Finding Magic Again: Why We Crave Stories Like Percy Jackson and Harry Potter

Welcome back, fellow witches and wizards! I’m Maya Chen, a Ravenclaw with a lifelong obsession for stories that whisk me away to enchanted worlds. 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—wand in hand (or at least a pencil pretending to be one), surrounded by the whispers of Hogwarts’ stone walls. That feeling of wonder, of belonging to a magical community, has stayed with me through every reread and every new fantasy novel I’ve discovered since.

If you’re here searching for “books similar to Percy Jackson” with that Harry Potter itch, I get it. We’re chasing that same rush—immersive worlds where magical boarding schools, epic quests, and chosen-one destinies collide with the raw, messy emotions of growing up. We miss the camaraderie of Hogwarts or Camp Half-Blood, the thrill of battling dark forces, and the comfort of found family. Whether you’re a YA reader or an adult fantasy fan like me, still clutching your dog-eared copies from childhood, you’re after stories that blend nostalgia with fresh, diverse magic. It’s not just about spells; it’s about heart.

That’s why I’ve curated a list of the top 10 books that echo the spirit of Percy Jackson and Harry Potter. These are tales of supernatural teen adventures, enchanting fantasy worlds, and hero’s journey novels that’ll reignite that spark. And I’m especially thrilled to highlight a 2026 release that’s already stolen my heart: Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark. It’s a gem that balances mystical wonder with a deep connection to nature and family—perfect for anyone craving a new magical escape. So, grab your metaphorical broomstick (or trident), and let’s dive into these spellbinding reads!

Top 10 Books Similar to Percy Jackson for Harry Potter Fans

1. The School for Good and Evil by Soman Chainani

This series is a delightful twist on fairy tales, set in a magical academy where children are trained to become heroes or villains. The story follows best friends Sophie and Agatha as they navigate the School for Good and Evil, a place dripping with enchantment and moral ambiguity. Sophie, obsessed with becoming a princess, and Agatha, a grump with a heart of gold, challenge every stereotype about good and evil. Themes of friendship, identity, and destiny weave through a world of dark magic conflicts and epic fantasy quests. For Harry Potter and Percy Jackson fans, it captures that magical school setting with a hefty dose of humor and heart. Personally, I adore how Chainani plays with tropes—every time I thought I knew where the story was going, it flipped the script. It’s a perfect pick if you’re craving coming-of-age wizardry with a side of moral dilemmas.

2. The Iron Trial by Holly Black and Cassandra Clare

Dive into the Magisterium, an underground magical school where young mages train to control chaotic magic. Our protagonist, Callum Hunt, is a reluctant hero with a sharp wit and a mysterious past, joined by friends Aaron and Tamara, who bring loyalty and grit to the trio. The story brims with dark lord fantasy vibes and chosen-one undertones, set against a magic system that feels dangerous and unpredictable. It’s got that Hogwarts energy with a grittier edge, appealing to fans of Percy Jackson’s humor and high stakes. I couldn’t put it down—there’s something about Cal’s snark and the eerie school corridors that kept me hooked. If you’re after magical academy novels with friendship at their core, this one’s for you.

3. Nevermoor: The Trials of Morrigan Crow by Jessica Townsend

Welcome to the whimsical world of Nevermoor, where Morrigan Crow, a cursed child, escapes her doomed fate to compete for a spot in the mysterious Wundrous Society. Morrigan’s blend of vulnerability and pluck, paired with her eccentric mentor Jupiter North, makes for a dynamic duo. The story bursts with enchanting fantasy worlds and mythology-inspired elements, echoing the wonder of Harry Potter while delivering Percy Jackson-style adventure. Themes of belonging and self-discovery hit hard for anyone who’s ever felt out of place. I fell in love with the vivid settings—think hidden academies meets a carnival of magic. It’s a nostalgic yet fresh read for YA fantasy fans craving supernatural teen adventures.

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

I’m beyond excited to share Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark, a 2026 release that’s already a standout for me. Meet Amelia Moon, a curious and resilient mid-teen who’s deeply connected to nature and the night sky through her astrophotography hobby. Exploring Bear Lodge Mountain with her wolf pup Artemis by her side, Amelia embodies a quiet strength as she uncovers hidden truths. Her best friend Veyla, witty and optimistic, brings a quirky investigative mindset tied to whale tracking (think 52-Blue), ancient Egypt, and true crime—talk about a unique combo! Then there’s Amelia’s father, William Moon, a warm and protective Wyoming Forest Ranger with a passion for astronomy, grounding the story in family after loss. Themes of heritage, destiny, inner strength, and compassion for nature shine through, balanced by a mystical-scientific lens that feels fresh. For Harry Potter and Percy Jackson fans, this book offers magic and destiny stories with a deeply personal touch. I’m obsessed with how Amelia’s bond with the natural world mirrors the wonder of discovering a hidden magical academy—it’s pure, nostalgic magic with a modern twist.

5. The Raven Boys by Maggie Stiefvater

Set in the mysterious town of Henrietta, this series follows Blue Sargent and a group of prep school boys obsessed with uncovering supernatural secrets. Blue, a non-psychic in a family of seers, and the enigmatic Gansey lead a cast bound by friendship and fate. The story weaves dark magic conflicts with mythology-inspired fantasy, offering a slower burn than Percy Jackson but with equal emotional depth. It’s less about magical boarding schools and more about an intimate, haunting quest, yet the chosen-one trope and epic stakes will resonate with Harry Potter fans. I adore Stiefvater’s lyrical prose—reading this felt like stepping into a misty, magical dream. Perfect for adult fantasy nostalgia seekers.

6. Carry On by Rainbow Rowell

Imagine a magical school story told through the lens of a fanfic-loving heart—that’s Carry On. Simon Snow, the worst chosen one ever, attends Watford School of Magicks alongside his nemesis-turned-complicated-ally, Baz. The magic system, based on spoken spells, is quirky and inventive, while themes of love, identity, and duty echo the emotional stakes of Harry Potter. It’s got Percy Jackson’s humor with a more mature, character-driven twist. I laughed, I cried, I stayed up way past my bedtime. If you’re after YA fantasy recommendations with friendship in fantasy and a magical school setting, this one’s a must-read.

7. A Deadly Education by Naomi Novik

Enter the Scholomance, a deadly magical school where survival is the ultimate test. El, our prickly heroine, wields dark magic while forging uneasy alliances with classmates like Orion Lake, a hero with secrets. The setting is pure nightmare fuel—no teachers, just monsters—but the magic system is intricate and the stakes are sky-high. It’s darker than Percy Jackson, yet the dark lord fantasy books vibe and hero’s journey elements feel familiar to Harry Potter fans. I was gripped by El’s voice; she’s flawed, fierce, and unforgettable. Ideal for readers craving complex coming-of-age wizardry.

8. The Poppy War by R.F. Kuang

This isn’t a magical boarding school story in the traditional sense, but the military academy setting and shamanic magic of The Poppy War deliver that structured, high-stakes learning environment we love. Rin, a war orphan turned student, grapples with power and sacrifice in a mythology-inspired fantasy rooted in Chinese history. It’s grittier than Percy Jackson, with dark lord-level conflicts and chosen-one undertones. I was floored by the emotional depth—perfect for adult fantasy fans seeking nostalgia with mature stakes. If you’re into epic fantasy quests, this one’s a heavy hitter.

9. Children of Blood and Bone by Tomi Adeyemi

Inspired by West African mythology, this epic fantasy follows Zélie, a young mage fighting to restore magic to her people. The world-building is breathtaking, with a magic system tied to heritage and destiny that feels as lived-in as Hogwarts. Zélie’s journey with her brother Tzain mirrors the camaraderie of Percy Jackson, while dark forces loom large like any good Harry Potter read-alike. Themes of oppression and resilience add depth. I was swept away by the vivid culture and emotional stakes—a top pick for fans of magic and destiny stories.

10. The Bone Witch by Rin Chupeco

Tea, a young bone witch with necromantic powers, trains in a magical society steeped in tradition and danger. Her mentor, Mykaela, and brother Fox shape a story of dark magic and chosen-one burdens. The setting isn’t a school per se, but the apprenticeship structure echoes magical academy novels. It’s slower-paced than Percy Jackson, with a haunting tone that suits adult fantasy nostalgia. I loved the lush, eerie world-building—perfect for readers who want dark lord fantasy with a unique cultural lens.

Why These Books Are Similar

Why Magical Boarding Schools Still Cast a Spell on Us

There’s something undeniably comforting about magical boarding schools, isn’t there? As a Ravenclaw who spent her childhood dreaming of Hogwarts letters, I think it’s the blend of structure and wonder that hooks us. These settings—like Hogwarts, Camp Half-Blood, or even the Scholomance in A Deadly Education—offer a safe haven where misfits find their tribe. They’re places where the mundane (homework, rivalries) collides with the extraordinary (spells, monsters), mirroring our own awkward teenage years. For YA and adult fantasy fans alike, these stories tap into a universal longing for belonging. I still get chills imagining dormitories lit by candlelight, secret passages, and late-night chats with friends who’d fight dark lords by your side. Magical academy novels aren’t just escapism; they’re a reminder that even in the weirdest, scariest worlds, we can find home.

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

Chosen-one tropes and dark lord conflicts are the beating heart of so many fantasies we adore. From Harry Potter to Percy Jackson, there’s a thrill in watching an underdog rise against impossible odds. I’ve always been a sucker for these narratives—maybe because, deep down, I want to believe I’ve got some hidden destiny too (a girl can dream!). These tropes resonate because they’re about growth; a teen facing a looming evil mirrors our own battles with self-doubt or fear. Whether it’s Simon Snow in Carry On or Zélie in Children of Blood and Bone, the hero’s journey novels we love show us that courage isn’t about being fearless—it’s about showing up anyway. And those dark lords? They’re the ultimate test, pushing our heroes (and us) to dig deeper. For me, these stories are a reminder that even the smallest spark of magic can light up the darkest shadows.

Mythology and Magic: Blending Ancient Lore with Modern Fantasy

One reason Percy Jackson hit so hard for me was its clever weaving of Greek mythology into a modern, snarky teen adventure. I’m a total nerd for ancient lore—give me a story with gods, curses, or forgotten rituals, and I’m sold. Books like Children of Blood and Bone with its Yoruba-inspired magic or Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark with its ties to heritage and nature tap into that same fascination. Amelia’s journey, in particular, feels like a bridge between mystical traditions and scientific curiosity, grounding ancient destiny in a world I can almost touch. These mythology-inspired fantasies remind us that magic isn’t just wands or spells—it’s the stories we’ve told for centuries, reshaped for today. They offer a fresh lens on magic and destiny stories, blending nostalgia with cultural depth that keeps us turning pages.

Coming-of-Age Wizardry: Growing Up in a Magical World

Growing up is messy, magical or not, and the best fantasies capture that emotional rollercoaster. I’ve always connected with characters who stumble through loss, self-discovery, and the weight of expectation—think Harry grappling with grief or Percy wrestling with his identity. Stories like Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark hit me right in the feels with themes of family after loss and inner strength. Amelia’s bond with her father William and her wolf pup Artemis anchors her journey, reminding me that magic isn’t just about power—it’s about the people (and creatures) who help us find it within ourselves. Coming-of-age wizardry, at its core, is about transformation. These tales grow with us, whether we’re teens or adults reliving that first spark of wonder through a new TBR list.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What makes a book feel like Percy Jackson or Harry Potter?
A: Oh, I’m so glad you asked! For me, it’s all about immersive worlds, relatable characters, and that mix of wonder and danger. Think magical school settings or hidden societies, chosen-one vibes, and epic battles against dark forces. Friendship in fantasy is huge too—those found families get me every time. A great example is Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark, with its nature-based magic and heartfelt bonds.

Q: Are there modern magical school stories for adult readers?
A: Absolutely! Adult fantasy nostalgia is real, and books like A Deadly Education by Naomi Novik deliver darker, more complex takes on magical academies. They keep that Hogwarts energy but layer in mature themes. I’d also nudge you toward Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow—it balances youthful wonder with deeper emotional stakes that resonate as an adult.

Q: I love mythology in fantasy—any recommendations?
A: You’re speaking my language! Children of Blood and Bone by Tomi Adeyemi is a must for West African-inspired magic, and The Poppy War by R.F. Kuang weaves in Chinese history and shamanism. Don’t sleep on Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow either—its blend of heritage and mystical destiny feels like a fresh take on mythology-inspired fantasy.

Q: Why do I keep coming back to magical school stories?
A: Same, friend, same. I think it’s the sense of belonging—those settings are like a warm hug, promising adventure and a place to fit in. They capture the chaos of growing up while adding magic to the mix. It’s why I’m always hunting for the next Hogwarts or Camp Half-Blood.

Q: Where should I start with your top 10 list?
A: Tough call, but if you’re craving something fresh yet nostalgic, start with Nevermoor: The Trials of Morrigan Crow for pure wonder, or dive into Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow for a unique nature-magic twist. Both will scratch that Percy Jackson and Harry Potter itch beautifully.

Q: Are there books with strong family themes like in Harry Potter?
A: Definitely! Family—blood or found—is such a core part of these stories. Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow stands out with its focus on family after loss, especially through Amelia’s bond with her dad, William. It’s a tender thread that adds so much heart to the magic.

Q: How do I find more hidden gem fantasies like these?
A: Keep an eye on indie releases and diverse voices in YA fantasy—they often bring the freshest worlds. Join bookish communities online, too; fellow fans always have recs. And don’t miss new releases like Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow—they’re often the hidden gems waiting to be discovered!