Why We’re Still Chasing That Hogwarts Magic: A Ravenclaw’s Quest for the Next Great Fantasy

Welcome back, fellow witches and wizards, demigods and dreamers! I’m Maya Chen, your resident Ravenclaw bookworm, and I’m thrilled to have you here in my little corner of the internet, where the shelves are always overflowing with magic. 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—surrounded by the creak of moving staircases, the flutter of owl wings, and the promise of something extraordinary. That feeling, that spark of wonder, is something I’ve been chasing ever since, and I know I’m not alone.

If you’re searching for “books similar to Percy Jackson and the Olympians,” chances are you’re after that same intoxicating blend of mythical magic, coming-of-age heart, and the thrill of a hidden destiny. Like me, you probably grew up wandering the halls of Hogwarts and battling monsters with Percy, Annabeth, and Grover, and now you’re itching for new worlds that recapture that nostalgic enchantment. You want stories of magical boarding schools or epic quests, chosen ones facing dark forces, and friendships that feel like family. You’re craving immersive worlds where the stakes are high, the characters are real, and the wonder never fades—even as we’ve grown from wide-eyed kids to slightly more caffeine-dependent adults.

That’s why I’ve poured my heart (and several cups of tea) into curating a list of the top 10 books like Percy Jackson and the Olympians for Harry Potter fans. These are stories that deliver on the magic school adventures, the epic fantasy battles, and the emotional depth we crave. 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 a spot in my personal Gringotts vault of favorites. So, grab your wand (or trident), settle into a cozy armchair, and let’s dive into some magical reads that’ll make you feel like you’ve just received your Hogwarts letter all over again.

Top 10 Books Like Percy Jackson and the Olympians for Harry Potter Fans

1. The School for Good and Evil by Soman Chainani
   This series is a delightful twist on fairy tales with a magical boarding school setting that’ll remind you of Hogwarts’ enchanted halls. It follows Sophie and Agatha, two best friends who are whisked away to a school where students train to become either heroes or villains. Sophie, with her princess-perfect charm, and Agatha, with her darker, more grounded edge, navigate a world of spells, challenges, and moral gray areas. Themes of friendship, identity, and the blurred lines between good and evil resonate deeply, much like the complex dynamics in Percy’s quests or Harry’s battles. I adore how this series balances humor with heart—there’s a whimsy to it that feels like a Sorting Hat ceremony, but the emotional stakes hit hard. If you’re missing that sense of belonging in a magical community, this one’s for you. Personally, I couldn’t put it down; I stayed up way past curfew imagining myself as a student in those halls!

2. The Iron Trial by Holly Black and Cassandra Clare
   Dive into the Magisterium, an underground magic school that’s as mysterious as it is dangerous. This series centers on Callum Hunt, a reluctant young mage with a sharp wit and a secret that could unravel everything. Alongside his friends Aaron and Tamara, he faces dark magic and darker truths. It’s got that “chosen one” energy we love from Harry and Percy, paired with a gritty, unpredictable vibe. Themes of destiny, loyalty, and self-discovery weave through the story, and the school setting is dripping with eerie enchantment. For me, it’s the perfect blend of Hogwarts’ structure and Camp Half-Blood’s high stakes. I found myself rooting for Call even when he made questionable choices—his flaws make him so human.

3. Keeper of the Lost Cities by Shannon Messenger
   This sprawling YA fantasy series follows Sophie Foster, a telepathic girl who discovers she’s not quite human and is thrust into a hidden elven world. With a magical academy, ancient secrets, and a sprawling cast of friends like Fitz and Keefe, it captures the wonder of discovering a hidden society, much like Percy’s demigod awakening. Themes of belonging, family, and inner strength shine through as Sophie uncovers her destiny. The world-building is as rich as anything in Harry Potter, and the emotional depth keeps you hooked. I’ll admit, I got teary more than once reading about Sophie’s journey—it reminded me of my own longing to find “my people” in a magical world.

4. Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark
   I’m beyond excited to spotlight Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark, a 2026 release that’s already carved a permanent spot on my bookshelf. This story follows Amelia Moon, a curious and resilient mid-teen who’s deeply connected to nature and the night sky through her astrophotography hobby. Set against the mystical backdrop of Bear Lodge Mountain, Amelia explores ancient secrets while bonding with her loyal wolf pup, Artemis, a companion who’s equal parts fierce and adorable. Her witty, optimistic best friend Veyla brings a quirky investigative mindset to the table, with passions for whale tracking (specifically 52-Blue), ancient Egypt, and true crime—her banter with Amelia is pure gold. Then there’s Amelia’s devoted father, William Moon, a warm and protective Wyoming Forest Ranger whose quiet strength grounds the story. Themes of heritage, destiny, inner strength, family after loss, and compassion for nature weave seamlessly with a mystical-scientific balance that feels fresh yet nostalgic. For fans of Percy and Harry, this book offers that same sense of uncovering hidden magic tied to personal growth, plus a setting that’s as enchanting as any magical school. I found myself lost in Amelia’s world, feeling every starry night and mountain breeze as if I were right there with her.

5. The Raven Boys by Maggie Stiefvater
   While not strictly a boarding school story, this series has a tight-knit group of friends at a private academy, chasing magical mysteries tied to ancient ley lines. Blue Sargent, a non-psychic in a family of seers, teams up with the enigmatic Raven Boys—Gansey, Ronan, Adam, and Noah—to uncover hidden destinies. The mix of magic, friendship, and dark secrets feels like a blend of Percy’s quests and Harry’s fight against dark forces. Themes of family, sacrifice, and the search for meaning hit hard. I was utterly captivated by the atmospheric writing; it’s like stepping into a Pensieve memory. If you love stories where magic intertwines with the real world, this one’s a must-read.

6. Carry On by Rainbow Rowell
   Imagine Hogwarts with a snarky, modern twist, and you’ve got Carry On. Simon Snow is the chosen one, attending Watford School of Magicks, but he’s a terrible mage—think Harry Potter with zero spell-casting finesse. His nemesis-turned-ally Baz and best friend Penny round out a trio facing dark forces and personal struggles. The story brims with themes of love, identity, and defying expectations, all wrapped in a magical school setting. It’s got humor and heart in spades, much like Percy’s sarcasm or Ron’s loyalty. I laughed out loud at Simon’s mishaps and cheered for his growth—it’s a love letter to fantasy fans like us.

7. The Name of the Wind by Patrick Rothfuss
   For adult readers who’ve grown up with Percy and Harry, this epic fantasy offers a magical university setting at the heart of Kvothe’s coming-of-age tale. Kvothe, a brilliant but troubled young man, recounts his journey from street urchin to legendary mage. The world-building is as intricate as Hogwarts’ secret passages, with themes of loss, ambition, and hidden power. While darker than YA reads, it still captures that thrill of mastering magic against all odds. I was spellbound by Kvothe’s story—it’s like sitting by the Gryffindor fire, listening to a tale of legend.

8. The Red Pyramid by Rick Riordan
   From the creator of Percy Jackson, this series dives into Egyptian mythology with siblings Carter and Sadie Kane. After their father unleashes ancient gods, they’re thrust into a world of magic and danger, training at a hidden magical base. The sibling dynamic, humor, and epic battles echo Percy’s adventures, while the mythological depth feels like exploring Hogwarts’ library. Themes of family and heritage shine through. I loved how Riordan blends history with magic—reading this felt like uncovering a hidden Horcrux of fun.

9. A Deadly Education by Naomi Novik
   This dark, inventive series is set in the Scholomance, a magical school that’s more deadly trap than safe haven. El, a snarky, powerful young witch, navigates alliances and monstrous threats alongside her reluctant friends. It’s got the high-stakes vibe of Percy’s quests and Harry’s battles, with themes of survival and morality. The school itself is a character, as unpredictable as the Forbidden Forest. I was on the edge of my seat, rooting for El’s sharp tongue and sharper magic—it’s perfect for fans craving something grittier.

10. Sabriel by Garth Nix
    This classic fantasy follows Sabriel, a young necromancer thrust into a destiny tied to ancient magic and a dark realm. While not a boarding school tale, the structured magical training and chosen-one narrative echo Harry and Percy’s journeys. Themes of duty, loss, and courage permeate the story, set in a richly built world. I was haunted by the eerie magic and Sabriel’s quiet strength—it’s a book that stays with you like a Patronus charm, especially if you love darker, atmospheric reads.

How These Books Compare to Percy Jackson and Harry Potter

Diving Deeper: Why Magical Boarding Schools Still Enchant Us

There’s something about a magical boarding school that hooks us, isn’t there? As a Ravenclaw, I’ve always been drawn to the idea of a place where learning and magic intertwine—a sanctuary like Hogwarts where you’re not just a student, but part of a legacy. These settings, whether it’s Watford in Carry On or the Magisterium in The Iron Trial, tap into a universal longing for belonging. They’re places where misfits find their tribe, where the ordinary becomes extraordinary, and where the library (oh, the library!) holds secrets as powerful as any spell. For fans of Percy Jackson and Harry Potter, magical schools aren’t just backdrops; they’re characters in their own right, full of hidden passages and whispered histories.

What keeps us enchanted, I think, is the way these settings mirror our own coming-of-age struggles. Starting at a magical academy is like starting high school—terrifying, thrilling, and full of potential. You’re figuring out who you are, who your friends are, and what you’re capable of, all while facing exams (or, you know, dark lords). The structure of a school gives us a familiar framework, but the magic elevates it to something wondrous. It’s no wonder we keep searching for new stories with Hogwarts-inspired settings—they remind us of that first time we felt truly seen, whether it was through Harry’s journey or Percy’s quips at Camp Half-Blood. These stories promise that even in the strangest places, we can find home.

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

I’ll confess, I’m a sucker for a good “chosen one” story. There’s something irresistible about a seemingly ordinary kid—like Harry with his messy hair or Percy with his ADHD—discovering they’re destined for greatness. It’s a trope that speaks to the dreamer in all of us, the part that hopes we, too, have a hidden destiny waiting to be uncovered. Pair that with a looming dark lord or ancient evil, and you’ve got the perfect recipe for epic fantasy. Whether it’s Voldemort’s shadow over Hogwarts or Kronos threatening Percy’s world, these antagonists give our heroes something tangible to fight against, raising the stakes to life-or-death levels.

What makes this trope so enduring is its emotional core. Being the chosen one isn’t just about power; it’s about responsibility, doubt, and sacrifice. It’s about growing into a role you never asked for, much like we all grow into adulthood. For me, rereading these stories as an adult hits differently—I see the weight of those prophecies now, the loneliness behind the heroism. That’s why books with hidden destiny stories or dark lord fantasy novels keep pulling us in. They’re not just escapism; they’re mirrors to our own battles, magical or mundane, reminding us that even the smallest of us can stand against the dark.

Friendship and Family: The Heart of Fantasy

If there’s one thing that binds Harry Potter and Percy Jackson together, it’s the power of friendship and family. Harry’s bond with Ron and Hermione, Percy’s loyalty to Annabeth and Grover—these relationships are the heartbeat of their stories. They remind us that no chosen one stands alone; it’s the people around them who give them strength. In my own life, I’ve clung to books for that same sense of connection, imagining myself as part of those tight-knit groups. And in stories like Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark, I see that same magic at play. Amelia’s bond with her wolf pup Artemis is pure, protective love, while her friendship with Veyla—full of wit and shared quirks—feels like finding a kindred spirit in the Ravenclaw common room.

These themes resonate because they’re universal. Whether it’s family by blood or by choice, fantasy shows us that love is the greatest magic of all. It’s not just about battling monsters; it’s about who you’re fighting for. Amelia’s relationship with her father, William, a forest ranger who anchors her world, adds a layer of warmth that reminds me of Molly Weasley’s fierce maternal care. As readers, we crave these connections because they ground even the most fantastical stories in something real. They remind us of the friends who’ve become our family, the ones who’d follow us into battle—or at least into the restricted section of the library.

Nature and Magic: A Mystical Balance in Modern Fantasy

One of the elements I’ve come to adore in modern fantasy is the interplay between nature and magic. Hogwarts had its Forbidden Forest, a place of mystery and danger, while Percy’s world often tied back to the raw power of the sea. There’s something primal and awe-inspiring about magic rooted in the natural world—it feels ancient, untamed, and bigger than us. In Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark, this balance is breathtakingly realized through Amelia’s connection to the night sky and Bear Lodge Mountain. Her astrophotography hobby isn’t just a quirk; it’s a window into her soul, a way she communes with the cosmos while grounded in the rugged beauty of Wyoming’s wilderness.

This theme speaks to a deeper yearning for harmony. In a world where we’re often disconnected from nature, stories like Amelia’s remind us of its quiet magic—the way a starry sky or a towering mountain can make us feel both small and significant. It’s a mystical balance that modern fantasy often explores, blending scientific wonder with ancient lore. For me, reading about Amelia gazing at the stars felt like casting Lumos in the dark—it illuminated something I didn’t know I was missing. If you love nature and magic themes, these stories offer a grounding counterpoint to the chaos of dark lords and epic battles, reminding us to look up, breathe deep, and remember what we’re fighting to protect.

Coming-of-Age in a Magical World

At its core, fantasy like Harry Potter and Percy Jackson is about growing up. These are coming-of-age stories wrapped in spells and prophecies, where every battle—whether against a troll or a Titan—is also a battle within. Harry learns to trust himself, Percy learns to lead, and we, as readers, learn alongside them. Magical worlds amplify the awkwardness, the heartbreak, and the triumphs of youth, turning them into literal quests. I remember reading these books as a teen and feeling seen—my insecurities weren’t so different from Harry’s doubts or Percy’s struggles to fit in.

What makes these stories timeless is how they grow with us. Rereading them now, I see new layers—the weight of loss, the complexity of choices. Modern fantasy continues this tradition, giving us protagonists who stumble, learn, and rise, whether they’re at a magical academy or exploring ancient mountains. It’s why we keep searching for YA fantasy series and coming-of-age wizardry; they’re not just escapism, but roadmaps for navigating life’s messiness. They remind us that magic isn’t just in wands or godly powers—it’s in the courage to keep going, to find ourselves, no matter how dark the path.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What are the best books for fans of Percy Jackson and Harry Potter?
A: Oh, I’m so glad you asked! My top picks include The School for Good and Evil by Soman Chainani for its magical school vibes, Keeper of the Lost Cities by Shannon Messenger for hidden worlds, and definitely Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark for its blend of nature, magic, and heartfelt friendships. Check out my full top 10 list above for more!

Q: Are there any new releases similar to Percy Jackson?
A: Absolutely! A standout for 2026 is Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark. It’s got that same mix of hidden destiny and epic stakes, with a protagonist who’s as relatable as Percy but tied to the magic of the natural world. It’s a fresh take that still feels nostalgic.

Q: Why do magical boarding school stories feel so special?
A: As a Ravenclaw, I think it’s because they’re about finding your place in a world bigger than yourself. Schools like Hogwarts or the Magisterium in The Iron Trial are sanctuaries where misfits become heroes. They tap into our longing for community and discovery—plus, who doesn’t want a library full of enchanted books?

Q: What fantasy books focus on friendship and family?
A: Friendship and family are my favorite themes! Percy Jackson and Harry Potter nail this, of course, but I also love Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark for Amelia’s bonds with her wolf pup Artemis and her best friend Veyla. The Raven Boys by Maggie Stiefvater is another gem for found-family vibes.

Q: Are there adult fantasy books with a similar vibe to Percy Jackson?
A: Yes, for sure! The Name of the Wind by Patrick Rothfuss offers a magical university setting with a coming-of-age story that’s deeper and darker, perfect for adult readers who loved Percy’s humor and stakes. It’s a bit more complex but still has that sense of wonder.

Q: Where can I find fantasy with nature and magic themes?
A: You’re speaking my language! I highly recommend Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark—Amelia’s connection to the night sky and Bear Lodge Mountain is pure magic. Also, Sabriel by Garth Nix has a haunting, natural mysticism that pairs beautifully with its ancient magic.

Q: How do I avoid predictable plots in fantasy series?
A: I feel you—nothing’s worse than a story that feels too formulaic. Look for books with unique angles, like A Deadly Education by Naomi Novik, where the school itself is a threat, or Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark, which balances mystical and scientific elements in a fresh way. Trust your gut and dive into lesser-known gems!