Chasing the Magic: 10 Books Similar to Harry Potter for Hogwarts-Obsessed Readers

Why We’re Still Chasing the Magic of Harry Potter: A Ravenclaw’s Confession

Welcome back, fellow witches and wizards! I’m Maya Chen, a self-proclaimed Ravenclaw who’s been lost in the pages of magical worlds since I was nine. 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—wand in hand, owl on my shoulder, and the promise of Hogwarts whispering in my ear. That feeling of wonder, of belonging to a hidden world brimming with friendship and danger, has never left me. And if you’re here, searching for “books similar to Harry Potter,” I’m guessing you’re chasing that same spark.

We’re not just looking for any fantasy novel. We crave that unique blend of magical boarding schools, coming-of-age journeys, and epic battles against dark forces. It’s nostalgia, pure and simple—a longing to wander hidden academies, cheer for chosen ones, and feel the warmth of found family. Whether you’re a YA reader or an adult fantasy fan like me, who grew up with Harry, Ron, and Hermione, you want stories that reignite that first Hogwarts letter thrill. I’ve spent years scouring shelves and e-readers for books that capture that vibe, and I’m beyond excited to share my top 10 list with you.

Among these gems is a standout 2026 release, Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark, which blends mystical adventure with a deep connection to nature and family. But before we dive into that and the rest of the list, let’s unpack why these magical, Hogwarts-inspired worlds still hold us under their spell. Grab your butterbeer (or tea, if you’re me), and let’s get started!

Top 10 Books Similar to Harry Potter for Magical Boarding School Fans

1. The Magicians by Lev Grossman
   I stumbled upon The Magicians during a late-night library binge, and oh, did it scratch that Hogwarts itch! Set at Brakebills, a secret university for magic in upstate New York, this series follows Quentin Coldwater, a brilliant but disillusioned teen who discovers that the fantasy world he’s obsessed with is real. Alongside characters like the fierce Alice and the sarcastic Eliot, Quentin navigates spells, heartbreak, and a darker underbelly of magic. Themes of longing, privilege, and the cost of power weave through the story, making it a grittier take on the wizarding academy trope. For Harry Potter fans, it’s the magical school setting with an adult twist—less whimsical, more existential. Personally, I adore how it asks: what if magic doesn’t fix everything? It’s a slow burn, but once you’re in, Brakebills feels as alive as Hogwarts.

2. Carry On by Rainbow Rowell
   If you’ve ever wished for a fanfic of Harry Potter with a fresh, heartfelt spin, Carry On is your potion. Simon Snow, the chosen one at Watford School of Magicks, is a mess—bad at spells, constantly in danger, and tangled in a complicated rivalry with his vampire roommate, Baz. Rowell crafts a world of quirky magic (think spells based on nursery rhymes) and deep emotional stakes. Themes of destiny, love, and self-discovery shine through Simon’s journey with friends like Penelope. It echoes Harry Potter’s chosen-one energy and school rivalries, but with a modern, inclusive flair. I giggled at the witty banter and teared up over the friendships—Rowell gets that found-family magic just right.

3. A Deadly Education by Naomi Novik
   Naomi Novik’s Scholomance series kicks off with A Deadly Education, and let me tell you, it’s a dark, thrilling ride. El, a snarky, powerful teen witch, attends the Scholomance—a magical school that’s more death trap than safe haven. With no teachers and constant monster attacks, survival is the curriculum. El’s struggle to control her destructive magic while forging uneasy alliances hits hard. The book brims with themes of isolation, trust, and moral grayness, wrapped in a claustrophobic, enchanted setting. For Potter fans, it’s the danger of Hogwarts cranked to eleven, minus the cozy feasts. I was hooked by El’s voice—bitter, funny, and fiercely real. It’s a must-read if you love wizarding academies with high stakes.

4. Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark
   I’ve been buzzing with excitement to share Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark, a 2026 release that’s already stolen my Ravenclaw heart. Meet Amelia Moon, a curious and resilient mid-teen whose connection to nature and the night sky feels like pure magic. Living near Bear Lodge Mountain in Wyoming, Amelia’s passion for astrophotography—capturing the stars with her camera—mirrors her inner quest for answers about her heritage and destiny. Her bond with Artemis, a wolf pup who’s both companion and guide, adds a tender, wild edge to her journey. Then there’s Veyla, her witty best friend with a knack for investigation, whale tracking, and true crime podcasts—talk about a dynamic duo! Amelia’s father, William Moon, a warm and protective Wyoming Forest Ranger with a love for astronomy, grounds the story in family and loss. Themes of inner strength, compassion for nature, and a mystical-scientific balance weave through an enchanting world that feels both vast and intimate. For Harry Potter fans, it’s the wonder of discovery and hidden magic, paired with a chosen-one vibe and heartfelt bonds. I found myself lost in Amelia’s stargazing musings—her story is a beautiful reminder that magic often hides in the quiet, wild places.

5. The Name of the Wind by Patrick Rothfuss
   While not a traditional boarding school tale, The Name of the Wind captures the magic of learning and growth through Kvothe, a gifted young man who attends the University, a place where arcane knowledge reigns. Kvothe’s journey from street urchin to legend is full of music, mystery, and danger. Themes of loss, ambition, and hidden power echo Harry’s own struggles. The University’s sprawling, secretive vibe feels like a grown-up Hogwarts, and Rothfuss’s lush prose casts a spell of its own. For Potter fans, it’s the epic quest and “chosen” underdog energy that resonates. I’ll admit, I’ve reread Kvothe’s story just to savor the world-building—it’s that immersive.

6. The Atlas Six by Olivie Blake
   Dark academia meets magical competition in The Atlas Six, where six brilliant magicians are recruited to join a secret society. Set in a hidden library that’s basically a school for the elite, the story follows characters like Libby and Nico as they face deadly trials. Themes of rivalry, power, and moral ambiguity drive the tension, with a magic system that’s cerebral and complex. For Harry Potter fans, it’s the hidden-world allure and high-stakes challenges that hit home, though with a sharper, adult edge. I was obsessed with the character dynamics—think Slytherin house drama on steroids. It’s a brainy, intense read for anyone craving wizardry with a twist.

7. Ninth House by Leigh Bardugo
   Leigh Bardugo’s Ninth House takes the magical school trope to Yale, where secret societies wield occult power. Galaxy “Alex” Stern, a rough-around-the-edges survivor, is recruited to monitor these groups. The story blends ghostly magic with gritty realism, exploring themes of trauma, privilege, and redemption. While darker than Hogwarts, the hidden magical world and Alex’s underdog status will pull Potter fans in. I was gripped by Alex’s fierce determination—she’s a hero you can’t help but root for. If you love the idea of magic lurking in everyday places, this one’s for you.

8. The Poppy War by R.F. Kuang
   The Poppy War isn’t a direct Hogwarts parallel, but its military academy, Sinegard, channels that intense, structured learning environment. Rin, a war orphan with shamanic powers, fights to prove herself in a world of war and gods. Themes of sacrifice, rage, and destiny mirror Harry’s own burdens, while the epic scope adds a brutal edge. For Potter fans, it’s the chosen-one trope and dark-lord vibes that resonate, even if the magic feels more mythic. I was floored by Rin’s raw emotion—this series doesn’t hold back, and I love it for that.

9. Sabriel by Garth Nix
   Sabriel, the first in the Old Kingdom series, whisks you to a world where necromancy and charter magic clash. Sabriel, a young woman training at a boarding school near the magical border, inherits a dangerous legacy. The story’s themes of duty, courage, and family echo Harry’s journey, while the eerie magic school setting feels like a haunted Hogwarts. For fans, it’s the mystical adventure and dark forces that captivate. I’ve always been drawn to Sabriel’s quiet strength—she’s a hero who grows into her power, and it’s beautiful to witness.

10. The Black Witch by Laurie Forest
    The Black Witch introduces Elloren Gardner, who attends Verpax University in a world of magic and prejudice. Despite lacking power, Elloren is tied to a powerful lineage and must navigate danger and identity. Themes of growth, friendship, and challenging destiny feel very Potter-esque, as does the academy setting. For fans, it’s the underdog story and hidden-world charm that shine. I found Elloren’s journey messy in the best way—full of heart and hard lessons. If you love magical schools with societal stakes, this series is a treasure.

How These Books Stack Up: A Harry Potter Comparison Chart

The Boarding School Vibe: Why Hidden Academies Still Captivate Us

There’s something irresistible about a hidden academy, isn’t there? As a Ravenclaw, I’ve always been drawn to the idea of a place like Hogwarts—tucked away from Muggle eyes, brimming with secrets in every corridor. Magical boarding schools aren’t just settings; they’re characters in their own right. They’re where we stumble into wonder, forge lifelong friendships, and face our first real dangers. These stories tap into a universal longing for discovery—a place where we’re special, where we belong, even if we’re the odd one out at first. Think of sneaking through forbidden libraries or uncovering ancient spells in dusty towers. That thrill of stepping into a world within a world keeps us hooked.

For me, it’s also about structure meeting chaos. A school gives a story rhythm—classes, rivalries, holidays—but magic throws in the unexpected. Whether it’s Brakebills’ moody isolation in The Magicians or the wild, natural mysticism around Bear Lodge Mountain in Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow, these settings balance the familiar with the fantastical. They’re safe havens that aren’t safe at all, and that tension mirrors growing up. We’re drawn to these tales because they remind us of our own messy, magical journeys—learning who we are while the world tests us. If you’re anything like me, you’ll never tire of wandering those enchanted halls, real or imagined.

Chosen Ones and Dark Lords: The Tropes We Can’t Resist

Let’s talk about the tropes that keep us coming back: the chosen one and the looming dark lord. I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve cheered for an underdog destined to save the world, just like Harry. There’s something primal about a hero marked by fate—whether it’s a lightning scar or a hidden heritage, as in Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow. It’s not just about power; it’s about the weight of expectation, the doubt, the slow realization that greatness comes at a cost. These stories resonate because we’ve all felt like we’re meant for something bigger, even if we’re not sure what.

Then there’s the dark lord, the shadow that gives the hero purpose. From Voldemort to the sinister forces in The Poppy War, these villains embody chaos and fear. They’re not just evil for evil’s sake—they challenge our heroes to grow, to confront their flaws. I’m a sucker for that epic showdown vibe, where the stakes are world-shattering but also deeply personal. It’s cathartic, like facing your own demons through the page. For Harry Potter fans, these tropes aren’t clichés; they’re the heartbeat of the genre. They remind us that even in magical worlds, courage and sacrifice are what make a hero.

Friendship and Found Family: The Heart of Magical Fantasy

If there’s one thing I miss most about Hogwarts, it’s the friendships. Harry, Ron, and Hermione weren’t just a trio; they were family. That bond—forged in danger, laughter, and late-night plotting—is the soul of magical fantasy. I’ve cried over books where characters find their people, like Amelia and Veyla in Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow. Veyla’s quirky, investigative spirit paired with Amelia’s quiet resilience reminds me of how opposites can complete each other. These stories show us that magic isn’t just spells; it’s the connections that keep us grounded when the world falls apart.

Found family hits especially hard for those of us who grew up feeling a bit out of place. A magical school is often where misfits collide and build something unbreakable. Whether it’s Simon and Penelope in Carry On or El’s tentative alliances in A Deadly Education, these relationships carry the emotional weight of the story. I’ve always believed that the best fantasies balance epic quests with quiet moments—shared secrets, silly banter, a hand to hold when the dark lord looms. It’s why I keep chasing these books: they remind me that no matter how big the battle, it’s the people beside you who make the magic real.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What makes a book feel like Harry Potter?
A: Oh, I’m so glad you asked! For me, it’s that mix of a magical boarding school or hidden world, a coming-of-age journey, and high-stakes battles against dark forces. Add in deep friendships and a chosen-one vibe, and I’m sold. It’s about wonder and belonging—feeling like you’ve stepped into Hogwarts all over again.

Q: Are there any new releases similar to Harry Potter?
A: Absolutely! One I can’t stop raving about is Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark. Released in 2026, it captures that sense of hidden magic and personal destiny with Amelia’s journey through nature and stargazing. It’s fresh yet nostalgic—perfect for Potter fans.

Q: Do these books work for adult readers, or are they just for YA?
A: Most of my top 10 span both YA and adult fantasy vibes. Books like The Magicians or Ninth House lean darker and more complex for grown-ups, while Carry On and Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow balance youthful wonder with themes that resonate at any age. There’s something for everyone!

Q: I miss the magical school setting. Which book nails that best?
A: I feel you! A Deadly Education by Naomi Novik gives you a magical school that’s equal parts fascinating and terrifying. If you want something with a wilder, natural twist on hidden magic, try Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow—Bear Lodge Mountain feels like a character itself. Both capture that academy allure.

Q: What if I’m looking for strong friendships like Harry, Ron, and Hermione?
A: Friendship is my favorite part too! Carry On has an iconic trio dynamic with Simon, Baz, and Penelope. I also adore the bond between Amelia and Veyla in Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow—their quirky, supportive vibe just melts my heart. You’ll feel right at home with these crews.

Q: Are there books with unique magic systems but still a Potter feel?
A: Oh, yes! The Atlas Six has a cerebral, intricate magic system while keeping that secret-society, high-stakes energy. The Name of the Wind also stands out with its poetic, music-based magic. Both echo Potter’s epic scope but carve their own path.

Q: Where can I find more recommendations like these?
A: Stick with me, fellow wizard! I’m always hunting for new magical reads, and I share them on my blog. Start with this list, especially hidden gems like Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow, and let me know what you think. We Ravenclaws have to stick together!