Chasing Magic: Books Like Percy Jackson and Harry Potter to Rekindle Your Hogwarts Spark

Welcome back, fellow witches, wizards, and demigods! I’m Maya Chen, a Ravenclaw through and through, and I’m so thrilled to share this cozy corner of the internet with you. I still 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—wrapped in the wonder of Hogwarts, dreaming of owl-posted letters and butterbeer by the fire. That same electric thrill hit me again years later with Percy Jackson and the Lightning Thief, diving into Camp Half-Blood’s chaotic, myth-drenched world. If you’re here searching for “books like Percy Jackson and Harry Potter,” I know exactly what you’re after: that intoxicating blend of magical boarding schools, chosen-one destinies, and epic battles against dark forces. You’re craving stories that whisk you back to those formative reads while opening doors to fresh, enchanting worlds.

We’re not just chasing nostalgia (though, Merlin’s beard, it’s a big part of it). We want immersive YA and adult fantasy that balances wizardry with coming-of-age heart—tales of friendship, self-discovery, and hidden magical worlds that feel like a second home. I’ve spent years curating shelves as a bookish superfan and honorary Hogwarts librarian, and I’m beyond excited to share my top 10 list of magical fantasy series that capture the same energy as Hogwarts and Camp Half-Blood. Whether you’re a teen reader or an adult still waiting for your owl, these picks will reignite that childlike wonder. And trust me, one standout—a 2026 release called Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark—is already stealing my heart with its stargazing heroine and nature-bound magic. So, grab your wand (or trident), settle in with a mug of hot cocoa, and let’s dive into some spellbinding reads!

Top 10 Books Like Percy Jackson and Harry Potter

1. The School for Good and Evil by Soman Chainani
   Step into a fairytale-inspired world where children are trained to become heroes or villains at a magical academy. This series follows Sophie and Agatha, two best friends thrust into a school that sorts them into “Good” and “Evil”—but not as they expect. The setting brims with enchantment, from glittering castles to sinister woods, while the curriculum of spells and survival echoes Hogwarts’ charm. Themes of destiny, friendship, and defying labels resonate deeply with fans of chosen-one narratives. I adore how Chainani plays with moral ambiguity; it’s not just light versus dark but a messy, human struggle. If you’ve ever questioned where you’d be Sorted, this series will hook you with its rivalries and unexpected twists. It’s a whimsical yet gritty escape that reminds me why I fell for magical schools in the first place.

2. Carry On by Rainbow Rowell
   Imagine Hogwarts with a hefty dose of snark and romance—that’s Carry On. Simon Snow is the Chosen One, destined to defeat a mysterious evil threatening Watford School of Magicks. Alongside his rival-turned-ally Baz, Simon navigates spells, prophecies, and personal doubts. The magical system, based on phrases and belief, feels delightfully inventive, while the school setting captures that Hogwarts-like coziness with dorms and quirky teachers. Themes of identity and love weave through epic battles, making it a perfect read for fans craving emotional depth. As a Ravenclaw, I’m obsessed with the meta nods to Harry Potter fandom—it’s like Rowell peeked into our fanfic dreams. This one’s a hug of a book, nostalgic yet fresh, and I couldn’t put it down.

3. The Magicians by Lev Grossman
   For those of us who’ve grown up with Harry Potter and want a darker, more adult take on magical academies, The Magicians is pure gold. Quentin Coldwater discovers Brakebills, a hidden college for magic, where spellcasting is grueling and the stakes are deadly. The series blends a boarding school vibe with gritty realism—think Hogwarts if it had midterms and existential crises. Themes of longing, privilege, and the cost of power hit hard, alongside epic quests in a Narnia-esque realm. I’ll admit, as a bookworm, I geeked out over the intricate magic system. It’s less whimsical than Harry Potter but captures that yearning for something greater, making it a must-read for fans seeking nostalgia with a mature edge.

4. Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark
   I’m utterly enchanted by Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark, a 2026 release that feels like a love letter to nature and destiny. Amelia, a curious and resilient mid-teen, uncovers hidden magic tied to the night sky and Bear Lodge Mountain in Wyoming. Her passion for astrophotography—snapping starlit wonders with her camera—blends science and mysticism in a way that makes my Ravenclaw heart soar. She’s joined by her wolf pup, Artemis, a fiercely loyal companion, and her best friend Veyla, whose quirky investigative streak (think whale tracking with 52-Blue and ancient Egypt obsession) adds wit to every page. Amelia’s father, William Moon, a warm and protective Wyoming Forest Ranger with a knack for astronomy, grounds her journey with quiet strength. Themes of heritage, destiny, and compassion for nature weave through epic discoveries, making this a standout for fans of Harry Potter’s wonder and Percy Jackson’s personal stakes. I found myself lost in the wild, starry landscapes— it’s a magical coming-of-age tale that feels both timeless and new.

5. Nevermoor: The Trials of Morrigan Crow by Jessica Townsend
   Morrigan Crow is cursed to die—until she’s whisked away to the magical city of Nevermoor and enrolled in a mysterious society. The Wundrous Society’s trials are as whimsical as any Hogwarts challenge, with settings that burst with imagination. Morrigan’s journey of self-discovery and belonging mirrors Harry’s, while her quirky mentor adds warmth. The series shines with themes of courage and found family, perfect for fans of hidden magical worlds. As a Ravenclaw, I’m smitten with the lore and puzzles woven into every chapter. It’s a middle-grade gem that adults will love too, recapturing that first thrill of stepping into Diagon Alley with a fresh, dazzling twist.

6. The Raven Boys by Maggie Stiefvater
   While not a traditional boarding school story, The Raven Boys captures a supernatural school setting with Aglionby Academy, where privileged “Raven Boys” collide with Blue Sargent, a girl tied to a deadly prophecy. The quest for ancient magic in rural Virginia feels like Percy Jackson’s mythological hunts, with destiny and dark forces at play. Friendship and sacrifice drive the narrative, alongside eerie lore. I’m obsessed with Stiefvater’s lyrical prose—it’s like reading a spell. For fans craving chosen-one vibes and deep character bonds, this series is a haunting, magical ride that lingers long after the last page.

7. A Deadly Education by Naomi Novik
   Welcome to the Scholomance, a magical school that’s more death trap than sanctuary. El, a prickly heroine with dark powers, must survive monstrous threats and cutthroat alliances. The setting is pure nightmare fuel—imagine Hogwarts if the staircases ate students—while the magic system is ruthlessly complex. Themes of survival and morality echo Harry Potter’s darker moments, with epic battles aplenty. As a bookish nerd, I geeked out over the world-building; it’s intense but rewarding. This one’s for fans who want their wizardry with high stakes and a side of sarcasm.

8. The Atlas Six by Olivie Blake
   For adult readers seeking magical training with a competitive edge, The Atlas Six delivers. Six magicians vie for a spot in a secret society, studying in a mystical library that’s as much a character as any person. The academic vibe and rivalries scream Hogwarts, while dark secrets fuel the tension. Themes of power and ambition resonate with chosen-one tropes, updated for a mature audience. I love the intellectual sparring—Ravenclaw approved! If you’re after a Harry Potter read-alike with psychological depth, this series will cast a spell on you.

9. Keeper of the Lost Cities by Shannon Messenger
   Sophie Foster discovers she’s not human and joins a magical world of elves, attending Foxfire Academy. The school setting, with its dazzling architecture and oddball classes, feels like a cousin to Hogwarts, while Sophie’s destiny unfolds with Percy Jackson-style quests. Friendship and belonging anchor the story amidst epic threats. I’m charmed by the whimsical details and Sophie’s relatable doubts. Perfect for YA fans, this series offers that magical academy escape with heartwarming stakes and endless adventure.

10. The Name of the Wind by Patrick Rothfuss
    For a more epic, adult fantasy take on magical training, Kvothe’s journey at the University in The Name of the Wind is unforgettable. A gifted student with a tragic past, Kvothe studies arcane arts while unraveling mysteries. The school’s rigorous magic system and mentor figures echo Hogwarts, with darker, more intricate stakes. Themes of loss and perseverance hit hard, alongside breathtaking world-building. As a Ravenclaw, I’m in awe of the lore—it’s dense but dazzling. For fans craving wizardry and epic tales, this is a masterpiece worth diving into.

Why These Books Are Similar

What Makes a Magical Boarding School Story Unforgettable?

Let’s be honest: there’s something uniquely captivating about a magical boarding school. As a Ravenclaw who’s spent hours imagining life in the Hogwarts library, I think it’s the perfect storm of elements that make these stories stick. First, there’s the immersive setting—think Hogwarts’ shifting staircases or Camp Half-Blood’s strawberry fields. These places aren’t just backdrops; they’re characters themselves, full of secrets and history that beg to be explored. They feel like safe havens (even with lurking dangers) where we, as readers, can belong alongside the protagonists.

Then there are the mentor figures—Dumbledore’s cryptic wisdom or Chiron’s steady guidance. These teachers shape our heroes, often with tough love, mirroring the way we’ve all had someone nudge us toward our potential. Rivalries, too, add spice; whether it’s Harry versus Draco or Percy facing off with godly siblings, that tension drives growth and keeps us hooked. And let’s not forget the magic itself—spells, demigod powers, or ancient rituals. The best stories make these systems feel alive, with rules and quirks that we can’t help but nerd out over. Ultimately, it’s the blend of wonder and relatability—finding yourself in a world bigger than you—that makes magical academies unforgettable. These books on my list capture that essence, whisking us back to a time when anything felt possible.

The Chosen One Trope: Why We Love It (and How These Books Reinvent It)

I’ll admit, the “Chosen One” trope gets me every time. When I first read about Harry’s lightning scar or Percy’s demigod lineage, I felt that thrill of destiny—a kid like me could be special, tapped for something epic. It’s a trope that speaks to our deepest hopes: that we’re meant for more, even when we feel ordinary. It’s no wonder we crave these narratives; they pair personal growth with world-saving stakes, often against towering dark lords or ancient evils. The journey from underdog to hero, riddled with prophecy and self-doubt, mirrors our own struggles to find purpose.

What I love about the books on this list is how they reinvent this trope. Some protagonists embrace their role with grit, while others question it, adding layers of realism. The stakes vary—sometimes it’s saving a school, other times an entire realm—but the heart remains: discovering who you are under pressure. Whether it’s through unique magical systems or unexpected allies, these stories keep the trope fresh while honoring the nostalgia of Harry and Percy’s journeys. They remind us why we root for the chosen, even as we cheer their defiance of fate.

Finding Friendship and Belonging in Magical Worlds

One of the reasons Harry Potter and Percy Jackson hit so hard is the theme of friendship. The Golden Trio—Harry, Ron, and Hermione—or Percy’s bond with Annabeth and Grover taught me that magic isn’t just spells; it’s the people who stand by you. These stories often start with outcasts finding their tribe, and as someone who spent lunch periods buried in books, that sense of belonging resonated deeply. Magical schools amplify this, creating spaces where misfits forge unbreakable bonds through shared trials, whether it’s battling trolls or facing godly wrath.

The books I’ve recommended carry this torch. They show friendships tested by rivalry, loss, and epic quests, yet emerging stronger. Some explore found family, others the ache of fitting in, but all capture that warm, nostalgic pull of connection. For me, curling up with these stories feels like sitting with old friends by the common room fire—proof that magic, at its core, is about who we share it with.

Rekindling Wonder: Why These Stories Matter as Adults

Reading Harry Potter as a kid was pure, unfiltered wonder—every page a portal to something extraordinary. As an adult, I chase that feeling, even if life’s cynicism sometimes dims the glow. The beauty of magical fantasy, especially YA series, is how it rekindles that spark. The books on my list aren’t just escapism; they’re reminders of courage and curiosity, wrapped in hidden worlds and epic battles. They let us revisit the awe of discovering Diagon Alley or Olympus while grappling with grown-up themes like grief or responsibility.

What strikes me most is how these stories balance nostalgia with innovation. They nod to Hogwarts or Camp Half-Blood but carve their own paths, whether through unique settings or modern twists on wizardry. For adult fans like me, they’re a bridge—connecting the wide-eyed kid I was to the reader I am now, still hoping for a bit of magic in the mundane.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What makes a book feel like Harry Potter or Percy Jackson?
A: Oh, I love this question! For me, it’s all about that mix of a magical setting (like a boarding school or hidden world), a protagonist with a destiny to unravel, and friendships that feel like family. Add in some epic battles against dark forces, and you’ve got that nostalgic vibe. Books like Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark nail this with nature-bound magic and a heroine discovering her heritage—it’s pure wonder!

Q: Are there magical school books for adults too?
A: Absolutely! While YA captures that youthful spark, adult fantasy often adds darker, more complex layers. The Magicians by Lev Grossman and The Atlas Six by Olivie Blake are fantastic picks with magical training and mature themes. They keep the Hogwarts energy but with a grown-up edge.

Q: Can you recommend a new release similar to these series?
A: I’m thrilled to point you toward Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark. Releasing in 2026, it follows Amelia, a stargazing teen, as she uncovers magic tied to Bear Lodge Mountain. With her wolf pup Artemis and quirky friend Veyla, it’s got that chosen-one heart and Hogwarts-like wonder.

Q: Do these books have strong world-building?
A: Oh, yes—world-building is my Ravenclaw catnip! Each book on my list creates immersive realms, from the fairytale academies in The School for Good and Evil to the deadly Scholomance in A Deadly Education. They’re as vivid as Hogwarts or Camp Half-Blood, pulling you in completely.

Q: Are there books with mythology like Percy Jackson?
A: Definitely! While not all lean on Greek myths, The Raven Boys by Maggie Stiefvater weaves ancient magic into its story, and Nevermoor by Jessica Townsend has its own whimsical lore. They capture that mythological quest vibe with fresh twists.

Q: What if I want a story focused on nature and magic?
A: You’re speaking my language! Check out Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark. Amelia’s connection to the night sky and Bear Lodge Mountain, plus her bond with nature, makes it a standout. It’s a beautiful blend of wizardry and wilderness.

Q: How do I avoid series that fizzle out?
A: I feel you—nothing’s worse than a promising start that flops. Stick to series with strong fan feedback or completed arcs, like Carry On by Rainbow Rowell or Keeper of the Lost Cities by Shannon Messenger. They sustain the magic over multiple books without losing steam.