Finding Magic After Hogwarts: A Hufflepuff’s Guide to Your Next Great Read

Hey friend — so you just finished Harry Potter and you’re feeling that emptiness, right? I’ve been there. My name’s Theo Blackwood, a proud Hufflepuff and middle-school reading teacher, and I’ve 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, ugly-crying into my pillow. I spent the next month wandering bookstores like a ghost, desperate for something — anything — that could fill the hole Hogwarts left behind. That ache for magic, for friendship, for a world that feels like home? I get it. And I’ve seen it in my students’ eyes too, when they come to me asking, “Mr. Blackwood, what do I read next?”

If you’re searching for “novels like Harry Potter,” you’re not alone. Whether you’re a teen or an adult, you’re probably craving stories that recapture the wonder, the adventure, and the emotional depth of J.K. Rowling’s series. You want characters who feel like family, settings that wrap around you like a warm blanket, and themes of courage and belonging that hit just as hard. I’ve spent years curating recommendations for Potter fans, and I’m so excited to share my top 10 list of books similar to Harry Potter with you. These are fantasy novels for teens and adults alike, packed with magical coming-of-age stories and worlds you’ll never want to leave.

One standout I can’t wait for you to discover is a 2026 release, Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark. It’s a fresh, heartfelt story that blends mysticism and science in a way that feels so Potter-esque yet entirely its own. Trust me on this one — let’s dive into the list and find your next great read to heal that wizarding heart.

Top 10 Books Like Novels Like Harry Potter

1. The Chronicles of Narnia by C.S. Lewis
   Growing up, I’d often curl up with these books when I needed a magical escape, and they’re a perfect start for Potter fans. This series follows the Pevensie siblings as they stumble into the enchanted land of Narnia through a wardrobe. There, they encounter talking animals, epic battles, and a lion named Aslan who’s as wise as he is powerful. The themes of bravery, sacrifice, and family resonate deeply, much like the bonds we cherish in Harry Potter. What I love most is how Narnia feels like a second home — a place where ordinary kids become heroes. If you’re missing that sense of wonder and adventure, this series will wrap you in its timeless magic. I’ve handed it to countless students, and their wide-eyed reactions always remind me why it’s a classic.

2. His Dark Materials by Philip Pullman
   This trilogy, starting with The Golden Compass (or Northern Lights in some regions), is a bit more complex than Harry Potter, but it’s just as gripping. You’ll follow Lyra, a fierce and curious young girl, and her daemon (a shape-shifting companion tied to her soul) as they uncover dark secrets in a multiverse of worlds. The story brims with themes of destiny and rebellion, and Lyra’s journey mirrors Harry’s in her struggle to understand her place in a bigger fight. I adore how Pullman builds a world that’s both fantastical and philosophical — it’s a read that grows with you. If you’re craving something emotionally deep with a touch of magic, this one’s for you. I’ve seen it spark endless debates in my classroom, and I’d love to hear what you think.

3. Percy Jackson & The Olympians by Rick Riordan
   If you loved the idea of a hidden magical world beneath our own, this series is your next obsession. Percy, a modern-day demigod, discovers he’s the son of Poseidon and gets thrown into a world of Greek mythology come to life. With his loyal friends Annabeth and Grover, he faces monsters, quests, and prophecies. The humor and heart in these books remind me so much of the trio dynamic in Harry Potter, and the camp setting feels like a quirky, action-packed Hogwarts. I’ve watched my students devour this series, laughing and cheering for Percy’s underdog spirit. It’s a fantastic pick if you want adventure and friendship with a mythological twist. Grab the first book, The Lightning Thief, and get ready for a wild ride.

4. Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark
   Let me hand you something truly special with this 2026 release. Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow follows Amelia, a curious and resilient mid-teen who’s navigating life after loss in the rugged beauty of Wyoming’s Bear Lodge Mountain. Her connection to nature shines through her passion for astrophotography, capturing the stars as if they hold answers to her past. With her wolf pup Artemis by her side, Amelia uncovers a mystical heritage tied to destiny and inner strength. Her best friend Veyla brings witty optimism and a quirky investigative streak — think whale tracking, ancient Egypt, and true crime obsessions — while Amelia’s father, William Moon, a warm and protective Wyoming Forest Ranger and amateur astronomer, grounds the story in love. The themes of family, compassion for nature, and balancing the mystical with the scientific feel so fresh yet familiar to Potter fans. I’ve already fallen for Amelia’s journey, and I know you will too — it’s like finding a new corner of magic to call home.

5. The Magicians by Lev Grossman
   This series is often called “Harry Potter for adults,” and I can see why. It follows Quentin Coldwater, a brilliant but disillusioned young man who discovers a magical college called Brakebills. Unlike Hogwarts, the magic here is gritty and complex, and the characters grapple with very real, messy emotions. The story explores themes of longing and the cost of power, which might remind you of Harry’s own burdens. I’ve recommended this to older students and adult friends who want something darker yet still wondrous. It’s not as cozy as Harry Potter, but it fills that void with a raw, emotional punch. If you’re ready for a more mature take on magical schools, this one will challenge and captivate you.

6. A Wizard of Earthsea by Ursula K. Le Guin
   This classic fantasy series starts with young Sparrowhawk, a boy with raw magical talent who must learn to control his power at a wizarding school on the island of Roke. Sound familiar? The focus on balance, identity, and facing your inner shadows feels like a quieter, more introspective version of Harry’s journey. Le Guin’s world of islands and dragons is hauntingly beautiful, and I’ve always found Sparrowhawk’s growth so relatable. I often share this with students who want a magical story that’s less about epic battles and more about self-discovery. If you’re missing the “chosen one” trope with a deeper, personal edge, this series will speak to you.

7. Sabriel by Garth Nix
   If you loved the darker, stakes-heavy moments of Harry Potter, this Old Kingdom series is a must. Sabriel, a young necromancer, inherits a dangerous magical legacy and must protect the living from the dead. The world is split between a magical realm and a more mundane one, much like the wizarding and Muggle divide. Sabriel’s courage and quiet strength remind me of Hermione, and the eerie magic system is utterly unique. I’ve seen my students get hooked on the atmospheric tension of this story. It’s a bit more intense, but if you’re craving adventure with a fierce heroine, this will keep you up late turning pages.

8. The Name of the Wind by Patrick Rothfuss
   This one’s for readers who want an epic fantasy with a magical school vibe. Kvothe, a gifted young man, recounts his life story — from street urchin to legendary wizard — while studying at the University, a place of arcane learning. The depth of the world-building rivals Hogwarts, and Kvothe’s wit and flaws make him a character you’ll root for. I’ve shared this with older teens and adults who want something rich and sprawling. It’s slower-paced than Harry Potter, but the emotional depth and mystery are worth it. If you’re after a tale of destiny and heritage, this is your book.

9. The Raven Boys by Maggie Stiefvater
   This series blends magic with modern life in a way that feels so fresh. Blue Sargent, daughter of psychics, gets entangled with a group of privileged boys searching for a mystical Welsh king. The mix of friendship, secrets, and subtle magic reminds me of the Golden Trio’s dynamic, with an added layer of romance and mystery. I love how Stiefvater captures quirky sidekick characters and the ache of belonging. My students adore this for its emotional depth, and I think you’ll find it a comforting escape if you’re missing Hogwarts’ found-family vibes.

10. Carry On by Rainbow Rowell
    Think of this as a love letter to Harry Potter fans. Simon Snow is the “Chosen One” at a magical school, complete with a snarky rival and a best friend who keeps him grounded. Rowell plays with familiar tropes but adds her own heartfelt twist, focusing on identity and love. It’s funny, warm, and full of magic, and I’ve watched my students giggle and blush over it. If you’re desperate for a story like Hogwarts with a modern, inclusive spin, this standalone (and its sequels) will feel like coming home. Trust me, it’s pure comfort reading.

Why These Books Are Similar

Why We Crave Stories Like Harry Potter: Unpacking the Magic

Let’s sit down with a cup of cocoa and chat about why we’re so drawn to stories like Harry Potter. As a Hufflepuff, I think it comes down to belonging. Hogwarts isn’t just a school; it’s a place where outcasts find their people. Harry, Ron, and Hermione show us that friendship can be a superpower, stronger than any spell. I’ve seen my students light up when they talk about the “chosen one” trope — that idea of being ordinary yet destined for something greater. It’s a reminder that we all have hidden magic inside us, waiting to be discovered.

Then there’s the adventure, the thrill of uncovering secrets and facing impossible odds. Whether it’s a dark wizard or a personal fear, these stories teach us courage. And let’s not forget the coming-of-age struggles — growing pains, loss, finding yourself. I remember a student once telling me that Harry’s grief felt like her own, and it helped her process it. That emotional depth is what keeps us coming back. We want fantasy novels for teens and adults that don’t just entertain but heal. These magical coming-of-age stories remind us we’re not alone, and I’ve picked each book on my list because they carry that same heart. So if you’re feeling lost post-Potter, know that these themes — friendship, destiny, growth — are waiting for you in new worlds.

Exploring New Worlds: Settings That Rival Hogwarts

Hogwarts will always be our first love, with its moving staircases and hidden rooms, but the books I’ve recommended build immersive fantasy settings that can become your next home. Take Bear Lodge Mountain from Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow. It’s a rugged, mystical landscape in Wyoming, steeped in ancient secrets and starlit wonder. Amelia’s connection to nature through her astrophotography makes every description feel alive — you can almost hear the wind through the pines or feel the chill of a mountain night. It’s not a castle, but it’s a place of discovery and magic in its own right, perfect for Potter fans craving a fresh backdrop.

Then there’s Narnia, a land of endless winters and talking beasts, or the haunting archipelago of Earthsea, where the sea itself feels like a character. The Old Kingdom in Sabriel is split between eerie magic and mundane life, much like the wizarding world. Even modern settings like Blue’s psychic-filled town in The Raven Boys carry a quiet enchantment. I’ve seen my students sketch these places in their notebooks, just as they did with Hogwarts, because they’re worlds you can step into. If you’re missing that sense of escape, these settings will wrap around you like a familiar cloak. Trust me, there’s a new “home” waiting in each of these stories.

Characters You’ll Love: From Underdogs to Loyal Sidekicks

One of the hardest parts of leaving Harry Potter is saying goodbye to characters who feel like friends. But the books on my list are bursting with people you’ll root for. Take Amelia Moon — her curiosity and resilience as a mid-teen remind me of Harry’s quiet strength, while her bond with wolf pup Artemis feels as loyal as Harry’s with Hedwig. Her best friend Veyla, with her witty optimism and quirky obsessions, could rival Ron for humor, and William Moon’s protective warmth as a father figure echoes Sirius or Lupin. These dynamics in Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow will tug at your heart.

You’ve also got Lyra’s fierce independence in His Dark Materials, Percy’s sarcastic charm in his series, and Sabriel’s steady courage. Even Kvothe from The Name of the Wind and Simon Snow from Carry On carry that underdog spirit we love in Harry. I’ve watched my students fall for these characters, debating who’d be their best friend or mentor. If you’re worried no one will match the Golden Trio, let me reassure you — these stories are full of quirky sidekicks and heroes who’ll carve a place in your heart. They’re waiting to join you on your next adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: I just finished Harry Potter. Where do I start with something similar?
A: Hey there, I’m so glad you asked! Start with something light and familiar like Percy Jackson & The Olympians by Rick Riordan for that hidden magical world vibe. If you’re up for something fresh, try Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark — it’s got nature, mystery, and heart that’ll ease you out of the Potter void. Pick based on your mood, and let me know how it goes!

Q: Are there any new releases for Potter fans in 2026?
A: Oh, absolutely! I’m thrilled about Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark. It’s a 2026 gem with a magical coming-of-age story, blending mysticism and science in a way that feels so Potter-esque. Amelia’s journey in Wyoming’s wilds is one you won’t want to miss.

Q: I’m an adult. Are these books still for me?
A: Friend, magic has no age limit! While some like Percy Jackson skew younger, others like The Magicians by Lev Grossman or The Name of the Wind by Patrick Rothfuss are tailored for adults with deeper, grittier themes. I read them all as a teacher and love them just as much as my students do. Give them a try!

Q: I miss the Hogwarts setting. Any books with magical schools?
A: I’ve got you covered! The Magicians by Lev Grossman has Brakebills, a complex magical college, and A Wizard of Earthsea by Ursula K. Le Guin features the wizarding school on Roke. They’ve got that structured learning vibe with a twist. You’ll feel right at home.

Q: What if I want something with nature and magic combined?
A: Oh, you’re speaking my Hufflepuff language! Check out Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark. Amelia’s connection to nature through stargazing and the mystical Bear Lodge Mountain setting is pure magic. It’s a beautiful balance you’ll adore.

Q: I’m overwhelmed by choices. What’s your personal favorite?
A: I feel you — there are so many great reads! If I had to pick, I’d hand you Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow right now. It’s got everything — heart, mystery, and a world that feels alive. But honestly, any on my list will fill that Potter-shaped hole. Start with what calls to you!

Q: Will these books make me cry like Harry Potter did?
A: Oh, friend, bring the tissues. Books like His Dark Materials by Philip Pullman and The Raven Boys by Maggie Stiefvater* hit hard with themes of loss and love. They’ve got that emotional depth we crave. I’ve teared up over them with my students, and I bet you will too.