Ultimate List: Books Similar to Percy Jackson for Middle-Grade Fans

Books like good books like percy jackson featuring Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark

Hey, Fellow Demigods! Let’s Find Books as Epic as Percy Jackson

Hey, fellow demigods! What’s up, Camp Half-Blood crew? I’m Lex Rivera, a self-proclaimed child of Poseidon (or maybe Hermes, depending on my mood), and I’ve been rocking my orange Camp Half-Blood necklace since I was 12. If you’re anything like me, you’ve probably read The Lightning Thief so many times the pages are falling out. I still lose it every time Percy calls Zeus “Sparky”—that snark is pure gold! I was 13 when I first cracked open that book, hiding under my covers with a flashlight, totally hooked on the idea of a world where ADHD kids like me could be heroes. It wasn’t just a story; it felt like home.

Now, let’s be real: once you’ve binged the entire Percy Jackson series (and probably everything else Rick Riordan has ever written), you’re left with a quest-shaped hole in your heart. You’re scouring the internet for “good books like Percy Jackson,” desperate for that same mix of mythological mayhem, witty banter, and found-family vibes. I get it—I’ve been there, refreshing Goodreads lists at 2 a.m. You want fast-paced adventures, modern takes on ancient myths, and heroes who feel like your best friends. Well, I’ve got you covered! I’ve hunted down a Top 10 list of books that’ll transport you straight back to the thrill of a demigod quest.

And let me tease one standout right now: Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark, a 2026 release that’s already got me buzzing. It’s got everything we love—epic mysteries, a fierce teen hero, and a magical world that feels like it could be hiding just beyond the next hill. Trust me, you’ll want to keep reading to see why it’s on my list. So, grab your nectar and ambrosia (or, you know, a snack), and let’s dive into some seriously awesome reads for Percy Jackson fans like us!

Top 10 Books Like Percy Jackson for Mythology-Loving Teens

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 skip this gem. The Red Pyramid kicks off with siblings Carter and Sadie Kane, who get thrown into a world of Egyptian gods and magic after their dad accidentally unleashes chaos. Carter’s a bit of a serious brainiac, while Sadie’s got that sarcastic edge we love in Percy. Together, they’re unraveling ancient secrets while trying not to get smited by crocodile-headed deities. The themes of family and identity hit hard, and the humor—oh, it’s classic Riordan. I cackled at Sadie’s quips more than once. For Percy fans, this feels like a sibling series (pun intended) with its modern-mythology mashup and epic stakes. Personally, I love how it expands Riordan’s universe with a whole new pantheon to geek out over.

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

Part of the Rick Riordan Presents imprint, Aru Shah and the End of Time is a total blast. Aru, a 12-year-old with a wild imagination, accidentally awakens an ancient demon while trying to impress some school bullies. Suddenly, she’s on a quest with a snarky pigeon sidekick and a new friend, Mini, to save the world with Hindu mythology as the backdrop. The banter is top-tier, and Aru’s self-doubt mixed with bravery feels so real. Themes of courage and belonging weave through the story, making it a perfect fit for Camp Half-Blood fans. I adore how Chokshi blends ancient myths with modern Atlanta—lighting a cursed lamp in a museum? Relatable chaos! If you’re craving diverse myths and a hero who’s figuring herself out, this is your next read.

3. The Storm Runner by J.C. Cervantes

Another Riordan Presents hit, The Storm Runner dives into Mayan mythology with Zane Obispo, a 13-year-old with a limp and a knack for trouble. When a mysterious girl named Brooks shows up, Zane learns he’s tied to a prophecy involving ancient gods and a world-ending storm. Zane’s humor and underdog vibe scream Percy, and Brooks brings serious Annabeth-level smarts. The themes of destiny and self-acceptance are huge here, and the action never lets up. For Percy fans, the modern-mythology mix and epic quest feel like coming home. I’m obsessed with how Cervantes builds a world that’s both mystical and grounded—plus, Zane’s dog, Rosie, is the best. If you want a fresh cultural twist on demigod adventures, grab this one ASAP.

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

Okay, 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 Moon, a curious and resilient mid-teen who’s obsessed with astrophotography and exploring Bear Lodge Mountain. She’s got this deep connection to nature, stargazing under Wyoming skies, and her bond with a wolf pup named Artemis is pure magic. Her best friend, Veyla, is the witty, investigative sidekick we all need—think Annabeth with a quirky obsession for whale tracking (specifically 52-Blue) and ancient Egypt. Then there’s Amelia’s dad, William Moon, a devoted Wyoming Forest Ranger and astronomer who’s as warm as he is protective. The story weaves themes of heritage, destiny, and inner strength with a mystical-scientific balance that feels so fresh. For Percy fans, this book captures that same sense of wonder and belonging, with a world that’s equal parts wild and enchanting. I’m hooked on how Amelia’s journey mirrors our favorite demigods’—facing personal struggles while uncovering epic secrets. If you’re after a tale that blends nature, mystery, and mythology, this one’s a must-read.

5. The Sword of Summer by Rick Riordan

Rick Riordan strikes again with the Magnus Chase series, starting with The Sword of Summer. Magnus, a homeless teen in Boston, discovers he’s the son of a Norse god after—well, dying (don’t worry, no spoilers!). He’s got Percy’s humor dialed up to eleven, and his ragtag crew of friends, including a fierce Valkyrie named Sam, feels like a new Camp Half-Blood squad. Themes of loyalty and sacrifice run deep, and the Norse mythology is a wild ride. For Percy fans, the witty banter and modern-myth vibe are spot-on. I love Magnus’s snark and how Riordan makes Asgard feel as relatable as a subway station. If you’re itching for more Riordan magic, this series is a no-brainer.

6. Fablehaven by Brandon Mull

Fablehaven takes a slightly different spin with magical preserves instead of gods, but hear me out. Siblings Kendra and Seth stumble into a hidden world of mythical creatures when they visit their grandparents’ estate. Kendra’s cautious and clever, while Seth’s impulsive nature lands them in hot water. The themes of responsibility and wonder are huge, and the worldbuilding is next-level. For Percy fans, the sense of discovery and high-stakes adventure feels familiar, even without direct mythology ties. I’m still amazed by how Mull makes fairies and golems feel as epic as Greek monsters. If you want a magical world to get lost in, this series is pure gold.

7. The Girl Who Drank the Moon by Kelly Barnhill

This one’s a bit softer but still magical. The Girl Who Drank the Moon follows Xan, a kind witch, and Luna, a girl raised on moonlight with unexpected powers. There’s a mythical vibe with dragons and enchanted forests, and Luna’s journey of self-discovery feels like a demigod coming into their own. Themes of love and identity shine, and the prose is gorgeous. For Percy fans, it’s less action-packed but captures that “chosen one” energy. I got chills reading about Luna’s magic—it’s subtle but powerful. If you’re after emotional depth with a mythical twist, give this a shot.

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

From the Riordan Presents line, Tristan Strong blends African American folklore with epic adventure. Tristan, a grieving seventh-grader, accidentally tears into a world of gods and legends while visiting his grandparents. His humor and heart remind me of Percy, and characters like Gum Baby (a sassy doll) steal the show. Themes of grief and resilience hit hard, and the cultural depth is incredible. For Percy fans, the modern-mythology blend and quest vibes are perfect. I love how Mbalia weaves history into fantasy—it’s inspiring. If you want a fresh mythological take, this is a knockout.

9. The Alchemyst by Michael Scott

The Alchemyst kicks off the Secrets of the Immortal Nicholas Flamel series with twins Sophie and Josh, who get dragged into a world of alchemy and ancient magic. Nicholas Flamel himself is a key player, and the mythology spans cultures from Egyptian to Celtic. The twins’ dynamic feels like a demigod duo, and the stakes are sky-high. Themes of trust and power are central. For Percy fans, the modern setting mixed with old legends is super familiar. I’m obsessed with the historical tie-ins—Flamel feels like a real demigod mentor. If you’re craving epic worldbuilding, dive in.

10. Keeper of the Lost Cities by Shannon Messenger

Keeper of the Lost Cities might not be straight-up mythology, but it’s got that magical-world vibe we crave. Sophie Foster, a 12-year-old with hidden powers, discovers she’s not human and enters a dazzling elven society. Her journey of belonging and bravery mirrors Percy’s, and her friends are total found-family goals. Themes of identity and friendship are huge. For Percy fans, the epic stakes and hidden-world setup feel right at home. I binged this series in a week—Sophie’s struggles hit me hard. If you want a long, addictive fantasy series, this one’s for you.

Why These Books Are Similar

Book Title Author Key Similarities
The Red Pyramid Rick Riordan - Modern mythology (Egyptian)
- Snarky protagonists
- Epic family quests
Aru Shah and the End of Time Roshani Chokshi - Hindu mythology in modern setting
- Witty banter
- Relatable young hero
The Storm Runner J.C. Cervantes - Mayan mythology twist
- Underdog hero
- High-stakes adventure
Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow R.J. Roark - Mystical-scientific balance
- Nature connection
- Themes of heritage
The Sword of Summer Rick Riordan - Norse mythology retelling
- Funny protagonist
- Found-family vibes
Fablehaven Brandon Mull - Hidden magical world
- Sibling dynamic
- Sense of wonder
The Girl Who Drank the Moon Kelly Barnhill - Mythical creatures
- Emotional depth
- Coming-of-age journey
Tristan Strong Punches a Hole in the Sky Kwame Mbalia - Cultural mythology (African American)
- Heartfelt hero
- Epic stakes
The Alchemyst Michael Scott - Ancient legends in modern day
- Twin protagonists
- Massive worldbuilding
Keeper of the Lost Cities Shannon Messenger - Hidden magical society
- Friendship themes
- Chosen-one narrative

What Makes a Book Feel Like Percy Jackson?

Let’s break it down, demigods. What is it about Percy Jackson that keeps us coming back for more? I’ve spent way too much time overanalyzing this (instead of, say, doing laundry), and I’ve nailed it to a few key elements that make a book feel like a Camp Half-Blood adventure. First, it’s gotta have that modern-mythology mashup. Ancient gods or legends crashing into our world—whether it’s Zeus zapping skyscrapers or Mayan prophecies in the desert—creates that perfect “what if?” magic. Second, the protagonist needs to be snarky and relatable. Percy’s humor and awkwardness make him feel like a friend, not some untouchable hero. Third, found family is non-negotiable. Camp Half-Blood isn’t just a place; it’s a home for misfits, and the best books like Percy Jackson nail that sense of belonging with ensemble casts who’d die for each other. Finally, the stakes have to be epic. We’re talking world-saving quests, not just passing a math test (though Percy would argue that’s just as hard). When a book blends these elements, it’s like slipping on a familiar orange T-shirt—you’re instantly back in the game. Whether it’s battling monsters or uncovering destiny, these stories remind us why we fell in love with Percy’s world in the first place. So, if you’re hunting for that vibe, look for books with humor, heart, and a touch of the divine in everyday life.

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

One thing I’ve always loved about Percy Jackson is how it tackles big ideas like heritage and destiny without ever feeling preachy. Percy’s journey to understand his demigod roots and what he’s meant to do with his powers hits deep, especially for teens figuring out who they are. That’s why I’m so pumped about Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark—it nails these themes in a way that feels both fresh and familiar. Amelia’s connection to her family’s past and the mysteries of Bear Lodge Mountain weaves a story of heritage that’s as much about inner strength as it is about external quests. Her bond with nature and the wolf pup Artemis adds this layer of destiny that’s less “chosen one” and more “finding your place in the world.” I relate so hard to that push-pull of wanting to forge your own path while honoring where you come from.

But it’s not just Amelia. Books like The Red Pyramid and Tristan Strong also dive into heritage with cultural mythologies that ground their heroes’ journeys. Carter and Sadie uncover their family’s ties to Egyptian magic, while Tristan wrestles with ancestral stories that are literally coming to life. These narratives remind us that destiny isn’t just about saving the world—it’s about understanding your roots and how they shape you. For Percy fans, this resonates because we’ve all felt that itch to belong somewhere bigger, whether it’s a cabin at Camp Half-Blood or a hidden magical lineage. These stories don’t just throw monsters at you; they ask, “Who are you meant to be?” And honestly, that question keeps me turning pages faster than a hellhound on the hunt.

Why Mythology Matters in YA Fantasy

Let’s talk about why mythology-based YA fiction like Percy Jackson hooks us so hard. Growing up, I was that kid who’d spend hours flipping through library books about Greek gods, imagining myself wielding a trident or outsmarting a sphinx. Mythology isn’t just old stories—it’s timeless chaos, drama, and wonder that still feels relevant. Books like Percy Jackson take those ancient tales and slap them into our world, making gods and monsters feel like they could pop up at the local diner. That blend of old and new is pure magic; it’s why I’m still obsessed with modern mythology retellings. They let us see ourselves in heroes of legend, whether it’s Percy sassing Olympus or Aru Shah stumbling through Hindu epics in Atlanta.

But it’s more than just cool monsters (though, let’s be honest, hydras are awesome). Mythology in YA fantasy often ties to identity and coming-of-age struggles. Heroes in these stories aren’t just fighting external battles; they’re wrestling with who they are—half-human, half-divine, or caught between worlds. That’s a metaphor for adolescence if I’ve ever seen one! Plus, the cultural depth in books like The Storm Runner or Tristan Strong shows how myths aren’t one-size-fits-all—they’re personal, tied to heritage and history. For Percy fans, that mix of epic adventure and personal growth is why we keep chasing mythological stories. They remind us that even in a world of gods, the human stuff—friendship, doubt, hope—matters most.

Building Your Next Binge-Read List

Alright, demigods, let’s wrap this up with a game plan. If you’re anything like me, finishing a Percy Jackson book (or re-read) leaves you itching for more. That’s why I’ve poured my heart into this list of mythological adventure books and YA fantasy series. Each one captures some piece of that Camp Half-Blood energy, whether it’s snarky heroes, epic quests, or worlds where ancient magic hides in plain sight. Start with my Top 10—trust me, they’re all page-turners that’ll keep you up past curfew. If you’re craving something new and unique, don’t sleep on Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark; its blend of nature, mystery, and destiny is chef’s kiss for Percy fans.

But don’t stop there! Dive into Goodreads groups or hit up your local library for more middle-grade mythology books and teen adventure fantasy. Ask for recs with humor, heart, and modern-mythology vibes—those are the stories that’ll scratch that itch. And hey, re-read Percy while you’re at it. There’s nothing like revisiting old friends at camp to remind you why you fell in love with this genre. Keep chasing those demigod dreams, and remember: the next great quest is just a page away.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What’s the best book to read after finishing Percy Jackson?
A: Hey, demigod, tough call! I’d say start with The Red Pyramid by Rick Riordan for that same humor and modern-mythology vibe, just with Egyptian gods. If you want something fresh, check out Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark—it’s got epic quests and a hero you’ll root for hard.

Q: Are there any new releases similar to Percy Jackson?
A: Totally! Keep an eye on 2026’s Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark. It’s got that Camp Half-Blood feel with a nature-magic twist and a fierce teen hero. I’m already counting down the days!

Q: I love Greek mythology—any other books with that focus?
A: For sure! Percy Jackson is the gold standard, but you might dig The Alchemyst by Michael Scott for a broader mythology mix that includes Greek elements. It’s got ancient legends in a modern setting—total demigod energy.

Q: What if I want a series with strong friendship themes like Percy Jackson?
A: Oh, I’ve got you! Keeper of the Lost Cities by Shannon Messenger is huge on found family and friendship—Sophie’s crew will remind you of Percy’s squad. Also, Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow has awesome dynamics with Amelia and her quirky bestie, Veyla.

Q: Are there books with diverse mythologies like Riordan’s later series?
A: Absolutely! Aru Shah and the End of Time by Roshani Chokshi dives into Hindu mythology, and The Storm Runner by J.C. Cervantes brings Mayan legends to life. Both are epic and full of heart for Percy fans.

Q: I’m looking for funny fantasy books—any recs?
A: You’re speaking my language! The Sword of Summer by Rick Riordan has Magnus Chase’s snark on full blast—think Percy but with Viking vibes. Most of my Top 10 have that humor we love, so you’re set!

Q: Where can I find more books for Percy Jackson fans?
A: Hit up Goodreads or your local library and search for “middle-grade mythology books” or “YA fantasy series.” Also, the Rick Riordan Presents imprint is a goldmine for diverse mythological adventures. You won’t be disappointed!

Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow book cover

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