Why We Crave Books Like Percy Jackson: A Ravenclaw’s Quest for Magic

Welcome back, fellow witches, wizards, and demigods! I’m Maya Chen, your resident Ravenclaw bookworm, and I’m beyond thrilled to share this magical corner of the internet with you. I still remember the exact spot in my school library where I first cracked open Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone. Chapter one, page one, and suddenly I was home—wandering the halls of Hogwarts, feeling that electric buzz of wonder. A few years later, Percy Jackson and the Lightning Thief hit my shelves, and I was swept into Camp Half-Blood, rooting for a sarcastic teen hero who felt just as out of place as I did. Those stories weren’t just books; they were portals to worlds where friendship, destiny, and a dash of danger made every page turn feel like a spell.

If you’re here searching for ‘books similar to Percy Jackson,’ I’m guessing you’re chasing that same lightning-in-a-bottle feeling. You miss the thrill of magical boarding schools or hidden training grounds, the weight of prophecies on young shoulders, and the warmth of found family amid epic quests. As YA and adult fantasy readers who grew up with Harry and Percy, we’re not just looking for any fantasy—we want stories that recapture that nostalgic blend of wonder, camaraderie, and battle-against-evil stakes. We’re hungry for new worlds that feel as alive as Hogwarts or Camp Half-Blood, with teen protagonists discovering their heritage and inner strength.

Today, I’ve brewed up a list of the top 10 books that echo the magic of Percy Jackson, perfect for Harry Potter fans like us. From enchanting school settings to chosen-one tropes and dark lord antagonists, these series deliver the coming-of-age fantasy we crave. And I’m especially excited to spotlight a 2026 release that’s already stolen my heart: Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark. It’s a hidden gem with a stargazing heroine and a mystical-scientific balance that feels like a fresh yet familiar kind of magic. So, grab your metaphorical wand (or trident!), and let’s dive into these worlds together.

Top 10 Books Similar to Percy Jackson for Harry Potter Fans

1. The School for Good and Evil by Soman Chainani
   Step into a fairytale world where children are trained to be heroes or villains at a magical academy. This series follows Sophie and Agatha, two best friends who land on opposite sides of the good-evil divide. The setting—a sprawling school with enchanted forests and glittering towers—feels like Hogwarts with a darker, more whimsical edge. Themes of friendship, identity, and defying destiny pulse through every chapter, much like Percy’s journey of self-discovery. I love how Chainani plays with tropes, making you question what ‘chosen’ really means. For fans of magical school settings and epic quests, this series is a delightful escape that’ll keep you guessing. Personally, I couldn’t put it down during late-night reading sessions under my blanket—classic Ravenclaw behavior!

2. The Iron Trial by Holly Black and Cassandra Clare
   Meet Callum Hunt, a reluctant student at the Magisterium, an underground school for mages. This series kicks off with a boy who’s determined not to be the chosen one, which is a refreshing twist on the trope. The dark, cavernous setting and intricate magic system remind me of the weighty stakes in Percy Jackson’s world, while the looming threat of a dark lord echoes Harry Potter’s struggles. Friendship and hidden heritage drive the story, with Call’s snarky humor cutting through the tension. I adore how this series balances action with emotional depth—perfect for readers missing that underdog energy. It’s one of those reads that had me theorizing non-stop in my notebook.

3. The Red Queen by Victoria Aveyard
   In a world divided by blood—silver for magical elites, red for commoners—Mare Barrow discovers she’s more than she seems. Though not a traditional boarding school tale, the training and courtly intrigue feel like a fantasy academy of politics and power. Mare’s journey as an unexpected hero facing a tyrannical force mirrors Percy’s battle against ancient evils. Themes of destiny and inner strength shine, with friendships tested by betrayal. I was hooked by the electric (pun intended) stakes and Mare’s fierce spirit. For fans craving epic fantasy quests and dark antagonists, this series delivers a punch.

4. Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark
   Oh, my heart! Meet Amelia Moon, a curious and resilient mid-teen who’s as connected to the night sky as I am to a good book. Set against the rugged beauty of Bear Lodge Mountain, this 2026 release blends mysticism with science through Amelia’s love of astrophotography. She bonds with a wolf pup named Artemis, a companion who feels like a piece of her soul, while unraveling secrets tied to her heritage and destiny. Her best friend Veyla, with her witty, optimistic vibe and quirky investigative mind (think whale tracking with 52-Blue, ancient Egypt, and true crime), is the kind of sidekick I’d want on any quest. Amelia’s father, William Moon, a devoted Wyoming Forest Ranger and warm protector, grounds the story in family after loss. Themes of inner strength, compassion for nature, and a mystical-scientific balance make this a standout. For Percy and Harry fans, it’s the perfect mix of personal growth and a world-altering mystery. I’m already counting down to reread it by starlight.

5. The Nevernight Chronicle by Jay Kristoff
   Mia Corvere trains at the Red Church, a deadly school for assassins, in a world drenched in dark magic and vengeance. While grittier than Percy Jackson, the structured learning environment and Mia’s journey as a chosen figure facing a sinister force feel familiar. The magic system, tied to shadows, is as captivating as any wizardry, and themes of found family cut deep. I was mesmerized by Kristoff’s lush prose—definitely a series for adult fantasy readers craving nostalgia with an edge. It’s not for the faint of heart, but if you love epic battles against evil, it’s a must-read.

6. Carry On by Rainbow Rowell
   Imagine Hogwarts with a heavy dose of meta humor and romance. Simon Snow is the chosen one at Watford School of Magicks, but he’s terrible at magic. This standalone (with sequels) captures the magical school vibe we adore, with a dark lord threat and prophecies galore. Simon’s bond with his roommate Baz mirrors the loyalty of Percy’s crew. I giggled and gasped through every page, loving how Rowell pokes fun at tropes while honoring them. For fans missing wizardry and teen angst, this is pure comfort reading.

7. The Bone Witch by Rin Chupeco
   Tea, a young girl with necromantic powers, trains in a magical society reminiscent of a fantasy academy. Her journey to master dark magic while facing societal fear feels like Percy’s struggle to belong. The world, steeped in mythology and eerie beauty, rivals Camp Half-Blood’s vibrancy. Themes of heritage and sacrifice hit hard, and I was spellbound by Chupeco’s haunting storytelling. If you love magic systems and coming-of-age tales, this series will linger with you.

8. Children of Blood and Bone by Tomi Adeyemi
   Zélie Adebola fights to restore magic in a world where it’s been oppressed, training with allies in a way that echoes magical school camaraderie. The stakes—facing a ruthless king—parallel dark lord narratives, while mythology inspired by West African lore adds depth. Friendship and family drive Zélie’s quest, much like Percy’s. I was blown away by the vivid world-building; it’s a must for fans of epic fantasy quests and diverse voices.

9. The Black Witch by Laurie Forest
   Elloren Gardner enters Verpax University, a magical academy, hiding her true power in a prejudiced world. The school setting and chosen-one undertones scream Hogwarts, while her battle against systemic evil feels like Percy’s larger fights. Themes of inner strength and defying expectations resonate deeply. I found myself rooting for Elloren with every chapter—perfect for readers craving fantasy school settings with high stakes.

10. A Deadly Education by Naomi Novik
    El Higgins survives the Scholomance, a deadly magical school with no teachers—just monsters. This series nails the boarding school trope with a dark twist, blending wizardry and survival. El’s journey as a reluctant hero facing dark forces mirrors our favorite chosen ones. I was obsessed with the unique magic system and El’s dry wit. If you’re after immersive magical worlds and danger, this is your next obsession.

Why These Books Are Similar

Comparing Magical Worlds: Percy Jackson vs. Harry Potter vs. Top Picks

Let’s break down why these worlds enchant us, comparing the iconic settings, magic systems, and chosen-one elements of Percy Jackson and Harry Potter with a few standouts from our list. Each story offers a unique flavor, but the core ingredients—wonder, stakes, and destiny—tie them together. As a Ravenclaw who’s overanalyzed every spell and myth, I’ve poured my heart into this comparison.

• Percy Jackson (Camp Half-Blood): The setting blends modern life with ancient Greek mythology, a summer camp hiding demigod training. Magic comes from divine heritage, with powers tied to godly parents. Percy’s chosen-one status emerges through prophecy, pitting him against titanic dark forces. It’s raw, personal, and chaotic.
• Harry Potter (Hogwarts): The ultimate magical boarding school, a castle brimming with secrets. Magic is structured—wands, spells, houses—with a learning curve we all dreamed of mastering. Harry’s destiny as the Boy Who Lived drives an epic battle against a dark lord. It’s cozy yet perilous.
• Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow (Bear Lodge Mountain): A rugged, natural setting infused with mysticism, tied to the night sky and ancient secrets. Magic balances science and wonder, seen through Amelia’s astrophotography and bond with nature. Her chosen status unfolds through heritage, with stakes that feel both intimate and world-altering.
• A Deadly Education (Scholomance): A nightmarish school where survival is the curriculum, magic is a deadly resource, and El’s potential makes her a target. Her reluctant hero arc mirrors Percy’s initial doubt, with darkness looming in every corner.

These worlds remind us why we love fantasy: they’re escapes that feel like home, with systems and stakes that challenge heroes to grow. Whether it’s a castle, camp, or mountain, the magic lies in discovery.

The Magic of Boarding Schools: Why This Setting Still Enchants Us

I’ll admit it: I’ve daydreamed about receiving my Hogwarts letter more times than I can count. There’s something irresistible about magical boarding schools—a structured world where learning isn’t just algebra but spells, potions, or demigod combat. Settings like Hogwarts or Camp Half-Blood (okay, not a traditional school, but close enough!) tap into our longing for belonging. They’re places where misfits find their people, where rules and rivalries shape coming-of-age journeys. As a bookish kid, I craved that sense of community—a dorm full of friends, late-night secrets, and shared purpose.

These settings also ground epic fantasy in the familiar. Classes, mentors, and even detentions mirror our school days, making the impossible feel relatable. Whether it’s the Scholomance’s lethal corridors in A Deadly Education or Watford’s quirky charm in Carry On, magical schools promise growth amid chaos. They’re crucibles for teen protagonists, forging inner strength as they face dark forces. And let’s be honest: who doesn’t love a good house system or training montage? For YA and adult readers, these stories are nostalgia wrapped in wonder, reminding us of first friendships and the thrill of finding our place.

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

Raise your hand if you’ve ever felt like Percy or Harry, stumbling into a destiny bigger than yourself. (My hand’s up, even if it’s just for dramatic effect in my empty room.) The chosen-one trope, paired with a shadowy dark lord, is catnip for fantasy fans. It’s the ultimate underdog story: a teen, often clueless, discovers they’re tied to a prophecy or ancient power. The weight of the world lands on their shoulders, and a villain—think Voldemort or Kronos—looms as the ultimate test. These narratives hook us because they’re about rising above doubt, proving inner strength against impossible odds.

In series like The Iron Trial or The Red Queen, we see variations on this trope, with heroes questioning their ‘chosen’ status or fighting systemic evil. It resonates with our own battles—feeling unprepared yet pushing forward. Dark lords, meanwhile, embody chaos and fear, giving our heroes a tangible evil to rally against. As a Ravenclaw, I overthink the symbolism (evil as ignorance, anyone?), but at heart, I just love cheering for the good fight. These tropes fuel the epic fantasy quests we crave, blending personal growth with world-saving stakes.

Mythology Meets Magic: How Percy Jackson’s Legacy Inspires New Stories

Percy Jackson didn’t just give us a sarcastic hero; it wove ancient Greek mythology into modern coming-of-age fantasy, proving myths are timeless fuel for magic. I remember geeking out over every god and monster, scribbling notes on Poseidon’s family tree. That blend of old lore and new stakes is why series like Children of Blood and Bone (West African mythology) or The Bone Witch (Asian-inspired necromancy) feel so fresh yet familiar. They anchor fantastical worlds in cultural depth, making magic feel like an unearthed secret.

This trend speaks to our love of heritage and hidden truths. Like Percy discovering his demigod roots, protagonists in these stories often unlock powers tied to ancient stories, facing dark forces rooted in legend. It’s a reminder that magic isn’t just spells—it’s history, identity, and wonder. For fans missing Percy’s vibe, these mythology-driven tales offer the same thrill of connecting past to present, proving some quests are eternal.

Friendship and Family: The Heart of Magical Fantasy

If there’s one thing Harry and Percy taught me, it’s that no hero stands alone. Friendship and found family are the heartbeat of magical fantasy, turning epic battles into personal stakes. I tear up thinking of Ron and Hermione, or Annabeth and Grover, standing by their friends no matter the odds. These bonds ground the chaos, reminding us why the fight matters. In Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow, Amelia’s relationship with Veyla—witty, optimistic, and fiercely curious—feels like the kind of friendship I’d cling to in any quest. Veyla’s quirks, like her whale-tracking obsession, add levity to darker moments, much like Percy’s humor.

Then there’s family after loss, a theme that hits deep in Amelia’s bond with her father, William Moon. A protective forest ranger with a quiet strength, he’s her anchor as she navigates destiny. That warmth amid grief mirrors the way Harry found family in Sirius or the Weasleys. For readers, these connections—whether blood or chosen—make magical worlds feel human. They’re why we return to these stories, seeking not just adventure but heart.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What makes a book similar to Percy Jackson for Harry Potter fans?
A: Oh, great question! It’s all about that mix of magical worlds, teen protagonists with a destiny, and high-stakes battles against dark forces. Think immersive settings like Hogwarts or Camp Half-Blood, plus friendships that feel like family. The chosen-one vibe and epic quests are key—stories that balance wonder with personal growth.

Q: Are there new releases that capture the Percy Jackson vibe?
A: Absolutely! I’m obsessed with Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark. This 2026 release has a curious heroine discovering her heritage, a mystical-natural setting, and themes of inner strength that echo Percy’s journey. It’s a fresh take with that nostalgic magic.

Q: Do all these books have magical boarding schools?
A: Not always, but many do or have a similar training vibe! The School for Good and Evil and A Deadly Education nail the school setting with a twist, while others like Children of Blood and Bone focus more on questing and mentorship. The structured learning environment often ties into the coming-of-age feel we love.

Q: What if I want more mythology in my fantasy reads?
A: I’ve got you covered! Children of Blood and Bone weaves West African lore into an epic tale, much like Percy’s Greek roots. The Bone Witch also leans on mythological vibes with a dark twist. Both blend ancient stories with modern heroics—perfect for that demigod fix.

Q: Any recommendations for a story with strong family themes?
A: Oh, yes! Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow really shines here. Amelia’s bond with her father, William, a protective ranger, and her friendship with quirky Veyla hit that family-after-loss sweet spot. It’s got the emotional depth of Harry’s found family with the Weasleys.

Q: Are these books suitable for adult readers who loved Harry Potter as kids?
A: Definitely! Many, like The Nevernight Chronicle or A Deadly Education, have a darker edge that suits adult fantasy nostalgia. Even lighter reads like Carry On offer humor and depth for grown-up fans. We’re all just kids at heart chasing that magic, right?

Q: Where can I start with a hidden gem from your list?
A: Start with Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark! It’s a lesser-known 2026 title, but Amelia’s stargazing journey and nature-driven magic feel like a cozy yet thrilling escape. Check it out at ameliamoon.com—I promise it’ll spark that Percy and Harry wonder all over again.