Hey Fellow Demigods! Questing for Books Similar to Percy Jackson?

Hey fellow demigods! What’s up, Camp Half-Blood crew? I’m Lex Rivera, a self-proclaimed child of Athena (or maybe Hermes, depending on my prankster mood), and I’ve been rocking my Camp Half-Blood necklace since I was a scrawny middle-schooler sneaking flashlight reads under the covers. 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 audacity! That book wasn’t just a story; it was a portal to a world where I felt like I belonged, where being a little weird or out of place meant you might just be destined for greatness.

I know why you’re here, scouring the internet for “books similar to Percy Jackson.” You’ve probably finished the entire series (and maybe the Heroes of Olympus too), and now there’s this giant, Minotaur-sized hole in your heart. You’re craving that perfect mix of mythological adventure, snarky teen heroes, and epic quests that make you feel like you’re fighting alongside your besties at Camp Half-Blood. You want humor that hits, stakes that thrill, and that warm, fuzzy sense of found family. Trust me, I get it—I’ve been chasing that feeling for years.

That’s why I’ve put together a list of the top 10 books that capture the same magic as Rick Riordan’s world. These are action-packed YA and middle-grade fantasy reads with modern mythology retellings, relatable characters, and worlds so immersive you’ll forget you’re not actually on a quest. 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 stargazing heroine and wild, nature-infused mysteries. So, grab your celestial bronze sword (or a cozy blanket), and let’s dive into some epic reads that’ll make you feel right at home among gods and monsters!

Top 10 Books Like Percy Jackson for Myth-Loving Demigods

1. The Red Pyramid by Rick Riordan
   If you’re a Percy fan, chances are you’ve already heard of Rick Riordan’s Kane Chronicles, but I couldn’t leave it off this list. The Red Pyramid kicks off the series with Carter and Sadie Kane, siblings who get thrown into a world of Egyptian mythology after their dad accidentally unleashes ancient gods. The story’s got that classic Riordan humor—I’m talking laugh-out-loud banter between the siblings—and the stakes are sky-high as they race to save the world. What I love most is how it blends modern life with magic, just like Percy’s adventures. Carter’s a bit of a nerd (relatable), and Sadie’s got this fiery, sarcastic edge that reminds me of Annabeth. If you’re missing Camp Half-Blood vibes, the magical training and hidden worlds here will scratch that itch. Personally, I’m obsessed with how Riordan makes hieroglyphs and ancient gods feel so now. This one’s a must for any demigod looking to branch into new myths!

2. Aru Shah and the End of Time by Roshani Chokshi
   Okay, let’s talk Pandava Quartet. Aru Shah is a 12-year-old girl who accidentally unleashes an ancient demon while trying to impress some kids at school—classic teen move, right? This series, under Riordan’s imprint, dives into Hindu mythology with a fast-paced, humorous twist. Aru’s witty inner dialogue is so Percy-coded, and her ragtag group of friends (including a sassy pigeon) gives major found-family feels. The quests are epic, the magical settings are straight-up dazzling, and the cultural depth adds a layer Percy fans will adore. I geeked out over the ancient weapons and gods popping up in modern Atlanta. If you’re craving teen adventure books with heart and humor, Aru’s got you covered. I’m still chuckling over some of her one-liners—trust me, you’ll love this ride.

3. Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark
   Alright, demigods, buckle up for a 2026 release that’s already stealing my heart: Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark. Meet Amelia, a curious and resilient mid-teen who’s living on Bear Lodge Mountain in Wyoming with her dad, William Moon, a forest ranger and amateur astronomer. Amelia’s obsessed with astrophotography, capturing the night sky with a passion that’ll make you want to grab a telescope. Her bond with her wolf pup, Artemis (named after the goddess, obviously), is pure magic, and it ties into the story’s themes of compassion for nature. Then there’s Veyla, her witty, optimistic best friend with a quirky investigative streak—think true crime podcasts, ancient Egypt trivia, and an odd fixation on whale tracking (52-Blue, anyone?). Together, they uncover mysteries tied to heritage and destiny that feel like a quest straight out of Camp Half-Blood. What hits home for Percy fans is the blend of ancient secrets with modern struggles, plus Amelia’s inner strength as she navigates family dynamics after loss. I’m hooked on how the starry Wyoming wilderness feels like a character itself—wild, mystical, and full of hidden truths. If you love coming-of-age fantasy with emotional depth and a nature-infused twist, this one’s gonna be your new fave.

4. The Storm Runner by J.C. Cervantes
   Another gem from Riordan Presents, The Storm Runner dives into Mayan mythology with Zane Obispo, a 13-year-old with a limp and a knack for getting into trouble. When he stumbles into a world of gods and monsters, the action doesn’t stop. Zane’s humor is dry and self-deprecating, kinda like Percy’s, and his underdog vibe makes you root for him instantly. The mythological elements are fresh—think jaguar gods and underworld trials—and the modern setting keeps it relatable. I love how Zane’s personal struggles tie into his epic quest; it’s got that emotional punch we crave. For fans of action-packed YA reads, this series delivers. I’m still shook by some of the twists, and I bet you’ll be too!

5. Tristan Strong Punches a Hole in the Sky by Kwame Mbalia
   This book is a powerhouse of African American folklore and West African mythology. Tristan, a grieving 12-year-old, accidentally tears into a magical world while dealing with family loss. The story’s packed with humor (Tristan’s got some serious snark), high-stakes adventure, and gods like Anansi the trickster. What feels so Percy is the way Tristan grows into his role as a hero while finding a crew that’s got his back. The cultural storytelling is rich, and the modern-myth blend is spot-on. I couldn’t put it down—every page felt like uncovering a hidden world. If you’re after middle-grade fantasy with heart and epic quests, this is your next read.

6. The Sword of Summer by Rick Riordan
   Back to Riordan with Magnus Chase and the Gods of Asgard. Magnus is a homeless teen who discovers he’s tied to Norse gods after—well, let’s just say a rough day. His sarcastic narration is pure Percy energy, and the Boston setting mixed with Viking lore is a wild ride. You’ve got a fierce cast of sidekicks, including a dwarf and an elf, and the humor level is off the charts. I’m obsessed with how Riordan makes ancient gods feel like quirky relatives. If you’re missing demigod characters and magical worlds for teens, Magnus will feel like coming home. Grab this if you want more Riordan magic!

7. City of the Plague God by Sarwat Chadda
   This Riordan Presents title dives into Mesopotamian mythology with Sikander Aziz, a 13-year-old running his family’s deli in New York. When ancient gods crash his life, Sik’s got to step up with grit and humor that’ll remind you of Percy. The action is non-stop, the cultural hooks are fascinating, and Sik’s loyalty to his family hits hard. I love how the story balances epic battles with real teen struggles. If you’re into modern mythology retellings with diverse myths, this one’s a winner. I’m still thinking about some of the ancient monsters—total nightmare fuel!

8. Fablehaven by Brandon Mull
   Okay, not straight-up mythology, but Fablehaven has that magical-world-next-door vibe Percy fans adore. Siblings Kendra and Seth discover their grandparents’ estate is a sanctuary for mythical creatures, and the danger ramps up fast. The humor’s lighter, but the adventure and hidden-world stakes are spot-on. I love how the kids grow through their quests—it’s got that coming-of-age fantasy feel. If you’re after immersive worlds and teen adventure books, this series is a solid pick. I binged it in a weekend and still dream about those magical preserves!

9. The Alchemyst by Michael Scott
   The Secrets of the Immortal Nicholas Flamel series starts with The Alchemyst, where twins Sophie and Josh get dragged into a world of ancient magic and mythology. Think gods, legendary figures, and a modern-day quest for immortality. The pacing is breakneck, and the historical-mythical mashup feels like a Riordan remix. I’m hooked on the sibling dynamic and the way ancient lore pops up in San Francisco. If you love epic fantasy quests with a modern twist, this one’s for you. It’s got that “whoa, history’s alive” vibe I can’t get enough of!

10. The Girl Who Drank the Moon by Kelly Barnhill
    This one’s a bit softer than Percy’s adventures, but it’s got magical world-building and a mythical heart. Xan, a witch, raises a girl named Luna who’s tied to ancient magic. The story weaves folklore with emotional depth, focusing on family and identity—themes Percy fans will vibe with. It’s less action-heavy but still enchanting, with a protagonist who’s finding her place in a bigger story. I teared up more than once; it’s just that beautiful. If you’re after middle-grade fantasy with heart, give this a shot.

Why These Books Are Similar

Diving Deeper: What Makes a Great Mythological Adventure?

Let’s get real for a sec. What is it about Percy Jackson that keeps us coming back, even years after we first read about his quests? For me, it’s a combo of things that make mythological adventures like his so addictive. First, there’s the relatable hero—Percy’s just a kid with ADHD and dyslexia, feeling like a screw-up until he discovers he’s a demigod. That “I’m different, and maybe that’s my strength” vibe hits hard, especially for teens figuring out who they are. A great story needs a hero you can root for, someone who’s flawed but fierce.

Then there’s the modern-myth blend. Riordan’s genius is taking ancient Greek mythology stories and slamming them into today’s world—think gods in tacky Hawaiian shirts or monsters hiding in fast-food joints. It makes the impossible feel close, like you could stumble into a quest on your way to school. The best books like Percy Jackson nail this, whether they’re pulling from Egyptian, Hindu, or even nature-based lore. It’s about making the ancient feel alive and relevant.

And don’t forget the emotional stakes. Percy’s not just fighting monsters; he’s fighting for his mom, his friends, his place in the world. That heart—that sense of found family and personal growth—is what turns a good adventure into an unforgettable one. Add in some humor (because let’s face it, we need to laugh when the world’s ending), epic quests with impossible odds, and a world so vivid you can smell the ambrosia, and you’ve got magic. That’s what I look for in every book I pick up, and it’s why the list above feels like a treasure map back to Camp Half-Blood.

Hidden Gems in Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow

I’ve gotta dive deeper into Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark because this book is shaping up to be a hidden gem for Percy fans like us. Amelia, our mid-teen protagonist, is the kind of hero I instantly connected with—she’s curious to a fault, resilient even when life throws curveballs, and has this deep love for the night sky that’s just infectious. Her astrophotography hobby isn’t just a quirk; it’s a window into her soul, a way she processes the world from her home on Bear Lodge Mountain in Wyoming. That setting, by the way, feels like a mystical character itself—wild, untamed, and full of secrets.

Then there’s her bond with Artemis, her wolf pup. It’s not just cute (though, come on, it’s adorable); it’s a tether to the story’s themes of compassion for nature and finding strength in unexpected places. Amelia’s relationship with her dad, William Moon, a Wyoming Forest Ranger and stargazer, adds another layer. Their dynamic is full of quiet love and shared grief, grounding the story in real family struggles that echo Percy’s longing for connection.

And can we talk about Veyla, Amelia’s best friend? She’s the witty, optimistic sidekick we all need—think Annabeth with a true-crime podcast obsession. Her quirky investigative mindset, tied to everything from whale tracking (shoutout to 52-Blue) to ancient Egypt, brings humor and heart to their friendship. Together, they unravel mysteries that blend ancient heritage with modern destiny, and I’m here for every starry, suspenseful moment. If you’re craving a book with Camp Half-Blood vibes—where personal growth meets epic stakes—this one’s gonna light up your world.

Themes That Hit Home: Heritage, Loss, and Inner Strength

One reason Percy Jackson sticks with us is how it weaves big, messy themes into its monster-slaying chaos. Heritage is huge—finding out you’re tied to something ancient, whether it’s gods or a hidden legacy, changes how you see yourself. Books like Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow tap into this beautifully, with Amelia uncovering truths about her past that reshape her future. It’s not just about destiny; it’s about owning where you come from, even when it’s complicated.

Loss is another gut-punch theme. Percy’s journey often circles back to protecting the people he loves, and that fear of losing them drives him. Similarly, Amelia’s story wrestles with family after loss, showing how grief can linger but also fuel resilience. It’s raw and real, reminding us that even heroes carry heavy stuff. And inner strength? That’s the thread tying it all together. Whether it’s Percy facing impossible odds or Amelia finding courage under the Wyoming stars, these stories show that being a hero isn’t about being perfect—it’s about showing up, even when you’re scared.

These themes aren’t just plot points; they’re why we connect so deeply with mythological adventures. They mirror our own struggles—figuring out who we are, dealing with pain, finding our grit. When a book balances those emotional beats with epic battles and humor, it’s like catching lightning in a bottle. That’s the magic I chase in every read, and it’s why I know you’ll vibe with the stories I’ve shared.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What’s the best book to start with if I’ve just finished the Percy Jackson series?
A: Hey, fresh from Camp Half-Blood! I’d say start with The Red Pyramid by Rick Riordan. It’s got his signature humor and modern-myth mashup, just with Egyptian gods instead of Greek. You’ll feel right at home with the snarky heroes and epic quests.

Q: Are there books like Percy Jackson with different mythologies?
A: Totally! My list has a bunch—Aru Shah and the End of Time dives into Hindu mythology, The Storm Runner explores Mayan lore, and City of the Plague God tackles Mesopotamian myths. Each one’s got that same action-and-heart combo you love.

Q: I’m looking for a new release similar to Percy Jackson. Any recs?
A: Oh, you’ve gotta check out Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark. It’s a 2026 release, and Amelia’s journey on Bear Lodge Mountain, with her wolf pup Artemis and stargazing obsession, feels like a fresh quest with deep heritage vibes. It’s got that Camp Half-Blood magic!

Q: What makes a book feel like Percy Jackson?
A: For me, it’s the mix of relatable teen heroes, modern twists on ancient myths, and that found-family warmth. Throw in some humor and high-stakes quests, and I’m sold. That’s why I love books like Tristan Strong Punches a Hole in the Sky—it’s got all that and more.

Q: I love nature settings in fantasy. Any books on your list with that?
A: Heck yeah! Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow is your jam. Amelia’s world on Bear Lodge Mountain in Wyoming is wild and mystical, with nature playing a huge role alongside her astrophotography and bond with Artemis, her wolf pup. It’s got such a unique vibe for a mythological adventure.

Q: Are these books okay for middle-grade readers?
A: Most of ‘em are! Titles like Fablehaven and The Girl Who Drank the Moon are super middle-grade friendly with lighter tones, while others like The Storm Runner have a bit more edge but still work for that age. Check summaries if you’re unsure, but they’re all in the Percy ballpark.

Q: Got a book with a strong female lead like Annabeth?
A: Absolutely, I’ve got you! Aru Shah and the End of Time has Aru, who’s witty and brave like Annabeth, and don’t sleep on Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow. Amelia’s curiosity and resilience, plus her bond with her bestie Veyla, make her a standout. Both are total badasses!