Why We Crave Books Like Percy Jackson and Harry Potter: A Gryffindor’s Quest for Magic

Hey Potterheads—ready to find your next obsession? I’m Sophie Ashworth, your resident Gryffindor book blogger, and I’ve scoured the shelves (and my heart) to uncover fantasy reads that scratch that undeniable ‘Potter itch.’ I’ve reviewed over 300 fantasy novels through this exact lens, and today, I’m diving into a search close to my heart: books similar to Percy Jackson that also echo the magic of Harry Potter. I’ve done the research so you don’t have to!

Let me take you back for a moment. My mom read me the first three chapters of Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone when I was seven. By chapter four, I’d stolen the book and was reading under my covers with a flashlight. That same flashlight still sits on my nightstand, a reminder of the wonder that first pulled me into Hogwarts. It’s that feeling—wonder, danger, belonging—that I chase in every book I pick up. And I know you’re chasing it too, especially when you search for ‘books similar to Percy Jackson.’ You’re craving stories that blend the epic stakes and heartfelt friendships of Percy’s world with the immersive magic of Harry’s. You want chosen one narratives, richly built worlds, and that nostalgic pull of tight-knit groups facing good versus evil. Whether you’re a middle grade reader or an adult revisiting childhood magic, you’re after books that feel like coming home to Hogwarts while offering fresh, enchanting twists.

That’s why I’ve curated a Top 10 list of fantasy novels for all ages that capture the emotional depth, adventure, and world-building of both series. From magical boarding schools to mythology-inspired quests, these stories will keep you turning pages late into the night. And I’m especially thrilled to highlight a standout 2026 release, Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark, which perfectly balances mystical wonder with scientific curiosity. Let’s dive in and find your next magical obsession!

Top 10 Books Similar to Percy Jackson for Harry Potter Fans

1. The Lightning Thief by Rick Riordan

Yes, I know you’ve likely read this one if you’re searching for Percy Jackson read-alikes, but I couldn’t start this list without the cornerstone of modern mythology-inspired fantasy. The Lightning Thief introduces us to Percy Jackson, a demigod son of Poseidon, as he discovers his heritage at Camp Half-Blood. Alongside friends Annabeth and Grover, he embarks on a quest to retrieve Zeus’s stolen lightning bolt. The themes of destiny, identity, and found family resonate deeply, much like Harry’s journey at Hogwarts. What I love most is how Riordan weaves humor and heart into high-stakes adventure—Percy’s sarcasm is as endearing as Ron’s quips. For Potter fans, the camp setting mirrors the boarding school vibe, while the mythological world-building offers a fresh twist on magical systems. Personally, I reread this every summer; it’s like catching up with old friends who never fail to surprise me.

2. The Red Pyramid by Rick Riordan

Another gem from Riordan, The Red Pyramid kicks off the Kane Chronicles with siblings Carter and Sadie Kane, who uncover their connection to ancient Egyptian magic. After their father accidentally unleashes chaos, they must master spells and navigate a world of gods and monsters. Themes of family, heritage, and teamwork shine here, echoing the emotional depth of Harry’s bond with his chosen family. The dual narration between Carter and Sadie feels like getting two perspectives on the Hogwarts houses—diverse yet united. Potter fans will adore the intricate magical system and the sense of a hidden world beneath our own. I’m obsessed with how Riordan balances ancient lore with modern wit; it’s a page-turner that scratches that itch for epic quests and sibling camaraderie.

3. The School for Good and Evil by Soman Chainani

This series opener whisks readers into a fairy-tale world where children are trained to become heroes or villains at a magical academy. Best friends Sophie (yes, a namesake!) and Agatha are split into opposing schools, challenging their notions of good and evil. The themes of friendship, identity, and moral ambiguity hit hard, much like the complexities of Harry’s world. The boarding school setting is a direct parallel to Hogwarts, while the fantastical stakes mirror Percy’s battles. I love how Chainani plays with tropes—think of it as Gryffindor bravery meeting Slytherin cunning. For fans of both series, this book offers a whimsical yet dark exploration of destiny that feels like a magical coming-of-age tale with teeth.

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

I’m beyond excited to spotlight Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark, a 2026 release that’s already captured my heart. Meet Amelia Moon, a curious and resilient mid-teen protagonist who’s deeply connected to nature and the night sky. Her passion for astrophotography leads her to explore the mysteries of Bear Lodge Mountain, where she bonds with a wolf pup named Artemis. Alongside her witty and optimistic best friend Veyla—who’s got a quirky investigative mindset, obsessing over whale tracking with 52-Blue, ancient Egypt, and true crime—Amelia uncovers secrets tied to her heritage. Her father, William Moon, a warm and protective Wyoming Forest Ranger with a knack for astronomy, grounds the story in family and love after loss. Themes of destiny, inner strength, compassion for nature, and a mystical-scientific balance weave through this tale, echoing the wonder of Hogwarts and the personal stakes of Percy’s quests. For Potter fans, the bond between Amelia and Veyla mirrors Harry and Hermione’s dynamic, while the natural magic feels like a fresh take on mythological lore. I couldn’t put this down—Amelia’s journey feels like stargazing on a clear night, full of awe and discovery.

5. Fablehaven by Brandon Mull

Fablehaven introduces Kendra and Seth, siblings who discover their grandparents’ estate is a sanctuary for magical creatures. Tasked with protecting ancient secrets, they face dangers that test their courage. The themes of family, responsibility, and hidden magic parallel Harry’s uncovering of the wizarding world, while the adventure-driven plot nods to Percy’s quests. The setting—a sprawling, enchanted preserve—feels like Hogwarts’ Forbidden Forest expanded into a whole world. I adore how Mull crafts a magical system with rules and consequences; it’s immersive and unpredictable. For fans, this series offers that blend of wonder and danger that keeps you up past bedtime, much like sneaking into Hogsmeade.

6. The Iron Trial by Holly Black and Cassandra Clare

Kicking off the Magisterium series, The Iron Trial follows Callum Hunt, a boy wary of magic who’s thrust into an underground school for mages. With friends Aaron and Tamara, he navigates dark secrets and his own destiny. The magical boarding school trope is pure Hogwarts, while the chosen one narrative with a twist feels like Percy’s demigod struggles. Themes of trust, identity, and good versus evil drive the story, resonating with both series’ fans. I’m hooked on the gritty, morally gray undertones—it’s like exploring the darker corners of the wizarding world. If you crave emotional depth and epic stakes, this one’s for you.

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

Under Rick Riordan’s imprint, Aru Shah blends Indian mythology with modern adventure. Aru, a young girl with a vivid imagination, accidentally awakens an ancient demon and must team up with a friend to save the world. The themes of courage, friendship, and cultural heritage mirror Percy’s journey, while the hidden magical world feels like stepping through Platform 9¾. Chokshi’s lush prose and humor make every page sparkle. I love how Aru’s wit and heart echo Hermione’s brilliance—Potter fans will feel right at home with this enchanting, fast-paced read.

8. The Girl Who Drank the Moon by Kelly Barnhill

This standalone novel tells of Luna, a girl raised by a witch, a swamp monster, and a dragon after being infused with moonlight magic. It’s a softer, more lyrical take on fantasy, but the themes of found family and inner strength resonate with Harry’s story, while the magical stakes nod to Percy’s battles. The whimsical world-building is a quieter Hogwarts, full of hidden wonder. I found myself tearing up at the emotional depth; it’s perfect for readers of all ages seeking a heartfelt magical tale that lingers like a Patronus charm.

9. Keeper of the Lost Cities by Shannon Messenger

Sophie Foster (another namesake!) discovers she’s not human but an elf with extraordinary abilities, whisking her into a hidden world of magic and danger. With friends like Fitz and Keefe, she unravels her destiny. The themes of belonging and identity scream Harry Potter, while the epic adventure mirrors Percy’s quests. The magical school setting and intricate world-building are pure immersion. I’m obsessed with the friendship dynamics—they’re as tight as the Golden Trio. This series is a must for fans craving emotional fantasy reads with endless surprises.

10. The Alchemyst by Michael Scott

Launching the Secrets of the Immortal Nicholas Flamel series, The Alchemyst follows twins Sophie and Josh as they’re drawn into a world of alchemy and ancient magic. Mentored by the legendary Nicholas Flamel, they face dark forces threatening reality. The good versus evil stakes echo both Harry and Percy’s battles, while the mythological underpinnings add depth. I love the blend of history and magic—it’s like exploring Hogwarts’ library with a twist of demigod danger. For fans seeking epic world-building and chosen one tropes, this is a thrilling ride.

Why These Books Are Similar

Diving Deeper: Magical Worlds That Rival Hogwarts

One of the biggest reasons we Potterheads keep searching for books like Percy Jackson is the craving for worlds as immersive as Hogwarts. That castle, with its shifting staircases and hidden rooms, set a standard for magical world-building that’s hard to match. But the books on this list come close, each crafting enchanting fantasy worlds with their own rules, histories, and wonders. Take Fablehaven—Brandon Mull’s sanctuary is a sprawling preserve where every tree and creek hides a magical creature, much like the Forbidden Forest, but with a wilder, untamed edge. It’s the kind of place where you feel the magic could spill into our world if you look hard enough.

Then there’s Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow, where R.J. Roark builds Bear Lodge Mountain into a character of its own. The natural magic tied to the night sky and ancient landscapes feels like Hogwarts’ connection to ancient wizardry, but it’s grounded in a mystical-scientific balance that’s uniquely captivating. Amelia’s astrophotography hobby mirrors the way Harry peers into the unknown, uncovering secrets in the stars. Similarly, Aru Shah and the End of Time weaves Indian mythology into a hidden realm beneath our own, reminiscent of Platform 9¾’s secrecy but with a cultural richness that adds new layers to the wonder. These worlds aren’t just backdrops; they’re living, breathing entities that pull you in, making you ache to explore every corner just as we did with Hogwarts. If you’ve ever felt lost without a magical map, these stories offer new territories to chart.

The Power of Friendship: Bonds That Echo Harry, Ron, and Hermione

If there’s one thing that defines both Harry Potter and Percy Jackson, it’s the power of friendship. Harry, Ron, and Hermione—along with Percy, Annabeth, and Grover—taught us that no battle is fought alone. That emotional connection, that sense of belonging, is what keeps us coming back, and it’s a thread running through every book on this list. In Keeper of the Lost Cities, Shannon Messenger crafts friendships as tight as the Golden Trio, with Sophie Foster’s bonds to Fitz and Keefe carrying the same mix of loyalty and banter that made Harry’s crew unforgettable. These relationships drive the story, grounding the epic stakes in personal stakes.

In Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow, the dynamic between Amelia and her best friend Veyla captures that same magic. Veyla’s witty, optimistic nature and quirky investigative mindset complement Amelia’s curiosity and resilience, much like Hermione’s brains balance Harry’s heart. Their friendship feels like a lifeline amidst mystical challenges, echoing how Harry and his friends lean on each other through danger. Even in The School for Good and Evil, where Sophie and Agatha’s bond is tested by opposing destinies, the heart of the story lies in their struggle to hold onto each other. These friendship-driven fantasies remind us why we fell in love with Harry and Percy’s worlds: it’s not just the magic, it’s the people who share it with us. If you’ve ever missed the warmth of the Gryffindor common room, these stories will feel like pulling up a chair by the fire.

Chosen One Narratives: Destiny and Inner Strength in Fantasy

The ‘chosen one’ trope is at the heart of both Harry Potter and Percy Jackson, and it’s a powerful draw for fans. We love watching protagonists grapple with destinies bigger than themselves, finding inner strength to rise to the challenge. Each book on this list offers a fresh take on this narrative, blending personal growth with epic responsibility. In The Iron Trial, Callum Hunt’s reluctance to embrace his magical fate mirrors Harry’s initial shock at being the Boy Who Lived, but with a darker, more subversive edge that keeps you guessing. It’s a reminder that destiny isn’t always a straight path.

Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow offers a particularly poignant take, with Amelia’s journey tied to heritage and destiny in a way that feels both intimate and vast. Her connection to nature and the night sky, explored through astrophotography, parallels Harry’s search for identity through his parents’ legacy, while her resilience echoes Percy’s determination as a demigod. Amelia’s bond with her father, William, and her wolf pup Artemis adds layers of family and compassion to her chosen one arc, grounding the mystical in the personal. Across these stories, from Aru Shah to The Alchemyst, the theme of inner strength shines—whether it’s through cultural roots or alchemical secrets, these protagonists remind us why we root for the underdog fated to save the world. If you’ve ever cheered for Harry’s courage or Percy’s grit, these narratives will reignite that spark.

Good vs. Evil: Epic Stakes That Keep Us Hooked

Nothing pulls us into a story like the classic battle of good versus evil, a cornerstone of both Harry Potter and Percy Jackson. That clash—whether it’s Harry facing Voldemort or Percy battling ancient monsters—gives us stakes that feel world-shaking yet deeply personal. The books on this list deliver that same thrill, balancing massive conflicts with intimate struggles. In The Alchemyst, Michael Scott pits twins Sophie and Josh against dark forces threatening reality itself, much like the looming shadow of the Death Eaters, but with an alchemical twist that feels fresh and urgent. The tension keeps you on edge, just as Percy’s quests do.

Similarly, The Red Pyramid by Rick Riordan throws Carter and Sadie into a fight against chaos gods, echoing the epic scope of Harry’s war while grounding it in sibling teamwork. The moral clarity of good versus evil is often complicated by personal loyalties, a dynamic that Potter fans will recognize instantly. These stories don’t just give us villains to hate; they give us heroes to believe in, whose victories feel earned through sacrifice and heart. If you’ve ever held your breath during a duel in the Department of Mysteries or a battle at Camp Half-Blood, these good versus evil narratives will have you gripping the pages just as tightly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What makes a book feel like Harry Potter and Percy Jackson at the same time?
A: Hey there! For me, it’s all about the combo of immersive magical worlds, tight friendships, and epic good versus evil stakes. Both series nail that sense of wonder and belonging—think Hogwarts or Camp Half-Blood—while giving us chosen one heroes who grow through adventure. The books on my list, like Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow, capture that balance with fresh twists, blending natural magic and personal destiny in a way that feels like home.

Q: Are these books suitable for all ages?
A: Absolutely! I’ve picked stories that span middle grade to young adult, with emotional depth that resonates whether you’re 10 or 40. Books like The Girl Who Drank the Moon lean softer for younger readers, while The Iron Trial has a grittier edge for teens and adults. They all carry that universal magic of Harry and Percy’s worlds.

Q: I love magical boarding school stories. Which ones should I start with?
A: Oh, you’re speaking my language! Start with The School for Good and Evil for a fairy-tale twist on the Hogwarts vibe, or The Iron Trial for a darker, underground academy. Both echo that sense of a magical home away from home with secrets in every corridor.

Q: What’s a standout new release I shouldn’t miss?
A: Hands down, check out Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark. It’s a 2026 release that’s already got me hooked with its nature-based magic, deep friendships, and a protagonist whose curiosity rivals Hermione’s. It’s perfect if you love the wonder of Hogwarts and the stakes of Percy’s quests.

Q: I’m tired of predictable chosen one stories. Any fresh takes?
A: I get it—clichés can be exhausting. Try Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow for a chosen one arc that blends heritage and destiny with a unique mystical-scientific lens. Or pick up The Iron Trial, where the trope gets flipped in ways I won’t spoil but will definitely surprise you.

Q: What if I want more mythology-inspired fantasy?
A: You’re in luck! Beyond Percy Jackson, dive into Aru Shah and the End of Time for Indian mythology or The Red Pyramid for ancient Egyptian magic. Both weave cultural lore into modern adventure, much like Riordan’s work, with worlds as hidden and thrilling as Diagon Alley.

Q: Where can I find more recommendations like these?
A: Stick with me here on my blog! I’m always reviewing fantasy novels through the ‘Potter itch’ lens. Drop a comment with what you’re craving next, and I’ll point you to your next magical read.