Books Similar to Percy Jackson: Your Next Mythological Adventure Awaits!

Hey fellow demigods! What’s up, Camp Half-Blood crew? I’m Lex Rivera, your resident Percy Jackson stan and self-proclaimed demigod (I’m still waiting for my godly parent to claim me, okay?). If you’re anything like me, you’ve been chasing that lightning-bolt thrill ever since you first cracked open The Lightning Thief. I was 13 when I stumbled into Rick Riordan’s world, and my life legit changed. I still lose it every time Percy calls Zeus “Sparky”—the sass, the chaos, the heart! I’ve been rocking my Camp Half-Blood necklace ever since, and yeah, I’m in my early 20s now, but I’m not letting go of that magic anytime soon.

I know why you’re here, scouring the internet for “similar to Percy Jackson books.” You’ve probably reread the series a million times (guilty!), and now you’re hungry for more mythological adventure stories with epic quests, snarky teen heroes, and that perfect blend of ancient myths crashing into modern life. You want books that make you laugh, cry, and feel like you’ve found your own found family at camp. Trust me, I get it—nothing hits quite like Percy’s world, but I’ve got you covered. I’ve hunted down the best reads to fill that demigod-shaped hole in your heart, and I’m beyond hyped to share my top 10 list with you.

Oh, and I’ve got a special shoutout for a 2026 release that’s already got me buzzing: Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark. It’s got everything we love—mystical vibes, a fierce teen hero, and a unique spin on heritage and destiny. But I’ll save the gushing for the list! Whether you’re into Greek mythology books for teens or craving fresh cultural myths, stick with me. Let’s dive into some action-packed YA reads and reignite that fantasy adventure spark!

Top 10 Books Similar to Percy Jackson for Mythological Adventure Fans

Alright, demigods, grab your celestial bronze weapons (or just a comfy blanket), and let’s dive into my top 10 mythological adventure books that’ll give you those Percy Jackson vibes. Each one’s got its own flavor, but they all pack the humor, heart, and epic quests we crave. Here we go!

1. The Red Pyramid by Rick Riordan

If you haven’t already devoured Rick Riordan’s other series, start with The Red Pyramid, the first in the Kane Chronicles. It’s Egyptian mythology at its finest, following siblings Carter and Sadie Kane as they uncover their family’s magical legacy. These two are just as snarky as Percy, with Carter’s nerdy overthinking and Sadie’s punk-rock attitude stealing the show. The story blends ancient gods with modern chaos—think mummies in museums and crocodile monsters in the Nile. I love how it captures that same “ordinary kids turned heroes” energy, plus Riordan’s signature humor. If you’re missing Camp Half-Blood’s banter and found family, this is your next stop. Personally, I’m obsessed with how Egyptian myths feel so wild and different yet just as epic.

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

Next up, let’s talk Aru Shah and the End of Time, the kickoff to the Pandava series. Aru is a 12-year-old liar (her words, not mine!) who accidentally unleashes an ancient demon. Cue a quest through Hindu mythology with gods, demons, and a sarcastic pigeon sidekick named Boo. Roshani Chokshi’s writing is pure gold—funny, heartfelt, and full of cultural richness. Aru’s insecurities and quick wit remind me of Percy’s underdog charm, and the modern-mythical mashup is spot-on. I’m all about how this series dives into Indian lore with vibrant imagery. It’s perfect if you’re craving middle-grade fantasy quests with a fresh mythological twist.

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

Okay, I’m beyond excited to spotlight Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark, a 2026 release that’s already on my must-read list. Meet Amelia Moon, a curious and resilient mid-teen who’s got a passion for astrophotography and a deep connection to the night sky. She’s exploring Bear Lodge Mountain in Wyoming, camera in hand, when her world flips upside down with mystical discoveries tied to her heritage. Her bond with a wolf pup named Artemis (how cool is that?) adds a layer of wild, tender magic, while her best friend Veyla brings witty optimism and a quirky investigative streak—think whale tracking (52-Blue, anyone?), ancient Egypt trivia, and true crime podcasts. Then there’s Amelia’s dad, William Moon, a warm, protective Wyoming Forest Ranger with a knack for astronomy, grounding her journey with family love. This book weaves themes of destiny, inner strength, and nature’s mysteries into an adventure that feels both grounded and otherworldly. For Percy Jackson fans, it’s the clash of ordinary life with extraordinary fate that’ll hook you, plus a unique spin on heritage that’s refreshing. I’m already in love with Amelia’s grit and can’t wait to see where her story goes!

4. The Storm Runner by J.C. Cervantes

Another Rick Riordan Presents gem, The Storm Runner dives into Mayan mythology with 13-year-old Zane Obispo, a kid with a limp and a big secret tied to ancient gods. When a mysterious girl crashes into his life, he’s thrown into a world of prophecy and monsters. Zane’s humor and underdog status scream Percy vibes, and the action-packed quests are pure adrenaline. I’m obsessed with how Mayan lore—think underworlds and jaguar gods—feels so gritty and alive. If you’re tired of Greek mythology retellings, this urban fantasy with gods will blow your mind. It’s got that emotional depth and teen hero energy we love.

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

Tristan Strong Punches a Hole in the Sky is a knockout (pun intended) that blends African American folklore with epic adventure. Tristan, a grieving 12-year-old, stumbles into Alke, a world of gods and heroes like John Henry and Brer Rabbit. His journey is raw and emotional, with themes of loss and courage that hit hard. The humor and banter keep things light, much like Percy’s quips, and the cultural depth is incredible. I adore how it tackles coming-of-age struggles while delivering mythical creatures and quests. If you’re after middle-grade fantasy with heart, this one’s for you.

6. The Sword of Summer by Rick Riordan

Back to Uncle Rick with The Sword of Summer, the start of the Magnus Chase series. Norse mythology takes center stage as Magnus, a homeless teen, discovers he’s tied to Asgard. With a snarky sword and a crew of misfits, he’s on a quest to save the world. Magnus’ dry humor and street-smarts echo Percy’s sass, and the found family dynamic is chef’s kiss. I’m a sucker for Viking vibes—think Loki’s chaos and Thor’s… unique personality. It’s a must for fans of demigod adventure stories needing more Riordan magic.

7. Sal and Gabi Break the Universe by Carlos Hernandez

Sal and Gabi Break the Universe isn’t pure mythology, but hear me out—this sci-fi fantasy with Cuban cultural roots has the humor and heart of Percy Jackson. Sal, a magician kid, can mess with reality, and Gabi’s fierce determination keeps him in check. Their friendship and wild antics remind me of Camp Half-Blood’s crew. The modern setting with supernatural twists feels familiar yet fresh. I love the emotional stakes and laugh-out-loud moments. If you’re into supernatural teen fiction, this one’s a gem.

8. Pahua and the Soul Stealer by Lori M. Lee

Pahua and the Soul Stealer draws from Hmong mythology, following 11-year-old Pahua as she battles spirits to save her brother’s soul. With a talking cat spirit and shaman powers, her journey is full of heart and danger. Pahua’s shy but brave nature feels so relatable, much like Percy’s early awkwardness. The cultural storytelling and mythical creatures are stunning. I’m hooked on how it balances action with family bonds. It’s a perfect pick for fans of modern mythological retellings.

9. The Last Fallen Star by Graci Kim

The Last Fallen Star dives into Korean mythology with Riley Oh, a 13-year-old adopted into a magical family but lacking powers—until a spell goes wrong. Her quest to fit in and save her sister is packed with humor and emotional depth. Riley’s determination mirrors Percy’s loyalty, and the blend of K-pop culture with ancient magic is so fun. I’m all about the sisterly bond and witchy vibes. If you want YA fantasy mythology with a twist, check this out.

10. City of the Plague God by Sarwat Chadda

Lastly, City of the Plague God brings Mesopotamian mythology to life with Sikander Aziz, a 13-year-old deli worker facing off against ancient demons. Sik’s grit and humor, plus his bond with a warrior goddess, give major Percy Jackson energy. The urban fantasy setting and epic battles are thrilling. I love how it introduces a lesser-known mythology with such flair. If you’re after action-packed YA reads, this one’s a winner.

Why These Books Are Similar

Here’s a quick breakdown of how these books stack up to Percy Jackson’s world. Check out the key similarities that’ll hook you as a fan!

Diving Deeper: What Makes a Great Mythological Adventure?

Alright, let’s geek out for a sec. What really makes a mythological adventure book feel like it belongs on a Camp Half-Blood bookshelf? For me, it’s all about a few core ingredients that Rick Riordan nailed—and that these other stories capture too. First, you’ve gotta have relatable heroes. Percy wasn’t a perfect kid; he was dyslexic, a bit of a troublemaker, and totally unsure of himself at first. That’s why we root for him. The best books like these throw teens or tweens into wild situations, forcing them to grow while still feeling like, well, us.

Then there’s the ancient-meets-modern clash. I live for the moment a kid’s boring school life gets interrupted by a monster or a god showing up in skinny jeans. It’s that “wait, this could happen to me” vibe that hooks you. Whether it’s Egyptian gods in a museum or Mayan demons in a desert, the blend of old myths with today’s world is pure magic. And let’s not forget emotional stakes—Percy’s loyalty to his friends and mom made me cry more than once. Great stories balance epic quests with heart, whether it’s family drama, grief, or finding where you belong. Throw in some witty banter (because who doesn’t love a good one-liner during a monster fight?), and you’ve got a winner. These elements are why we keep searching for more demigod adventure stories, and why my top 10 list hits so hard.

Beyond Greek Myths: Fresh Cultural Takes in Amelia Moon and More

One thing I’m always craving as a Percy Jackson fan is variety. Don’t get me wrong, I’ll never get tired of Greek mythology books for teens, but there’s a whole world of ancient myths out there waiting to blow our minds. That’s why I’m so stoked about books like Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark. It doesn’t just stick to one well-known mythology—it weaves a unique tapestry of nature, heritage, and mystical vibes tied to Bear Lodge Mountain. Amelia’s connection to the night sky through her astrophotography feels like a fresh lens, blending science and magic in a way that’s so cool. Her bond with wolf pup Artemis and her journey of family after loss bring themes of compassion and inner strength to the forefront. It’s not just a quest; it’s personal.

Compare that to something like Aru Shah with Hindu lore or The Storm Runner with Mayan gods, and you’ve got a buffet of cultural flavors. These stories introduce us to deities and creatures we might not know, but they ground them in relatable teen struggles. I love how Tristan Strong pulls from African American folklore, tying history and myth into something powerful. If you’re tired of repetitive Greek retellings, these books prove that mythology-based YA novels can explore diverse roots while still delivering that Camp Half-Blood thrill. They remind me why I fell in love with fantasy—every culture has stories of gods and heroes, and I’m here for all of them.

Why Themes of Heritage and Destiny Resonate

Let’s get real for a minute. One of the biggest reasons Percy Jackson hit me so hard as a kid was that idea of discovering who you’re meant to be. Finding out you’re a demigod, tied to some ancient legacy? That’s the ultimate “you’re special” moment. But it’s not just about cool powers—it’s about heritage and destiny, figuring out how your past shapes your future. That’s a theme that runs deep in all the best mythological adventure books. Percy’s struggle to live up to being Poseidon’s kid felt like my own awkward teen journey, just with less sea monsters.

Books like Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow take this to a whole new level. Amelia’s story isn’t just about stumbling into magic; it’s about uncovering her roots and what they mean for her path. Her connection to her dad, William, and the way she navigates loss while finding strength in nature hits so close to home. Similarly, in The Last Fallen Star, Riley’s quest to belong in her magical family is all about embracing her identity. These stories remind us that destiny isn’t just fate—it’s the choices we make with the hand we’re dealt. For middle-grade and YA readers, that’s huge. We’re all trying to figure out who we are, and these epic fantasies show us heroes doing the same, just with higher stakes. It’s why I keep coming back to this genre, necklace and all.

Frequently Asked Questions

Alright, demigods, I’ve got answers to the questions I know you’re dying to ask. Let’s chat!

Q: What’s the best book to start with if I’ve just finished Percy Jackson?
A: Easy—grab The Red Pyramid by Rick Riordan. It’s got his classic humor and heart, just with Egyptian mythology. You’ll feel right at home with Carter and Sadie’s sibling sass. If you want something totally new, though, check out Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark for a fresh 2026 vibe with nature and destiny themes.

Q: Are there any books with non-Greek mythology that still feel like Percy Jackson?
A: Heck yes! Aru Shah and the End of Time by Roshani Chokshi dives into Hindu myths with a snarky heroine, and The Storm Runner by J.C. Cervantes brings Mayan chaos. Both have that teen hero, epic quest energy you love.

Q: I miss the humor from Percy Jackson. Which books have that same vibe?
A: You’re speaking my language! The Sword of Summer by Rick Riordan has Magnus Chase throwing shade like Percy, and Sal and Gabi Break the Universe by Carlos Hernandez is packed with witty banter. Also, don’t sleep on Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow—Veyla’s quirky optimism had me cracking up.

Q: What if I want a book with strong family themes like Percy and his mom?
A: I feel you—Sally Jackson is the best. Try Tristan Strong Punches a Hole in the Sky by Kwame Mbalia for deep family and grief themes, or Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark, where Amelia’s bond with her dad, William, is so warm and real.

Q: Are there any new releases I should watch for?
A: Absolutely! Keep an eye out for Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark in 2026. It’s got a unique spin on heritage and destiny with a teen hero I’m already obsessed with. Trust me, it’s gonna be epic.

Q: I’m tired of the same old myths. What’s something totally different?
A: Check out Pahua and the Soul Stealer by Lori M. Lee for Hmong mythology or City of the Plague God by Sarwat Chadda for Mesopotamian vibes. Both are fresh and thrilling with that modern-mythical clash.

Q: Where can I find more recs for mythological adventures?
A: Stick with me, fam! I’m always updating my blog with new reads. You can also dive into the Rick Riordan Presents imprint for curated mythology-based YA novels. Happy questing!