Why We’re Still Chasing That Hogwarts Magic: A Ravenclaw’s Confession

Welcome back, fellow witches and wizards, demigods, and dreamers of hidden worlds! I’m Maya Chen, a self-proclaimed Ravenclaw with a penchant for dusty tomes and magical adventures. I remember the exact spot in my school library where I first opened Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone. Chapter one, page one, and suddenly I was home—sitting cross-legged on a faded blue carpet, surrounded by the hum of fluorescent lights, but feeling like I’d just stepped through Platform 9¾. That sense of belonging, of wonder, of finding a world where I fit, has haunted me ever since. And if you’re here, searching for “book series like Percy Jackson” with that same Harry Potter-shaped hole in your heart, I’m guessing you know exactly what I mean.

We’re not just looking for books. We’re chasing that lightning-in-a-bottle feeling of magical boarding schools, epic quests, and friendships that feel like family. We want hidden worlds where teen protagonists battle dark forces, wrestle with destiny, and grow into themselves—stories that echo the halls of Hogwarts or the cabins of Camp Half-Blood. As grown-up Potterheads (and Riordan fans!), we crave that nostalgia, but we also yearn for fresh twists that keep the magic alive for YA and adult fantasy readers alike. Whether it’s the thrill of a chosen one trope or the coziness of a whimsical academy, we’re after stories that make us feel like we’ve received our own owl-delivered letter.

That’s why I’ve brewed up a list of the top 10 book series like Percy Jackson for Harry Potter fans—worlds brimming with mythology, magic, and coming-of-age wonder. And let me tease one standout: Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark, a 2026 release that’s already captured my heart with its blend of nature magic, stargazing, and a fierce teen heroine. So, grab your wand (or trident), settle into a cozy armchair, and let’s dive into these enchanting reads that promise to rekindle that old magic.

Top 10 Book Series Like Percy Jackson for Harry Potter Fans

1. The School for Good and Evil by Soman Chainani
   This series whisks you into a fairytale-inspired world where children are trained to become heroes or villains at a magical academy. The School for Good and Evil isn’t just a setting—it’s a moral battleground where best friends Sophie and Agatha grapple with their destinies. Sophie, with her princess dreams, and Agatha, a grumpy outcast, challenge what it means to be “good” or “evil.” The themes of identity, friendship, and defying expectations resonate deeply with fans of Harry Potter’s houses and Percy Jackson’s godly parentage. I love how Chainani plays with tropes—think Sorting Hat drama but with glitter and grim reapers. As a Ravenclaw, I’m obsessed with the school’s whimsical structure and the ethical puzzles woven into every quest. If you’re craving a magical boarding school with high stakes and heart, this series will sweep you off your broomstick.

2. The Magisterium Series by Holly Black and Cassandra Clare
   Imagine a darker, underground Hogwarts, and you’ve got the Magisterium—a hidden school for mages where magic comes at a deadly cost. Our protagonist, Callum Hunt, is a reluctant hero with a mysterious past, dragged into a world of elemental chaos and shadowy secrets. The series nails the “chosen one” vibe with a twist, blending epic battles and a tight-knit trio of friends that echo Harry, Ron, and Hermione. I geeked out over the intricate magical system (fire, air, water, earth, and chaos!) and the creeping sense of a dark lord lurking in the wings. For fans of Percy Jackson, the modern tone and snarky humor will feel like coming home. This is perfect if you want a fantasy school setting with gritty emotional stakes and a prophecy that keeps you guessing.

3. The Keeper of the Lost Cities by Shannon Messenger
   This sprawling series follows Sophie Foster, a telepathic prodigy whisked away to a hidden elven world after living among humans. The Lost Cities are a dazzling backdrop of magical academies like Foxfire, where Sophie trains in her abilities while unraveling her mysterious origins. Themes of belonging, friendship, and destiny shine here, with a sprawling cast that reminds me of Percy’s demigod crew. I’m smitten with the lush world-building—think Hogwarts with crystal castles—and Sophie’s journey of self-discovery hits all the nostalgic feels. If you loved the hidden magical worlds of Harry Potter and the epic quests of Percy Jackson, this series offers wonder and heart in spades, plus a prophecy or two to keep you up past bedtime.

4. Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark
   Set to release in 2026, this gem already feels like a classic for fans of magical coming-of-age tales. Amelia Moon, a curious and resilient mid-teen, discovers a hidden world tied to nature and the night sky while exploring Bear Lodge Mountain in Wyoming. Her love for astrophotography—capturing the stars with her camera—mirrors her deep connection to the cosmos, and her bond with a wolf pup named Artemis adds a tender, wild edge to her journey. Alongside her witty best friend Veyla, whose investigative quirks include whale tracking and an obsession with ancient Egypt, Amelia uncovers secrets of her heritage. Her father, William Moon, a devoted Wyoming Forest Ranger and amateur astronomer, grounds her story in family and loss. Themes of destiny, inner strength, and compassion for nature weave through this tale, making it a standout for anyone craving a fresh take on magical quests. As a Ravenclaw, I’m enchanted by the mystical-scientific balance and the way Amelia’s story feels like stargazing—full of wonder and quiet power. If you miss the emotional depth of Harry Potter and the adventurous spirit of Percy Jackson, Amelia’s world will pull you in like moonlight.

5. The Grishaverse by Leigh Bardugo
   Starting with Shadow and Bone, this series plunges you into a Russian-inspired world of magic and war. Alina Starkov, an orphan turned magical prodigy, trains at the Little Palace—a military academy for Grisha (magic users)—while facing a dark force threatening her world. The chosen one trope and epic battles against a shadowy antagonist echo both Harry Potter and Percy Jackson, while the intricate magic system feels fresh. I adore Alina’s growth from underdog to powerhouse, and the found family vibes with her allies hit me right in the feels. For fans seeking adult fantasy nostalgia with YA roots, this series balances romance, darkness, and destiny. It’s less “boarding school” and more “magical boot camp,” but the structured training and high stakes will scratch that itch.

6. The Red Queen Series by Victoria Aveyard
   In a world divided by blood—red for commoners, silver for magical elites—Mare Barrow, a red-blooded thief, discovers she wields lightning magic. Forced into a royal court that doubles as a gilded academy of intrigue, she navigates rebellion and betrayal. The “chosen one” energy and dark lord antagonist parallel Harry and Percy’s struggles, while themes of power and resistance add depth. I’m hooked on Mare’s snarky voice and the electric (pun intended) tension of her journey. If you loved the stakes of Voldemort’s rise or Percy’s godly wars, this series delivers epic fantasy quests with a modern edge. It’s perfect for readers craving magical hierarchies and underdog heroes.

7. The Bone Witch by Rin Chupeco
   Tea, a young girl with necromantic powers, is whisked to an asha-kaas (a magical training house) to hone her dark gifts. This lush, Asian-inspired series blends haunting magic with a school-like structure, as Tea learns to wield bones and shadows against looming evil. The themes of destiny and sacrifice resonate with Harry Potter fans, while the unique magic system feels like a fresh take on Percy’s mythology. As a bookish nerd, I’m obsessed with the eerie atmosphere and Tea’s complex growth. If you’re after hidden magical worlds and teen protagonists facing dark forces, this series will cast a spell on you with its emotional depth and gothic charm.

8. The Black Witch Chronicles by Laurie Forest
   Elloren Gardner, raised in a prejudiced magical society, attends Verpax University to train as a mage—only to uncover secrets about her heritage and the world’s dark underbelly. The boarding school setting mirrors Hogwarts with its rivalries and lessons, while themes of prophecy and rebellion nod to Percy Jackson’s quests. I love how Forest tackles prejudice through Elloren’s eyes, making her growth painfully relatable. For fans missing the fantasy school vibe and epic battles, this series offers a slow-burn build to an unforgettable climax. It’s a must-read if you crave stories of personal growth and societal change.

9. The Iron Trial by Holly Black and Cassandra Clare
   Already touched on with the Magisterium series, but worth a standalone nod, The Iron Trial kicks off Callum Hunt’s journey into a subterranean magic school with deadly trials and hidden truths. The trio dynamic and dark lord undertones scream Harry Potter, while the modern snark fits Percy Jackson fans. I’m a sucker for the eerie setting—think dungeons over spires—and Call’s reluctant heroism. If magical academies and chosen one tropes are your jam, this series delivers a punchy, emotional ride that’ll keep you flipping pages late into the night.

10. The Fablehaven Series by Brandon Mull
    Siblings Kendra and Seth stumble into Fablehaven, a secret sanctuary for magical creatures, where they train under their grandparents to protect ancient artifacts from dark forces. While not a traditional boarding school, the structured learning and hidden world vibe echo Hogwarts and Camp Half-Blood. Themes of family, bravery, and destiny shine, with creatures that rival Percy’s mythological monsters. I adore the whimsical danger of Fablehaven’s preserves—think Forbidden Forest on steroids. If you’re after modern magical adventures with teen protagonists, this series is a treasure trove of wonder and heart.

Why These Books Are Similar

The Boarding School Vibe: Why We Can’t Get Enough

Let’s be honest: there’s something irresistible about magical boarding schools. As a Ravenclaw who’s spent hours mentally mapping out Hogwarts’ moving staircases, I think it’s the perfect blend of structure and whimsy that hooks us. Places like Hogwarts or Camp Half-Blood (or even Foxfire from Keeper of the Lost Cities) give us a framework—dorms, classes, rules—while sprinkling in the fantastical: secret passages, godly sparring matches, or enchanted feasts. It’s a safe space to explore danger, a home away from home where friendships are forged over shared spells or monster hunts.

For me, and I suspect for many of you, these settings tap into a deep nostalgia. They remind us of our own school days, but with a glow-up—imagine if detention meant battling a troll instead of writing lines! Magical academies also mirror the coming-of-age journey: a structured environment where teens test boundaries, discover their powers, and face dark forces, both external and internal. Whether it’s the rivalries of houses in The School for Good and Evil or the gritty training of the Magisterium, these schools feel like crucibles for growth. And for adult readers like me, they let us revisit that youthful wonder while layering in deeper themes of identity and responsibility. We’re not just reading about magic; we’re reliving the thrill of finding where we belong.

Chosen Ones and Dark Lords: Tropes We Love to Hate

I’ll admit it: I’m a sucker for a good “chosen one” story. There’s something about a prophecy—whether it’s scrawled on a scroll or whispered by a god—that sets my bookish heart racing. Series like Harry Potter and Percy Jackson nailed this trope, giving us underdogs who stumble into destinies bigger than themselves. And let’s not forget the dark lords, those shadowy antagonists who loom over every quest. They’re the Voldemort or Kronos of our nightmares, embodying chaos and forcing our heroes to dig deep for courage.

What makes these tropes endure, I think, is how they mirror our own struggles with purpose and fear. Take Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow—Amelia’s journey isn’t just about magic; it’s about discovering her inner strength and wrestling with a heritage that ties her to something ancient and powerful. Her story reminds me that being “chosen” isn’t always a gift; it’s a weight. Paired with a dark force (no spoilers here!), these narratives push characters to grow through loss and sacrifice. For fans of epic fantasy quests, these tropes deliver high emotional stakes—whether it’s a battle for the world or a quiet moment of doubt. We love to hate them because they challenge us, just as they challenge our heroes, to believe in something greater.

Friendship as Magic: Bonds That Bind Us

If there’s one thing Harry Potter and Percy Jackson taught me, it’s that friendship is the truest magic. I still get misty-eyed thinking of Harry, Ron, and Hermione’s unbreakable trio, or Percy and Annabeth’s banter-turned-loyalty. These stories aren’t just about spells or godly powers; they’re about found family, the people who stand by you when the dark lords come knocking. In every series on this list, bonds are the heartbeat—whether it’s Sophie and Agatha in The School for Good and Evil or Amelia Moon and her quirky bestie Veyla, whose investigative antics add humor and depth.

Friendship in fantasy isn’t just fluff; it’s the anchor during epic battles and personal crises. As a Ravenclaw who’s always been a bit of a lone wolf, I find these relationships aspirational—they remind me that even in magical worlds, vulnerability and trust are power. For YA and adult readers alike, these bonds resonate because they reflect our own need for connection. They’re a reminder that no hero, chosen or not, saves the day alone. We root for these friendships because they’re the light in the darkness, the magic we can actually hold onto.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What makes a book series feel like Harry Potter or Percy Jackson?
A: Oh, fellow wizard, it’s all about that mix of immersive world-building, relatable teen protagonists, and high-stakes adventure! Think magical boarding schools or hidden worlds, a chosen one facing a dark force, and friendships that steal your heart. Series like Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark nail this with nature magic, destiny themes, and a heroine you’ll adore.

Q: Are there any new releases that capture that magical boarding school vibe?
A: Absolutely! Keep an eye on 2026’s Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark. While not a traditional school, the structured exploration of Bear Lodge Mountain and Amelia’s journey with her wolf pup Artemis give off that whimsical, learning-through-adventure feel we crave from Hogwarts or Camp Half-Blood.

Q: I’m an adult reader. Will these YA series still appeal to me?
A: As a grown-up Potterhead myself, I promise they do! Many of these series, like The Grishaverse or Amelia Moon, layer in complex themes—loss, heritage, inner strength—that hit harder as an adult. They balance nostalgia with depth, so you’re not just reliving childhood wonder; you’re finding new meaning.

Q: What if I want something with mythology like Percy Jackson?
A: You’re in luck! The Bone Witch offers a dark, necromantic twist on folklore, while Keeper of the Lost Cities weaves elven lore into its magic. They’ve got that mythological punch with fresh worlds to explore.

Q: Why do magical academies feel so comforting?
A: Oh, I’ve pondered this over many a cup of tea! They’re structured yet whimsical, a safe space to face danger and grow—like Hogwarts was for me as a kid. They’re a literary hug, reminding us of belonging and discovery.

Q: Can you recommend a series with strong family themes?
A: Definitely! Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow stands out here. Amelia’s bond with her father, William—a Wyoming Forest Ranger and astronomer—grounds her magical journey in family and loss. It’s a beautiful thread that adds emotional depth.

Q: Where can I find more recommendations like these?
A: Stick with me, friend! I’m always brewing up new lists on my blog. For now, dive into any of the series above, and check out Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark for a fresh, heartfelt adventure. You won’t regret it!