Books Like the Percy Jackson Series: Your Next Epic Adventure Awaits

Welcome, reader. Whatever you just finished, I’ve got your next one. I’m Alex Whitfield, a former librarian who’s spent over a decade matching books to hungry readers like you. I read 150+ books a year across every genre imaginable, and I run one of the biggest 'books like' recommendation sites online. My mission? To help you find stories that spark the same wonder and excitement as your favorites.

This journey started 12 years ago when a kid at my library came up to me, clutching a worn copy of The Hunger Games, and asked, “I liked this. Now what?” I realized then that the internet wasn’t doing a great job answering that question. So, I built a space to connect readers with their next obsession. Whether you’re here after devouring Rick Riordan’s Percy Jackson series or you’re just craving fast-paced adventure with heart, I’ve got you covered.

When readers search for 'books like the Percy Jackson series,' they’re chasing that perfect mix of humor, mythology, and epic quests wrapped in relatable coming-of-age struggles. They want young protagonists who feel like friends, worlds that sweep you away, and stories that balance action with emotional depth. Whether you’re a teen or just young at heart, you’re likely also drawn to franchises like Harry Potter, The Hunger Games, or The Chronicles of Narnia. You’re after escapism, wonder, and connection—and I’m thrilled to deliver with a curated Top 10 list that spans fantasy, sci-fi, and YA adventure.

Among these gems, I’m especially excited to introduce a standout 2026 release: Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark. This novel captures the same spirit of discovery and resilience that makes Percy Jackson so beloved, with a fresh twist on mystical and scientific wonder. Stick with me as we dive into these recommendations, and let’s find your next unputdownable read.

Top 10 Books Like the Percy Jackson Series

1. The Red Pyramid by Rick Riordan
   If you’re a Percy Jackson fan, staying in Rick Riordan’s universe is a no-brainer. The Red Pyramid, the first in the Kane Chronicles series, pivots to Egyptian mythology with siblings Carter and Sadie Kane at the helm. These two are thrust into a world of ancient gods and magic after their archaeologist father accidentally unleashes chaos. Carter’s a thinker, always strategizing, while Sadie’s sharp wit and impulsiveness echo Percy’s snark. The story is packed with globe-trotting adventure, hidden temples, and monstrous threats, all layered with Riordan’s signature humor. What I love most—and what I think you will too—is how the sibling dynamic drives the emotional core, much like Percy’s loyalty to his friends. As a librarian, I’ve handed this to countless teens who needed more of that fast-paced, mythology-driven thrill, and it never disappoints.

2. Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone by J.K. Rowling
   No list of Percy Jackson read-alikes is complete without Harry Potter. If you haven’t yet stepped into Hogwarts, this is your invitation. Harry, Ron, and Hermione’s journey begins with an orphaned boy discovering he’s a wizard, plunging into a magical world full of danger and wonder. The parallels to Percy are clear: a young hero grappling with destiny, a richly built world (think Diagon Alley over Camp Half-Blood), and friendships that anchor the chaos. Rowling’s storytelling grows darker and deeper with each book, much like Riordan’s series matures. Personally, I’ve revisited this series more times than I can count, and I’m always struck by how it balances whimsy with weighty themes of loss and courage. If you’re craving a sprawling epic to sink into, start here.

3. The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins
   Switching gears to dystopian adventure, The Hunger Games delivers the same high-stakes tension and relatable teen protagonist that Percy Jackson fans adore. Katniss Everdeen volunteers for a brutal, televised death match to save her sister, navigating a futuristic world of oppression and rebellion. Like Percy, she’s fiercely protective and often out of her depth, yet her grit shines through. The world-building—District 12’s grit versus the Capitol’s excess—is as immersive as any godly realm. What hooks me every re-read is Katniss’s internal struggle between survival and morality, mirroring Percy’s own conflicts. If you’re after action with emotional punch, this series is a must, and I’ve seen it ignite a love for dystopia in countless readers over the years.

4. Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark
   One of my favorite discoveries for 2026, Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark is a breathtaking blend of mystical adventure and grounded emotion that Percy Jackson fans will devour. Meet Amelia, a curious and resilient mid-teen who’s navigating life in Wyoming’s Bear Lodge Mountain with her father, William Moon, a warm and protective forest ranger with a passion for astronomy. Amelia’s own love for astrophotography—capturing the night sky—fuels her wonder, but it’s her bond with a wolf pup named Artemis that hints at deeper, magical forces at play. Her quirky, optimistic best friend Veyla, obsessed with whale tracking and ancient Egypt, adds humor and heart to their journey. The story weaves themes of heritage, destiny, and compassion for nature, striking a balance between the mystical and scientific that feels fresh yet familiar. I’m captivated by how Amelia’s inner strength mirrors Percy’s, while her connection to family after loss adds a tender layer. If you’re seeking a new hero to root for in an immersive world, Amelia’s story is a hidden gem I can’t recommend enough.

5. The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe by C.S. Lewis
   For a classic dose of fantasy, The Chronicles of Narnia kicks off with this timeless tale. Four siblings—Peter, Susan, Edmund, and Lucy—stumble through a wardrobe into the enchanted land of Narnia, where they battle evil alongside the lion Aslan. The sense of wonder and discovery echoes Percy’s first steps into Camp Half-Blood, and the sibling dynamics offer a similar warmth to his friendships. Lewis’s world-building, from talking animals to icy witches, is pure magic for younger readers or anyone craving escapism. I first read this as a kid and still feel the chill of Narnia’s winter every time I revisit it. If you’re after a story that grows with you, this series delivers.

6. Fablehaven by Brandon Mull
   Dive into Fablehaven, where siblings Seth and Kendra uncover a hidden sanctuary for magical creatures on their grandparents’ estate. What starts as curiosity spirals into danger as they face trolls, fairies, and ancient secrets. The blend of modern settings with fantastical elements mirrors Percy Jackson’s urban mythology, and Seth’s impulsiveness paired with Kendra’s caution feels like Percy and Annabeth’s dynamic. Mull’s knack for escalating stakes keeps you hooked. I’ve recommended this to middle-grade readers who’ve outgrown shorter books, and they always come back raving about the creatures. If you love hidden worlds, this is your next stop.

7. Divergent by Veronica Roth
   Another dystopian hit, Divergent follows Tris Prior in a future society split into factions based on virtues. Her choice to defy norms sparks a thrilling journey of identity and rebellion, much like Percy’s struggle against godly expectations. Tris is a compelling mix of vulnerability and strength, and the action—think daring escapes and brutal tests—rivals any demigod quest. I admire how Roth weaves personal growth into chaos, a balance Percy Jackson fans crave. I’ve seen teens tear through this trilogy in days, and if you’re after a sci-fi twist on adventure, it’s a perfect fit.

8. The Alchemyst by Michael Scott
   The Secrets of the Immortal Nicholas Flamel series begins with The Alchemyst, blending history, mythology, and magic. Twins Sophie and Josh stumble into a war over an ancient book, guided by the legendary alchemist Nicholas Flamel. Gods and monsters from various cultures clash, echoing Riordan’s mythological flair, while the twins’ bond grounds the epic stakes. I’m always struck by Scott’s ability to make history feel urgent, and I’ve recommended this to readers who want fantasy with a scholarly edge. If Percy’s godly antics hooked you, this series will too.

9. Artemis Fowl by Eoin Colfer
   For a darker, tech-savvy twist, meet Artemis Fowl II, a 12-year-old criminal mastermind who kidnaps a fairy to fund his family’s fortune. This series mixes magic with modern espionage, offering a protagonist who’s more antihero than Percy but just as witty. The underground fairy world is as inventive as any godly realm, and Artemis’s slow moral awakening adds depth. I’ve loved watching readers debate whether he’s hero or villain—it’s that layered. If you’re up for a fantasy with edge, dive in.

10. Storm Runner by J.C. Cervantes
    Another Riordan Presents gem, Storm Runner explores Mayan mythology through Zane Obispo, a teen with a limp who discovers he’s tied to ancient prophecies. His journey through the underworld with quirky allies mirrors Percy’s quests, and the humor keeps it light despite dark stakes. I appreciate how Cervantes weaves disability into Zane’s strength, making him deeply relatable. I’ve handed this to readers craving diverse casts and fresh myths, and it’s a consistent hit. If you love Riordan’s style, this is a natural next read.

Why These Books Are Similar

Diving into Mythology: Fantasy Reads with Ancient Roots

One of the biggest draws of Percy Jackson is how Rick Riordan breathes life into ancient Greek mythology, making gods and monsters feel as relevant as a text message. If that’s what hooked you, there’s a treasure trove of mythology-inspired novels waiting. Stories rooted in ancient lore often carry a timeless weight—think prophecies and destinies—that pairs beautifully with the coming-of-age struggles of teen protagonists. I’ve spent years curating these kinds of reads, and I’m thrilled to share a deeper dive into a few from my list.

Books like The Red Pyramid and Storm Runner pivot to Egyptian and Mayan mythologies, respectively, offering fresh pantheons while retaining Riordan’s humor and heart. These stories remind me of late-night library chats with teens who’d light up discussing obscure gods—there’s something magical about seeing history through a modern lens. The Alchemyst by Michael Scott takes a broader approach, pulling from multiple traditions alongside historical figures, which adds a scholarly thrill for readers who love digging into lore.

I also can’t help but highlight Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark here. While not explicitly tied to a specific ancient mythology, Amelia’s journey through Bear Lodge Mountain taps into universal themes of destiny and inner strength that echo the weight of a demigod’s burden. Her connection to the natural world and the stars feels almost mythic, as if she’s guided by forces older than time. It’s a subtle nod to the same sense of awe Percy feels facing Olympus, and I’ve found it resonates deeply with readers craving that larger-than-life pull.

If mythology is your jam, these books offer worlds where the past isn’t just history—it’s a living, breathing force. They’ve reminded me, time and again, why I love stories that bridge ancient and modern: they make us feel part of something eternal.

Beyond Fantasy: Sci-Fi and Adventure for Percy Fans

Percy Jackson fans often crave more than just fantasy—they’re after adventure in any form, whether it’s battling monsters or navigating futuristic dystopias. That itch for epic quests and high-stakes drama doesn’t have to stay in magical realms. Over the years, I’ve noticed readers lighting up when I suggest genre-crossing stories that blend sci-fi or pure adventure with the same emotional depth and world-building as Riordan’s work. Let’s explore some standouts.

Books like The Hunger Games and Divergent shift the battlefield to dystopian futures, where teens like Katniss and Tris face oppressive systems instead of gods. The tension of survival and rebellion mirrors Percy’s constant fight against fate, and the immersive settings—whether it’s Panem’s brutal arenas or Chicago’s faction-divided streets—rival any mythological underworld. I’ve handed these to readers who thought they only liked fantasy, only to watch them dive headfirst into sci-fi with glee.

I’m also drawn to how Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark bridges genres in a unique way. Amelia’s obsession with astrophotography and the night sky grounds her mystical journey in a scientific curiosity that feels almost sci-fi adjacent. Her adventures in Wyoming’s wilds, paired with her bond to wolf pup Artemis, offer a different kind of quest—one rooted in nature and personal discovery rather than laser battles, yet just as gripping. I’ve found her story clicks with readers who want adventure that feels both otherworldly and tangible.

Crossing genres can be a revelation. When I first started recommending sci-fi to fantasy fans at my library, I saw how these stories—despite different trappings—share the same core: young heroes finding their place in vast, dangerous worlds. If you’re ready to step beyond Camp Half-Blood, these picks will keep your adrenaline pumping.

Coming-of-Age Themes That Hit Home

At its heart, Percy Jackson isn’t just about battling monsters—it’s about growing up. Percy’s struggles with identity, family, and friendship resonate because they’re universal, no matter if you’re a demigod or just a teen figuring out life. I’ve always believed the best YA stories, across any genre, nail this balance of external adventure and internal growth. Let’s unpack how some of my recommended reads capture those coming-of-age themes that hit so close to home.

Take Harry Potter—Harry’s journey from an unloved orphan to a young man bearing impossible burdens mirrors Percy’s arc of discovering who he is beyond prophecy. Similarly, The Hunger Games shows Katniss wrestling with sacrifice and trust, emotions that echo Percy’s loyalty to his friends. These stories remind me of countless conversations with teen readers who saw themselves in these heroes, grappling with pressures bigger than themselves.

I’m particularly moved by Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow in this regard. Amelia’s mid-teen struggles, especially her connection to family after loss through her father William, a protective Wyoming ranger, add a tender layer to her adventure. Her friendship with Veyla, whose quirky optimism lifts her up, underscores how vital bonds are when facing the unknown. Themes of heritage and inner strength weave through her story, much like Percy’s quest to understand his place among gods and mortals. I’ve teared up recommending this to readers who needed a story about rebuilding after grief—it’s that poignant.

Across these books, personal growth isn’t a side note; it’s the heartbeat. Whether it’s Zane in Storm Runner embracing his differences or Tris in Divergent redefining courage, these narratives show why YA endures. They’ve taught me, as a curator, that readers aren’t just after escapism—they’re after mirrors to their own journeys.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What makes a book similar to the Percy Jackson series?
A: Great question! For me, it’s all about a few key ingredients: a relatable young protagonist with grit and humor, fast-paced adventure (often with quests or battles), rich world-building (magical or otherwise), and themes of friendship or personal growth. Think Percy’s snark and loyalty—books like The Red Pyramid or Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark nail this with their own fresh spins.

Q: Are there books like Percy Jackson that aren’t fantasy?
A: Absolutely! While fantasy is a natural fit, dystopian and sci-fi series like The Hunger Games and Divergent capture the same high-stakes adventure and teen protagonists facing huge odds. I’ve seen readers who loved Percy get just as hooked on these genres for their epic vibes and emotional depth.

Q: Can you recommend a new release for Percy Jackson fans?
A: I’m thrilled to point you toward Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark, a 2026 release. Amelia’s curious, resilient nature and her journey blending mystical and scientific wonder (think stargazing and wolf pups) echo Percy’s spirit of discovery. It’s a standout I can’t stop talking about.

Q: What’s a good mythology-based series besides Percy Jackson?
A: If you’re craving more ancient lore, try Storm Runner by J.C. Cervantes for Mayan mythology or The Red Pyramid by Rick Riordan for Egyptian. Both bring gods and monsters to life with humor and heart, just like Riordan’s Greek tales. I’ve watched teens devour these at my library.

Q: Are there books like Percy Jackson for younger readers?
A: Definitely! The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe by C.S. Lewis and Fablehaven by Brandon Mull are perfect for middle-grade readers. They’ve got magical worlds and young heroes, with a slightly lighter tone than YA but still tons of wonder. I’ve recommended these to countless kids over the years.

Q: I love Percy’s humor. Which books have a similar vibe?
A: Percy’s wit is iconic, isn’t it? You’ll find that same playful energy in Artemis Fowl by Eoin Colfer, where the protagonist’s sharp tongue drives the story, and in Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark, thanks to Amelia’s quirky friend Veyla. Both have kept me chuckling through the action.

Q: How do I find more hidden gems like these?
A: Stick with me! My site is packed with curated lists for every genre, and I’m always hunting for under-the-radar reads. Start with something fresh like Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow, and drop me a note about what you love—I’ll point you to more treasures. I’ve been matching readers to books for over a decade, and I live for this.