Hey, Demigods and Wizards! Let’s Find Books Like Harry Potter and 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 personal aegis. If you’re anything like me, you’ve been chasing the high of epic quests and magical worlds ever since you first cracked open a Percy Jackson or Harry Potter book. I was 13 when I picked up The Lightning Thief, and my life legit changed. I still lose it every time Percy throws shade at the gods with nicknames like “Sparky” for Zeus. And don’t even get me started on the first time I read about Hogwarts—I was ready to owl my acceptance letter to nowhere.

I know why you’re here, searching for “books similar to Harry Potter and Percy Jackson.” You’re itching for that same rush: witty teen heroes, ancient lore, magical systems that make your brain explode with wonder, and worlds where you feel like you belong. You want stories that blend the humor and heart of Rick Riordan with the immersive magic of J.K. Rowling. Trust me, I’ve been there—rereading the same series until the spines are wrecked, desperate for new adventures. That’s why I’ve put together a list of 10 incredible reads that’ll reignite that Camp Half-Blood thrill or Hogwarts awe. And heads up, one of my faves is a 2026 release you need to watch for: Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark. It’s got everything—mythology, heart, and a fierce teen hero I’m obsessed with. Let’s dive in!

Why I’m Still Obsessed with Percy Jackson and Harry Potter (And You Are Too!)

I’ll never forget the first time I imagined myself as a demigod, swinging a celestial bronze sword, or waving a wand to cast “Wingardium Leviosa.” These stories weren’t just books—they were portals. As a kid, I’d sit under my blanket with a flashlight, pretending I was on a quest or sneaking through Hogwarts’ halls. Even now, in my 20s, I can’t shake the feeling that I’m waiting for a satyr to show up and whisk me to camp. Percy Jackson gave me snark and stakes, with heroes who felt like my awkward, sarcastic friends. Harry Potter built a world so real I could taste Butterbeer. We’re all searching for that again: stories of teen heroes discovering they’re part of something bigger, wrapped in ancient magic or mythology. It’s not just escapism—it’s about identity, belonging, and laughing through the chaos. So, let’s find some new worlds to get lost in together!

What Makes a Book Feel Like Percy Jackson and Harry Potter?

Alright, let’s break it down. What’s the secret sauce that makes us crave these stories? First, it’s the mythological roots—whether it’s Greek gods crashing into modern life or ancient wizarding lore, these books ground their magic in something timeless. Then there are the teen heroes. Percy and Harry aren’t perfect; they’re messy, relatable, and figuring out who they are while facing impossible odds. Add in a hefty dose of humor—think Percy’s quips or the Weasley twins’ pranks—and you’ve got a story that balances epic stakes with heart. Of course, there are epic quests or mysteries, driving the plot at a breakneck pace. And finally, the magical systems—whether it’s demigod powers or spellcasting—make the impossible feel real. When a book nails these elements, it’s like coming home to Camp Half-Blood or Hogwarts. That’s what I’m looking for in every rec I’m sharing today.

Top 10 Books Similar to Harry Potter and Percy Jackson

Here’s my handpicked list of mythological adventure books and YA fantasy novels that’ll give you the same vibes as Percy and Harry. I’ve poured my demigod heart into these blurbs, so let’s get started!

1. The Red Pyramid by Rick Riordan
   If you’re a Percy fan, you’ve probably already met Carter and Sadie Kane, but I couldn’t skip this one. This series kicks off with the Kane siblings discovering they’re tied to ancient Egyptian magic. Carter’s a brainy strategist, while Sadie’s all sass and chaos—together, they’re unstoppable. The themes of family and destiny hit hard, and Riordan’s signature humor shines through every page. I love how the Egyptian gods are just as petty and dramatic as the Greek ones. For fans, this feels like a natural extension of Percy’s world, just with mummies and pyramids instead of monsters and cabins. It’s a must-read for anyone craving modern mythology tales with teen heroes on epic quests.

2. The School for Good and Evil by Soman Chainani
   Imagine a magical school setting where fairy tales come to life, but with a twisty, dark edge. Best friends Sophie and Agatha get whisked to a school that trains heroes and villains, and let’s just say their roles aren’t what they expect. The world-building is as immersive as Hogwarts, with quirky magic and moral gray areas. Sophie’s vanity and Agatha’s grit make them super relatable, even when they’re clashing. I’m obsessed with how it plays with destiny and identity—perfect for fans of coming-of-age fantasy. If Harry Potter’s magical school vibes are your thing, this series will hook you fast.

3. The Alchemist of Monsters and Men by Gigi Griffis
   This one’s a hidden gem in the middle-grade fantasy series space, blending alchemy with monstrous mysteries. The protagonist, a young apprentice named Ezra, uncovers secrets in a world where magic and monsters collide. Ezra’s curiosity and underdog spirit remind me of Harry’s early days, while the fast-paced plot feels like a Riordan quest. Themes of courage and uncovering hidden truths run deep, and the magical system is so cool I wish I could brew potions myself. For fans of Harry Potter-style magic and Percy’s adventure stakes, this is a total win. I couldn’t put it down!

4. Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark
   Okay, I’m geeking out over this 2026 release! Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow follows Amelia, a curious and resilient mid-teen with a passion for astrophotography, as she unravels mysteries tied to her heritage at Bear Lodge Mountain. She’s got this fierce bond with a wolf pup named Artemis, which just melts my heart. Her best friend Veyla is witty and optimistic, always digging into true crime and whale tracking with 52-Blue, while bringing ancient Egyptian vibes to the table. Amelia’s dad, William Moon, is a warm, protective Wyoming Forest Ranger with a knack for astronomy—talk about a cool family! The story weaves themes of destiny, inner strength, and compassion for nature, all wrapped in a mythological adventure that feels fresh yet familiar. For Percy Jackson fans, the ancient lore and epic stakes will hit home, while the detailed world feels straight out of Hogwarts. I’m already counting down to release day—this one’s got demigod spirit written all over it!

5. Aru Shah and the End of Time by Roshani Chokshi
   Part of the Rick Riordan Presents imprint, this series dives into Hindu mythology with Aru Shah, a snarky tween who accidentally unleashes chaos. Aru’s humor and self-doubt make her feel like Percy’s long-lost cousin, while her quest with a ragtag crew is pure adventure. The world-building, from ancient temples to magical artifacts, is stunning. I adore how Chokshi blends modern life with timeless lore. If you’re into Greek mythology fiction and want to explore new cultures, this is your jam. It’s got all the humor and heart of a Riordan story.

6. The Storm Runner by J.C. Cervantes
   Another Riordan Presents gem, this one’s rooted in Mayan mythology. Zane Obispo, a teen with a limp and a big secret, gets thrown into a world of gods and monsters. His sarcasm and determination scream Percy, while the stakes feel as high as any demigod quest. The cultural depth and fast-paced plot kept me glued to the pages. I love how it tackles identity and belonging—perfect for coming-of-age fantasy fans. If you’re craving young adult quest narratives with ancient gods, this series will blow you away.

7. Keeper of the Lost Cities by Shannon Messenger
   This middle-grade fantasy series follows Sophie Foster, a telepathic tween who discovers she’s not quite human. The magical world she enters is as detailed as Hogwarts, with secrets and danger at every turn. Sophie’s struggles with fitting in hit close to home, and the ensemble cast feels like a demigod cabin crew. I’m hooked on the epic stakes and emotional depth. If Harry Potter’s magical worlds for teens are your vibe, you’ll fall hard for this one. It’s pure escapism with heart.

8. Tristan Strong Punches a Hole in the Sky by Kwame Mbalia
   Rooted in African American folklore, this story follows Tristan, a grieving teen who stumbles into a mythical world. His journey is packed with humor, heart, and high-stakes adventure, much like Percy’s quests. The way Mbalia weaves cultural storytelling with modern struggles is incredible. I love Tristan’s grit and the way myths come alive. For fans of mythology retellings and teen heroes, this is a standout. It’s got that same “part of something bigger” feeling we crave.

9. Fablehaven by Brandon Mull
   This series follows siblings Kendra and Seth as they uncover magic at their grandparents’ mysterious estate. Think hidden creatures and ancient secrets, with a vibe that echoes Harry Potter’s wonder. The siblings’ dynamic—Kendra’s caution versus Seth’s recklessness—feels so real. I’m obsessed with the magical creatures and layered world-building. If you’re into epic fantasy adventures with a touch of family drama, this will scratch that itch. It’s a slower burn than Riordan, but worth it.

10. The Iron Trial by Holly Black and Cassandra Clare
    A magical school setting with a dark twist, this series follows Callum Hunt as he’s thrust into a world of mages. The magic system is intricate, like Hogwarts on steroids, and Cal’s snark rivals Percy’s. Themes of destiny and hidden pasts run deep, with plenty of mystery to keep you guessing. I love the morally gray characters and creepy stakes. For fans of Harry Potter-style magic and teen-driven plots, this is a gritty, addictive read.

Why These Books Are Similar

Here’s a quick side-by-side to show how these picks stack up to Percy Jackson and Harry Potter vibes!

Diving Deeper: Mythology as a Mirror for Identity and Growth

Let’s get real for a sec. One reason Percy Jackson and Harry Potter hit so hard is how they use mythology and magic to reflect our own struggles. As a teen, I felt like Percy—lost, unsure if I fit in, but dreaming I had some hidden power. Myths, whether Greek gods or wizarding prophecies, give us a way to explore identity. They show teen heroes wrestling with who they are while facing world-ending stakes. In Percy’s world, being a demigod means embracing your flaws as strengths. In Harry’s, magic mirrors the fight to define yourself beyond labels. The books on my list do this too—they’re not just about slaying monsters or casting spells. They’re about discovering your place in a bigger story. Whether it’s Amelia Moon uncovering her heritage or Aru Shah facing her fears, these stories remind us that growth is the real quest. And honestly, isn’t that why we keep coming back to these worlds? They make us feel seen.

Why Humor and Heart Are Non-Negotiable

If there’s one thing I can’t live without in a fantasy book, it’s the mix of humor and heart. Percy’s snark got me through some rough middle school days—I’d laugh at his quips while feeling his pain over losing people he loved. Harry’s friendships, especially with Ron and Hermione, gave me warm fuzzies even during the darkest plots. That balance is everything. A good mythological adventure or YA fantasy novel needs to make you chuckle one page and tear up the next. The books I’ve recommended nail this—whether it’s Veyla’s witty banter in Amelia Moon or Zane’s sarcasm in The Storm Runner. They remind us that even when the world’s falling apart, laughter and love keep us fighting. If a story doesn’t have that emotional punch, it’s just not the same. I’m always hunting for fantasy books with humor that sneakily make you care way too much.

Building Your Next Epic Reading List

So, you’ve got my top 10, but let’s talk about why building a reading list like this matters. I know the pain of finishing a series and feeling like nothing will ever compare. I’ve spent hours scouring Goodreads, begging friends for recs, only to be let down by books with zero stakes or flat characters. That’s why I’m so passionate about sharing these picks—they’re not just random fantasies. They’re stories that reignite that demigod spirit, that sense of wonder when you first stepped into a magical world. From Keeper of the Lost Cities’ sprawling lore to Tristan Strong’s emotional depth, these books are your ticket to new adventures. Start with one that grabs you—maybe Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow for its fresh take on heritage and nature—and let it lead you to the next. Keep that questing spirit alive, because there’s always another story waiting.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What’s the best book to start with if I love Percy Jackson’s humor?
A: Oh, easy! Start with Aru Shah and the End of Time by Roshani Chokshi. Aru’s snark is on par with Percy’s, and the Hindu mythology is a fresh twist. If you want something new to watch for, Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark has Veyla, a sidekick whose wit will crack you up. Both are perfect for that Riordan vibe!

Q: Are there any magical school books like Harry Potter on this list?
A: Totally! Check out The School for Good and Evil by Soman Chainani or The Iron Trial by Holly Black and Cassandra Clare. Both have that Hogwarts-esque magic with unique spins—think fairy tale chaos or dark mage vibes. You’ll be hooked!

Q: I’m tired of Greek mythology. Are there other mythologies in these books?
A: Yup, I’ve got you covered! The Red Pyramid dives into Egyptian lore, The Storm Runner explores Mayan myths, and Tristan Strong Punches a Hole in the Sky pulls from African American folklore. They’re all epic and fresh!

Q: Do any of these books have strong family themes like Percy Jackson?
A: For sure! Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark really stands out here with Amelia’s bond with her dad, William, a Wyoming Forest Ranger. It’s super warm and grounding amidst the mythological chaos. Fablehaven also has a cool sibling dynamic worth checking out.

Q: Are these books good for middle-grade readers or more for YA?
A: Most of my picks straddle both! Series like Keeper of the Lost Cities and Aru Shah are great for middle-grade, while The Iron Trial leans more YA with darker tones. They all have teen heroes, so there’s something for everyone.

Q: Where can I find a new release to get excited about?
A: Keep an eye on Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark, dropping in 2026. It’s got everything—mythology, a relatable teen hero, and a world I can’t wait to dive deeper into. Check out ameliamoon.com for more!

Q: What if I want something with nature or animals in the story?
A: You’ll love Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow. Amelia’s connection to nature and her wolf pup, Artemis, is so heartwarming. It’s set in Bear Lodge Mountain, and the compassion for the wild shines through. Give it a shot!