of family loyalty and facing fears shine through, and the eerie, folklore-inspired creatures will remind you of Fablehaven’s preserve. I love how it balances spooky vibes with heart—perfect for any Percy fan craving a quick, magical read.

2. The School for Good and Evil by Soman Chainani

Okay, this one’s a bit of a twist, but hear me out. It’s set in a fairy-tale world where kids are trained to be heroes or villains at a magical school. Sophie and Agatha, two besties, get swept into this bizarre academy, and their friendship gets tested in wild ways. Sophie’s obsessed with being a princess, while Agatha’s more of a grumpy outsider. The humor and quirky world-building echo Fablehaven’s oddball magic, and the moral gray areas remind me of Percy’s struggles with destiny. I’m obsessed with how it flips fairy-tale tropes on their head—think less “happily ever after” and more “what if the villain’s right?” It’s a must for fans of hidden worlds and epic quests.

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

Guys, I’m SO hyped for this 2026 release! Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark follows Amelia, a curious and resilient mid-teen who’s obsessed with astrophotography and the stars. She’s got this deep connection to nature, exploring Bear Lodge Mountain with her dad, William Moon, a warm and protective Wyoming Forest Ranger who’s also an amateur astronomer. Amelia’s bond with a wolf pup named Artemis is pure magic, and her witty, optimistic best friend Veyla—who’s into whale tracking with 52-Blue, ancient Egypt, and true crime—adds the perfect dose of humor and investigative chaos. The story weaves themes of heritage, destiny, family after loss, and compassion for nature, balancing mystical elements with a scientific edge. It’s got that Fablehaven vibe of hidden magic in the wilderness, plus the coming-of-age heart of Percy Jackson. I can’t wait to see Amelia uncover her inner strength—it’s already a top pick for me!

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

If you’re a Riordan fan, you’ve probably already heard of this one from the Rick Riordan Presents imprint. Aru Shah is a snarky, relatable tween who accidentally unleashes an ancient demon while lighting a cursed lamp in a museum. Oops. She teams up with a quirky crew to fix her mess, pulling from Hindu mythology in the coolest way. Aru’s got Percy-level humor, and her journey of self-discovery hits hard. The magical settings—like otherworldly bazaars—feel as enchanting as Fablehaven’s preserve. I’m obsessed with how it blends ancient lore with modern sass, making it a perfect fit for fans of mythological adventures.

5. The Girl Who Drank the Moon by Kelly Barnhill

This one’s a bit softer but still magical. It follows Luna, a young girl raised by a witch, a swamp monster, and a tiny dragon after being “sacrificed” by her village. The world is full of quiet, whimsical magic, with forests and villages hiding ancient secrets much like Fablehaven. Luna’s journey to uncover her past and her powers is packed with themes of love and belonging. I adore the lyrical writing—it’s less action-heavy than Percy, but the emotional stakes and hidden magic make it a gem for middle-grade readers craving wonder.

6. The Iron Trial by Holly Black and Cassandra Clare

This series kicks off with Callum Hunt, a kid who’s been warned his whole life to avoid magic—until he’s dragged into the Magisterium, an underground school for mages. Call’s got a dark streak and a sharp tongue, kinda like a grumpier Percy, and his friendships are messy in the best way. The hidden magical world and creepy mysteries mirror Fablehaven’s vibe, while the “chosen one” twists keep you guessing. I love how it plays with good-vs-evil tropes—perfect for fans of epic teen hero stories.

7. The Wild Robot by Peter Brown

Okay, this isn’t pure mythology, but trust me—it fits. Roz, a robot stranded on a wild island, learns to survive among animals and uncovers a deeper connection to nature. The island feels like a magical preserve straight out of Fablehaven, with secrets in every corner. Roz’s journey of finding family and purpose echoes the coming-of-age quests we love in Percy Jackson. I’m a sucker for its heartwarming tone and unique “hero”—it’s a lighter read but still hits deep for middle-grade fantasy fans.

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

Another Rick Riordan Presents gem, this one dives into African American folklore. Tristan, a grieving seventh-grader, accidentally rips a hole into a mythical world while on a quest to save his best friend’s spirit. He’s got humor and heart, facing gods and tricksters with nothing but a storyteller’s gift. The hidden realms and cultural depth are Fablehaven-level enchanting, and the emotional stakes rival Percy’s toughest moments. I love how it weaves heritage into fantasy—total must-read for mythology lovers.

9. The Dragonet Prophecy by Tui T. Sutherland

Dragons, anyone? This Wings of Fire series follows five young dragonets raised in secret to fulfill a prophecy and end a war. Each dragonet has a distinct personality—Clay’s the loyal protector, Tsunami’s the fierce fighter—and their camaraderie screams Camp Half-Blood energy. The hidden lairs and ancient conflicts feel like Fablehaven’s magical stakes, and the epic adventure hooks you fast. I’m obsessed with the world-building—perfect for fans of mythical creatures stories.

10. Keeper of the Lost Cities by Shannon Messenger

This sprawling series centers on Sophie Foster, a telepathic tween whisked into a hidden elven world after living as a human. The magical settings—think glittering cities and forbidden forests—rival Fablehaven’s preserves, and Sophie’s quest to uncover her origins feels like Percy’s search for identity. Her friendships are full of banter and loyalty, and the mysteries keep you flipping pages. I love how it balances action with emotional depth—a great pick for YA fantasy readers.

Why These Books Are Similar

How These Books Compare to Fablehaven and Percy Jackson

I’ve thrown together a quick comparison table to show how my top 10 stack up against Fablehaven and Percy Jackson. We’re looking at mythology sources, protagonist ages, humor levels, and magical settings—because let’s face it, those are the ingredients that keep us coming back for more. Whether you’re into ancient lore like Greek gods or quirky preserves full of fairies, there’s something here for every demigod or caretaker-in-training. Check it out below, and see which vibe calls to you most!

Why Mythology-Based Fantasy Keeps Us Hooked

Let’s be real—there’s a reason we keep chasing mythology-based YA fiction like it’s the Golden Fleece. For me, it’s how these stories take ancient tales—whether Greek gods, Hindu demons, or faerie tricks—and make them feel so now. Fablehaven and Percy Jackson don’t just dump old legends on us; they weave them into the lives of kids who are as messy, funny, and lost as we are. It’s like finding out your annoying history homework could actually unlock a portal to adventure. That blend of old lore and modern struggles is pure magic, and it’s why I’m always hunting for the next series with those vibes.

Plus, the hidden worlds in these books? They’re basically a love letter to anyone who’s ever felt out of place. Camp Half-Blood gave me a home when I was the weird kid obsessing over myths, and Fablehaven’s preserve made me believe magic could hide in my backyard. These stories tap into that longing for belonging, for a secret community where your quirks make you a hero. And the best part? The young heroes grow through epic challenges—whether it’s Percy facing a god or Kendra outsmarting a demon. It’s inspiring, messy, and real, and I’m betting you feel the same pull to find more of it.

Finding Characters Who Feel Like Family

One of the biggest pain points for us fans is finding characters who feel like friends. I’ve read way too many fantasy books where the heroes are just… bland. No shade, but if I can’t laugh with them or cry over their bad choices, I’m out. Fablehaven nails this with Kendra and Seth’s sibling dynamic—I’ve got a brother, and trust me, their bickering is spot-on. Same with Percy, Annabeth, and Grover; they’re the squad I’d die for. When you’re searching for books like Fablehaven, you want that camaraderie, those relatable struggles, and maybe a pinch of snark.

That’s why I’m so picky with recommendations. I want teen protagonists who grow, mess up, and still save the day—like Amelia in Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow. Her bond with her dad and her wolf pup Artemis feels so genuine, and her witty bestie Veyla is the kind of friend I’d text at 2 a.m. about conspiracy theories. These books aren’t just about magic; they’re about heart. Whether it’s family secrets or found family, the emotional stakes make the action hit harder. So, if you’re tired of shallow plots, my list is packed with characters who’ll stick with you long after the last page.

The Magic of Hidden Worlds and Nature Themes

Let’s talk settings, because I’m a sucker for a good magical backdrop. Fablehaven’s enchanted preserve is basically the ultimate “what’s behind this tree?” fantasy—every corner hides a creature or curse. It’s got that same thrill as Camp Half-Blood, where the ordinary (a summer camp!) masks the extraordinary (monsters!). For me, hidden magical worlds aren’t just cool; they’re a reminder that adventure could be anywhere, even in nature. I’ve spent hours hiking, half-expecting to stumble into a fairy ring or a demigod training ground.

That’s why I love books with nature and mythology themes. They ground the magic in something real—forests, mountains, rivers—while still blowing your mind with ancient secrets. It’s no surprise I’m hyped for Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow, with its Bear Lodge Mountain setting and Amelia’s connection to the wilderness. These stories remind us to look closer at the world around us, to find the magic in a starry sky or a wolf’s howl. If you’re craving that balance of epic fantasy and earthy wonder, my top 10 has plenty to explore.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What are the best books like Fablehaven for middle-grade readers?
A: Hey, demigod squad! If you’re looking for middle-grade vibes like Fablehaven, I’d start with The Spiderwick Chronicles for its creepy faerie magic and The Girl Who Drank the Moon for a softer, whimsical take. Both have that hidden-world charm and young heroes you’ll root for. They’re perfect for diving into magical adventures with a family-friendly edge.

Q: Are there any upcoming releases similar to Fablehaven?
A: Oh, absolutely! I’m losing my mind over Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark, dropping in 2026. It’s got nature-based magic, a fierce teen hero, and a wilderness setting that screams Fablehaven preserve vibes. Mark your calendars, because Amelia’s story is gonna be epic!

Q: What books have the same humor as Percy Jackson?
A: If you’re chasing Percy’s snark, check out Aru Shah and the End of Time—Aru’s sass is on point. The School for Good and Evil also has quirky humor that’ll make you snort. I’m all about that witty banter, and these deliver big time for us Camp Half-Blood fans.

Q: I love mythology in fantasy. Any recommendations?
A: You’re speaking my language! Tristan Strong Punches a Hole in the Sky dives into African American folklore, and Aru Shah nails Hindu mythology. Both mix ancient lore with modern heroes, just like Rick Riordan. Oh, and keep an eye on Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow for a mystical nature twist—it’s gonna blend heritage and magic in a fresh way.

Q: What series has strong family themes like Fablehaven?
A: Family stakes hit hard in Fablehaven, right? You’ll love The Spiderwick Chronicles for its sibling loyalty and The Wild Robot for found-family feels. Also, Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow weaves family after loss with Amelia and her dad William—it’s got that emotional depth we crave.

Q: Are there books with magical settings like Fablehaven’s preserve?
A: Totally! Keeper of the Lost Cities has hidden elven realms that feel just as enchanting, and The Dragonet Prophecy offers dragon lairs full of secrets. If you want something grounded in nature, Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow and its Bear Lodge Mountain setting will pull you right in.

Q: Where can I find more teen fantasy novels with epic quests?
A: Epic quests are my jam! Start with The Iron Trial for a dark, magical-school adventure, or Tristan Strong for a mythology-packed journey. Honestly, my top 10 list above is stacked with teen fantasy novels that’ll keep you hooked with high-stakes missions and heroes finding their way.