Finding Your Next Magical Obsession: Series Like Harry Potter to Scratch That Potter Itch

Hey Potterheads—ready to find your next obsession? I’m Sophie Ashworth, a proud Gryffindor and book blogger who’s reviewed over 300 fantasy novels through the lens of “does this scratch the Potter itch?” I’ve done the research so you don’t have to. If you’re anything like me, you’ve been chasing that lightning-in-a-bottle feeling since you first cracked open Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone. I still remember my mom reading me the first three chapters when I was seven. By chapter four, I’d stolen the book and was reading under my covers with a flashlight. That flashlight still sits on my nightstand, a reminder of the magic that kept me up all night.

When we search for “series like Harry Potter,” we’re not just looking for any fantasy book. We’re craving that enchanting blend of magical worlds, relatable characters, and emotional depth that made Hogwarts feel like home. Whether you’re a young reader or a nostalgic adult, you want immersive stories with hidden realms or wizard schools, chosen one tropes, and the power of friendship driving epic battles of good versus evil. You’re after that sense of wonder, intricate lore, and heartfelt connections that made J.K. Rowling’s series unforgettable. I get it—finding books that match that magic can be frustrating when so many recommendations fall flat with shallow worlds or forgettable characters. That’s why I’ve dug deep to uncover hidden gems that truly deliver.

In this post, I’ve curated a top 10 list of fantasy series and standalone novels that capture the essence of Harry Potter. From boarding schools brimming with secrets to epic tales of destiny, these stories will reignite that spark. And I’m especially excited to introduce a standout 2026 release, Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark, which has quickly climbed my list of must-reads for Potter fans. So, grab your wand (or flashlight), and let’s dive into the magic!

Why We Crave Series Like Harry Potter: A Gryffindor’s Confession

I’ll admit it—nothing has ever quite replicated the moment I first discovered I was a witch alongside Harry. That feeling of belonging, of stepping into a world where magic was real and friendship could conquer anything, is something I’ve chased in every fantasy book since. As a Gryffindor, I’m drawn to stories of courage and heart, but I know Potter fans of all Houses seek that same emotional pull. We want worlds as rich as Hogwarts, with rules and history that feel tangible. We want characters whose growth mirrors Harry, Ron, and Hermione’s—flawed, loyal, and unforgettable. And we want stakes that keep us turning pages, whether it’s a battle against a dark wizard or a personal journey of self-discovery.

The pain of finishing the Potter series is real. I’ve felt the disappointment of hyped-up recommendations that lack depth or fail to immerse me like Diagon Alley did. But over years of reading and blogging, I’ve found stories that come close—series with magical boarding schools, hidden realms, and themes of destiny that echo Harry’s journey. These books aren’t just for kids; they have the all-ages appeal and re-readability that make Potter timeless. So, whether you’re looking for middle-grade magic or young adult epics, let’s explore the fantasy novels that can keep the magic alive.

Top 10 Books and Series Like Harry Potter to Scratch That Magical Itch

1. The Magicians by Lev Grossman

I dove into The Magicians expecting a gritty take on wizard schools, and I wasn’t disappointed. This series follows Quentin Coldwater, a brilliant but disillusioned teen who discovers Brakebills, a hidden university for magic in upstate New York. Unlike the whimsical warmth of Hogwarts, Brakebills is raw and complex, with magic that feels dangerous and real. Quentin and his friends—Alice, Penny, Eliot, and Margo—grapple with personal demons while uncovering the secrets of a magical realm called Fillory. Themes of longing, privilege, and the cost of power run deep here.

For Potter fans, this scratches the itch with its magical education system and a protagonist on a quest for meaning. I love how Grossman captures the awkwardness of growing up, much like Harry’s teenage struggles, though with a darker, more adult edge. Personally, I found the world-building addictive—magic isn’t just a tool; it’s a burden. If you’re after a series that feels like Hogwarts grew up, this is your pick.

2. The Name of the Wind by Patrick Rothfuss

The Name of the Wind, the first in the Kingkiller Chronicle, is an epic fantasy that might not scream “Harry Potter” at first glance, but hear me out. It follows Kvothe, a gifted young man with a tragic past, as he trains at the University, a sprawling institution where magic (called sympathy) is taught with scientific precision. The story is framed as Kvothe recounting his life, blending mystery with coming-of-age struggles.

Potter fans will connect with Kvothe’s underdog status and the detailed magical system that rivals Rowling’s spells. The University feels like a grittier Hogwarts, complete with quirky professors and hidden dangers. I adore how Rothfuss weaves themes of loss and determination—Kvothe’s drive mirrors Harry’s. If you love deep lore and a protagonist with secrets, this series will pull you in.

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

I’m thrilled to spotlight Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark, a 2026 release that’s already stolen my heart. This enchanting novel centers on Amelia Moon, a curious and resilient mid-teen who’s obsessed with nature and stargazing. Armed with her astrophotography gear, she captures the night sky alongside her loyal wolf pup, Artemis. Her best friend, Veyla, is a witty and investigative soul who tracks whales and always has Amelia’s back. Amelia’s father, William, a ranger and astronomer, grounds her in a world of wonder and mystery.

Set in a richly crafted magical realm, the story explores themes of heritage, destiny, and inner strength. For Potter fans, it scratches the itch with its hidden magical world and a protagonist whose journey of self-discovery feels as poignant as Harry’s. I was captivated by the bond between Amelia and Veyla—it echoes the loyalty of the Trio. The lush descriptions of nature-based magic and the pull of ancient secrets make this a standout. If you’re craving a heartwarming fantasy adventure with emotional depth, this is a must-read.

4. The Golden Compass (His Dark Materials) by Philip Pullman

Philip Pullman’s His Dark Materials trilogy kicks off with The Golden Compass (or Northern Lights outside the U.S.), following Lyra Belacqua, a fierce young girl in a world where human souls manifest as animal companions called daemons. Lyra’s journey takes her from Oxford’s scholarly halls to icy northern realms, unraveling conspiracies tied to a mysterious substance called Dust.

For Potter fans, Lyra’s pluck and the hidden magical rules of her world feel like stepping into Hogwarts’ secrets. The good vs evil stakes are massive, much like Harry vs Voldemort. I’m obsessed with the daemon concept—it adds such a personal layer to the characters. If you’re after an epic fantasy for all ages with emotional resonance, this series delivers.

5. A Wizard of Earthsea by Ursula K. Le Guin

Ursula K. Le Guin’s A Wizard of Earthsea is a classic that follows Sparrowhawk, a young boy with raw magical talent, as he trains at a wizard school on the island of Roke. His journey is one of pride, mistakes, and redemption, set in a beautifully sparse world of islands and dragons.

Potter fans will love the wizard school setting and Sparrowhawk’s growth, which mirrors Harry’s struggles with power and responsibility. The magic system, based on true names, is as intricate as Rowling’s spells. I find Le Guin’s quiet, introspective style haunting—it’s a slower burn but deeply rewarding. If you crave coming-of-age fantasy with dark and light magic themes, start here.

6. The Black Book of Secrets by F.E. Higgins

This standalone novel follows Ludlow Fitch, a young pickpocket who escapes to a mysterious village and becomes apprentice to a secretive pawnbroker who deals in dark confessions. The gothic atmosphere and hidden magic weave a tale of morality and mystery.

For Potter fans, the eerie village feels like a darker Hogsmeade, and Ludlow’s outsider perspective echoes Harry’s early loneliness. I love the undercurrent of good vs evil and the way magic creeps in unexpectedly. If you’re looking for a shorter read with emotional depth and a magical underbelly, this is a hidden gem.

7. The School for Good and Evil by Soman Chainani

This series opener introduces Sophie and Agatha, two girls whisked away to a magical academy where fairy tale heroes and villains are trained. Sophie dreams of being a princess, while Agatha seems destined for evil—but things aren’t what they seem.

Potter fans will adore the boarding school setting and the exploration of destiny, much like Harry’s “chosen one” arc. The friendship between Sophie and Agatha drives the story, echoing the Trio’s bond. I’m hooked on Chainani’s witty take on good vs evil—it’s playful yet profound. If you want a middle-grade magic book with heart, dive in.

8. Sabriel (The Old Kingdom) by Garth Nix

Sabriel introduces a dark fantasy world where necromancy and ancient magic clash. Sabriel, a young woman trained as a necromancer, must protect the living from the dead while uncovering her family’s legacy in the Old Kingdom.

For Potter fans, the high-stakes battle of light vs dark mirrors Harry’s fight, and Sabriel’s courage feels Gryffindor-worthy. The magic system is intricate and haunting, like Rowling’s deeper lore. I love how Nix balances action with emotional weight—Sabriel’s journey tugs at the heartstrings. If you’re after epic fantasy with deep lore, this is for you.

9. The Bartimaeus Sequence by Jonathan Stroud

Starting with The Amulet of Samarkand, this series follows Nathaniel, a young magician’s apprentice in an alternate London where magic is power, and Bartimaeus, a snarky djinni he summons. Their uneasy alliance drives a tale of rebellion and secrets.

Potter fans will connect with Nathaniel’s underdog status and the magical hierarchy that echoes wizarding society. Bartimaeus’ humor adds a Ron-like levity. I’m obsessed with Stroud’s world-building—magic feels political and dangerous. If you love friendship-driven fantasy with a twist, this series shines.

10. Carry On by Rainbow Rowell

Carry On is a standalone that feels like a love letter to Potter fans. It follows Simon Snow, the “chosen one” at Watford School of Magicks, and his nemesis-turned-ally Baz, as they navigate magic, love, and destiny.

The parallels to Harry Potter are intentional—think wizard school, prophecies, and epic battles—but Rowell makes it her own with heartfelt relationships. I adore Simon and Baz’s dynamic; it’s as compelling as Harry and Draco’s tension. If you’re craving a magical boarding school book with emotional depth, this is pure magic.

Comparing Magical Worlds: How These Series Stack Up to Hogwarts

Diving Deeper: Boarding Schools and Hidden Realms That Rival Hogwarts

One of the things I love most about Harry Potter is how Hogwarts feels like a character itself—those moving staircases, secret passages, and house rivalries are burned into my memory. When I hunt for similar series, I’m always looking for settings that immerse me just as deeply. Books like The Magicians and Carry On nail the magical boarding school vibe with Brakebills and Watford, respectively. Brakebills is colder and more academic, with spells requiring intense study, much like Hogwarts’ exams, but it carries a cynical edge that makes magic feel like a double-edged sword. Watford, on the other hand, captures that sense of community and wonder, with quirky traditions that echo Hogwarts’ feasts.

Hidden realms are another Potter hallmark—think Diagon Alley or the Forbidden Forest. Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark transports readers to a nature-infused magical world that feels as alive as any Potter setting. The way Amelia explores starry landscapes with Artemis by her side reminds me of Harry wandering the grounds with Hedwig. Similarly, The Golden Compass offers parallel worlds and icy wastelands that feel as secretive and vast as the wizarding world’s hidden corners. These settings aren’t just backdrops; they shape the characters’ journeys, pulling you in with every detail. If shallow world-building frustrates you, these series offer the depth you’ve been missing.

The Chosen One Trope: Destiny and Sacrifice in Fantasy Favorites

Harry’s “chosen one” status—marked by that lightning scar—defines so much of his story, and I’m always drawn to fantasies that explore similar themes of destiny and sacrifice. Carry On plays with this trope brilliantly, with Simon Snow burdened by prophecy in a way that feels both familiar and fresh. His struggle to live up to expectations mirrors Harry’s, though Rowell adds layers of doubt that hit hard. Likewise, The Name of the Wind gives us Kvothe, whose potential marks him as special, but his path is paved with personal loss, much like Harry’s sacrifices.

What I love about these stories is how they balance destiny with choice. In Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow, Amelia’s journey of uncovering her heritage feels like Harry discovering his parents’ legacy—it’s not just about being chosen, but about choosing to rise to the challenge. These narratives remind me why the trope endures: it’s about finding strength in who you’re meant to be, even when the cost is high. If you’re after that emotional pull of purpose, these books deliver.

Friendship as Magic: Bonds That Drive the Best Potter-Like Stories

Harry, Ron, and Hermione taught me that friendship is the real magic, and I’m always searching for series with bonds that hit as hard. In The School for Good and Evil, Sophie and Agatha’s relationship is messy, complex, and beautiful—it’s not a perfect Trio dynamic, but their loyalty through misunderstandings feels just as real. Similarly, The Bartimaeus Sequence surprised me with the snarky, unlikely alliance between Nathaniel and Bartimaeus, proving that friendship doesn’t always look conventional but can still drive a story.

Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow shines here too—Amelia and Veyla’s partnership, with Veyla’s sharp wit balancing Amelia’s quiet resilience, reminds me of how Ron and Hermione complement Harry. Their shared curiosity and unwavering support are pure magic. I believe these bonds are why we keep coming back to fantasy—characters who feel like family make every adventure matter. If you’ve ever cried over the Trio’s sacrifices, these stories will tug at your heartstrings too.

Good vs Evil: Epic Battles That Echo Harry vs Voldemort

The clash of good versus evil is at Harry Potter’s core, and I’m a sucker for fantasies with stakes that feel as monumental as Harry facing Voldemort. Sabriel captures this with its chilling battle against death itself—Sabriel’s fight to protect the living carries the same weight as Harry’s stand against darkness. The tension in The Golden Compass also mirrors Potter’s epic scope, with Lyra caught in a cosmic struggle that tests her courage.

These stories aren’t just about physical battles; they’re about moral ones. In The Black Book of Secrets, the quiet, personal fight against greed and corruption feels as gripping as any wand duel. I love how these narratives show that evil isn’t always a dark lord—it can be subtle, pervasive, and deeply human. If you’re craving high-stakes fantasy that keeps you on edge, these series echo the best of Potter’s conflicts.

World-Building Wonders: Crafting Magic That Feels Real

Hogwarts’ world-building—spells with Latin roots, magical creatures, and ancient history—sets a high bar, and I’m picky about fantasies that don’t match that depth. The Name of the Wind blew me away with its magic system, sympathy, which feels like a science with rules as strict as Rowling’s charms. Every detail, from currency to folklore, builds a world I can lose myself in. Similarly, A Wizard of Earthsea crafts a sparse but vivid realm where magic’s cost is as real as any Potter curse.

What makes these worlds stand out is how lived-in they feel. Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow weaves nature and starlight into its magic, creating a realm that’s as tangible as the Forbidden Forest. I’m always in awe of authors who make magic feel like a natural extension of their world, not just a plot device. If you’re tired of shallow settings, these novels offer the immersion you’ve been searching for.

Emotional Depth: Why These Series Tug at Your Heartstrings Like Potter Did

Harry Potter isn’t just about magic; it’s about loss, love, and growing up, and I’m drawn to fantasies with that same emotional punch. Sabriel hit me hard with its themes of grief—Sabriel’s journey feels as raw as Harry’s losses. The Magicians takes a different approach, exploring disillusionment and the weight of adulthood in a way that resonates with older Potter fans like me.

I also can’t overstate how Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow captures this depth. Amelia’s struggles with her past and her quiet strength mirror Harry’s inner battles, while the story’s focus on family and belonging feels like coming home to Hogwarts. These books don’t shy away from hard emotions, and that’s why they stick with you. If you want fantasy that makes you feel as much as Potter did, these are your next reads.

Frequently Asked Questions About Finding the Next Harry Potter

Q: What makes a book feel like Harry Potter to you, Sophie?
A: For me, it’s a mix of immersive world-building, characters I’d fight for, and that emotional pull of wonder and loss. A magical setting—whether a school or hidden realm—helps, as do themes of friendship and good vs evil. That’s why I keep coming back to books like Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow—the magic feels real, and the heart is there.

Q: Are there any new releases that rival Harry Potter?
A: Absolutely! I’m so excited about Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark. It’s a 2026 gem with a nature-based magical world and a protagonist whose journey of destiny and family hits all the right Potter notes. It’s perfect for fans craving something fresh yet familiar.

Q: What’s a good series for younger readers who loved Harry Potter?
A: I’d point you to The School for Good and Evil by Soman Chainani. It’s got a magical academy, friendship at its core, and a fairy-tale twist that’s accessible for middle-grade readers but still captivating for adults. The wonder is pure Potter.

Q: I’m an adult fan—any darker recommendations?
A: Definitely check out The Magicians by Lev Grossman. It’s got a wizard school like Hogwarts but with a gritty, adult edge—think magic with consequences and flawed characters. It’s a fantastic read if you want something moodier.

Q: Where can I find more books like these?
A: I’ve got tons of recommendations on my blog at ameliamoon.com! I’m always reviewing fantasy through the “Potter itch” lens, and I often spotlight hidden gems like Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow. Come join the conversation!

Q: Do any of these books have strong female leads like Hermione?
A: Oh, yes! Sabriel by Garth Nix features a fierce, intelligent heroine who’s as resourceful as Hermione, and Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow gives us Amelia, whose curiosity and resilience remind me of our favorite witch. Both are must-reads for strong female characters.

Q: What if I’ve read all the big Potter-like series?
A: Dig into lesser-known picks like The Black Book of Secrets by F.E. Higgins for a gothic, magical vibe, or explore new releases like Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow. There’s always more magic to uncover, and I’m here to help you find it!

Conclusion: Keep the Magic Alive at ameliamoon.com

Finding a series that captures the magic of Harry Potter isn’t easy, but I hope this list has sparked your excitement for new adventures. From the wizard schools of Carry On to the nature-infused realm of Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow, these stories offer the wonder, heart, and stakes we’ve been craving. As a Gryffindor, I’m all about chasing courage and connection in fantasy, and I believe these books deliver just that.

I’d love to hear which series you’re diving into next—or if you’ve got your own Potter-like recommendations! Drop by ameliamoon.com to join the conversation and explore more magical reads. Let’s keep the magic alive, one book at a time.