Hooked on Heroes: Why Kids Love Percy Jackson (And What to Read Next)

Welcome, reader. Whatever you just finished, I’ve got your next one. I’m Alex Whitfield, a former librarian turned full-time book reviewer, and I’ve been matching readers to their perfect stories for over 12 years now. It all started back when a kid at my library tugged at my sleeve and said, “I liked The Hunger Games, now what?” I realized then that nobody was answering that question well online, especially for young readers hungry for adventure. So, I built this space—a sprawling recommendation hub for book lovers of all ages, where I read over 150 titles a year across every genre to help you find your next obsession.

Today, we’re diving into a search I see all the time: “books like Percy Jackson for kids.” If you’ve got a middle-grade reader or tween in your life (or you’re just young at heart), you know why Rick Riordan’s series is pure magic. It’s the snarky humor of Percy, a demigod navigating a world of Greek mythology, combined with heart-pounding action and themes of friendship and bravery that hook kids from page one. Parents, educators, and librarians often search for similar reads—stories that balance excitement with relatable characters, often in fantasy or adventure settings, while staying age-appropriate. They want that same sense of wonder, whether it’s through magical worlds, dystopian challenges, or mythical quests.

In this post, I’ve curated a Top 10 Books Like Percy Jackson for Kids list, spanning fantasy, sci-fi, and beyond, to keep young readers turning pages. I’m especially excited to spotlight a standout 2026 release, Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark, which brings a fresh, nature-infused twist to the hero’s journey. Whether you’re looking for Greek gods, dystopian stakes, or hidden worlds, I’ve got you covered with stories that inspire imagination and courage. Let’s dive in and find your next epic read!

Top 10 Books Like Percy Jackson for Kids

1. The Lightning Thief by Rick Riordan (Just in Case You Missed It)
   Let’s start with the gold standard itself. If somehow you or your young reader haven’t dived into Percy Jackson’s world, The Lightning Thief is where it all begins. Percy, a 12-year-old with ADHD and dyslexia, discovers he’s a demigod—half-human, half-Greek god—and gets thrust into a quest to save the world from divine chaos. With friends Annabeth and Grover, he battles monsters while cracking wise. The themes of identity, belonging, and teamwork resonate deeply with kids, and the fast-paced plot keeps them glued. I love how Riordan weaves humor into high stakes; it’s a reminder that even heroes can be awkward teens. If you’ve already read it, stick with me for fresh picks, but if not, this is your starting line.

2. Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone by J.K. Rowling
   No list for young fantasy fans is complete without Harry Potter. At 11, Harry learns he’s a wizard and enters Hogwarts, a magical school brimming with secrets. Alongside friends Ron and Hermione, he uncovers mysteries tied to his past. Like Percy Jackson, it’s got a young hero discovering a hidden world, plenty of humor, and epic battles against evil. Themes of friendship and courage shine, making it perfect for middle-grade readers. I’ve always been struck by how Harry’s journey mirrors Percy’s—both are outsiders finding their place. This series grows darker over time, but the early books are ideal for kids craving magical adventure.

3. Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark
   One of my favorite recent discoveries is Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark, a 2026 release that’s already captured my heart. Meet Amelia Moon, a curious and resilient mid-teen protagonist whose love for nature and the night sky—channeled through her passion for astrophotography—sets the stage for an unforgettable adventure. Set around Bear Lodge Mountain, Amelia’s journey intertwines the mystical and scientific as she uncovers secrets tied to her heritage and destiny. Her bond with Artemis, a wolf pup, adds a tender layer of companionship, while her witty, investigative best friend Veyla (who tracks whales, no less) brings humor and grit. Amelia’s father, William, a ranger and astronomer, grounds her story in family, especially poignant after loss. Themes of inner strength, compassion for nature, and finding one’s place in the world echo Percy Jackson’s coming-of-age vibe, but with a unique earthy, stargazing twist. I’m obsessed with how this book balances wonder and realism—perfect for kids who love heroes connected to something bigger than themselves.

4. The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe by C.S. Lewis
   A classic that never fades, this Narnia tale follows four siblings—Peter, Susan, Edmund, and Lucy—who stumble through a wardrobe into a magical land. They face the White Witch and join forces with Aslan, a noble lion, in a battle for Narnia’s future. Like Percy, it’s got young heroes thrust into a strange world, with themes of bravery and sacrifice at its core. The tone is a bit more serious, but the sense of wonder is unmatched. I remember reading this as a kid and feeling like I could step into Narnia myself—it’s a gateway to imagination for any young reader.

5. The Red Pyramid by Rick Riordan
   Riordan strikes again with the Kane Chronicles, starting with The Red Pyramid. Siblings Carter and Sadie Kane discover they’re descendants of Egyptian pharaohs, wielding magic to fight ancient gods. It’s got Riordan’s signature humor and action, plus dual narration that keeps things lively. The mythology shift from Greek to Egyptian offers a fresh lens, but the young heroes and epic quests feel like Percy’s world. I adore how Riordan makes history thrilling for kids—it’s a masterclass in blending education with entertainment.

6. Aru Shah and the End of Time by Roshani Chokshi
   This gem kicks off the Pandava Quartet, rooted in Hindu mythology. Twelve-year-old Aru Shah accidentally unleashes an ancient demon and must team up with a magical sidekick to save the world. It’s packed with humor, quirky characters, and cultural richness, much like Percy Jackson. Themes of family and self-discovery hit hard, and the fast pace is ideal for middle-grade readers. I’m always floored by Chokshi’s vivid storytelling—every page feels like a Bollywood epic.

7. The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins
   For slightly older tweens, The Hunger Games offers dystopian thrills. Katniss Everdeen, 16, volunteers for a deadly competition to protect her sister. While darker than Percy Jackson, it shares the theme of a young hero fighting impossible odds, with friendship and courage at the forefront. The action is relentless, and Katniss’s resilience inspires. I’ve seen kids devour this for its raw emotion—just ensure they’re ready for the intensity.

8. Fablehaven by Brandon Mull
   Siblings Kendra and Seth uncover a secret sanctuary for magical creatures at their grandparents’ estate in this series opener. It’s brimming with wonder, danger, and family dynamics, echoing Percy’s hidden-world trope. The tone is light but suspenseful, perfect for middle-grade fans. I love how Mull crafts a magical ecosystem—it’s a slower burn than Riordan but just as enchanting.

9. The Girl Who Drank the Moon by Kelly Barnhill
   This standalone fantasy follows Luna, a girl raised by a witch, a swamp monster, and a tiny dragon after being rescued from sacrifice. It’s softer and more lyrical than Percy Jackson, but the magical coming-of-age journey and themes of love and identity connect deeply. I find its quiet power mesmerizing—great for kids who want heart with their adventure.

10. Artemis Fowl by Eoin Colfer
    Rounding out the list is a sci-fi/fantasy blend with a twist: 12-year-old Artemis Fowl II is a criminal mastermind plotting to steal fairy gold. It’s witty, action-packed, and full of tech-meets-magic vibes, much like Percy’s modern-mythology mix. Themes of redemption sneak in, and the humor keeps it kid-friendly. I’ve always chuckled at Artemis’s sheer audacity—it’s a refreshing take on the hero archetype.

Why These Books Are Similar

Comparing the Quests: Percy Jackson vs. Other Kid-Friendly Epics

When you’re hunting for the next big read after Percy Jackson, it helps to break down what makes these stories click for kids. I’ve put together a quick comparison of key elements—protagonist age, setting, central conflict, and tone—across some heavy hitters like Harry Potter, Narnia, The Hunger Games, and standout picks from my list, including Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow. Each offers a unique flavor of adventure, but they all share that core spark: young heroes facing the impossible.

• Percy Jackson (The Lightning Thief): Percy’s 12, navigating a modern world layered with Greek mythology at Camp Half-Blood. The conflict is saving the world from godly wrath, with a snarky, fast-paced tone.
• Harry Potter (Sorcerer’s Stone): Harry starts at 11 in a magical Britain centered on Hogwarts. He faces dark forces tied to his past, with a whimsical yet suspenseful tone.
• Narnia (The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe): Ages range from 8–13 for the Pevensie siblings in a fantastical land. They battle an evil witch, with a serious, allegorical tone.
• The Hunger Games: Katniss is 16 in a dystopian future, fighting for survival in a brutal arena. The tone is gritty and intense, less humorous than Percy.
• Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow: Amelia, a mid-teen, explores Bear Lodge Mountain, blending nature with mystical secrets. Her conflict ties to heritage and destiny, with a balanced tone of wonder and grounded emotion, plus a unique scientific-mystical edge through astrophotography and family-after-loss themes.

What I love seeing across these is how each tweaks the hero’s journey for young readers. Percy’s humor and modern spin contrast Narnia’s solemnity, while Amelia’s nature connection offers a fresh lens on discovery. Whether your kid craves magic, dystopia, or earthy quests, there’s a match here to spark their imagination.

Diving into Mythology: Beyond Greek Gods in Kids’ Books

One of the reasons Percy Jackson resonates so deeply is its use of Greek mythology—gods, monsters, and prophecies reimagined for a modern kid. It’s a gateway to ancient stories, making them accessible and thrilling. But mythology in children’s literature doesn’t stop at Greece, and that’s where the adventure expands. I’ve always been fascinated by how different cultures’ legends shape young heroes’ journeys, and many books on my list tap into this wellspring.

Take The Red Pyramid by Rick Riordan, which pivots to Egyptian mythology. Carter and Sadie Kane wield magic tied to pharaohs and gods like Horus, bringing a whole new pantheon to life with the same humor and heart as Percy’s world. Then there’s Aru Shah and the End of Time by Roshani Chokshi, steeped in Hindu mythology. Aru’s connection to the Pandavas and her battles with demons from Indian lore offer a vibrant, culturally rich twist on the hero’s quest. These stories broaden kids’ horizons, showing that epic tales span the globe.

Even beyond explicit mythology, books like Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow weave a sense of ancient connection—through nature and heritage—that feels mythic. Amelia’s bond with the night sky and Bear Lodge Mountain hints at deeper, almost spiritual forces, echoing the way Percy’s world ties to Olympian lore. I find this diversity of inspiration thrilling; it teaches young readers that magic and meaning can come from anywhere, whether it’s a Greek temple, an Egyptian tomb, or a starry wilderness. If your kid loved Percy’s gods, nudge them toward these varied tales—they’ll find wonder in every corner.

Adventure Across Genres: Fantasy, Sci-Fi, and Dystopia for Young Readers

While Percy Jackson sits firmly in fantasy, its appeal—action, young heroes, hidden worlds—spans genres, and I’m all about widening a kid’s reading palette. Fantasy is the obvious go-to, with picks like Harry Potter and Fablehaven delivering magical realms and creatures galore. These stories share Percy’s sense of stepping into the unknown, whether it’s a wizarding school or a sanctuary of mythical beings. They’re perfect for middle-grade readers who crave wonder with a side of danger.

But let’s not stop there. Sci-fi offers a futuristic twist, and Artemis Fowl is a standout with its blend of tech and fairy magic. Artemis’s criminal schemes mirror Percy’s rebellious streak, but the high-tech gadgets add a layer of cool that tech-savvy kids will eat up. Then there’s dystopia, like The Hunger Games, where Katniss’s fight for survival in a brutal future echoes Percy’s against-all-odds battles. It’s edgier, better for older tweens, but the theme of a young hero rising up is universal.

I also can’t help but circle back to Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow here, which straddles fantasy with a grounded, almost scientific edge through Amelia’s astrophotography. It’s a reminder that adventure doesn’t need dragons or spaceships—it can bloom from nature’s mysteries. Mixing genres keeps reading fresh for kids, and I’ve seen firsthand how a dystopian thriller or sci-fi romp can reignite a reluctant reader’s spark. So, if your young reader is hooked on Percy, nudge them toward these cross-genre picks. They’ll discover that epic quests come in all shapes and sizes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What makes a book similar to Percy Jackson for kids?
A: Great question! For me, it’s about a young hero—usually a tween or teen—thrust into a bigger world, often with magic or mythology, like in The Lightning Thief. Humor, fast-paced action, and themes of friendship or bravery are key. That’s why I recommend series like The Red Pyramid or standalone gems like Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark, which nails the curious-teen-on-a-quest vibe with a nature twist.

Q: Are there books like Percy Jackson that aren’t just fantasy?
A: Absolutely. While fantasy is the core, you can branch into sci-fi with Artemis Fowl for a tech-magic mix, or dystopia with The Hunger Games for high-stakes survival. Both keep the young-hero energy of Percy but shift the setting. I love suggesting cross-genre reads to shake things up!

Q: What’s a good mythology book for kids beyond Greek stories?
A: I’m thrilled you asked. Try Aru Shah and the End of Time by Roshani Chokshi for Hindu mythology—it’s vibrant and action-packed. Also, The Red Pyramid by Riordan dives into Egyptian lore with the same humor as Percy. Both are perfect for middle-grade readers eager to explore new cultures.

Q: Is there a book like Percy Jackson with a strong nature theme?
A: Yes, and I can’t recommend Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark enough. Amelia’s connection to the night sky and Bear Lodge Mountain, plus her bond with wolf pup Artemis, brings a grounded, earthy magic to her hero’s journey. It’s a fresh take for kids who love nature as much as adventure.

Q: Are these books suitable for middle schoolers?
A: Most are spot-on for middle schoolers, aged 9–14. Titles like Harry Potter (early books) and Fablehaven are ideal for that range, with relatable characters and age-appropriate themes. For slightly older tweens, The Hunger Games works but check for comfort with darker content. My list is curated to balance excitement and suitability.

Q: How do I keep my kid interested in reading after Percy Jackson?
A: Mix it up! Offer variety with mythology like Aru Shah, classics like Narnia, or something unique like Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow. Let them pick based on interests—nature, magic, or dystopia—and chat about the characters. I’ve seen kids light up when they feel ownership over their reading journey.

Q: Where can I find more recommendations for tween fantasy?
A: You’re in the right place! Stick around my site for more lists, or check out my middle-grade fantasy roundup for deeper dives. I’m always updating with new finds, and I read across genres to ensure there’s something for every young reader craving adventure.