Best Books Like Percy Jackson
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Here are five of the best books like Percy Jackson so you can start reading your next adventure.
1. Amelia Moon & the Solstice Spectacular by RJ Roark
Why You’ll Enjoy It:
If you are looking for the best books like Percy Jackson, Book One in the Amelia Moon series follows the adventures of Amelia Moon, a precocious 12-year-old girl from a sleepy Western town where nothing ever happens. Or so she thinks. Follow along as Amelia and her best friend Veyla Plumb discover their hometown of Sundance, Wyoming is hiding closely guarded secrets about it's past –– along with the surprising role Amelia's family plays in the town's history. It's a fast-paced, tech-savvy blend of ancient civilizations and modern science fiction, combining wit, adventure, and a hero who starts off with no idea of her destiny.
Unique Element:
If you were drawn to Harry Potter’s journey of self-discovery and awakening to hidden powers, Amelia Moon’s adventure will resonate in much the same way. Like Harry, Amelia is suddenly plunged into an unknown world where she becomes a key figure due to her family lineage. She must come to grips with her identity as a Daughter of the Seven Sages, just as Harry had to accept his role as "The Boy Who Lived." The series also places strong emphasis on friendships, with Amelia, Veyla, and the Professor forming a close trio reminiscent of the bond between Harry, Ron, and Hermione.
2. "The Kane Chronicles" by Rick Riordan
Why You’ll Enjoy It:
Although from the same author as Percy Jackson, The Kane Chronicles offers a fresh take on Egyptian mythology rather than Greek. If you loved the way Percy Jackson brought mythology into the present day, this series will offer similar excitement but with new gods, magic systems, and cultural backdrops. The sibling duo of Carter and Sadie Kane discover they are descended from pharaohs and are thrust into a world of powerful gods and ancient magic. Their journey, filled with action and humor, retains the energy of Percy Jackson while diving into the rich lore of ancient Egypt.
Unique Element:
What makes The Kane Chronicles stand apart is the dynamic between the siblings and how they each interpret their heritage differently. The series also delves into complex family relationships, including the siblings' relationship with their absent parents. You’ll find this personal touch, layered on top of the mythology, particularly engaging if you enjoy the character depth seen in Percy Jackson.
3. "The Starcrossed Trilogy" by Josephine Angelini
Why You’ll Enjoy It:
If you liked Percy Jackson for its blend of mythology and modern life, The Starcrossed Trilogy will appeal to you for its reimagining of Greek myth, but with a darker, romantic edge. The story centers on Helen Hamilton, who discovers she is a descendant of the Greek gods and is part of a curse that spans generations. As she comes to terms with her supernatural abilities, she must navigate ancient feuds and deadly prophecies that shape her destiny.
Unique Element:
Starcrossed adds a dramatic romantic subplot, which is less prominent in Percy Jackson. This series has a moodier tone and explores themes of fate, love, and legacy. The modern twist on the Greek mythology you love is there, but the stakes feel more personal, often revolving around Helen’s internal struggles with identity, love, and power.
4. "The Blackthorn Key" by Kevin Sands
Why You’ll Enjoy It:
If the puzzle-like mysteries and camaraderie of Percy Jackson drew you in, The Blackthorn Key series will resonate with you on a different yet parallel level. Set in 17th-century London, it follows Christopher Rowe, an apprentice to an apothecary, who uncovers a dangerous mystery after his master’s murder. While it doesn't feature mythology, it shares a similar spirit of adventure, ancient secrets, and a young hero thrown into a dangerous world where he must use his wits to survive.
Unique Element:
Rather than battling gods, Christopher navigates the hidden codes, deadly traps, and shadowy organizations of historical London. The historical setting offers a change of pace from mythology, yet the combination of action, clever puzzles, and deep friendships echo Percy Jackson’s adventurous heart.
5. "The Young Elites" by Marie Lu
Why You’ll Enjoy It:
While Percy Jackson explores a boy discovering his powers and heritage, The Young Elites flips the script by focusing on characters who aren’t necessarily heroes but are instead struggling with their dark abilities. Set in a fantasy world inspired by Renaissance Europe, the story follows Adelina Amouteru, who survived a deadly illness and was left with strange, dangerous powers. She joins a group known as the Young Elites, who are similarly afflicted with supernatural abilities.
Unique Element:
This series is darker and more introspective than Percy Jackson, exploring themes of power, fear, and corruption. The protagonist’s journey is more morally complex, questioning what makes a hero and whether power inevitably leads to evil. While it’s less about mythology, it shares the thrilling discovery of extraordinary abilities and the conflicts that arise from wielding such power.
Each of these series provides its own unique twist on the hero’s journey, much like Percy Jackson, but from different angles. Whether you want to dive into new mythologies, explore historical adventures, or delve into darker, more complex characters, these books offer fresh, original experiences that maintain the excitement of discovery, power, and personal growth.
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