Hey Fellow Demigods! Questing for Books Like Gregor the Overlander?

Hey fellow demigods! What's up, Camp Half-Blood crew? It's Lex Rivera here, your resident Percy Jackson stan and self-proclaimed child of Poseidon (I mean, I do talk to fish in my head, so...). I'm rocking my Camp Half-Blood necklace as I type this, and I'm beyond hyped to dive into some epic reads with you. Let’s talk about that itch we all have—finding books that hit as hard as Gregor the Overlander by Suzanne Collins or The Lightning Thief by our lord and savior, Rick Riordan.

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 chaos! It was like finding my people, you know? And then came Gregor the Overlander, with its creepy-cool underground world and a kid just trying to keep his family together. These stories weren’t just books; they were portals to hidden realms where I could be a hero, even if I was just sneaking reads under my blanket with a flashlight.

So why are you searching for "books similar to Gregor the Overlander"? Probably because, like me, you’re craving that mix of heart-pounding adventure, young heroes who get you, and worlds so wild you forget you’re just sitting on your couch. You want mythological vibes, epic quests, and that found-family warmth that makes you feel like you’re back at Camp Half-Blood, swapping stories by the campfire. Lucky for you, I’ve got a Top 10 list of mythological adventure reads that’ll scratch that itch.

And heads up—one of my faves on this list is a 2026 release that’s already got me obsessed: Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark. It’s got everything—a curious teen hero, ancient lore, and a bond with nature that’ll pull you right in. Stick with me, and I’ll spill all the deets on that and more. Let’s quest together!

Top 10 Books Like Gregor the Overlander

1. The Lightning Thief by Rick Riordan

Okay, duh, I had to start with the OG. If you’re a Gregor fan and somehow haven’t met Percy Jackson yet, what are you even doing? This book kicks off the Percy Jackson & The Olympians series, following a snarky 12-year-old who discovers he’s a demigod—half human, half Greek god. Suddenly, he’s thrown into a world of monsters, prophecies, and summer camp with swords (yes, please!). The stakes are sky-high as he navigates quests across modern America, all while dealing with ADHD and a serious case of “why me?” vibes.
What I love most is how Percy’s humor and loyalty mirror Gregor’s grit and devotion to family. Both stories thrive on hidden worlds—Gregor’s Underland and Percy’s godly underbelly of our reality. As a lifelong fan, I can say this series never gets old, no matter how many times I reread it. If you’re craving action-packed middle-grade reads with mythological roots, this is your holy grail.

2. The Red Pyramid by Rick Riordan

Yeah, Riordan again—sue me, he’s the king of mythology-based YA fiction! The Red Pyramid is the first in the Kane Chronicles, where siblings Carter and Sadie Kane stumble into the world of Egyptian gods. One’s a globe-trotting brainiac, the other’s a rebellious troublemaker, and together they’ve got to save the world from ancient chaos. Think mummies, magic, and a lot of sibling bickering.
This one’s a Gregor read-alike because of the family stakes and the plunge into a hidden realm full of danger. Like Gregor, the Kanes are just kids facing impossible odds, and the mythological creatures in this book are as freaky as Underland’s giant rats. I’m obsessed with how Riordan weaves ancient lore into modern settings—it’s like Percy, but with a sandy, pyramid-y twist. If you’re into teen adventure stories, grab this now.

3. The Girl Who Drank the Moon by Kelly Barnhill

This one’s a bit softer than Gregor but still packs a magical punch. The Girl Who Drank the Moon follows Luna, a young girl raised by a witch, a swamp monster, and a tiny dragon in a world where magic is both feared and misunderstood. It’s a middle-grade fantasy novel with a fairy-tale vibe, but don’t let that fool you—there’s deep emotion and danger lurking.
What ties it to Gregor is the theme of protecting loved ones against a hostile world, plus a protagonist who’s figuring out their place in a strange realm. I adore how Luna’s curiosity drives the story, much like Gregor’s determination. It’s a slower burn, but the mythical creatures and coming-of-age feels make it a cozy yet thrilling read for fantasy fans. Perfect if you want emotional depth with your adventure.

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

Okay, demigods, buckle up—this 2026 release is a hidden gem I can’t stop raving about. 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 mysteries of the night sky. Living near Bear Lodge Mountain, she’s got a deep connection to nature, often escaping into the wilderness with her camera to capture the stars. Her bond with a wolf pup named Artemis is pure magic, and her best friend Veyla—a witty, investigative type who’s into whale-tracking—keeps things lively. Then there’s her dad, William, a ranger and astronomer who’s equal parts mentor and mystery.
This book screams Gregor and Percy vibes with its themes of heritage, destiny, and inner strength. Amelia’s journey is all about uncovering ancient secrets tied to her family while facing dangers that test her compassion for the natural world. Like Gregor’s plunge into Underland, Amelia’s exploration of hidden forces feels both epic and personal. I’m hooked on how the story blends mythological undertones with raw, emotional stakes—it’s like Camp Half-Blood met a starlit forest. If you’re after fantasy books with young heroes and a fresh take on ancient lore, this one’s a must-read.

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

Part of Riordan Presents, this middle-grade fantasy dives into Hindu mythology with Aru Shah, a 12-year-old who accidentally unleashes an ancient demon. Oops. Now she’s on a quest with a snarky sidekick and a pigeon (yes, really) to save the world. The humor and fast-paced action are pure gold.
Like Gregor, it’s got a young hero thrust into a hidden world of myth, plus the weight of family expectations. Aru’s wit reminds me of Percy, and the epic quest feels straight out of Underland. I love how Chokshi brings lesser-known lore to life—it’s a breath of fresh air for mythology nerds like me. If you’re hunting for action-packed middle-grade reads, this is your jam.

6. The Storm Runner by J.C. Cervantes

Another Riordan Presents gem, this one’s steeped in Mayan mythology. Zane Obispo is a kid with a limp and a big secret, living near a volcano that’s... well, not just a volcano. When supernatural forces crash into his life, he’s off on a quest involving gods, monsters, and a destiny he didn’t sign up for.
The Gregor connection? Hidden worlds and a reluctant hero who’s got to save everyone he loves. Zane’s physical struggles add depth, much like Gregor’s emotional ones. I’m obsessed with the cultural richness here—it’s a demigod adventure story with a unique twist. If you’re into urban fantasy for teens, don’t sleep on this.

7. The Bone Witch by Rin Chupeco

This one’s more YA, but hear me out. The Bone Witch follows Tea, a girl who discovers she’s a necromancer in a world of magic and monsters. It’s darker than Gregor, with lush, eerie world-building and a focus on destiny.
The tie to Gregor is the coming-of-age fantasy novel vibe—Tea’s journey into a hidden magical society feels like Gregor’s descent into Underland. I love the haunting atmosphere and Tea’s struggle with power. It’s perfect if you’re transitioning to heavier reads but still want that mythological adventure kick.

8. The Black Book of Secrets by F.E. Higgins

This middle-grade read is a gothic mystery with fantasy vibes. Ludlow Fitch, a young pickpocket, escapes to a creepy village where he works for a pawnbroker who trades in secrets. It’s got dark magic and a hidden-world feel that’s quieter but still intense.
Like Gregor, it’s about a kid surviving in a strange, dangerous place. I’m into the eerie tone—it’s a different flavor, but the stakes feel just as real. If you want something offbeat yet thrilling, this is a solid pick for teen adventure stories.

9. The Girl Who Circumnavigated Fairyland in a Ship of Her Own Making by Catherynne M. Valente

This one’s a whimsical middle-grade fantasy about September, a girl whisked away to Fairyland on a quest full of odd creatures and odder rules. It’s quirky but layered with heart.
The Gregor link is the plunge into a bizarre realm and a young hero finding their courage. I love the lyrical writing—it’s like a fever dream of Underland. If you’re after hidden worlds fantasy with a unique voice, dive in.

10. The Alchemyst by Michael Scott

Kicking off The Secrets of the Immortal Nicholas Flamel series, this YA fantasy follows twins Sophie and Josh as they get tangled in a battle over ancient magic. Think alchemy, mythical figures, and non-stop action.
It’s a Gregor read-alike with its hidden lore and teen heroes facing epic stakes. I’m hooked on the historical-mythical mashup—it’s like Percy met a history textbook. If you’re craving mythology-based YA fiction, this series delivers.

Why These Books Are Similar

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

Alright, let’s get into the meaty stuff—why do books like Gregor the Overlander and Percy Jackson stick with us? For me, it’s all about family and destiny, and nowhere is that clearer than in Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow. Amelia’s story hits hard because, like Gregor, she’s not just fighting external dangers—she’s wrestling with who she’s meant to be. Her bond with her dad, William, and her wolf pup, Artemis, grounds her journey in something real, even when ancient forces start creeping in. It’s that push and pull of heritage and personal strength that makes her story resonate, just like Gregor’s desperate need to protect his sister.

Compare that to Percy, whose whole deal is figuring out his godly parentage while still being a loyal friend and son. These stories aren’t just about slaying monsters; they’re about the people who make the fight worth it. I’ve cried over Gregor’s sacrifices and cheered for Percy’s stubbornness, and Amelia’s quiet courage—rooted in her love for nature and family—gives me those same feels. If you’re like me, transitioning from middle-grade to YA, you want books that grow with you, tackling deeper questions of identity while still delivering epic quests. These themes are why I keep coming back to mythological adventures—they mirror our own battles to find where we belong.

Why Mythological Adventures Still Matter in Your 20s

Look, I’m in my early 20s, and I still sleep with my Camp Half-Blood necklace nearby. Why? Because stories like Gregor and Percy Jackson aren’t just kid stuff—they’re about the mess of growing up, no matter your age. Hidden worlds fantasy gives us an escape, sure, but it also reminds us of the wonder we felt as kids, sneaking reads past bedtime. Books like Amelia Moon or Aru Shah keep that magic alive with fresh voices and diverse myths, proving there’s always a new quest waiting.

What gets me is how these stories balance action with heart. Gregor’s Underland isn’t just a cool setting—it’s a mirror for his fears and hopes. Same with Percy’s demigod life or Amelia’s stargazing escapades; they’re about finding your people, whether that’s a satyr buddy or a wolf pup. As someone who’s felt lost in the “real world,” I cling to these tales of young heroes because they remind me I’ve got my own battles to win. If you’re missing that sense of belonging, these books are your campfire circle—pull up a log and stay awhile.

How to Find Your Next Epic Read

Finding books that match the vibe of Gregor or Percy can be a quest in itself—trust me, I’ve been there, scrolling through endless generic fantasy recs that just don’t cut it. My tip? Look for stories with young protagonists who feel real, not just chosen-one tropes. Check for mythological roots or hidden realms that spark your imagination, whether it’s Underland’s creepy tunnels or the starlit mysteries of Bear Lodge Mountain in Amelia Moon. Don’t be afraid to dig for lesser-known gems—Riordan Presents is a goldmine for diverse lore, and indie releases often surprise you.

Also, talk to your fellow fans! I’ve found some of my fave reads through online forums or just geeking out with friends. Build that reading list with books that balance action and emotional depth, and don’t shy away from stuff that grows with you into YA territory. You’re not just chasing a story—you’re chasing that Camp Half-Blood community vibe. So, swap recs, rant about your fave heroes, and keep the adventure alive. I’ve got your back, demigods!

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What’s the best book to start with if I loved Gregor the Overlander?
A: Easy—start with The Lightning Thief by Rick Riordan if you haven’t already. It’s got that same young-hero-in-a-hidden-world energy, plus Percy’s sass is unbeatable. If you’re looking for something fresh, check out Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark. Amelia’s nature-driven quest feels like Gregor’s journey with a starry twist.

Q: Are there any new mythological adventure books coming out?
A: Heck yeah! I’m hyped for Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark, dropping in 2026. It’s got ancient lore, a teen hero, and a wolf pup sidekick—total Gregor and Percy vibes. Keep an eye out; it’s gonna be epic!

Q: I’m transitioning to YA—any recs that aren’t too heavy?
A: Totally get that. Try The Alchemyst by Michael Scott for a YA fantasy that’s still fast and fun with tons of mythology. It’s got teen heroes and high stakes without being too dark. Stick with me, I’ve got more recs up my sleeve!

Q: What makes a book feel like Gregor the Overlander?
A: For me, it’s gotta have a hidden world, a kid or teen hero with real struggles, and stakes tied to family or friends. Gregor is all about protecting loved ones, and books like The Red Pyramid or Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow nail that emotional core with killer quests.

Q: I want diverse mythology—where should I look?
A: Riordan Presents is your go-to! Aru Shah and the End of Time (Hindu myths) and The Storm Runner (Mayan lore) are awesome starters. They’ve got the adventure of Gregor with totally unique cultural spins. You’ll love ‘em!

Q: Any books with strong nature themes like Gregor’s underground world?
A: Yes, I’ve got you! Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark is drenched in nature vibes—think starlit mountains and a wolf pup bond. It’s a fresh take on hidden worlds with that same sense of wonder as Underland.

Q: How do I find a reading community like Camp Half-Blood?
A: Online fandoms are your best bet—Reddit, Discord, or even bookstagram. Share your love for Gregor or Percy, swap recs like the ones in this list, and you’ll find your crew. Nothing beats geeking out with fellow demigods!