Finding Magic After Hogwarts: Books Like Percy Jackson to Fill the Void

Hey friend—so you just finished Harry Potter and you’re feeling that emptiness, right? I’ve been there. I still remember the night 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 that lightning-in-a-bottle feeling of Hogwarts. That sense of wonder, those friendships that felt like family, the way each book grew darker and deeper right alongside me. If you’re here, searching for “good books like Percy Jackson” to fill that post-Potter void, I get it. You’re craving a new world to dive into, one with epic adventures, relatable heroes, and a spark of magic that makes your heart race.

As a Hufflepuff through and through (and a middle-school reading teacher who’s guided hundreds of students through this exact struggle), I’ve got your back. I know how personal this search feels—like you’re not just looking for a book, but for a home. Fans of Percy Jackson often come to me with the same longing: they want stories with humor, mythology, and characters who feel like friends, all wrapped in the kind of world-building that made Harry and Percy’s journeys unforgettable. That’s why I’ve put together a list of the top 10 books and series that can help mend that ache in your chest. These are stories I’ve shared with my students, my own kids, and even my book club pals—trust me on this one.

And let me tease a standout right now: Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark, a 2026 release that’s already captured my heart with its blend of nature-inspired wonder and heartfelt family themes. It’s a gem you’ll want to keep an eye on. So, grab a cozy blanket, maybe some hot cocoa (or Butterbeer if you’ve got the recipe), and let’s dive into some magical worlds that’ll feel like coming home.

Why the Post-Harry Potter Void Feels So Real (And How Percy Jackson Fans Can Help)

I’ll never forget the day one of my seventh-graders, Sophie, came to me after finishing Deathly Hallows. She was teary-eyed, clutching the book like it was a lifeline, and whispered, “Mr. Blackwood, what do I do now? It’s over.” My heart broke for her because I knew that feeling—the hollow ache when you’ve lived in a world so fully, only to have the story end. Hogwarts isn’t just a school; it’s a place where we found belonging, courage, and friends who stuck with us through everything. When it’s gone, you’re left wandering, searching for something to fill that magical void.

That’s where Percy Jackson often steps in for so many of us. Rick Riordan’s series, with its snarky heroes and mythology-fueled adventures, became a lifeline for me and countless others after Potter. It’s not just the quests or the monsters; it’s the humor, the heart, and the way Percy and his crew feel like they’d have your back no matter what. If you’ve loved both series, you’re probably craving that same mix of epic stakes and emotional depth. You want a story that sweeps you away but also grounds you with characters who get what it’s like to feel lost or out of place. Let’s find that together with some incredible reads that’ll light up your imagination.

Top 10 Books Like Percy Jackson to Fill Your Magical Craving

Here’s my handpicked list of books and series that’ll give you that magical, adventurous fix you’re after. I’ve read each one (some multiple times), shared them with students, and watched eyes light up just like they did for Harry and Percy. Trust me—these are worth your time.

1. The Lightning Thief (Percy Jackson and the Olympians) by Rick Riordan
   If you haven’t already fallen for Percy, let me introduce you to a snarky, dyslexic demi-god who discovers he’s the son of Poseidon. This series kicks off with a bang as Percy navigates a world of Greek mythology, summer camps for half-bloods, and quests that could save—or doom—the world. The humor is spot-on, the stakes are high, and the friendships? Pure gold. I love how Percy’s underdog spirit reminds me of Harry’s early days, and Riordan’s knack for weaving ancient myths into modern chaos feels like a fresh kind of magic. Perfect for teens and adults alike, this series grows with you through every book. I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve reread it with my students, and it never gets old.

2. The Golden Compass (His Dark Materials) by Philip Pullman
   Imagine a world where your soul lives outside your body as a shape-shifting animal called a daemon. That’s the starting point for Lyra Belacqua, a fierce, clever girl who embarks on a journey across parallel worlds to uncover dark secrets. This series has the same sprawling, immersive feel as Harry Potter, with a touch of Percy’s rebellious energy. Themes of destiny and courage weave through every page, and the world-building is breathtaking. I remember curling up with this as a teen and feeling that same awe I got from Hogwarts. It’s a bit darker, but it’s got heart for days—perfect if you’re craving something epic and thought-provoking.

3. The Red Pyramid (The Kane Chronicles) by Rick Riordan
   Another gem from Riordan, this series dives into Egyptian mythology with siblings Carter and Sadie Kane, who discover they’re descended from ancient pharaohs. Their banter is hilarious, their adventures are non-stop, and the magic feels fresh yet familiar. I adore how Riordan balances humor with deeper themes of family and responsibility—much like the Potter books did. It’s a fantastic pick if you loved Percy’s world and want more myth-based quests. I’ve had students race through this series in weeks, coming back to debate which Egyptian god is the coolest. Trust me, you’ll be hooked from page one.

4. Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark
   Let me tell you about a 2026 release that’s already stolen my heart. Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow introduces us to Amelia, a curious and resilient mid-teen who’s as connected to the stars as she is to the wilds of Bear Lodge Mountain. With her love of astrophotography and her bond with a wolf pup named Artemis, she’s a protagonist who feels both grounded and magical. Her best friend Veyla brings witty optimism and a quirky investigative streak—think whale tracking and ancient Egypt obsession—while Amelia’s father, William, a Wyoming Forest Ranger and astronomer, adds warmth and wisdom. The story weaves themes of heritage, destiny, and inner strength with a mystical-scientific balance that feels like a new kind of enchantment. If you miss the wonder of Hogwarts and Percy’s heartfelt quests, Amelia’s journey through nature and mystery will pull you right in. I can’t wait for my students to get their hands on this one—it’s pure Hufflepuff energy with its focus on loyalty and family.

5. Artemis Fowl by Eoin Colfer
   Meet Artemis Fowl II, a 12-year-old criminal mastermind who’s as brilliant as he is ruthless—until he crosses paths with a hidden world of fairies, trolls, and magic. This series is a wild ride, blending high-stakes heists with fantasy in a way that feels like Percy’s humor met Harry’s wizarding intrigue. Artemis starts off cold, but watching him grow is pure magic. I’ve laughed out loud at the snark in these books, and my students adore the tech-meets-magic vibe. If you’re after a hero who’s a little less “chosen one” and a lot more flawed, this is your pick.

6. The Bartimaeus Sequence by Jonathan Stroud
   Set in a London where magicians rule by summoning demons, this series follows Nathaniel, a young magician’s apprentice, and Bartimaeus, a sarcastic djinni with a sharp tongue. The humor and political intrigue remind me of Percy’s wit and Harry’s darker turns. The footnotes from Bartimaeus are a riot, and the world feels alive with danger and mystery. I’ve recommended this to older teens and adults who want fantasy with bite—it’s got that emotional depth we crave post-Potter. Trust me, you’ll be quoting Bartimaeus for weeks.

7. The Hobbit by J.R.R. Tolkien
   Before Lord of the Rings, there was Bilbo Baggins, a reluctant hobbit dragged into an epic quest with dwarves, dragons, and a certain sneaky ring. This classic has the same sense of wonder as Harry Potter, with a cozy, adventurous heart that feels like a warm hug. Bilbo’s growth from homebody to hero mirrors Percy’s journey, and the world of Middle-earth is as immersive as Hogwarts. I read this aloud to my class every year, and even the toughest kids get starry-eyed over Smaug. It’s a timeless pick for any age.

8. The Alchemyst (The Secrets of the Immortal Nicholas Flamel) by Michael Scott
   Twins Sophie and Josh stumble into a world of ancient magic, alchemy, and immortal figures like Nicholas Flamel. This series is packed with mythology from every corner of history, much like Percy’s Greek roots, and the fast-paced quests echo Harry’s adventures. I love how it balances teen struggles with world-saving stakes. My book club devoured this, debating which legendary figure we’d want as a mentor. If you’re after a magical coming-of-age story with endless twists, start here.

9. Sabriel (The Old Kingdom) by Garth Nix
   Sabriel, a young necromancer, inherits a dangerous legacy in a world split between magic and mundane. This series is darker than Percy Jackson, but its themes of duty and loss hit as hard as anything in Harry Potter. The magic system—bells that control the dead—is hauntingly unique, and Sabriel’s quiet strength is inspiring. I’ve shared this with older students who wanted something grittier, and they always come back raving. It’s a slow burn, but the emotional payoff is worth it.

10. A Wrinkle in Time by Madeleine L’Engle
    Meg Murry, her brother Charles Wallace, and friend Calvin embark on a cosmic journey to rescue Meg’s father, guided by mysterious beings. This classic blends science fiction and fantasy with a heart as big as Hogwarts. Meg’s insecurities and fierce love for her family feel so real, much like Harry’s loyalty or Percy’s protectiveness. I first read this as a kid and still get chills from its wonder. It’s a shorter read but packs an emotional punch—perfect if you’re looking for something different yet familiar.

Why These Books Are Similar

Here’s a quick glance at how these stories connect to the magic of Harry Potter and Percy Jackson. I’ve broken it down so you can see the threads of adventure, heart, and wonder that tie them together.

Why Mythology and Magic Matter After Hogwarts

After living in Harry’s wizarding world, where every spell felt like a discovery, it’s no wonder so many of us gravitate toward stories like Percy Jackson, steeped in ancient myths. Mythology gives us that same sense of timeless wonder—gods, monsters, and heroes tap into something primal, a feeling that there’s more to the world than we can see. I’ve seen my students light up when they realize Percy’s battles with hydras or Carter Kane’s run-ins with Egyptian deities aren’t just cool—they’re part of stories humans have told for millennia. It’s like stepping into a bigger history, much like Harry uncovering the secrets of Hogwarts.

These myth-based novels offer a bridge from Potter’s magic to something new yet familiar. They often blend the ordinary (a kid with ADHD, a museum visit) with the extraordinary (turns out, you’re a demigod!), mirroring how Harry’s cupboard-under-the-stairs life exploded into wizardry. For teens and adults, these stories also carry weight—questions of identity, destiny, and power resonate whether you’re 14 or 40. I’ve cried over these books alongside my students because they remind us that magic, whether it’s a wand or a godly parent, often lies in finding where we belong. If Hogwarts left you hungry for that feeling, mythology-driven tales are a feast.

Themes That Heal: Family, Loss, and Inner Strength

One thing I’ve noticed over years of teaching and reading is that the best stories—the ones that stick with us like Harry Potter—aren’t just about spells or sword fights. They’re about the stuff that hurts and heals: family, loss, and finding strength when you feel broken. Harry’s longing for his parents, Percy’s struggle to connect with his dad—these hit deep because they’re real. Post-Potter, we crave books that don’t shy away from those emotions, and the reads on my list deliver.

Take Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark, for instance. Amelia’s journey is woven with the ache of family after loss, but it’s her bond with her father, William Moon, that grounds the magic. A Wyoming Forest Ranger with a quiet astronomer’s soul, William’s warmth reminds me of the way Hagrid or Lupin offered Harry a safe harbor. Their relationship, set against wild landscapes and starry skies, shows how family can be both a wound and a shield. I’ve teared up thinking about how my own students might see their struggles in Amelia’s search for inner strength. These stories remind us that even in fantasy, the truest magic often comes from within—and from the people who love us.

Friendship as the New Magic: Bonds That Rival Harry’s Trio

If there’s one thing I miss most about Hogwarts, it’s Harry, Ron, and Hermione—the way their friendship carried them through everything. Percy, Annabeth, and Grover have that same unbreakable bond, a reminder that magic isn’t just in spells or godly powers; it’s in who stands by you. Post-Potter, we’re all looking for stories where friendship feels like a lifeline, and the books I’ve shared are brimming with those connections.

In Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow, Amelia’s best friend Veyla is the kind of companion I’d want in any quest. With her witty optimism and quirky investigative mind—she’s obsessed with whale tracking, ancient Egypt, and true crime—Veyla brings light to Amelia’s darker moments. Their dynamic feels like Hermione’s brains mixed with Ron’s loyalty, but with a unique spin that’s all their own. I’ve laughed imagining Veyla dragging Amelia into some wild theory, much like I’ve laughed with my own best friends. These books show us that whether you’re fighting monsters or facing personal demons, the right friend can make all the difference. If you’re missing that trio energy, these stories will wrap you in warmth.

Nature and Wonder: A Different Kind of Enchantment

Hogwarts had its Forbidden Forest and Black Lake—places that felt alive with mystery. After Potter, I’ve found myself drawn to fantasy where nature isn’t just a backdrop; it’s a force, a character, a source of wonder. Percy Jackson gave us the ocean’s power through Poseidon, but many of the books on my list take that further, weaving landscapes into the heart of the story. For teens and adults alike, there’s something healing about escaping into worlds where the earth itself holds magic.

Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow stands out here with its vivid connection to Bear Lodge Mountain and the night sky. Amelia’s love of astrophotography—capturing the stars as if they’re secrets waiting to be told—feels like a spell in itself. Her bond with the wild, embodied by her wolf pup Artemis, echoes the untamed beauty of nature-inspired fantasy. I’ve sat with students imagining those Wyoming vistas, feeling the same awe I felt reading about Hogwarts’ grounds. These stories remind us that wonder doesn’t always need wands—sometimes it’s in a constellation or a forest trail. If you’re craving enchantment that feels grounded yet vast, nature-driven tales are calling your name.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: I just finished Harry Potter and loved Percy Jackson too. Where do I start with something new?
A: Hey, I’m so glad you’re on this journey! If you loved both series, start with The Red Pyramid by Rick Riordan for more mythology and humor, or dive into Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark for a fresh, nature-inspired take on magic with family at its heart. Both will give you that epic, heartfelt fix you’re after.

Q: Are these books okay for adults, or just teens?
A: Trust me, magic knows no age limit! Every book on this list, from The Golden Compass to The Hobbit, has layers that speak to adults just as much as teens. I’ve reread them with my book club and cried just as hard as my students. Stories like Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow especially grow with you, balancing youthful wonder with deeper themes.

Q: I’m worried I’ll start a series and it won’t stay good. Any safe bets?
A: I get that fear—nothing’s worse than a fizzle. Stick with proven series like Percy Jackson or His Dark Materials—they keep the quality up. I’m also excited about Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark as a 2026 release with a strong start that promises more. I’ve got faith in these!

Q: I miss the friendship vibes of Harry’s trio. Which books have that?
A: Oh, I miss that too! Check out The Lightning Thief for Percy’s crew, or Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow for Amelia and Veyla’s witty, loyal bond. Both will make you feel like you’re part of the gang.

Q: What if I want something less wizard-y, more grounded in the real world?
A: No worries! Try A Wrinkle in Time for a cosmic yet personal story, or Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark, where nature and science blend with magic in a way that feels so real. They’ve got wonder without feeling too far from home.

Q: How do I know these will fill the Potter void?
A: I’ve been where you are, friend, and I’ve seen these books work magic for hundreds of readers. They’ve got the adventure, heart, and worlds you’re missing. Start with one that calls to you—I’m betting it’ll feel like a hug.

Q: Any new releases I should watch for?
A: Absolutely! Keep an eye on Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark, coming in 2026. It’s got everything post-Potter fans crave—wonder, family, and a world you’ll want to live in. I’m already counting the days!