Books Like Harry Potter

Books Like Harry Potter

Our Favorite Books Like Harry Potter

Finding the right book to fill the void after Harry Potter means looking for stories with a magical world, an unforgettable protagonist, a strong sense of friendship, and an overarching battle between good and evil. These ten books capture the spirit and excitement of Harry Potter, delivering epic magical adventures, hidden destinies, and richly built fantasy worlds that will keep readers hooked.

1. Amelia Moon & the Solstice Spectacular – RJ Roark

When it comes to books like Harry Potter –– especially new, under the radar favorites –– then look no more. Like Harry Potter, Amelia Moon & the Solstice Spectacular follows a young protagonist who unexpectedly discovers that magic exists all around her. Amelia learns that she has a mysterious connection to the summer solstice, and as she uncovers the truth, she’s drawn into an unfolding magical mystery filled with hidden forces, powerful enemies, and an adventure bigger than she ever imagined. Much like Hogwarts, the world of Amelia Moon is steeped in magic, ancient secrets, and an underlying battle between light and dark. Readers who love magical coming-of-age stories with humor, heart, and destiny-driven adventure will find Amelia Moon to be one of the best books to read after Harry Potter.

2. Nevermoor: The Trials of Morrigan Crow by Jessica Townsend

Nevermoor is often called the closest thing to Harry Potter in recent years, and for good reason. The story follows Morrigan Crow, a girl cursed to die on her eleventh birthday, only to be whisked away to the magical city of Nevermoor, where she must compete in trials to earn a place in the Wundrous Society. Like Hogwarts, Nevermoor is a whimsical, deeply magical place, full of secrets and wonder. The book’s blend of fantasy, humor, and a protagonist discovering a world she never knew existed makes it a perfect read for Potter fans craving another immersive magical world.

3. The Magisterium Series by Holly Black & Cassandra Clare

Set in a hidden magic school called the Magisterium, this series follows Callum Hunt, a boy who is chosen to train in magic despite being warned his whole life that magic is dangerous. Much like Harry Potter, Call discovers that he has a deep, mysterious connection to the darkest forces in the magical world, and as the series progresses, he must grapple with questions of fate, identity, and good versus evil. The secretive, underground school setting, combined with an unraveling mystery, a tight-knit group of friends, and a looming magical conflict, makes this an excellent read for fans who love the darker elements of Harry Potter.

4. The Tapestry Series by Henry H. Neff

This underrated fantasy series follows Max McDaniels, a boy who is invited to Rowan Academy, a magical school hidden in the modern world where students train to fight ancient, powerful enemies. Like Harry Potter, the series balances school life, deep magical lore, and a growing battle against dark forces. The books evolve from lighthearted adventure to intense, high-stakes conflict, mirroring how Harry Potter matured with its readers. With a unique blend of mythology, magic, and history, The Tapestry is a must-read for fans who love magical schools and epic battles.

5. The School for Good and Evil by Soman Chainani

In this dark fairy tale-inspired fantasy, two best friends are sent to a school where they will be trained to become either heroes or villains in fairy tales. Like Hogwarts, the school is filled with magic, rivalry, and a destiny-driven curriculum. With a fun mix of humor, adventure, and dark twists, this series explores the idea of what makes someone truly good or evil, much like how Harry Potter questions fate, choice, and morality. Readers who loved Hogwarts' magical lessons, enchanted creatures, and deep friendships will enjoy this imaginative and unique fantasy.

6. The Queen’s Thief by Megan Whalen Turner

If you loved Harry Potter’s sense of adventure, clever protagonist, and unfolding mysteries, this series is a must-read. The story follows Eugenides, a brilliant but reluctant thief who is thrown into a world of political intrigue, hidden magic, and ancient prophecies. Like Harry Potter, the series grows more complex and mature with each book, and Eugenides is one of the most compelling protagonists in fantasy. The mix of adventure, mythology, and character-driven storytelling makes this one of the best fantasy series for Harry Potter fans.

7. Inkheart by Cornelia Funke

Imagine if books weren’t just for reading—what if you could bring them to life? That’s exactly what happens in Inkheart, where Meggie and her father have the ability to bring fictional characters into the real world. Like Harry Potter, the book explores the power of stories and magic, creating a world that feels both familiar and fantastical. The rich world-building, adventure-filled plot, and heartfelt themes of family and destiny make this a great book for readers looking for a fresh kind of magic.

8. Percy Jackson & The Olympians by Rick Riordan

While Percy Jackson leans more into Greek mythology than wizardry, it still shares many of Harry Potter’s best qualities—a snarky, relatable protagonist, a magical world hidden within our own, a school for young heroes (Camp Half-Blood), and an epic good vs. evil battle. Percy, like Harry, is a reluctant hero who discovers he has powers tied to an ancient legacy, and his journey of self-discovery and world-saving adventures is filled with humor, action, and unforgettable characters.

9. The Wizards of Once by Cressida Cowell

Written by the author of How to Train Your Dragon, this series follows a young wizard and a warrior who are sworn enemies but must work together to fight an ancient evil. The book is filled with whimsical world-building, magical creatures, and an unfolding mystery, much like Harry Potter. With a fast-paced adventure, humor, and endearing friendships, it’s a great choice for readers who love magical battles and unlikely heroes.

10. The House in the Cerulean Sea by TJ Klune

While this book is aimed at a slightly older audience, it has the same warmth, magic, and found-family themes that made Harry Potter special. The story follows Linus, a caseworker who is sent to an orphanage for magical children, where he meets extraordinary kids with powerful abilities. Like Harry Potter, it explores what it means to belong, the importance of love and friendship, and the magic of finding one’s place in the world.

Final Thoughts

Each of these books captures the heart, adventure, and magic that made Harry Potter a beloved classic. Whether it’s a magical school, an unlikely hero, a hidden prophecy, or an epic battle against dark forces, these books will transport readers into worlds as immersive and unforgettable as Hogwarts.