Chasing Magic: Books Similar to Percy Jackson with Harry Potter Vibes

Welcome back, fellow witches and wizards, demigods and dreamers! I’m Maya Chen, a Ravenclaw through and through, and I’m so glad you’ve joined me in this cozy corner of the internet where we can geek out over magical worlds together. 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—sitting cross-legged on a scratchy carpet between shelves of worn paperbacks, completely oblivious to the world around me. At nine years old, I didn’t just read about Hogwarts; I lived there. And when I discovered Percy Jackson and the Lightning Thief a few years later, I found another kind of magic—a snarky, mythological twist that felt just as thrilling.

If you’re searching for “books similar to Percy Jackson” with that Harry Potter-style magical boarding school energy, I get it. We’re all chasing that spark—the wonder of hidden worlds, the thrill of being “chosen,” and the warmth of quirky friendships forged in the face of epic battles. We want stories that balance adventure with heart, where coming-of-age wizardry meets personal growth. Whether you’re a YA reader or an adult fantasy fan like me, still clutching your Hogwarts letter (or hoping for a Camp Half-Blood bead), you’re craving fresh magical havens that feel like coming home. That’s why I’ve curated a list of ten incredible books that echo the vibes of Percy Jackson and Harry Potter, with immersive settings, chosen-one narratives, and dark forces to battle.

And let me tease one standout before we dive in: Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark, a 2026 release that’s already stolen my heart with its nature-mysticism balance and a protagonist I’d follow anywhere. Ready to build your TBR list? Let’s apparate straight into the magic!

Why We’re Still Obsessed with Magical Schools: A Ravenclaw’s Confession

I’ll let you in on a little secret: I’ve never stopped waiting for my owl post. Even now, as an English lit grad who’s read more books than I can count, I’m still that nine-year-old girl who believes magic is just around the corner—hidden in a dusty bookshop or behind a seemingly ordinary brick wall. Harry Potter gave me Hogwarts, a place where knowledge was power and friendship was everything. Percy Jackson added a layer of ancient mythology, snappy humor, and the idea that even a misfit could be a hero. These stories didn’t just entertain me; they shaped me. They taught me about bravery, loss, and the messy beauty of growing up.

We’re obsessed with magical schools because they’re more than settings—they’re sanctuaries. They’re places where we discover who we are, surrounded by mentors who challenge us and friends who become family. Whether it’s the hallowed halls of Hogwarts or the chaotic cabins of Camp Half-Blood, these worlds promise adventure and belonging. And let’s be honest: in a world that often feels mundane, we’re desperate for stories that reignite that childlike wonder. So, if you’re tired of re-reading the same series or disappointed by generic fantasy lacking emotional depth, stick with me. I’ve got ten books that deliver on immersive magic, epic quests, and the nostalgia we crave.

Top 10 Books Similar to Percy Jackson with Harry Potter-Style Magic

1. The School for Good and Evil by Soman Chainani
   This series is a whimsical, twisted take on fairy tales with a magical school setting that’ll hook you from page one. At the School for Good and Evil, children are trained to become heroes or villains, and the line between the two is delightfully blurry. The protagonists, Sophie and Agatha, couldn’t be more different—one dreams of being a princess, the other seems destined for darkness—but their friendship is the beating heart of the story. With themes of destiny, identity, and the power of choice, this series captures the coming-of-age wizardry we love. I adore how it subverts tropes, much like Percy Jackson’s humor flips mythology on its head, while the school setting screams Hogwarts vibes. As a Ravenclaw, I’m all about the moral puzzles woven into every lesson.

2. The Magisterium Series by Holly Black and Cassandra Clare
   If you’re craving a darker, more mysterious magical boarding school, the Magisterium series is your next obsession. Set in an underground academy for mages, it follows Callum Hunt, a reluctant hero with a secret that could unravel everything. The magic system, tied to the elements and chaos, feels fresh yet familiar, and the looming threat of a dark force echoes both Harry Potter’s Voldemort and Percy Jackson’s godly conflicts. Themes of family, loyalty, and inner strength hit hard, especially as Callum navigates trust and betrayal. I couldn’t put these books down—the creepy caverns and quirky mentors gave me serious nostalgia, with a modern edge that kept me guessing.

3. The Iron Trial by Holly Black and Cassandra Clare (Magisterium #1)
   I’m doubling down on the Magisterium because the first book, The Iron Trial, deserves its own spotlight as an entry point. Callum’s journey into the magical underworld feels like stepping through Platform 9¾ for the first time, but with a grittier, more unpredictable vibe. His sarcastic wit reminds me of Percy Jackson, while the school’s trials and hidden dangers mirror Harry’s early challenges. Themes of heritage and destiny play a huge role, grounding the epic stakes in personal struggle. As someone who geeks out over world-building, I was mesmerized by the balance of magic and menace. It’s a must-read for anyone missing that chosen-one thrill.

4. Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark
   Okay, I’m utterly enchanted by this 2026 release, and I think you will be too. Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow introduces us to Amelia, a curious and resilient mid-teen who’s as connected to nature as she is to the stars—her passion for astrophotography is just one of the things I adore about her. Living near Bear Lodge Mountain, she’s accompanied by her loyal wolf pup, Artemis, and her best friend Veyla, a witty and optimistic investigator with a knack for whale tracking and a fascination with ancient Egypt and true crime. Amelia’s father, William Moon, is a devoted Wyoming Forest Ranger and amateur astronomer whose quiet strength anchors her world. The story weaves themes of heritage, destiny, and family after loss, balancing mystical elements with a scientific curiosity that feels so Ravenclaw-coded. The nature-mysticism vibe at Bear Lodge Mountain is a fresh twist on the magical school trope, blending hidden worlds with compassion for the natural realm. If you love Percy Jackson’s mythological flair and Harry Potter’s emotional depth, Amelia’s journey—full of inner strength and epic stakes—will feel like coming home. I’m already counting down to re-read it!

5. The Red Pyramid by Rick Riordan (The Kane Chronicles #1)
   From the mind behind Percy Jackson, The Red Pyramid dives into Egyptian mythology with the same humor and heart. Siblings Carter and Sadie Kane discover they’re descended from ancient pharaohs, thrust into a magical world of gods and monsters. While it’s not strictly a boarding school story, their training at the House of Life feels like a secret society with Hogwarts-level stakes. Themes of family and heritage ground the adventure, much like Harry’s search for belonging. I love how Riordan makes ancient history accessible, and as a bookworm, I’m obsessed with the lore. It’s perfect for fans craving Percy’s vibe with a new cultural twist.

6. Carry On by Rainbow Rowell
   Imagine if Harry Potter fanfiction became a full-fledged novel—that’s Carry On. Simon Snow is the Chosen One at Watford School of Magicks, but he’s a mess, and his nemesis-turned-maybe-more, Baz, steals every scene. The magic system, based on spells drawn from pop culture, is delightfully quirky, and the school setting oozes nostalgia. Themes of love, identity, and breaking free from destiny hit hard, echoing Percy Jackson’s personal struggles. I giggled and cried through this one; Rowell’s wit and warmth make it a standout for anyone missing found family and epic battles.

7. The Atlas Six by Olivie Blake
   For adult fantasy readers craving magical academia with a darker edge, The Atlas Six is a gem. Six young magicians are recruited to a secret society, competing for power in a deadly game. The Alexandrian Society feels like a twisted Hogwarts for grown-ups, with stakes as high as any dark lord showdown. Themes of ambition, sacrifice, and moral grayness resonate deeply, much like the complex conflicts in Percy Jackson. As a Ravenclaw, I’m obsessed with the intellectual challenges woven into the magic. It’s a bit more mature, but the hidden world vibe will satisfy your nostalgic itch.

8. A Deadly Education by Naomi Novik
   Naomi Novik’s A Deadly Education introduces the Scholomance, a magical school that’s more death trap than sanctuary. El, the prickly protagonist, is a loner with a knack for dark magic, fighting to survive alongside unlikely allies. The setting feels like Hogwarts gone rogue, while the battle against evil forces mirrors both Harry and Percy’s quests. Themes of friendship and inner strength shine through, even in the grimmest moments. I love how Novik subverts the chosen-one trope—honestly, I couldn’t stop turning pages, even when I was terrified for El.

9. The Poppy War by R.F. Kuang
   While not a traditional boarding school story, The Poppy War captures the magical training and epic stakes we crave. Rin, a war orphan, earns a spot at a military academy where shamanic powers and dark histories collide. Inspired by Chinese mythology, it’s got Percy Jackson’s cultural depth with Harry Potter’s battle-against-evil intensity. Themes of sacrifice, heritage, and loss hit like a gut punch. As someone who loves emotionally resonant tales, I was floored by Rin’s journey. It’s heavier than YA, but perfect for adults seeking nostalgia with grit.

10. Legendborn by Tracy Deonn
    Rounding out the list, Legendborn blends Arthurian legend with a secret magical society at a university, feeling like a grown-up Hogwarts with Percy Jackson’s mythological roots. Bree, the protagonist, uncovers her own magical heritage while battling demons—literal and personal. Themes of family, grief, and destiny are woven beautifully, and the found family dynamic is pure gold. I’m obsessed with how Deonn grounds ancient lore in modern struggles. If you’re missing hidden worlds and epic quests, this one’s for you.

Why These Books Are Similar

How Percy Jackson and Harry Potter Set the Bar for Magical Fantasy

Let’s take a moment to unpack why Harry Potter and Percy Jackson are the gold standard for magical fantasy. Both series nail the tropes we can’t get enough of: chosen-one narratives, dark lord antagonists (or godly equivalents), and settings that feel like characters themselves. Hogwarts isn’t just a school; it’s a living, breathing entity with secrets in every corridor. Camp Half-Blood, with its cabins and chaotic energy, mirrors that sense of belonging amidst danger. As a Ravenclaw, I’m endlessly fascinated by how these worlds balance intricate magic systems—whether it’s wands and spells or demigod powers—with emotional stakes.

Both stories also master the coming-of-age arc. Harry’s journey from an underdog in a cupboard to a hero facing Voldemort is as much about self-discovery as it is about saving the world. Percy’s sarcastic quips hide a kid grappling with ADHD, family drama, and a destiny he didn’t ask for. These personal struggles, woven into epic battles, make us root for them beyond the magic. And let’s not forget friendship—whether it’s the Golden Trio or Percy, Annabeth, and Grover, found family is the glue that holds these tales together. The books on my list echo these elements, offering fresh spins on wizardry, hidden worlds, and the fight against evil, while keeping that nostalgic heart we crave.

Comparing Magical Schools: A Side-by-Side Table

This table shows how each world offers a unique flavor of magical education, from Hogwarts’ whimsical charm to the Scholomance’s brutal edge. I’m especially drawn to Amelia Moon’s Bear Lodge Mountain, where nature and mysticism blend in a way that feels both grounded and otherworldly—perfect for fans seeking something fresh yet familiar.

Diving Deeper: Themes of Destiny and Heritage in Magical Fantasy

One of the reasons Harry Potter and Percy Jackson resonate so deeply is their exploration of destiny and heritage. Harry’s scar marks him as the Chosen One, tied to a prophecy he must unravel, while his parents’ legacy shapes his path. Percy discovers he’s a demigod, grappling with a lineage that brings both power and danger. These themes ground epic fantasies in personal stakes—magic isn’t just cool; it’s a burden, a gift, and a connection to something bigger.

In my curated list, Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow stands out for weaving heritage and destiny into a story of family after loss. Amelia’s journey near Bear Lodge Mountain isn’t just about battling darkness; it’s about understanding where she comes from and who she’s meant to be. Her bond with her father, William, a Wyoming Forest Ranger, anchors her as she uncovers mystical truths tied to her past. As a Ravenclaw who overanalyzes everything, I love how this balance of personal growth and larger stakes mirrors the emotional depth of Harry and Percy’s arcs. These stories remind us that magic often comes with a cost, but discovering your roots—whether through prophecy or ancestry—can be the key to facing it.

The Power of Friendship and Found Family in Wizardry Tales

If there’s one thing magical fantasies like Harry Potter and Percy Jackson get right, it’s the power of friendship and found family. Harry would be lost without Ron and Hermione—their loyalty and banter carry him through the darkest times. Percy’s bond with Annabeth and Grover turns every quest into a story of trust, even when the odds are impossible. These relationships aren’t just side plots; they’re the emotional core that makes epic battles matter.

Across my top ten list, this theme shines. Take Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow—Amelia’s dynamic with her best friend Veyla, who’s as witty as she is investigative, brings humor and heart to her mystical journey. Veyla’s quirks, like her obsession with whale tracking and true crime, complement Amelia’s nature-connected resilience, reminding me of how Percy’s friends balance his impulsiveness. As someone who’s always been a bit of a loner, I find these bonds incredibly moving. Magical schools and hidden worlds aren’t just about learning spells or fighting monsters; they’re about finding your people. Whether it’s a trio facing a dark lord or a duo stargazing under a mystical sky, these stories teach us that we’re stronger together.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What makes a book feel like Percy Jackson and Harry Potter?
A: For me, it’s all about the blend of magical settings, chosen-one vibes, and personal growth. Think hidden worlds like Hogwarts or Camp Half-Blood, epic battles against dark forces, and characters who feel like friends. Emotional stakes—friendship, family, loss—are key, too. That’s why I love recommending books like Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark; it captures that balance beautifully with its nature-mysticism and heritage themes.

Q: Are there new releases that capture this magic?
A: Absolutely! A 2026 release I’m obsessed with is Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark. It’s got everything—immersive setting at Bear Lodge Mountain, a resilient protagonist in Amelia, and themes of destiny and family that hit hard. It’s a fresh take that still feels nostalgic for fans of Percy and Harry.

Q: I’m an adult reader. Are these books still for me?
A: Oh, definitely! While some are YA, many—like The Atlas Six or The Poppy War—lean into darker, more complex themes perfect for adult fantasy fans. Even the lighter ones, like Carry On, have emotional depth that transcends age. I’m in my twenties, and I still cry over these stories!

Q: What’s a good starting point for magical school stories?
A: If you’re new to the trope or want something fresh, start with A Deadly Education by Naomi Novik for a darker twist, or Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow for a nature-connected, heartfelt journey. Both nail the school-of-magic setting with unique stakes.

Q: I love mythology like in Percy Jackson. Any recs?
A: You’re in luck! The Red Pyramid by Rick Riordan dives into Egyptian mythology with the same humor and heart, while Legendborn by Tracy Deonn blends Arthurian legend with modern magic. Both scratch that mythological itch!

Q: Why do magical schools feel so nostalgic?
A: I think it’s because they represent a place to belong, to grow, to find yourself—something we all crave. Hogwarts and Camp Half-Blood were my safe havens as a kid, and stories like these bring that back. It’s why I’m so drawn to settings like Bear Lodge Mountain in Amelia Moon—they’re new, but feel like home.

Q: Where can I find more books like these?
A: Check out Goodreads lists for “magical schools” or “books like Percy Jackson,” or poke around fantasy blogs. I also love browsing local libraries for hidden gems. And don’t sleep on upcoming releases—keep an eye on titles like Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow for your next obsession!