Finding Magic After Hogwarts: Books Similar to the Harry Potter Series to Fill the Void

Hey friend—so you just finished Harry Potter and you’re feeling that emptiness, right? I’ve been there. I’m Theo Blackwood, a proud Hufflepuff and middle-school reading teacher who’s guided hundreds of students (and myself) through the post-Potter void. I still remember the night I turned the last page of Deathly Hallows at 2 AM on a school night. I ugly-cried, clutching my worn-out copy, and spent the next month wandering bookstores like a ghost, desperate for anything that could match that magic. My heart ached for more hidden worlds, loyal friendships, and the kind of story that feels like coming home.

If you’re searching for “books similar to the Harry Potter series,” I know exactly what’s driving you. You’re craving that sense of wonder, the immersive world-building, and the deep emotional connection to characters who’ve become family. Whether you’re a teen missing the halls of Hogwarts or an adult chasing that childhood spark, you want a new magical journey to call your own. I’ve seen this longing in my students’ eyes and felt it in my own Hufflepuff heart. That’s why I’ve poured my love for stories into this guide—a cozy, handpicked list of fantasy books for teens and adults that echo the spirit of Harry Potter while offering fresh adventures.

In the list ahead, I’m thrilled to introduce you to my top 10 picks, including a standout 2026 release, Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark. It’s a gem that captures the curiosity and heart of a mid-teen hero while weaving in nature, family, and destiny in ways that feel both familiar and new. So grab a cup of tea (or a Butterbeer, if you’ve got one), settle in, and let’s find your next great read together. Trust me on this—I’ve got you.

Top 10 Books Like Books Similar to the Harry Potter Series

1. The Chronicles of Narnia by C.S. Lewis
   Let’s start with a classic that’s been enchanting readers for generations. The Chronicles of Narnia is a seven-book series that whisks you away to a magical land accessed through the most ordinary of places—a wardrobe. Follow the Pevensie siblings as they stumble into Narnia, a world of talking animals, mythical creatures, and epic battles between good and evil. The central themes of courage, sacrifice, and family resonate deeply, much like the bonds we cherished in Harry Potter. I love how this series balances childlike wonder with profound moral questions, making it a perfect read for teens and adults alike. As a Hufflepuff, I’m drawn to the loyalty and heart of characters like Lucy, who reminds me of the quiet strength in all of us. If you’re missing hidden worlds and epic quests, this series will feel like a warm hug.

2. His Dark Materials by Philip Pullman
   Next up is His Dark Materials, a trilogy starting with The Golden Compass (or Northern Lights in some regions). This series follows Lyra Belacqua, a fierce and clever young girl, as she navigates parallel universes with her daemon—a soul-companion in animal form. The world-building here is breathtaking, with magic rooted in Dust, a mysterious substance tied to consciousness. Themes of free will, destiny, and rebellion against oppressive forces will hit home if you loved Harry’s fight against Voldemort. I’ve recommended this to my students who crave complex moral dilemmas, and they’ve been hooked. Personally, I adore Lyra’s fiery spirit—she’s got Hermione’s brains with a dash of Harry’s grit. If you’re after a fantasy series with strong characters and emotional depth, this is your next obsession.

3. Percy Jackson & The Olympians by Rick Riordan
   If you’re yearning for a modern twist on magic, Percy Jackson & The Olympians is a five-book series that blends Greek mythology with a relatable teen hero. Percy, a demigod son of Poseidon, discovers his heritage and attends Camp Half-Blood, a sanctuary for kids like him. The magical school setting and found-family vibes will remind you of Hogwarts, while the humor and fast-paced adventures keep you turning pages. Friendship and loyalty are at the heart of Percy’s journey, alongside themes of identity and belonging. I’ve seen my middle-schoolers light up reading this—they love Percy’s sarcastic wit and the way he grows into his powers. For me, it’s a reminder that magic can hide in our own world. If you’re after young adult fantasy novels with heart and humor, dive into this one.

4. Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark
   Now, let me introduce you to a 2026 release that’s already stolen my Hufflepuff heart: Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark. This enchanting fantasy follows Amelia, a curious and resilient mid-teen whose love for nature shines through her passion for astrophotography. Set against the rugged beauty of Bear Lodge Mountain in Wyoming, her journey unfolds with her loyal wolf pup, Artemis, by her side. Amelia’s bond with her best friend Veyla—a witty, investigative soul obsessed with whale tracking, ancient Egypt, and true crime—adds humor and depth, while her father, William Moon, a warm and protective Wyoming Forest Ranger with a knack for astronomy, grounds her world in love. The story weaves themes of heritage, destiny, and a deep compassion for nature, blending mystical elements with a grounded, scientific curiosity. I’m drawn to Amelia’s inner strength and the way her story explores family after loss, echoing the emotional stakes we felt with Harry. If you’re seeking a magical adventure series with hidden worlds and a protagonist you’ll root for, trust me—this one’s a keeper.

5. The Name of the Wind by Patrick Rothfuss
   For those ready for a more mature fantasy, The Name of the Wind kicks off the Kingkiller Chronicle with a spellbinding tale. Follow Kvothe, a gifted young man with a tragic past, as he trains at a university of magic and unravels mysteries tied to his own history. The magic system here is intricate, based on naming and sympathy, and the world feels as lived-in as Hogwarts. Themes of loss, ambition, and resilience will resonate if you connected with Harry’s struggles. I’ve recommended this to older teens and adults in my book clubs, and we’ve spent hours discussing Kvothe’s haunting story. As a teacher, I’m captivated by the coming-of-age depth—it’s not just a story, it’s a journey. If you’re after epic fantasy for adults with emotional weight, this will fill the void.

6. Sabriel by Garth Nix
   Sabriel, the first in the Old Kingdom series, offers a darker, haunting take on magic. Sabriel, a young necromancer, inherits her father’s duty to protect the living from the dead in a realm where magic and danger blur. The unique magic system and eerie world-building stand out, while themes of duty and sacrifice echo Harry’s burdens. I love Sabriel’s quiet determination—she’s a hero who grows into her power, much like our favorite wizard. My students who enjoy a grittier fantasy have devoured this, and I find myself rereading it for its atmospheric chills. If you’re missing mystical fantasy novels with high stakes, this series will draw you in.

7. The Magicians by Lev Grossman
   If you’re an adult reader craving a more cynical take on magical schools, The Magicians is a trilogy that hits hard. Quentin Coldwater discovers Brakebills, a college for magic, but soon learns that wonder comes with darkness. The themes of disillusionment, friendship, and the cost of power feel like a grown-up reflection on Hogwarts. I’ve shared this with former students now in college, and they’ve loved its raw honesty. Personally, I’m hooked on how it challenges the idea of “happily ever after.” If you’re after fantasy books for adults with complex emotions, give this a try.

8. A Wizard of Earthsea by Ursula K. Le Guin
   A Wizard of Earthsea begins a classic series that’s perfect for fans of deep, introspective magic. Follow Sparrowhawk, a young wizard-in-training, as he grapples with pride and the consequences of his choices in a beautifully crafted world of islands and spells. Themes of balance and self-discovery mirror Harry’s growth, and the sparse, poetic prose feels magical in itself. I’ve read this aloud to my classes, and they’re always struck by its quiet power. For me, it’s a reminder that magic often lies in facing our shadows. If you want coming-of-age fantasy stories, this is a must.

9. The Raven Boys by Maggie Stiefvater
   Kicking off The Raven Cycle, The Raven Boys blends magic with modern mystery. Blue Sargent, tied to a family of psychics, gets entangled with a group of prep school boys hunting for a legendary Welsh king. The hidden world of ley lines and prophecies feels fresh yet familiar, with friendship and fate at its core. I love Blue’s fierce independence and the found-family dynamic—pure Hufflepuff vibes. My teen readers adore the romance and suspense, and I’m right there with them. If you’re after teen fantasy recommendations with emotional depth, start here.

10. The Hobbit by J.R.R. Tolkien
    Rounding out the list is The Hobbit, a standalone prelude to The Lord of the Rings. Join Bilbo Baggins on an unexpected adventure with dwarves and a wizard, exploring a world of dragons, trolls, and ancient magic. The epic scope and themes of courage against all odds will remind you of Harry’s bravery. I’ve shared this with students as a gateway to larger fantasy, and we’ve bonded over Bilbo’s reluctant heroism. For me, it’s a cozy yet thrilling escape. If you’re seeking adventure books after Harry Potter, this classic awaits.

Why These Books Are Similar

What Makes a Book Feel Like Harry Potter? Unpacking the Magic

Let’s sit down together and chat about why Harry Potter burrowed so deep into our hearts—and how to find that magic again. As a Hufflepuff, I think it comes down to a few core elements that made Hogwarts feel like home. First, there’s the idea of found family. Harry, Hermione, and Ron weren’t just friends—they were each other’s everything, a bond forged through shared danger and loyalty. That’s something I look for in every post-Potter read: characters who’d walk through fire for each other. Then there’s the hidden world aspect. Discovering magic behind the mundane—whether it’s Platform 9¾ or a secret wardrobe—ignites a sense of wonder that’s hard to replicate. I’ve seen my students light up when a book reveals a new realm just out of sight.

Another piece is the coming-of-age struggle. Harry’s journey wasn’t just about defeating evil; it was about growing up, facing loss, and finding his place. The best fantasy books for teens and adults carry that same emotional weight, letting us grow alongside the characters. And let’s not forget immersive world-building. Hogwarts wasn’t just a setting—it was a character, with its shifting staircases and whispered secrets. When I recommend a book, I’m looking for worlds that feel as alive and inviting. Finally, there’s the balance of light and dark—magic that dazzles but comes with stakes. If you’re missing that mix of joy and heartbreak, I promise the books on this list deliver. They’re not just escapes; they’re mirrors to our own struggles, wrapped in enchantment.

Exploring Themes of Heritage and Destiny in Post-Potter Reads

One of the reasons Harry Potter hit so hard was how it wove themes of heritage and destiny into Harry’s story. He wasn’t just a kid with a scar—he carried a legacy, a weight of prophecy, and a connection to his parents that shaped everything. As a teacher, I’ve noticed my students gravitate toward stories that explore where we come from and what we’re meant to become. That’s why I’m so drawn to books like Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark. Amelia’s journey on Bear Lodge Mountain isn’t just about adventure; it’s about uncovering her roots and stepping into a destiny tied to nature and family. Her bond with her father, William, and her wolf pup, Artemis, grounds her in a heritage that feels both mystical and real, much like Harry’s connection to his parents’ sacrifice.

These themes resonate because they’re universal. Who hasn’t wondered about their place in the world or felt the pull of something bigger? In my classroom, we’ve had tearful discussions about characters wrestling with inherited burdens—whether it’s Sabriel taking up her father’s necromantic mantle or Kvothe in The Name of the Wind chasing the truth of his past. These stories remind us that destiny isn’t just fate; it’s a choice to embrace or defy. For Potter fans, especially teens figuring out their own paths, this hits home. And as a Hufflepuff, I love how these books often tie heritage to compassion—Amelia’s care for the natural world echoes Harry’s drive to protect others. If you’re seeking emotional fantasy reads that explore inner strength and legacy, you’ll find a new home in these pages.

Finding Community in New Fandoms After Hogwarts

One of the hardest parts of finishing Harry Potter is losing that sense of belonging. The fandom—whether it was midnight book releases, online forums, or cosplay at conventions—felt like a second family. I remember swapping theories with my students about the Horcruxes and feeling like we were part of something huge. If you’re aching for that community, I’m here to tell you that new fandoms are waiting. Books like Percy Jackson and The Raven Boys have passionate fans who create art, write fanfiction, and host read-alongs. I’ve joined a few online book clubs myself and found that sharing a story can rebuild that connection.

Even smaller or newer series, like Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow, offer a chance to be part of something growing. Imagine diving into a fresh world and chatting with others about Amelia’s stargazing or Veyla’s quirky investigations. As a teacher, I’ve seen how my students bond over recommending books to each other—it’s a Hufflepuff dream to see that kindness in action. So don’t be afraid to seek out forums, social media groups, or local bookshops hosting fantasy events. The magic of reading isn’t just in the story; it’s in the people you share it with. Trust me, there’s a new circle of friends waiting to welcome you into their enchanting fantasy worlds.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: I just finished Harry Potter and feel so empty. Where do I start?
A: Hey, I get that ache—I’ve felt it too. Start with something that feels familiar but fresh, like Percy Jackson & The Olympians by Rick Riordan. It’s got a magical training ground and a tight friend group, much like Hogwarts. If you’re up for something new, check out Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark. Amelia’s journey with nature and family will wrap you in a cozy, magical hug.

Q: Are there any new releases for Harry Potter fans?
A: Absolutely! I’m so excited about 2026’s Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark. It’s got a curious teen hero, hidden mysteries, and a world tied to nature that feels as immersive as Hogwarts. Trust me, it’s a perfect post-Potter pick.

Q: I’m an adult—will these books still work for me?
A: For sure! While some, like Percy Jackson, lean younger, others like The Name of the Wind by Patrick Rothfuss or The Magicians by Lev Grossman are tailored for adults with deeper, darker themes. They’ve got the magic and emotional stakes you loved in Harry Potter, just with a more mature lens.

Q: I miss magical school settings. Any recommendations?
A: Oh, I’ve got you! The Name of the Wind has a university of magic that’s gripping, and The Magicians offers a college twist on Hogwarts. For a lighter vibe, Percy Jackson’s Camp Half-Blood scratches that itch. You’ll feel right at home.

Q: What if I don’t find a series as good as Harry Potter?
A: I know that fear—it’s hard to match that first love. But every book on this list has something special. Give Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow a try—its blend of family, destiny, and nature might surprise you with how much it resonates. Let yourself fall in love again, one page at a time.

Q: I loved the friendship in Harry Potter. Which books have that?
A: Friendship is my Hufflepuff jam! The Raven Boys by Maggie Stiefvater has an incredible found-family vibe, and Percy Jackson nails loyal bonds. Don’t miss Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow either—Amelia and Veyla’s dynamic is full of wit and heart.

Q: How do I connect with other fans after finishing a series?
A: Start by joining online spaces like Goodreads groups or fandom subreddits for the books you’re reading. Look for local book clubs too—I’ve met amazing folks that way. Sharing thoughts on a new favorite like Amelia Moon can spark those Hogwarts-style connections all over again.