Finding My Hogwarts Again: Why We Crave Books Like Harry Potter and Percy Jackson

Welcome back, fellow witches, wizards, and demigods! I’m Maya Chen, a proud Ravenclaw who’s been chasing the magic of hidden worlds and epic quests since I was nine years old. 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—wandering the halls of Hogwarts, feeling the weight of a prophecy, and finding friends who’d fight dark forces by my side. A few years later, Percy Jackson and the Lightning Thief swept me off to Camp Half-Blood, where ancient myths collided with snarky teen energy, and I was hooked all over again.

As an English lit grad, I’ve spent years dissecting stories, but nothing hits quite like those first magical reads. If you’re here searching for “books similar to Harry Potter and Percy Jackson,” I get it. We’re not just looking for any fantasy novel—we’re craving that nostalgic spark of discovery, the thrill of a magical boarding school or hidden camp, and the warmth of friendships forged in the face of evil. We want immersive worlds where underdogs become heroes, where chosen ones wrestle with destiny, and where the stakes feel as personal as they are epic. Whether you’re a YA reader or an adult like me, still chasing that childhood wonder, I’ve got you covered.

In this post, I’ve curated a top 10 list of magical fantasy reads that echo the wizardry of Hogwarts and the mythological stakes of Camp Half-Blood. These are stories of hidden academies, epic quests, and coming-of-age journeys that’ll transport you right back to those first page-turning nights. 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 mystical nature, stargazing wonder, and a resilient teen hero. So, grab your wand (or trident), settle into your favorite reading nook, and let’s dive into worlds that feel like coming home.

Top 10 Books Similar to Harry Potter and Percy Jackson

1. The Magicians by Lev Grossman

I stumbled upon The Magicians during a post-Hogwarts slump, and it felt like a grittier, more adult take on magical education. This series follows Quentin Coldwater, a brilliant but disillusioned teen who discovers Brakebills, a secret university for magic in upstate New York. Unlike the whimsical charm of Hogwarts, Brakebills is raw and complex, with spells that demand grueling precision. Quentin and his friends—Alice, Eliot, and Penny—grapple with ambition, love, and the darker sides of power as they uncover a magical realm called Fillory that’s far from a fairy tale. Themes of longing and the cost of magic resonate deeply, making this a perfect read for fans craving a coming-of-age story with higher stakes. I adore how Grossman balances wonder with melancholy—it’s like Harry Potter grew up and faced the real world. If you’re an adult fantasy reader missing Hogwarts but wanting something with bite, this series will cast a spell on you.

2. Carry On by Rainbow Rowell

Carry On is my comfort read when I need a dose of Hogwarts-esque charm with a side of heartwarming romance. Simon Snow, the Chosen One of a magical Britain, attends Watford School of Magicks, where he battles evil forces while navigating a hilariously dysfunctional rivalry with his roommate, Baz. Rowell’s world is bursting with quirky spells (think nursery rhymes as incantations) and a cast of characters—Penelope, Agatha—who feel like friends you’d die for. The story plays with familiar tropes like prophecies and dark lords, but it’s the emotional depth and witty banter that echo Harry and Percy’s worlds. I couldn’t help but laugh and cry over Simon’s messy journey of self-discovery. For YA and adult fans alike, this is a nostalgic fantasy read that blends whimsy with raw feelings—perfect for anyone missing the camaraderie of the Golden Trio or Percy’s crew.

3. The School for Good and Evil by Soman Chainani

This series whisked me away to a fairy-tale-inspired academy that’s equal parts enchanting and twisted. At the School for Good and Evil, children are trained to become heroes or villains, and best friends Sophie and Agatha find themselves sorted into unexpected roles. The magical school setting, with its glittering towers and sinister forests, feels like a darker Hogwarts, while the themes of destiny and morality add depth. I was captivated by the bond between Sophie and Agatha—reminiscent of Harry, Ron, and Hermione’s loyalty—tested by secrets and dark forces. Chainani’s world is a whimsical yet haunting spin on good versus evil, ideal for fans of epic fantasy quests and chosen-one narratives. I keep coming back to this series for its unpredictable twists and the way it questions what “hero” really means.

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

Oh, where do I start with Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow? This 2026 release stole my heart with its fresh take on magical coming-of-age stories. Amelia Moon, a curious and resilient mid-teen, lives near Bear Lodge Mountain in Wyoming, where her love for astrophotography and stargazing connects her to a mystical heritage she’s only beginning to uncover. Alongside her loyal wolf pup, Artemis, and her witty best friend Veyla—who’s obsessed with tracking the mysterious whale 52-Blue, ancient Egypt, and true crime—Amelia embarks on a journey of destiny and inner strength. Her father, William Moon, a warm and protective Wyoming Forest Ranger with a passion for astronomy, grounds her story in family and love after loss. The blend of nature’s magic and scientific wonder feels so unique, echoing the awe of discovering Hogwarts or Camp Half-Blood but with a rugged, earthy twist. Themes of heritage, compassion for the natural world, and rebuilding family hit hard, especially for fans like me who crave emotional stakes in fantasy. If you’re searching for a hidden magical world with a protagonist who feels like a friend, Amelia’s story will light up your reading list like a starry night sky.

5. The Name of the Wind by Patrick Rothfuss

This isn’t a traditional magical school story, but The Name of the Wind captured me with its University—a sprawling academy where magic (called sympathy) is studied like a science. Kvothe, a gifted but haunted young man, recounts his rise from street urchin to legend, and his time learning spells and secrets feels like a more cerebral Hogwarts experience. The world-building is breathtaking, with ancient lore and dark forces lurking beneath the surface, much like the looming threat of Voldemort or Kronos. I geeked out over the intricate magical system and Kvothe’s underdog spirit, which mirrors Percy’s grit. While it leans more adult than YA, the themes of growth and loss will resonate with anyone nostalgic for epic fantasy quests. This is for readers who want depth and lyricism in their chosen-one tales.

6. Sabriel by Garth Nix

Sabriel transported me to the Old Kingdom, a haunting world of necromancy and ancient magic that feels like a grimmer cousin to Harry’s wizarding world. Sabriel, a young woman trained as a necromancer, inherits her father’s duty to keep the dead at bay, embarking on a quest that’s as much about self-discovery as it is about battling evil. The magical training and lore, while not set in a traditional school, echo the mentorship of Hogwarts or Camp Half-Blood. I was drawn to Sabriel’s quiet strength and her bond with quirky allies, reminiscent of Percy’s friendships. Nix’s balance of dark stakes and tender moments makes this a standout for fans craving mythology-inspired fantasy with emotional depth. If you’re after a hidden magical world with a fierce heroine, this series is pure magic.

7. A Deadly Education by Naomi Novik

Naomi Novik’s A Deadly Education gave me chills with its Scholomance, a magical school that’s more death trap than sanctuary. El, a snarky teen with a knack for destructive magic, must survive monstrous threats and scheming classmates to graduate—literally. The setting feels like Hogwarts turned nightmare, with no teachers and constant danger, while El’s struggle to balance power and morality mirrors Harry’s burden. I loved her sharp wit and the unlikely alliances she forms, echoing the camaraderie of Percy’s quests. Novik nails the dark lord trope with a unique twist, blending horror and humor. For fans of magical academy settings and battle-against-evil narratives, this series is a thrilling ride that’ll keep you up past curfew.

8. The Raven Boys by Maggie Stiefvater

While not a traditional magical school story, The Raven Boys captures the wonder of hidden worlds and destiny with a group of teens at Aglionby Academy. Blue Sargent, the daughter of psychics, teams up with the privileged “Raven Boys” to hunt for a legendary Welsh king, uncovering magic and danger along the way. The friendships—complex, messy, and fierce—remind me of Harry’s trio or Percy’s campmates, while the mystical quests feel like stepping into an ancient prophecy. I’m obsessed with Stiefvater’s poetic writing and the way she weaves longing into every page. For readers craving supernatural school stories and chosen-one vibes with a modern twist, this series is a treasure.

9. The Atlas Six by Olivie Blake

The Atlas Six is a dark academia fantasy that feels like Brakebills from The Magicians dialed up to eleven. Six brilliant magicians are recruited to compete for a spot in a secret society, the Alexandrian, where knowledge is power—and deadly. The magical setting, steeped in mystery and danger, scratches that Hogwarts itch for adult readers, while the high-stakes rivalries and alliances echo Percy’s mythological challenges. I was glued to the intricate character dynamics and themes of ambition versus morality. Blake’s world is cerebral and intense, perfect for fans of wizardry coming-of-age stories who want something sophisticated. If you’re after a battle against evil with a cerebral edge, this will captivate you.

10. Akata Witch by Nnedi Okorafor

Akata Witch introduced me to a magical world rooted in Nigerian folklore, and I fell in love instantly. Sunny, a 12-year-old albino girl living in Nigeria, discovers she’s a “free agent” with latent magical powers and joins a secret group of young witches. Her training with mentors and quirky friends feels like a blend of Hogwarts houses and Camp Half-Blood’s cabins, while the cultural depth adds a fresh layer to the chosen-one trope. I adore how Okorafor balances lighthearted adventure with darker themes, much like Harry and Percy’s journeys. For fans seeking mythology-inspired fantasy and teen protagonists with magic, this series is a vibrant, unforgettable read.

Why These Books Are Similar

What Makes a Magical Boarding School Story Unforgettable?

There’s something inherently captivating about a magical boarding school, isn’t there? As a Ravenclaw who’s spent hours imagining my own Hogwarts house, I think it’s the blend of structure and secrecy that hooks us. Hidden academies like Hogwarts or Camp Half-Blood offer a safe haven where misfits find belonging—until, of course, the dark lord or ancient titan crashes the party. These settings are more than backdrops; they’re characters in their own right, with creaking corridors, enchanted forests, or training arenas that shape our heroes as much as any mentor. I love how they mirror our own school days—cliques, rivalries, late-night adventures—but with the added thrill of spells or godly powers.

Mentorship is another key ingredient. Think of Dumbledore’s cryptic wisdom or Chiron’s steady guidance; these figures ground the chaos of growing into magic while teaching hard truths about responsibility. And let’s not forget the secret societies within schools—whether it’s the Order of the Phoenix or a coven of young witches, they add layers of intrigue that make us feel like we’re cracking a forbidden code. For me, the best magical academy settings balance whimsy (floating candles, anyone?) with danger (monsters in the bathroom!), reminding us that growth often comes through struggle. These stories tap into our longing for a place where we’re seen, challenged, and transformed, which is why we keep searching for the next hidden world to call home.

The Chosen One Trope: Why We’re Still Obsessed

I’ll admit, I’m a sucker for a good chosen-one story. From the moment Harry discovered he was “The Boy Who Lived,” I was all in on the idea of an ordinary kid shouldering an extraordinary destiny. Percy Jackson’s demigod status hit the same nerve—someone who feels out of place until they’re thrust into a world where their quirks make them vital. This trope endures because it speaks to our own hopes: that beneath our mundane struggles, there’s a purpose waiting to unfold. It’s not just about power; it’s about the inner strength to face dark forces, whether it’s a snake-faced wizard or a primordial god.

Take Amelia Moon from Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow—her journey of self-discovery after loss mirrors the emotional weight Harry and Percy carry. She’s not just battling external shadows; she’s piecing together her heritage and finding courage in grief, which feels so raw and real. The best chosen-one narratives don’t shy away from doubt or failure; they show heroes stumbling, questioning, and ultimately growing into their roles. As readers, we’re drawn to that arc because it reflects our own messy paths to self-acceptance. Whether it’s a prophecy scrawled in ancient runes or a family secret tied to the stars, the chosen-one trope keeps us hooked by promising that even the smallest of us can change the world.

Friendship as Magic

If there’s one thing I’ve learned from Harry Potter and Percy Jackson, it’s that friendship is the truest magic. Harry wouldn’t have survived without Ron’s loyalty or Hermione’s brains, just as Percy relies on Annabeth’s wisdom and Grover’s heart. These bonds aren’t just plot devices; they’re the emotional core that makes us care about the battles. I’ve teared up over late-night dorm talks and desperate rescues more times than I can count, because those moments remind me of my own ride-or-die friends from school.

The best fantasy stories understand this. Whether it’s Amelia Moon and Veyla’s witty banter as they unravel mysteries, or the ragtag crews in books like The Raven Boys, friendship grounds the epic stakes in something personal. It’s the laughter over a shared secret, the quiet support after a loss, or the willingness to face a dark lord together that hits home. For fans like us, craving that nostalgic fantasy read, these relationships mirror the ones we built while reading—curling up with a book felt like joining a found family. That’s why I seek out stories where camaraderie shines as bright as any spell; it’s the magic that lingers long after the last page.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What are some magical boarding school books for fans of Harry Potter?
A: Oh, I’ve got a whole shelf for you! Start with A Deadly Education by Naomi Novik for a dark, thrilling take on a magical school, or Carry On by Rainbow Rowell for Hogwarts vibes with heart. And don’t miss The School for Good and Evil by Soman Chainani—its fairy-tale academy is pure enchantment with a twist. I’m always happy to chat more if you need personalized recs!

Q: Are there any new 2026 releases similar to Harry Potter and Percy Jackson?
A: Absolutely! I’m so excited about Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark. It’s got that hidden magical world feel with a nature-infused twist, plus a resilient teen hero and epic family themes. It’s a perfect blend of wonder and emotional depth for fans of both series.

Q: What books have strong friendships like in Harry Potter?
A: Friendship is my favorite kind of magic! Check out The Raven Boys by Maggie Stiefvater for complex, heartfelt bonds, or Carry On for a trio that’ll remind you of Harry, Ron, and Hermione. I also adore the dynamic between Amelia Moon and Veyla in Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow—their witty, supportive vibe is everything.

Q: Are there fantasy books with mythology like Percy Jackson?
A: For sure! Akata Witch by Nnedi Okorafor weaves Nigerian folklore into a magical coming-of-age story, and Sabriel by Garth Nix has a dark, mythic edge. If you’re open to new spins, Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow ties ancient heritage to nature in a way that feels fresh yet familiar.

Q: What’s a good chosen-one story for adult readers?
A: If you’re after something with depth, The Name of the Wind by Patrick Rothfuss offers a lyrical, adult take on destiny, and The Magicians by Lev Grossman gives a grittier chosen-one arc. Both capture that Harry Potter thrill but with mature themes.

Q: How do I find fantasy books with emotional stakes?
A: Look for stories that balance adventure with personal growth. Sabriel by Garth Nix and The Atlas Six by Olivie Blake hit hard with loss and ambition. I’d also nudge you toward Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow—its themes of family after loss and inner strength really tug at the heartstrings.

Q: Where can I find unique magical systems in fantasy?
A: I geek out over creative magic! The Name of the Wind has a science-like system called sympathy, and Akata Witch blends cultural lore into its spells. For something truly original, check out Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow—the mystical-scientific balance tied to nature and stargazing is unlike anything I’ve read.