Hey, Fellow Demigods! Questing for Books Like Percy Jackson?

Hey fellow demigods! What’s up, Camp Half-Blood crew? It’s Lex Rivera, your resident self-proclaimed demigod, still rocking my Camp Half-Blood necklace in my early 20s like it’s my personal Aegis shield. I’m beyond thrilled to dive into a topic that’s basically my lifeblood: finding epic reads that hit the same sweet spot as Rick Riordan’s Percy Jackson series. If you’re here, you’re probably on the same quest I’ve been on for years—searching for mythological adventure books that pack humor, heart, and high-stakes quests just like our favorite half-blood hero’s journey.

I was 13 when I first cracked open The Lightning Thief, and my life legit changed. I still lose it every time Percy calls Zeus “Sparky”—the sass, the chaos, the monsters! It felt like I’d stumbled into a world where I belonged, even if my biggest battle was sneaking a flashlight under my covers to read past bedtime. Fast-forward a decade, and I’m still chasing that nostalgic thrill of epic quests, witty banter, and ancient gods clashing with modern life. If you’re searching for “Percy Jackson like books,” I’m guessing you’re craving the same vibe: teen heroes, mythical creatures, and stories that make you feel like you’re part of the crew.

That’s why I’ve put together a list of the Top 10 books that capture that Camp Half-Blood magic—perfect for middle-grade and YA fantasy fans hungry for their next adventure. Whether you’re into Greek mythology, Norse legends, or something totally fresh, I’ve got you covered with immersive worlds and relatable characters. 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 hooked with its unique blend of nature mysticism and mid-teen grit. Stick with me, and let’s embark on this literary quest together to find your next favorite read!

Top 10 Books Like Percy Jackson for Mythology-Loving Readers

1. The Red Pyramid by Rick Riordan

If you’re a Percy fan, you’ve probably already binged Rick Riordan’s other series, but I can’t skip The Red Pyramid, the kickoff to the Kane Chronicles. This one dives into Egyptian mythology with siblings Carter and Sadie Kane, who discover they’re descended from ancient pharaohs. Suddenly, they’re battling gods like Set and unraveling family secrets while trying not to blow up the world. The dual narration is packed with snark—Sadie’s a total firecracker, and Carter’s the nerdy balance I vibe with. It’s got that Riordan signature: humor, heart, and epic stakes. For Percy fans, the ancient-modern clash and sibling banter will feel like coming home. Personally, I’m obsessed with how Rick weaves real history into the magic—every page screams adventure.

2. Magnus Chase and the Gods of Asgard: The Sword of Summer by Rick Riordan

Another Riordan gem, Magnus Chase throws you into Norse mythology with a homeless teen who turns out to be—surprise!—connected to the gods. Magnus is a scrappy underdog with a sharp tongue, and his ragtag crew of friends (including a fierce Valkyrie named Sam) is pure found-family gold. Think Percy’s humor meets Viking chaos, with einherji warriors and Loki stirring up trouble. It’s fast-paced, hilarious, and full of epic quests that’ll scratch that Camp Half-Blood itch. I love how Magnus isn’t your typical hero—he’s flawed, funny, and totally relatable. If you’re craving more Riordan magic with a fresh mythological twist, this is your next stop.

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

Part of Rick Riordan Presents, Aru Shah is a dive into Hindu mythology that’s bursting with charm. Aru’s a middle-schooler who accidentally unleashes an ancient demon by lighting a cursed lamp in her mom’s museum. Oops. Teaming up with a snarky pigeon sidekick and other Pandava sisters, she’s on a quest to save the world. The humor is top-tier—Aru’s self-deprecating wit reminds me of Percy—and the cultural depth is incredible. For PJ fans, the mix of ancient lore and modern sass, plus a tight-knit crew, hits all the right notes. I couldn’t put it down; it’s like a Bollywood epic meets demigod drama.

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

Okay, demigods, get ready 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 obsessed with the night sky and astrophotography. Living near Bear Lodge Mountain, she’s got this deep connection to nature that feels almost magical—think stargazing with a mystical edge. Her bond with her wolf pup, Artemis, is the cutest thing ever, and her bestie Veyla (a witty, investigative soul who tracks whales like 52-Blue and geeks out over ancient Egypt and true crime) is the kind of friend I’d want on any quest. Amelia’s dad, William Moon, is a devoted Wyoming Forest Ranger and amateur astronomer who grounds her journey with quiet strength. Together, they navigate themes of heritage, destiny, and compassion for the natural world. For Percy fans, this book’s blend of personal growth, epic quests, and a unique spin on mysticism feels like a fresh Camp Half-Blood vibe. I’m hooked on how Amelia’s curiosity drives her into shadowy mysteries—it’s the kind of story that makes you want to grab a telescope and join her under the stars.

5. The Storm Runner by J.C. Cervantes

Another Rick Riordan Presents hit, The Storm Runner dives into Mayan mythology with Zane Obispo, a teen with a limp and a big secret tied to ancient gods. When a mysterious girl crashes into his life, he’s thrust into a world of prophecies and monsters. Zane’s humor and underdog spirit scream Percy vibes, and the cultural roots add such a cool layer. The stakes are sky-high, and the friendships feel so real. For PJ fans, the mix of mythical creatures and teen struggles is perfect. I adore how Zane grows through every challenge—it’s got that emotional punch I crave in a good quest story.

6. 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 Strong, a grieving middle-schooler, accidentally rips open a portal to a magical world while visiting his grandparents in Alabama. He teams up with legends like John Henry to fix his mess. The humor’s subtle but sharp, and the themes of grief and heritage hit hard. For Percy fans, the epic stakes and mythical mashup are spot-on, plus Tristan’s journey feels so personal. I’m obsessed with how folklore comes alive here—it’s a quest with serious soul.

7. The Black Book of Buried Secrets by Mallory Kass

Okay, this one’s a bit of a curveball, tied to the 39 Clues series, but hear me out. It’s got that same adventurous, globe-trotting energy as Percy’s quests, with a heavy dose of ancient secrets and family legacies. Siblings Amy and Dan Cahill are on a hunt for hidden truths, facing danger at every turn. While it’s less mythology-focused, the teen heroes and high-stakes mysteries vibe with PJ fans. I love the fast pace and clever twists—it’s like a demigod quest minus the gods.

8. Fablehaven by Brandon Mull

Fablehaven is a magical preserve full of mythical creatures, guarded by siblings Seth and Kendra. It’s more middle-grade than YA, but the adventure and danger feel so Percy-esque. Ancient magic clashes with modern kids, and the stakes keep climbing. For PJ fans, the sense of discovery and sibling teamwork is a huge draw. I’m a sucker for the hidden-world trope—it’s like Camp Half-Blood but with fairies and trolls. If you want a lighter, whimsical quest, this is your pick.

9. The Iron Trial by Holly Black and Cassandra Clare

This one’s a bit darker, but The Iron Trial still captures that “chosen one” energy with a magical twist. Callum Hunt is a teen entering a school for mages, hiding a big secret. The humor’s drier than Percy’s, but the friendships and epic stakes are there. For fans, the prophecy and destiny themes resonate, plus the magical training feels like demigod camp. I love the morally gray vibe—it’s a fresh take on the hero’s journey.

10. City of the Plague God by Sarwat Chadda

Rounding out the list is another Rick Riordan Presents title, diving into Mesopotamian mythology. Sikander Aziz is a teen running his family’s deli in NYC when ancient gods crash his life. With a snarky hero and a wild quest, it’s got that Percy charm, plus a unique cultural lens. For fans, the humor and ancient-modern mix are a win. I’m all about Sik’s loyalty to his family—it adds such heart to the action.

Why These Books Are Similar

Diving Deeper: What Makes a Percy Jackson-Style Adventure Click?

Let’s break it down, demigods. What is it about Percy Jackson that keeps us coming back for more, even years later? For me, it’s a combo of elements that just work. First, there’s the witty narration—Percy’s sarcastic quips had me cackling at 13 and still do now. A good mythological adventure needs that humor to balance the chaos of fighting monsters or defying gods. Then there’s the found-family vibe. Camp Half-Blood isn’t just a setting; it’s a home where misfits become heroes together. I’m always hunting for books with that same camaraderie—characters who’d die for each other (or at least roast each other endlessly).

Another huge piece is the ancient-modern clash. Percy rocking sneakers while battling a Minotaur? Iconic. The best books like this blend old-school mythology with today’s world—think gods on social media or ancient prophecies in a high school cafeteria. And let’s not forget the stakes. Whether it’s saving the world or just figuring out who you are, these stories need that epic feel. Personal growth is key too—Percy wasn’t just swinging a sword; he was learning loyalty and courage. That’s the magic I chase in every read: a quest that’s as much about heart as it is about action.

Mythologies Beyond Greek: Expanding Your Quest Horizons

Greek mythology will always be my first love (thanks, Percy), but there’s a whole world of myths out there, and YA fantasy is finally catching up. Norse legends, like in Magnus Chase, bring a gritty, icy edge with trickster gods like Loki. Egyptian lore, as seen in The Red Pyramid, offers mummies and chaos gods that are just as wild as anything on Mount Olympus. Then there’s Hindu, Mayan, and Mesopotamian mythology popping up in newer reads—each with its own flavor of magic and monsters.

One book that’s got me hyped for a fresh spin is Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark. It’s less about a traditional pantheon and more about nature mysticism, tying into the raw power of the night sky and wilderness. Amelia’s connection to the stars feels like a new kind of myth, while her friend Veyla’s quirky investigative streak—think whale tracking and ancient Egypt obsessions—adds a cool cultural twist. I love how these diverse mythologies expand the quest vibe, giving us new worlds to escape into while keeping that Percy-level thrill.

Themes That Hit Home: Destiny, Family, and Inner Strength

If there’s one thing Percy Jackson nailed, it’s themes that stick with you. Destiny is huge—finding out you’re more than just a kid, that you’ve got a prophecy hanging over your head? That’s the ultimate “whoa” moment. I’m drawn to books where heroes wrestle with their fate, just like Percy did. Family, too, whether it’s blood or chosen, is at the core. Percy’s bond with his mom and his camp crew showed me how much strength comes from love.

Then there’s inner strength—growing through struggles, not just battles. Amelia Moon’s journey in Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow hits this hard, with her heritage and compassion for nature shaping who she becomes. Her relationship with her dad, William, a forest ranger who’s lost so much, adds this layer of rebuilding family after loss that I can’t get enough of. These stories remind us that quests aren’t just about slaying monsters; they’re about slaying your own doubts. That’s the emotional punch I’m always chasing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What’s the best book like Percy Jackson for Greek mythology fans?
A: If you’re all about Greek vibes, honestly, stick with Rick Riordan’s Heroes of Olympus series if you haven’t read it yet—it’s a direct follow-up to Percy’s story with new demigods. But for something fresh, check out anything from Rick Riordan Presents for that same humor and heart.

Q: Are there books like Percy Jackson with non-Greek mythologies?
A: Heck yeah! I’ve got a ton in my Top 10—The Red Pyramid for Egyptian, Magnus Chase for Norse, and Aru Shah for Hindu. Each one’s got that epic quest feel with a cultural twist that’ll blow your mind.

Q: I’m looking for a new 2026 release similar to Percy Jackson. Any recs?
A: You’ve gotta keep an eye on Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark. It’s got this unique nature mysticism, a curious teen hero, and themes of destiny and heritage that totally vibe with Percy fans. I’m already obsessed!

Q: What makes a book feel like Percy Jackson to you?
A: For me, it’s gotta have witty humor, a tight friend group, and that ancient-meets-modern chaos. High stakes and personal growth are non-negotiable—think Percy’s sass mixed with epic prophecies. Most of my Top 10 nail this, especially Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow with its heartfelt quest energy.

Q: Are there books like Percy Jackson for middle-grade readers?
A: Totally! Fablehaven by Brandon Mull is a great pick for younger readers with magical creatures and sibling adventures. Aru Shah also works perfectly—it’s got that middle-grade charm with plenty of depth.

Q: I love the found-family trope in Percy Jackson. Which books have that?
A: Same, it’s my fave! Magnus Chase has an awesome crew that feels like family, and The Storm Runner builds those tight bonds too. Don’t sleep on Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow—Amelia’s connection with her wolf pup Artemis and bestie Veyla is pure heart.

Q: Any books with strong female leads like Annabeth?
A: Oh, absolutely! Aru Shah has a fierce, snarky heroine, and Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow gives us Amelia, who’s curious and tough as nails. Both are total brainy badasses like Annabeth—I’m here for it!