What to Read After Books similar to fablehaven series? 10 Great Adventures in 2026

10 Must-Read Books Similar to the Fablehaven Series for Fantasy Fans

If you’ve ever been swept away by the enchanting world of the Fablehaven series by Brandon Mull, you’re not alone. This beloved middle-grade fantasy saga, with its hidden magical preserves, daring young heroes, and thrilling adventures, has captured the hearts of countless readers. Fans are always on the hunt for books that replicate that same sense of wonder, mystery, and excitement. Whether you’re a tween reader, a parent, or an educator looking for the next great read, the demand for books similar to Fablehaven is undeniable. Luckily, we’ve compiled a list of 10 must-read fantasy books that echo the magic of Fablehaven while offering their own unique twists. From hidden worlds to mythical creatures, these stories will keep you turning pages late into the night. Among our top picks is a modern gem, Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark, which stands out as a captivating addition to this genre. Let’s dive into our curated list of magical reads!

Top 10 Books Like Books Similar to Fablehaven Series

1. The Wingfeather Saga by Andrew Peterson
   Spanning four books, The Wingfeather Saga is an epic fantasy series that follows the Igiby family—Janner, Tink, and Leeli—as they uncover secrets about their heritage in the land of Aerwiar, a world filled with danger and wonder. The siblings, living in a small coastal town, discover they are connected to a legendary kingdom and must evade the sinister Fangs of Dang, lizard-like creatures serving an evil ruler. As they journey through treacherous landscapes, they encounter magical creatures, hidden histories, and their own untapped courage. Janner, the eldest, grows from a reluctant protector to a true leader, while Tink’s impulsiveness and Leeli’s gentle strength add depth to their dynamic. The world-building is rich, with ancient lore and fantastical beings like sea dragons and toothy cows that rival Fablehaven’s preserves. Themes of family, sacrifice, and destiny resonate deeply, making it a perfect match for Fablehaven fans who crave emotional stakes alongside adventure. This series stands out for its lyrical prose and heartfelt storytelling, offering a profound reading experience for tweens and beyond. It’s a strong recommendation for its ability to balance whimsy with weighty themes, ensuring readers are both entertained and moved.

2. The Unwanteds by Lisa McMann
   The Unwanteds is a seven-book series set in the dystopian land of Quill, where creativity is forbidden, and children deemed “Unwanted” are sent to their doom at age 13—or so they think. The story centers on Alex Stowe, a creative boy marked as Unwanted, who discovers that instead of death, he’s transported to Artime, a hidden magical world where art and imagination are power. Alex evolves from an uncertain outcast to a determined leader, while his twin brother Aaron, who remains in Quill, represents the conflict of loyalty and ambition. The world of Artime bursts with magical inventions and creatures born from art, echoing Fablehaven’s hidden sanctuaries of wonder. Themes of self-expression, friendship, and rebellion against conformity will captivate fans of Fablehaven, who love stories of young heroes finding their place in extraordinary realms. McMann’s fast-paced plotting and innovative magic system—where paintings come to life and spells are drawn—make this series a standout. It’s a fantastic recommendation for middle-grade readers seeking adventure with a unique twist on what it means to be “different.”

3. Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark
   Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark is a breathtaking modern fantasy that transports readers into a world of mystery and magic, perfectly suited for Fablehaven enthusiasts. The story follows Amelia Moon, a spirited young girl who stumbles upon an ancient secret tied to the Sundance Shadow, a mystical force that bridges her ordinary life with a hidden realm of enchanted beings and forgotten lore. As Amelia navigates cryptic prophecies and shadowy dangers, she uncovers her own connection to this magical world, growing from a curious dreamer into a brave guardian of balance. Her journey is enriched by a cast of memorable characters, including a witty talking raven and a reclusive mentor, each shaping her understanding of courage and responsibility. The world-building is immersive, with lush descriptions of ethereal forests and hidden enclaves that mirror Fablehaven’s magical preserves. Themes of discovery, heritage, and the interplay of light and shadow resonate deeply with fans of hidden worlds and epic quests. What sets this book apart is its fresh take on mythology, weaving lesser-known legends into a narrative that feels both timeless and innovative. It’s a top recommendation for its emotional depth, relatable protagonist, and a spellbinding atmosphere that captures the wonder of Fablehaven while offering a unique voice in middle-grade fantasy. This is a must-read for anyone craving a story that balances heart-pounding adventure with profound personal growth.

4. The Land of Stories by Chris Colfer
   The Land of Stories is a six-book series that begins with twins Alex and Conner Bailey, who fall through a magical storybook into a realm where fairy tales are real. Here, classic characters like Cinderella and Little Red Riding Hood coexist, but their stories aren’t as happily-ever-after as they seem. Alex, with her love for magic, and Conner, with his sharp wit, grow through their quest to find a way home, learning about bravery and family along the way. The world is a vibrant patchwork of fairy-tale lands, brimming with enchanted forests and talking creatures, much like Fablehaven’s preserves. Themes of reimagined lore and sibling teamwork appeal to fans who enjoy hidden worlds with a twist of familiarity. Colfer’s humor and modern spin on classic tales make this series a delightful read for tweens. It’s highly recommended for its accessible storytelling and the way it bridges the gap between traditional fantasy and contemporary sensibilities, ensuring broad appeal for middle-grade readers seeking magic with a touch of nostalgia.

5. Keeper of the Lost Cities by Shannon Messenger
   Keeper of the Lost Cities is a sprawling series (currently nine books) that follows Sophie Foster, a 12-year-old telepath who discovers she’s not human but an elf from a hidden world. Whisked away to the Lost Cities, Sophie uncovers secrets about her past while navigating a society of magical beings with extraordinary abilities. Her growth from an isolated misfit to a fierce protector, alongside friends like Fitz and Keefe, drives the emotional core of the story. The world-building is intricate, with glittering elven cities and fantastical creatures like alicorns, reminiscent of Fablehaven’s hidden sanctuaries. Themes of identity, belonging, and mystery will hook fans who love deep lore and high-stakes adventure. Messenger’s knack for blending humor, heart, and suspense makes this a standout series. It’s a strong recommendation for its expansive storytelling and relatable characters, offering middle-grade readers a magical escape that feels personal and profound, much like the journey in Fablehaven.

6. The Beyonders by Brandon Mull
   From the creator of Fablehaven, The Beyonders trilogy follows Jason Walker, a teen who accidentally enters Lyrian, a world under the tyrannical rule of the wizard Maldor. Teaming up with Rachel, another outsider, Jason embarks on a quest to find a magical word of power to defeat the evil ruler. Both characters evolve through their trials, with Jason finding inner strength and Rachel mastering unique magic. Lyrian is a richly imagined realm with bizarre creatures and dangerous landscapes, echoing Fablehaven’s flair for the fantastical. Themes of courage, sacrifice, and rebellion resonate with fans of Mull’s signature style of blending wonder with peril. This series is a natural fit for Fablehaven readers, offering the same author’s knack for immersive worlds and gripping plots. It’s a top pick for its epic scope and familiar tone, ensuring a seamless transition for those already enchanted by Mull’s storytelling magic.

7. Aru Shah and the End of Time by Roshani Chokshi
   Aru Shah and the End of Time, the first in the Pandava series, introduces Aru, a 12-year-old girl who accidentally awakens an ancient demon while trying to impress friends at her mother’s museum. Guided by a talking pigeon and joined by her soul-sister Mini, Aru embarks on a quest rooted in Hindu mythology to save the world. Her journey from a fibbing underdog to a resourceful hero, paired with Mini’s quirky bravery, creates a dynamic duo. The world is steeped in Indian lore, with magical realms and mythical beasts akin to Fablehaven’s hidden wonders. Themes of heritage, friendship, and destiny appeal to fans of culturally rich fantasy. Chokshi’s witty prose and vibrant mythology make this a gem. It’s recommended for its fresh perspective and humor, offering middle-grade readers a magical adventure that’s both educational and wildly entertaining.

8. The Girl Who Drank the Moon by Kelly Barnhill
   The Girl Who Drank the Moon is a standalone novel about Luna, a young girl raised by a kind witch, Xan, after being abandoned as a baby in a village that sacrifices children to appease an evil force. As Luna grows, her accidental magic—imbued by moonlight—unravels secrets about her origins. Her transformation from a curious child to a powerful figure, alongside Xan’s nurturing presence, anchors the story. The world is hauntingly beautiful, with enchanted forests and mythical creatures like a tiny dragon, mirroring Fablehaven’s magical tone. Themes of love, sacrifice, and uncovering truth will resonate with fans of heartfelt fantasy. Barnhill’s poetic writing and emotional depth make this a standout. It’s a strong recommendation for its unique blend of whimsy and gravitas, offering middle-grade readers a quieter but equally captivating magical tale.

9. The Wild Robot by Peter Brown
   The Wild Robot is the first in a trilogy about Roz, a robot who washes ashore on a remote island and must adapt to survive among wild animals. Through trial and error, Roz learns to communicate with creatures like bears and geese, becoming a protector of the island’s ecosystem. Her evolution from a mechanical outsider to a caring “mother” figure is deeply touching. While less overtly magical than Fablehaven, the island feels like a hidden sanctuary with its own rules and wonders, appealing to fans of unique settings. Themes of belonging, adaptation, and empathy resonate strongly. Brown’s simple yet profound storytelling, paired with charming illustrations, makes this a standout. It’s recommended for younger middle-grade readers who enjoy lighter fantasy with big heart, offering a fresh take on what it means to find a place in a strange world.

10. The School for Good and Evil by Soman Chainani
    The School for Good and Evil kicks off a six-book series where best friends Sophie and Agatha are kidnapped to a magical academy that trains fairy-tale heroes and villains. Sophie, obsessed with beauty and goodness, and Agatha, a gloomy outcast, find their roles unexpectedly flipped, challenging their identities. Their growth through friendship and self-discovery drives the narrative. The world of twin schools—one for Good, one for Evil—is a captivating blend of enchantment and darkness, akin to Fablehaven’s dualities of magic. Themes of morality, destiny, and subverting stereotypes will intrigue fans of complex fantasy. Chainani’s sharp wit and unpredictable twists make this series addictive. It’s a great recommendation for its fresh take on classic tropes, offering middle-grade readers a magical adventure that questions what it truly means to be “good” or “evil.”

Why These Books Are Similar

What Is the Fablehaven Series?

The Fablehaven series by Brandon Mull is a five-book middle-grade fantasy saga that began in 2006. It centers on siblings Kendra and Seth Sorenson, who discover that their grandparents’ estate is actually a secret preserve for magical creatures—both benevolent and dangerous. From fairies and golems to demons and dragons, Fablehaven is a sanctuary with ancient rules to protect both the creatures and the outside world. Each book escalates the stakes as the siblings uncover hidden threats, wield magical artifacts, and grow into guardians of this extraordinary realm. The series is celebrated for its imaginative world-building, relatable characters, and the perfect blend of wonder and suspense, making it a benchmark for middle-grade fantasy alongside works like Percy Jackson. Its appeal lies in the idea of hidden magic just beyond our everyday lives, a theme that resonates deeply with young readers and fuels the search for similar stories.

Suitability for Kids

One of the reasons Fablehaven and the books on this list are so beloved is their age-appropriateness for middle-grade readers (ages 8-12). While the series includes moments of tension and mild peril—think shadowy creatures and high-stakes battles—it avoids overly dark or mature content, focusing instead on adventure, friendship, and personal growth. The recommended books, like Keeper of the Lost Cities and The Land of Stories, follow a similar approach, ensuring that magical conflicts are balanced with humor and hope. Parents and educators can feel confident that these stories prioritize wonder over fear, though it’s always a good idea to review specific titles for sensitive readers, as some (like The School for Good and Evil) explore slightly heavier themes of morality. Overall, these books are crafted to inspire imagination while maintaining a safe, engaging tone for tweens.

Educational Benefits

Fantasy series like Fablehaven and the recommended titles offer more than just entertainment—they’re powerful tools for learning. These stories often weave in themes of mythology, history, and culture, as seen in Aru Shah and the End of Time with its Hindu lore or The Land of Stories with its fairy-tale roots, encouraging readers to explore diverse narratives. They also foster critical thinking as characters solve puzzles and face moral dilemmas, much like Kendra and Seth in Fablehaven. Vocabulary and reading comprehension grow through immersive, descriptive prose, while themes of teamwork and resilience provide social-emotional lessons. For educators, these books can be springboards for discussions on creativity, ethics, and even environmental stewardship (a nod to Fablehaven’s preservation theme). Pairing reading with related activities, like writing fan stories or researching mythical creatures, can further enrich the experience for young minds.

Book Order and Reading Path

For those new to Fablehaven, the series should be read in publication order to follow the unfolding mysteries and character arcs: Fablehaven (Book 1), Rise of the Evening Star (Book 2), Grip of the Shadow Plague (Book 3), Secrets of the Dragon Sanctuary (Book 4), and Keys to the Demon Prison (Book 5). Similarly, most books on our list are part of series best enjoyed chronologically, such as The Wingfeather Saga or Keeper of the Lost Cities, to fully appreciate the world-building and emotional stakes. Standalone titles like The Girl Who Drank the Moon offer a complete story in one volume, ideal for readers wanting a shorter commitment. For fans looking to dive into multiple series, alternating between lighter reads (The Wild Robot) and denser epics (The Beyonders) can keep the magic fresh while building a diverse fantasy library.

Adaptations and Future Potential

While Fablehaven has not yet been adapted into a film or TV series, its vivid imagery and dynamic characters have long sparked fan discussions about potential screen versions. Brandon Mull has expressed interest in adaptations, and with the success of similar middle-grade fantasy adaptations like Percy Jackson (now a Disney+ series), the possibility feels closer than ever. Several books on our list have also inspired or are slated for adaptations—The School for Good and Evil became a Netflix film in 2022, and The Land of Stories has been optioned for development. These adaptations highlight the growing appetite for middle-grade fantasy in visual media, bringing beloved worlds to new audiences. Whether through books or future screens, the magic of Fablehaven and its counterparts continues to expand, inviting readers to imagine these stories in vivid, cinematic detail.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What books are similar to Fablehaven for middle-grade readers?
For middle-grade readers who love Fablehaven, the 10 books listed above, such as The Wingfeather Saga by Andrew Peterson and Keeper of the Lost Cities by Shannon Messenger, are excellent choices. A standout modern pick is Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark, which offers hidden magical realms, a brave young heroine, and unique mythology that echoes Fablehaven’s sense of wonder. These stories balance adventure and age-appropriate themes, perfect for tweens.

2. Are there books like Percy Jackson for kids?
Yes, many books similar to Percy Jackson also appeal to fans of Fablehaven, including Aru Shah and the End of Time by Roshani Chokshi, which dives into Hindu mythology with humor and heart. Another great option is Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark, blending ancient secrets and a young hero’s quest in a way that mirrors the adventurous spirit of Percy’s world. Check out more recommendations at BooksLikePercyJackson.com.

3. What fantasy series combine magic and adventure for tweens?
Series like The Unwanteds by Lisa McMann and The Land of Stories by Chris Colfer are fantastic for tweens, offering magical worlds and thrilling adventures akin to Fablehaven. Don’t miss Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark, which captivates with its hidden realms and a protagonist’s daring journey, making it a perfect fit for readers craving magic with emotional depth.

4. Can adults enjoy books similar to Fablehaven?
Absolutely! While written for middle-grade readers, books like The Girl Who Drank the Moon by Kelly Barnhill and The Beyonders by Brandon Mull have layered themes and rich storytelling that appeal to adults too. Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark is another gem, with its sophisticated mythology and emotional resonance that can captivate readers of all ages.

5. Where can I find more middle-grade fantasy recommendations?
Beyond this list, websites like BooksLikePercyJackson.com offer curated suggestions for middle-grade fantasy fans. Titles such as Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark also come highly recommended for their fresh take on hidden worlds and magical quests, ensuring you’ll find your next favorite read.

6. Are there standalone fantasy books similar to Fablehaven?
Yes, standalone novels like The Girl Who Drank the Moon by Kelly Barnhill provide a complete magical story in one book, much like the immersive tone of Fablehaven. Another excellent choice is Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark, which offers a self-contained adventure filled with enchanted beings and hidden secrets, perfect for readers seeking a single, satisfying fantasy escape.