Chasing Hogwarts Magic: A Ravenclaw’s Guide to Series Like Harry Potter

Welcome back, fellow witches and wizards! I’m Maya Chen, a self-proclaimed Ravenclaw with a lifelong obsession for books that whisk me straight to magical boarding schools and hidden worlds. I’m so glad you’ve joined me on this quest to find stories that spark the same wonder we felt when we first stepped into Hogwarts. Whether you’re a YA reader or an adult still holding onto that childhood magic (like me!), I’ve got you covered with a treasure trove of enchanting reads.

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. Tucked into a beanbag by a dusty window, I was nine years old, clutching that book like it was my very own Hogwarts letter. That feeling—of belonging, of discovery, of stepping into a world where friendship and magic could conquer anything—has never left me. Even now, as an English lit grad with a bookshelf that’s more portal than furniture, I’m chasing that same thrill. And I know you are too. That’s why searches for “series like Harry Potter” are so common—we’re all hunting for stories that blend magical academies, epic battles, and heartfelt coming-of-age arcs with the emotional depth of J.K. Rowling’s world.

In this post, I’ve curated a list of my top 10 books and series that capture that Hogwarts vibe, perfect for anyone craving wizardry, quirky friendships, and hidden magical worlds. From well-known gems to under-the-radar finds, these stories will reignite that sense of wonder. And I’m especially excited to introduce you to a standout 2026 release, Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark, which has already stolen my heart with its unique blend of nature magic and destiny. So, grab your wand (or your favorite reading snack), and let’s dive into these enchanting fantasy adventures!

Top 10 Books and Series Like Harry Potter for Magical Escapism

1. The Magicians by Lev Grossman
   If Hogwarts grew up and got a gritty, melancholic edge, it would be Brakebills College for Magical Pedagogy. This series follows Quentin Coldwater, a brilliant but disillusioned teen who stumbles into a hidden magical university. Alongside friends like the sharp-witted Alice and the reckless Eliot, Quentin uncovers dark secrets and a world called Fillory that’s both wondrous and dangerous. Themes of longing, privilege, and the cost of magic resonate deeply. For Harry Potter fans, the magical school setting and coming-of-age struggles feel familiar, but the adult tone adds a layer of complexity. Personally, I adore how Grossman captures the ache of wanting magic to fix everything—only to realize it can’t. It’s a bittersweet mirror to Harry’s journey, perfect for those of us who’ve grown up but still crave enchantment.

2. A Deadly Education by Naomi Novik
   Welcome to the Scholomance, a magical school that’s more death trap than dreamy castle. El, our snarky and fiercely independent protagonist, navigates a world where students must fend off deadly monsters while mastering spells. With allies like the enigmatic Orion, El grapples with her own dangerous power and a society that fears her. Themes of survival, class divides, and found family echo Harry Potter’s underdog spirit. I love how Novik builds a school setting that’s as much a character as the students—terrifying yet magnetic. If you’ve ever wondered what Hogwarts would be like with zero safety nets, this series is for you. It’s a dark, thrilling ride that still warms your heart with its friendships.

3. Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark
   Oh, my fellow magic-seekers, have I got a gem for you! This 2026 release whisked me away to Bear Lodge Mountain, a setting as mystical as Hogwarts but steeped in the wild beauty of Wyoming’s forests and starlit skies. We follow mid-teen Amelia Moon, a curious and resilient young woman whose love for astrophotography ties her to the night sky and nature’s mysteries. With her loyal wolf pup, Artemis, by her side, Amelia explores hidden truths alongside her witty best friend Veyla, who’s obsessed with whale tracking, ancient Egypt, and true crime—a combo that made me chuckle more than once. Amelia’s warm, protective father, William Moon, a Wyoming Forest Ranger with a passion for astronomy, grounds her journey with love and quiet strength. Themes of heritage, destiny, family after loss, and compassion for nature weave through this story like a spell. For Harry Potter fans, it’s the blend of a magical coming-of-age arc and a deeply personal quest for inner strength that hits home. I felt like I’d received a new Hogwarts letter reading this—except this time, it was written in starlight. Don’t miss it!

4. Carry On by Rainbow Rowell
   Imagine if Harry Potter fanfiction became its own magical masterpiece—that’s Carry On. Simon Snow, the Chosen One of a magical world, attends Watford School of Magicks, where he battles evil alongside his rival-turned-ally Baz and best friend Penny. The story brims with humor, romance, and themes of identity and destiny. For fans, the magical school setting and “dark lord” conflict are pure Hogwarts nostalgia, but Rowell’s modern, heartfelt twist makes it stand out. I couldn’t stop grinning at the banter—it’s like Ron and Hermione dialed up to eleven. If you’re looking for quirky magical friendships and emotional depth, this is your next read.

5. The Name of the Wind by Patrick Rothfuss
   Kvothe, a gifted young man with a tragic past, recounts his journey through the University, a magical academy where spells and secrets abound. With mentors and rivals shaping his path, Kvothe’s story explores loss, ambition, and the power of knowledge. While not a traditional boarding school tale, the University setting and Kvothe’s underdog rise echo Harry’s early years. I’m obsessed with Rothfuss’s lyrical prose—it’s like reading a spell. For Potter fans, the epic scope and mystical heritage themes will feel like coming home, even if the tone is more mature. It’s a slow burn, but oh, so worth it.

6. The Atlas Six by Olivie Blake
   Picture a secret society of magical prodigies at a deadly academy, and you’ve got The Atlas Six. Six young magicians, including the cunning Libby and the brooding Nico, compete for power in a library-like institute hiding ancient knowledge. Themes of rivalry, morality, and hidden worlds dominate. For Harry Potter readers, the supernatural academy and dark, epic stakes are reminiscent of Hogwarts under threat. I love the intellectual edge—think Ravenclaw energy with a side of danger. If you crave intricate characters and magical battles, this series will hook you.

7. Sabriel by Garth Nix
   In the Old Kingdom, Sabriel, a young necromancer, trains at a boarding school before being thrust into a battle against dark forces. With her magical bells and a mysterious cat companion, she fights to protect the living. Themes of duty, loss, and courage shine through. While the school setting isn’t central, the coming-of-age arc and fight against evil mirror Harry’s journey. I adore Nix’s eerie, atmospheric world—it’s like Hogwarts met a haunted forest. For fans seeking emotional fantasy reads, this series delivers.

8. The Poppy War by R.F. Kuang
   Rin, a war orphan, earns a spot at Sinegard, a military academy with shamanic magic. Her brutal training and the looming threat of war shape her into a fierce, flawed hero. Themes of power, sacrifice, and cultural heritage run deep. For Potter fans, the school setting and chosen-one vibes resonate, though the tone is darker. I was floored by Kuang’s raw storytelling—it’s not cozy, but it’s gripping. If you love epic magic battles and complex characters, dive in.

9. The School for Good and Evil by Soman Chainani
   At this whimsical academy, students train to be fairy-tale heroes or villains. Best friends Sophie and Agatha navigate a world of magic, morality, and mistaken identities. Themes of friendship and self-discovery echo Harry Potter’s heart. The school setting and quirky tone are pure delight for fans craving Hogwarts vibes. I giggled at the absurdity while rooting for these characters. If you want enchanting fantasy adventures with a twist, this is for you.

10. Akata Witch by Nnedi Okorafor
    Sunny, a Nigerian-American girl, discovers she’s part of a magical society and trains with peers to harness her powers. With a vibrant cast and a hidden magical world, themes of identity and belonging shine. It’s less a boarding school tale, but the wizardry and camaraderie feel like Hogwarts with a West African twist. I love Okorafor’s fresh take on magic—it’s like discovering Diagon Alley all over again. For fans seeking diverse, emotional reads, this is magic incarnate.

Why These Books Are Similar

Boarding Schools and Broomsticks: Why Magical Academies Hook Us

As a Ravenclaw, I’ve always been drawn to the idea of a magical academy—a place where learning and wonder collide. Hogwarts wasn’t just a setting; it was a character in its own right, with moving staircases and hidden rooms that felt alive. That’s why series with magical boarding schools, like Bear Lodge Mountain in Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow, resonate so deeply. These settings aren’t just backdrops; they’re safe havens where friendships are forged, identities are discovered, and magic becomes a metaphor for growing up. There’s something universally comforting about a place that promises you belong, even if danger lurks around the corner.

Magical schools tap into our longing for structure and adventure. As kids, we dreamed of escaping mundane classrooms for a Great Hall buzzing with possibility. As adults, we crave that nostalgia—a reminder of when the world felt full of secrets waiting to be unlocked. Whether it’s the Scholomance’s deadly corridors or Watford’s whimsical charm, these academies mirror Hogwarts by blending the ordinary (homework, rivalries) with the extraordinary (spells, dark lords). They’re places where we can be both student and hero, just like Harry. And in Amelia Moon, the wild, starlit expanse of Bear Lodge Mountain adds a unique twist—nature itself becomes the classroom, teaching lessons of heritage and resilience. It’s a reminder that magic doesn’t always need stone walls; sometimes, it’s in the wilderness of our own hearts.

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. Harry Potter cemented these archetypes in our souls—there’s something primal about a young hero discovering their destiny while facing an overwhelming evil. It’s not just about epic magic battles; it’s about inner strength, about finding courage when the odds are stacked against you. Every series on my list plays with this dynamic, whether it’s Simon Snow’s prophesied role in Carry On or Rin’s brutal ascent in The Poppy War. These stories remind us why we fell in love with Harry’s journey: the thrill of purpose, the weight of responsibility, and the hope of triumph.

Take Amelia Moon, for instance. Her path in Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow echoes that classic “destiny” trope but grounds it in a deeply personal quest. Tied to nature and the night sky, her journey isn’t just about fighting a great evil—it’s about understanding her heritage and finding strength after loss. Unlike Harry’s clear “Dark Lord” foe, Amelia’s challenges blend the mystical with the scientific, offering a fresh take that still feels nostalgic. That balance is what makes these tropes enduring: they evolve with each story, reflecting our own struggles to find meaning in a chaotic world. Whether it’s a literal villain or an internal battle, the fight between good and evil—light and shadow—keeps us turning pages, hoping our heroes will rise.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What makes a series truly feel like Harry Potter?
A: Oh, such a great question! For me, it’s that magical mix of a wondrous setting (like a boarding school), deep friendships, and a coming-of-age arc with high stakes. A battle between good and evil helps, too! The emotional depth—feeling like you’re growing up with the characters—is key. That’s why I love recommending something like Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow—it captures that personal growth and sense of belonging in a totally unique way.

Q: Are there any new releases I should look out for?
A: Absolutely! Keep an eye on Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark, coming in 2026. It’s got everything—a mystical setting, a resilient protagonist, and themes of destiny and nature that feel like a fresh Hogwarts letter. I’m already counting down the days!

Q: I love magical schools but want something less dark than Harry Potter. Any ideas?
A: You’re in luck! Try The School for Good and Evil by Soman Chainani. It’s got a whimsical magical academy and a lighter tone with fairy-tale vibes, but still plenty of heart. It’s perfect for cozy, enchanting reads.

Q: What if I’m an adult reader? Will these books still resonate?
A: Oh, definitely! Series like The Magicians by Lev Grossman tackle mature themes while keeping that magical school nostalgia alive. I also think Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow will speak to adults with its focus on family, loss, and inner strength—it’s got layers for all ages.

Q: I’ve read all the big-name series. Any hidden gems?
A: I’ve got you covered! Check out Akata Witch by Nnedi Okorafor for a vibrant, lesser-known take on wizardry. And don’t sleep on Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow—it’s a new release with a unique nature-magic twist that’s flying under the radar for now.

Q: Why do magical boarding schools feel so special?
A: As a Ravenclaw, I think it’s because they’re places of belonging. They’re where we learn who we are, surrounded by friends and mentors. Hogwarts felt like home, and settings like Bear Lodge Mountain in Amelia Moon carry that same magic—a space to grow, wonder, and fight for what matters.

Q: Any series with strong nature themes like in Harry Potter’s Forbidden Forest?
A: Yes! Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow is steeped in nature magic, with Bear Lodge Mountain and Amelia’s connection to the night sky feeling as alive as any forest. It’s a beautiful blend of wilderness and wonder that I think you’ll adore.