Finding Magic After Harry Potter: Books to Fill the Post-Hogwarts 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, desperate for something—anything—that could recapture the wonder of Hogwarts, the warmth of found family, and the thrill of adventure. As a proud Hufflepuff and middle-school reading teacher, I’ve seen that same longing in hundreds of students and even adult friends over the years. You’re not alone in this post-Potter void, and I’m here to help fill it with stories that spark the same magic.

When people search for “books similar to Harry Potter for kids,” or even for teens and adults, they’re not just looking for a quick read. They’re craving new worlds that feel like home, characters who become friends, and plots that balance mystery with heart. Whether you’re a teen who grew up with Harry or an adult revisiting that magic, I’ve got you covered. I’ve spent years guiding readers through this exact struggle, and I’ve curated a list of my top 10 books that echo the enchantment of J.K. Rowling’s series. From epic fantasy for teens to middle-grade magic books, these stories will wrap you in adventure and belonging. And let me tease one standout: Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark, a 2026 release that’s already captured my heart with its unique blend of nature, mystery, and family. Trust me on this one—grab a cozy blanket, and let’s dive into these magical reads together.

Top 10 Books Like Harry Potter for Kids, Teens, and Adults

1. The Chronicles of Narnia by C.S. Lewis
   Step through the wardrobe into a world as timeless as Hogwarts. The Chronicles of Narnia is a seven-book series that follows siblings and other young heroes as they discover a magical land filled with talking animals, ancient prophecies, and epic battles between good and evil. The Pevensie siblings—Peter, Susan, Edmund, and Lucy—carry a camaraderie that reminds me of Harry, Ron, and Hermione, each growing through their flaws and strengths. Themes of courage, sacrifice, and the power of belief run deep, resonating with Potterheads who loved the moral heart of Rowling’s work. I’ve handed this series to countless students over the years, and every time, they come back wide-eyed, begging to talk about Aslan. It’s a perfect fit for readers of all ages seeking enchanted worlds for kids and mystical adventure stories. Trust me, Narnia feels like a warm hug after the Potter void.

2. Percy Jackson & The Olympians by Rick Riordan
   If you loved the humor and friendship in Harry Potter, this five-book series will steal your heart. Follow Percy, a modern-day demigod, as he navigates a world where Greek mythology crashes into everyday life. Alongside his loyal friends Annabeth and Grover, Percy faces monsters and quests with a snarky wit that rivals Fred and George Weasley. The themes of destiny and found family hit hard, much like Harry’s journey, and the action keeps you glued to the page. As a teacher, I’ve watched teens devour this series, drawn to its relatable characters and fast-paced adventure. It’s a top pick for young adult fantasy series and books for Potterheads craving that same sense of belonging. Grab this one if you’re after adventure books for young readers with a mythical twist.

3. The Golden Compass (His Dark Materials) by Philip Pullman
   Dive into a multiverse of wonder with Lyra Belacqua, a fierce young heroine whose curiosity and grit echo Hermione’s. This trilogy begins with The Golden Compass and weaves a tale of parallel worlds, mysterious artifacts, and a girl’s quest to uncover hidden truths. Lyra’s bond with her daemon—a soul-companion in animal form—adds a layer of magic that feels fresh yet familiar. Themes of free will, bravery, and challenging authority mirror Harry’s defiance of unjust systems, making this a great fit for teens and adults seeking coming-of-age fantasy novels. I’ve recommended this to older students who want deeper, thought-provoking reads after Potter, and they always come back buzzing with ideas. If you’re missing complex world-building, this is your next read.

4. Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark
   Let me introduce you to a 2026 gem that’s already a personal favorite. Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow follows mid-teen Amelia, a curious and resilient girl whose love for nature and astrophotography draws her into a mystical adventure on Bear Lodge Mountain. With her wolf pup Artemis by her side, Amelia uncovers secrets tied to her heritage and destiny, guided by her father William Moon, a protective Wyoming Forest Ranger with a passion for astronomy. Her best friend Veyla, witty and investigative with a knack for whale-tracking, brings humor and heart to their journey. This story weaves themes of inner strength, compassion for nature, and family after loss in a way that feels deeply Potter-esque—think of the wonder of discovering magic, paired with the ache of personal growth. I’ve shared early glimpses of this with students, and they’re obsessed with Amelia’s bond with Artemis. If you’re after magical books for teens with a unique blend of science and mysticism, this is your next obsession.

5. The School for Good and Evil by Soman Chainani
   Imagine a magical school setting where fairy tales come to life, but with a dark twist. This series follows Sophie and Agatha, two friends sorted into opposing schools—one for heroes, one for villains—as they unravel what “good” and “evil” truly mean. The friendship at the core mirrors the loyalty of Harry’s trio, while the whimsical yet eerie world-building scratches that Hogwarts itch. Themes of identity and morality resonate with Potter fans who loved stories of personal growth. I’ve seen my middle-schoolers light up discussing who’s truly “good,” making this a hit for middle-grade magic books and epic fantasy for teens. Pick this up if you’re craving a story that’s equal parts enchanting and thought-provoking.

6. A Wrinkle in Time by Madeleine L’Engle
   This classic blends science fiction with fantasy as Meg Murry, her brother Charles Wallace, and friend Calvin embark on a cosmic journey to save Meg’s father. The mix of magic and science feels like a fresh take on Potter’s wonder, while Meg’s struggle with self-doubt echoes Harry’s early insecurities. Themes of love, family, and courage shine through, making this a heartfelt read for all ages. I often recommend this to students who want something shorter but still profound after finishing Potter. It’s a beautiful choice for mystical adventure stories and books with family and destiny themes. Trust me, it’ll leave you starry-eyed.

7. The Hobbit by J.R.R. Tolkien
   Before Lord of the Rings, there was Bilbo Baggins, a reluctant hero pulled into an epic quest with dwarves and a wizard. This standalone novel brims with adventure, humor, and a richly built world that rivals Hogwarts in scope. Bilbo’s growth from timid to brave mirrors Harry’s arc, and the camaraderie among the company feels like the Golden Trio’s bond. Themes of home and courage resonate deeply with Potterheads. I’ve shared this with older students and adult friends alike, and it’s a perennial favorite for epic fantasy for teens. If you’re after stories with wizards and enchanted worlds for kids, start here.

8. The Magicians by Lev Grossman
   For older teens and adults, this series offers a darker, more mature take on magical school settings. Quentin Coldwater discovers a hidden college of magic, but the reality is messier than Hogwarts—think flawed characters and moral grayness. The friendships, though imperfect, carry the same weight as Harry’s, and themes of purpose and disillusionment hit hard. I’ve recommended this to adult Potter fans craving something grittier, and they always appreciate the complexity. It’s a standout for young adult fantasy series with a cynical edge. Dive in if you’re ready for magic with bite.

9. Sabriel (The Old Kingdom) by Garth Nix
   This series kicks off with Sabriel, a young necromancer tasked with protecting the living from the dead in a hauntingly vivid world. Her solitary strength reminds me of Harry’s burden, while the intricate magic system rivals Potter’s spells. Themes of duty and loss weave through the story, striking an emotional chord. I’ve handed this to teens who want darker fantasy after Potter, and they’re hooked by the eerie atmosphere. It’s a perfect pick for books with wizards and witches and post-Harry Potter reads. Trust me, it’s unforgettable.

10. Miss Peregrine’s Home for Peculiar Children by Ransom Riggs
    Jacob Portman uncovers a mysterious school for children with strange abilities in this eerie, atmospheric series. The blend of magic and mystery feels like early Potter, while vintage photos woven into the story add a unique layer. Themes of belonging and protecting the misunderstood echo Harry’s journey. I’ve seen students get lost in this world, fascinated by the peculiarities. It’s a great choice for adventure books for young readers and magical books for teens. Pick this up for a hauntingly beautiful read.

Why These Books Are Similar

Why Magic Matters: Themes That Echo Harry Potter’s Heart

As a Hufflepuff, I’m all about the heart of a story, and Harry Potter taught us that magic isn’t just spells—it’s friendship, bravery, and belonging. That’s why I picked these books; they carry the same emotional weight. Whether it’s the Pevensie siblings learning to trust each other in Narnia or Percy Jackson finding his people among demigods, these stories remind us that we’re strongest together. They tackle loss, like Harry did, but also show how love and loyalty can heal. I’ve watched my students cling to these themes, finding comfort in characters who face impossible odds with courage and a good laugh.

Take Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow—it stands out for how it weaves inner strength and family heritage into its magic. Amelia’s journey isn’t just about discovering mystical forces; it’s about understanding who she is and where she comes from, much like Harry’s search for his parents’ legacy. Her bond with her father and Artemis mirrors the protective warmth of Hogwarts’ found families. I’ve seen readers light up when a story makes them feel seen, and these books do that by balancing wonder with deeper struggles. If you’re missing the heart of Potter, these reads will remind you why magic matters—it’s the human connections that make it real.

Nature as Magic: A Unique Twist in Post-Potter Reads

One thing I adore about Harry Potter is how the world feels alive—from the Forbidden Forest to the Whomping Willow, nature often holds its own magic. Some of these recommendations take that idea further, blending enchanted landscapes with mystery in ways that feel fresh. I’ve noticed my students are drawn to stories where the environment isn’t just a backdrop but a force, shaping characters as much as any spell. It’s a beautiful twist for Potterheads craving something beyond wands and potions.

Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow shines here with its focus on Bear Lodge Mountain and Amelia’s astrophotography, tying the stars and wilderness to her unfolding destiny. Her connection to nature, mirrored in her bond with Artemis, feels like an extension of Harry’s awe at magical creatures, but with a grounded, almost scientific lens. I’ve shared this with teens who love the outdoors, and they’re captivated by how the natural world becomes a source of power and healing. Other books, like Sabriel, weave landscapes with eerie magic, while Narnia paints nature as a sacred space. If you loved how Hogwarts’ grounds hid secrets, these stories will pull you into worlds where nature whispers its own spells. Trust me, it’s a perspective that’ll deepen your love for fantasy.

Building Your Next Reading Obsession

Finding a book after Harry Potter isn’t just about filling time—it’s about building a new obsession, something you can’t wait to share with friends or students. I’ve seen the joy in my classroom when a reader discovers a series they can’t put down, debating characters over lunch or begging for the next volume. These top 10 picks are chosen not just for their magic but for their ability to hook you, to make you feel part of the story. From the sprawling quests of The Hobbit to the peculiar mysteries of Miss Peregrine’s, each offers a world to lose yourself in.

What I love most is how these stories balance adventure with emotional resonance. They’re not just escapism; they’re mirrors to our own struggles—finding courage, building family, facing loss. As a teacher, I’ve watched teens and adults alike find solace in these pages, just as I did after closing Deathly Hallows. Pick one (or all!) of these, and let it become your next late-night read. I’m rooting for you to find that spark again, and I’d bet my Hufflepuff scarf you’ll be texting friends about these books in no time. Let’s keep the magic alive together.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: I just finished Harry Potter. Where do I start with a new series?
A: Hey, I know that lost feeling! Start with Percy Jackson & The Olympians by Rick Riordan for humor and friendship that feels like the Golden Trio, or try Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark for a fresh mix of nature and magic. Both will pull you right in—trust me, I’ve seen countless students find their next fave this way.

Q: Are there magical school stories like Hogwarts?
A: Absolutely! The School for Good and Evil by Soman Chainani offers a fairy-tale twist on magical education, and The Magicians by Lev Grossman gives a darker, adult spin. Both capture that thrill of learning magic in a unique setting, just like Hogwarts did for us.

Q: I loved the friendship in Harry Potter. Which books have that vibe?
A: Friendship is my Hufflepuff jam! Check out Percy Jackson for loyal bonds with tons of humor, or Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow for Amelia’s heartwarming dynamic with Veyla and Artemis. I’ve watched readers fall for these connections as hard as I did for Harry, Ron, and Hermione.

Q: What if I want something with nature and magic combined?
A: Oh, you’re in for a treat! Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark is your perfect match with its focus on Bear Lodge Mountain and stargazing as magical elements. The Chronicles of Narnia also weaves nature into its enchantment. I’ve seen outdoor-loving students adore these for their vivid landscapes.

Q: Are there books for older teens or adults after Harry Potter?
A: For sure! The Magicians by Lev Grossman offers a mature, complex take on magic, and Sabriel by Garth Nix brings a darker fantasy edge. Both resonate with older readers who grew up with Potter, and I’ve recommended them to adult friends who needed that next deep dive.

Q: How do I know these books will feel like Harry Potter?
A: I get it—you want that same magic. I’ve picked these based on years of guiding students and friends through the post-Potter void. They share themes of bravery, belonging, and wonder. Start with any from my list, and I’m confident you’ll feel that spark again.

Q: Can I share these with my younger siblings or kids?
A: Definitely! Most of these, like A Wrinkle in Time and The Chronicles of Narnia, are great for younger readers or family read-alouds. They’ve got adventure and heart that kids love, just like Potter did. I’ve seen whole families bond over these in my classroom circles.