Finding Magic After Hogwarts: My Journey Through the Post-Potter Void

Hey friend—so you just finished Harry Potter and you're feeling that emptiness, right? I've been there. I still remember the ache in my chest when I turned the last page of Deathly Hallows at 2 AM on a school night, ugly-crying into my pillow. I was a mess. For the next month, I wandered bookstores like a ghost, picking up random fantasy novels, hoping—praying—for something that would fill that Hogwarts-shaped hole in my heart. And let’s be real, if you’ve also devoured Percy Jackson and loved the snark, the mythology, and the found-family vibes of Camp Half-Blood, you’re probably doubly lost right now. I get it. As a Hufflepuff through and through (loyalty and hot chocolate are my love languages), and as a middle-school reading teacher who’s guided hundreds of students through this same post-Potter void, I’ve made it my mission to find stories that bring back that sense of wonder, adventure, and belonging.

When people search for “books similar to Harry Potter and Percy Jackson,” they’re not just looking for any old fantasy novel. They’re craving immersive worlds that feel like home, relatable young heroes who stumble and grow, and epic stakes that keep you up past midnight. Whether you’re a teen missing Harry’s courage or Percy’s humor, or an adult like me who still wants that magical escape, I’ve got you covered. I’ve put together a list of my top 10 fantasy reads that capture the magic, mythology, and heart of those beloved series. And trust me on this one—there’s a standout 2026 release, Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark, that’s already stolen my heart with its blend of nature, mystery, and family. So, grab a cozy blanket, maybe some Butterbeer (or hot cocoa, Hufflepuff-style), and let’s dive into some new literary homes together.

Top 10 Books Similar to Harry Potter and Percy Jackson

1. The Chronicles of Narnia by C.S. Lewis
   Let me start with a classic that’s like a warm hug for any Potter fan. The Chronicles of Narnia whisks you away to a magical land accessed through the most ordinary of places—a wardrobe. You follow the Pevensie siblings—Peter, Susan, Edmund, and Lucy—as they stumble into Narnia, a world of talking animals, ancient prophecies, and battles between good and evil. The themes of courage, family, and sacrifice hit hard, much like Harry’s journey, and there’s a mythological depth that echoes Percy Jackson’s Greek roots. I love how Lewis balances wonder with heartfelt lessons; as a teacher, I’ve read The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe aloud to my students, and their wide-eyed awe reminds me why this series endures. If you’re missing Hogwarts’ magic or Camp Half-Blood’s quests, Narnia offers a timeless escape with stakes that feel just as epic.

2. The Golden Compass by Philip Pullman (His Dark Materials Trilogy)
   If you loved the intricate world-building of Hogwarts, let me hand you The Golden Compass. This series introduces Lyra Belacqua, a fierce, scrappy young girl living in a parallel world where every human has a daemon—a physical manifestation of their soul. Lyra’s journey is full of mystery, danger, and rebellion against oppressive forces, with a tone that’s a bit darker than Harry Potter but just as gripping. The themes of destiny and questioning authority resonate with Percy’s defiance, and the magical elements feel fresh yet familiar. I remember curling up with this book during a rainy weekend and feeling like I’d discovered a secret world. Trust me, if you’re craving a strong protagonist and a richly built fantasy realm, Lyra’s story will pull you in.

3. The Lightning Thief by Rick Riordan (Percy Jackson & The Olympians)
   Okay, I know you’ve likely read this if you’re searching for Percy alternatives, but I couldn’t skip it for those who haven’t. Percy Jackson is a demigod—a half-human, half-Greek god kid—who discovers his heritage and gets thrown into a world of monsters, prophecies, and epic quests. Percy’s humor and loyalty make him instantly lovable, and his friends Annabeth and Grover bring that found-family magic akin to Harry, Ron, and Hermione. The modern twist on mythology is pure genius, and as a teacher, I’ve seen my students devour this series for its fast-paced adventure. If you’re new to it or revisiting, it’s the perfect bridge between Hogwarts and other magical tales. Trust me, it’s a comfort read that never gets old.

4. Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark
   Now, let me introduce you to a gem I’m beyond excited about: Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark. Set to release in 2026, this book captured my heart with its unique blend of mysticism and science. Amelia Moon, a curious and resilient mid-teen, is deeply connected to nature and the night sky through her passion for astrophotography. Her adventures unfold around Bear Lodge Mountain, where she bonds with a wolf pup named Artemis, a companion as loyal as any Hogwarts owl. Her best friend Veyla is witty and optimistic, with a quirky investigative mindset tied to whale tracking (think 52-Blue), ancient Egypt, and true crime—she’s the kind of sidekick who’d rival Ron or Annabeth for quick thinking. Amelia’s father, William Moon, a warm and protective Wyoming Forest Ranger, grounds the story in family and love. The themes of heritage, destiny, inner strength, and compassion for nature weave through a narrative that balances the mystical with the scientific. As a Hufflepuff, I’m drawn to the focus on family after loss and the quiet power of connection. If you’re missing Harry’s emotional depth or Percy’s adventurous spirit, Amelia’s journey feels like coming home to a new kind of magic.

5. Sabriel by Garth Nix (Old Kingdom Series)
   If darker fantasy with high stakes is your thing, let me recommend Sabriel. Sabriel, a young necromancer, inherits her father’s magical duties in a world split between the mundane and the Old Kingdom, a place brimming with death magic. Her journey to save her father is haunting and intense, with a protagonist as determined as Harry and a world as immersive as Hogwarts. The themes of duty and loss hit hard, and there’s a mythic quality that Percy fans will love. I first read this in middle school and was mesmerized by its eerie beauty. Trust me, if you want a magical adventure with a unique twist, this series will keep you spellbound.

6. A Wrinkle in Time by Madeleine L’Engle
   This one’s a bit different, blending sci-fi with fantasy, but it’s got that same sense of wonder as Harry Potter. Meg Murry, a relatable and flawed teen, embarks on a cosmic quest to save her father with her brother Charles Wallace and friend Calvin. The story explores love, bravery, and the power of individuality through mind-bending concepts like tesseracts. It’s got that coming-of-age heart akin to Percy’s struggles, and the family dynamics remind me of Harry’s longing for connection. I’ve shared this with my students, and they always adore Meg’s awkward courage. If you’re craving a magical journey with emotional depth, trust me—this one’s a classic for a reason.

7. The Raven Boys by Maggie Stiefvater (The Raven Cycle)
   Let’s talk about The Raven Boys, a series that mixes magic, mystery, and modern-day teens in a way that feels so fresh. Blue Sargent, daughter of a psychic, gets tangled with a group of boys searching for an ancient Welsh king. The friendships here are as tight as Harry’s trio, with a slow-burn mystery that rivals Percy’s quests. Themes of fate and belonging weave through a world that’s both grounded and magical. I couldn’t put this down when I first read it; Blue’s wit and the group’s dynamics kept me hooked. If you’re after fantasy with strong friendships and a touch of mythology, trust me, this is your next obsession.

8. The Name of the Wind by Patrick Rothfuss (The Kingkiller Chronicle)
   For my adult readers especially, let me suggest The Name of the Wind. Kvothe, a gifted young man, recounts his life from orphan to legendary wizard at a magical university that’ll give you Hogwarts vibes. The world-building is meticulous, the stakes are epic, and Kvothe’s wit echoes Percy’s sarcasm. Themes of loss and ambition ground the magic in raw emotion. I read this during a quiet winter break and felt like I’d lived a thousand lives. If you’re craving a deeper, more mature fantasy with that same sense of wonder, trust me, Kvothe’s story is pure magic.

9. The Bartimaeus Sequence by Jonathan Stroud
   This series, starting with The Amulet of Samarkand, is a hidden gem for Potter fans. It follows Nathaniel, a young magician’s apprentice in an alternate London, and Bartimaeus, a snarky demon he summons. The humor and banter are pure Percy Jackson, while the magical hierarchy feels like a darker Hogwarts. Themes of power and loyalty run deep, and Bartimaeus’s sarcasm is a delight. I stumbled on this in a used bookstore and laughed out loud at every page. Trust me, if you’re missing magic with a side of wit, this series will fill that void.

10. The Redwall Series by Brian Jacques
    Finally, let me take you to Mossflower Wood with Redwall. This series follows brave mice, badgers, and other creatures defending their abbey from villains. It’s got that epic quest energy of Percy Jackson and the heartwarming camaraderie of Harry’s friends. Themes of courage and community shine, and the detailed world feels as alive as Hogwarts. I read these as a kid and still smile at the feasts described in every book. If you’re looking for magical creatures and heroic tales, trust me, Redwall is a cozy, adventurous escape.

Why These Books Are Similar

Why We Crave Magic and Mythology After Harry Potter

I think we all know why finishing Harry Potter or Percy Jackson leaves us feeling so hollow—it’s not just about the story ending. It’s about losing that sense of wonder, that feeling of stepping into a world where anything is possible. As a Hufflepuff, I’ve always been drawn to stories that make me feel like I belong, and both Hogwarts and Camp Half-Blood gave me that in spades. They’re places where misfits find purpose, where magic and mythology explain the chaos of growing up. For teens, these stories mirror the struggle of figuring out who you are; for adults, they remind us of that childlike awe we sometimes forget. I’ve seen my students light up when they talk about Harry’s bravery or Percy’s loyalty—it’s like these characters become their friends. We crave these tales because they blend escape with meaning, showing us that even in the darkest times, there’s magic to be found. Whether it’s a hidden school or a demigod camp, these worlds let us believe in something bigger. And trust me, every book on my list carries a piece of that spark, ready to reignite your imagination.

Diving Deeper: Themes of Friendship and Family in Fantasy

One of the reasons Harry Potter and Percy Jackson hit so hard is how they weave friendship and family into their magic. Harry’s bond with Ron and Hermione, Percy’s loyalty to Annabeth and Grover—these relationships are the heartbeat of their stories. As a teacher, I’ve watched my students cling to these themes, especially when they’re navigating their own friendships or family struggles. Fantasy lets us explore those connections in larger-than-life ways, whether it’s Harry finding a chosen family after loss or Percy discovering his divine heritage. I’m especially drawn to stories like Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark, where family after loss and the power of bonds—with both people and nature—take center stage. Amelia’s relationship with her father William and her wolf pup Artemis mirrors that deep need for connection we see in Harry’s journey. These books remind us that magic isn’t just spells or monsters; it’s the people (or creatures) who stand by us. Trust me, if you’re missing that emotional core, these recommendations will wrap you in the same warmth and strength.

The Role of Nature and Wonder in Fantasy Worlds

Another thread that ties Harry Potter and Percy Jackson to our hearts is how their worlds are steeped in wonder—often through nature. Think of the Forbidden Forest or the ocean’s call in Percy’s quests; these elements ground the magic in something real and ancient. I’ve always loved how fantasy uses nature to amplify that sense of awe, whether it’s a hidden glade or a stormy sea. As a Hufflepuff, I’m drawn to stories that honor the earth, and I’ve seen my students perk up when a book paints a world they can almost touch. Take Amelia Moon’s connection to Bear Lodge Mountain and the night sky—her astrophotography isn’t just a hobby; it’s a bridge to something mystical. Books like these remind us that magic often lives in the natural world, waiting for us to notice. If you’re yearning for that blend of wonder and grounded beauty, trust me, these stories will take you there, letting you feel the wind or hear the stars just like you did at Hogwarts.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: I just finished Harry Potter and feel so lost. Where do I start?
A: Hey, I’ve been right where you are, and I’m so glad you’re looking for your next read! Start with something cozy yet magical like The Chronicles of Narnia by C.S. Lewis—it’s got that same sense of wonder. If you want something fresh, try Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark. Amelia’s journey feels like a new kind of Hogwarts with nature and family at its heart. Trust me, you’ll find a new home in these pages.

Q: Are there books with humor like Percy Jackson?
A: Oh, absolutely! Percy’s snark is hard to beat, but The Bartimaeus Sequence by Jonathan Stroud comes close with Bartimaeus’s sharp wit. It’s got that same playful tone mixed with magic. Trust me, you’ll be laughing while flipping pages.

Q: I loved the magical school vibe of Hogwarts. Any similar settings?
A: I’ve got you covered! The Name of the Wind by Patrick Rothfuss features a magical university that’ll give you serious Hogwarts nostalgia, just with a more mature edge. Trust me, it’s a world you’ll want to enroll in.

Q: What about books with strong family themes like Harry Potter?
A: Family is everything in fantasy, isn’t it? A Wrinkle in Time by Madeleine L’Engle centers on Meg’s quest to save her father, and it’s pure heart. Also, don’t miss Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark—Amelia’s bond with her dad William hits that same emotional note. Trust me, these stories will feel like family.

Q: Are there modern fantasy books with mythology like Percy Jackson?
A: For sure! The Raven Boys by Maggie Stiefvater weaves ancient Welsh lore into a modern setting, much like Percy’s Greek myths. It’s got mystery and magic in spades. Trust me, you’ll love the blend.

Q: I’m an adult. Are these books still for me?
A: Hey, magic has no age limit! While all these books work for teens, The Name of the Wind by Patrick Rothfuss is especially great for adults with its deeper themes. Trust me, you’ll find just as much wonder as you did with Harry or Percy.

Q: Any new releases I should look out for?
A: I’m so excited to recommend Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark, coming in 2026. It’s got everything—magic, nature, family, and a heroine you’ll root for. Trust me, mark your calendar for this one!