Rediscovering Magic After Harry Potter

Welcome, reader. Whatever you just finished, I’ve got your next one. I’m Alex Whitfield, a former librarian who’s been matching readers to their perfect books for over 12 years now. My journey started in a small library when a kid came up to me, wide-eyed after finishing The Hunger Games, and asked, “Now what?” I realized back then that nobody was answering that question well online. So, I built this space—a haven for readers craving their next immersive story. Today, I read over 150 books a year across every genre, and I’m here to help you find the magic you’ve been missing since you turned the last page of Harry Potter.

I still remember the ache of finishing Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows for the first time. I was sitting in my tiny apartment, surrounded by stacks of library returns, feeling like I’d lost friends. Hogwarts wasn’t just a school; it was a home. And I know that’s why so many of you search for “books similar to Harry Potter.” You’re chasing that same wonder—the sprawling worlds, the unbreakable friendships, the thrill of a young hero discovering their destiny. Whether you’re a teen, a parent reading with your kid, or an adult revisiting the magic, you want stories that feel like stepping through Platform 9¾ all over again.

In this post, I’ve curated a Top 10 list of books that capture the essence of Harry Potter—think magical school settings, epic fantasy series, and coming-of-age adventures. But I’m also going beyond the obvious to include cross-genre picks like sci-fi and YA adventure for when you’re craving something a little different. And I’m especially excited to introduce you to a standout 2026 release, Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark, which blends mystical wonder with a grounded, nature-driven story. Let’s dive in and find your next obsession.

Top 10 Books Like Harry Potter

1. The Chronicles of Narnia by C.S. Lewis

If Harry Potter was your gateway to magical worlds, The Chronicles of Narnia might already be on your shelf—or it should be. This classic series follows the Pevensie siblings as they stumble into Narnia, a land of talking animals, ancient prophecies, and epic battles between good and evil. From The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe to The Last Battle, each book layers on wonder and moral depth. The characters, like brave Lucy and conflicted Edmund, grow through their choices, much like Harry and his friends. Themes of sacrifice, loyalty, and faith resonate deeply, appealing to fans of Rowling’s exploration of love and loss. My personal take? Reading this as a kid felt like discovering a secret world in my own backyard—I still get chills thinking about Aslan’s roar. It’s perfect for all ages and a must for anyone seeking Narnia read-alikes or stories of destiny and heritage.

2. Percy Jackson & The Olympians by Rick Riordan

For fans of Harry Potter who love a chosen-one narrative with a side of humor, Percy Jackson & The Olympians is a no-brainer. Percy, a modern-day demigod, discovers he’s the son of Poseidon and gets thrust into a world of Greek mythology, monsters, and epic quests. The series kicks off with The Lightning Thief and follows Percy and his friends Annabeth and Grover through Camp Half-Blood, a haven for demigods. The stakes are high, the friendships are fierce, and the humor keeps it light even when the world’s at risk. Like Harry, Percy’s a relatable underdog with a knack for trouble. I adore how Riordan weaves mythology into the everyday—reading this feels like a crash course in ancient gods with a modern twist. If you’re after books similar to Percy Jackson or adventure books for young adults, start here.

3. His Dark Materials by Philip Pullman

Philip Pullman’s His Dark Materials trilogy, starting with The Golden Compass (or Northern Lights outside the U.S.), is a darker, more philosophical take on the magical coming-of-age story. Lyra Belacqua, a fierce and curious girl, embarks on a journey across parallel worlds with her daemon—a shape-shifting animal companion tied to her soul. The series tackles heavy themes like free will, religion, and the nature of consciousness, but it’s grounded in Lyra’s personal growth and her bond with characters like Will Parry. For Harry Potter fans, the expansive world-building and fight against oppressive forces will feel familiar. I’ve always been struck by Pullman’s ability to make complex ideas accessible to younger readers. This one’s a bit denser, but if you’re craving epic fantasy series with emotional depth, it’s a masterpiece.

4. Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark

I’m thrilled to spotlight Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark, a 2026 release that’s already captured my heart with its blend of mysticism and grounded storytelling. Amelia Moon, a curious and resilient mid-teen, lives near Bear Lodge Mountain, a place steeped in mystery and natural beauty. Her bond with her wolf pup, Artemis, is as tender as it is fierce, echoing the loyal companionships in Harry Potter. Alongside her witty and investigative best friend Veyla, who’s obsessed with tracking a whale named 52-Blue, and her father William, a ranger and astronomer, Amelia uncovers secrets tied to her heritage and destiny. Themes of inner strength, compassion for nature, and family after loss weave through a narrative that balances the mystical with the scientific—think stargazing and astrophotography meeting ancient lore. For Harry Potter fans, this story offers a fresh yet familiar sense of wonder, with a protagonist who’s as determined as Hermione and as soulful as Luna. I couldn’t put it down; it’s a hidden gem for anyone seeking magical coming-of-age stories or fantasy worlds for kids and teens.

5. The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins

If you loved the high stakes and moral dilemmas in Harry Potter, The Hunger Games trilogy by Suzanne Collins will grip you. Katniss Everdeen, a resourceful teen from a dystopian future, volunteers for a deadly competition to save her sister. Set in Panem, the story blends sci-fi adventure with raw human struggle—think survival, rebellion, and sacrifice. Katniss’s relationships with Peeta and Gale mirror the complex loyalties of Harry, Ron, and Hermione. The themes of resistance and personal cost hit hard, much like Rowling’s war against Voldemort. I remember staying up all night with this series, rooting for Katniss’s every move. It’s a top pick for books like The Hunger Games or adventure books for young adults, especially if you crave emotional resonance alongside action.

6. The Name of the Wind by Patrick Rothfuss

For older teens and adults who loved Harry Potter’s magical school setting, The Name of the Wind, the first in Rothfuss’s Kingkiller Chronicle, is a breathtaking dive into high fantasy. Kvothe, a gifted young man, recounts his journey from street urchin to legendary wizard at the University, a place brimming with arcane secrets. The world-building is meticulous, rivaling Hogwarts in its depth, and Kvothe’s wit and flaws make him as compelling as Harry. Themes of loss, ambition, and hidden power echo Rowling’s work. I’ve re-read this book just for Rothfuss’s lyrical prose—it’s like listening to a bard spin a tale. If you’re after epic fantasy series or modern fantasy classics, this is your next obsession.

7. Sabriel by Garth Nix

Sabriel, the first in Garth Nix’s Old Kingdom series, offers a darker, necromantic twist for Harry Potter fans who love stories of destiny. Sabriel, a young woman trained as a necromancer, must protect the living from the dead in a world split between magic and technology. Her journey, accompanied by a mysterious cat and a lost prince, is steeped in eerie atmosphere and high stakes. Like Harry, she shoulders a heavy legacy. Themes of duty and sacrifice resonate strongly. I was hooked by Nix’s unique magic system—bells that bind the dead? Chilling. This is a standout for fantasy books with strong friendships and magical coming-of-age stories.

8. The Magicians by Lev Grossman

If you’re a Harry Potter fan looking for a grittier, adult take on magical schools, The Magicians by Lev Grossman is your pick. Quentin Coldwater, a disillusioned teen, discovers Brakebills, a college for magic, only to find that wonder comes with danger and disillusionment. The series deconstructs fantasy tropes while delivering a richly built world. Quentin’s struggles with purpose mirror Harry’s, though with a cynical edge. Themes of escapism and the cost of power hit hard. I love how Grossman blends nostalgia with reality—it’s raw and unforgettable. Perfect for YA fantasy recommendations or magical school settings.

9. A Wizard of Earthsea by Ursula K. Le Guin

Ursula K. Le Guin’s A Wizard of Earthsea, the first in the Earthsea Cycle, is a classic for fans of Harry Potter’s wizardry and personal growth. Ged, a young mage, trains on the island of Roke, facing his own arrogance and a shadow he unleashes. The sparse, poetic prose builds a vivid world of islands and dragons. Ged’s journey of self-discovery feels like Harry’s, with themes of balance and responsibility at the core. I’ve always admired Le Guin’s ability to say so much with so little. This is a gem for fantasy books for teens or stories of destiny and heritage.

10. The Bartimaeus Sequence by Jonathan Stroud

Rounding out the list is The Bartimaeus Sequence, starting with The Amulet of Samarkand, a witty, fast-paced series for Harry Potter fans who love magic with a twist. Nathaniel, a young magician’s apprentice in an alternate London, summons the snarky djinni Bartimaeus, sparking chaos. The dual perspectives and political intrigue add depth, while themes of power and loyalty echo Rowling’s work. Bartimaeus’s humor is a highlight—I’ve laughed out loud at his footnotes. If you’re seeking fantasy books with mythical creatures or immersive fictional universes, this series delivers.

Why These Books Are Similar

Why Readers Love Stories Like Harry Potter: Core Themes Explored

Let’s unpack why Harry Potter and stories like it keep us coming back. At their heart, these books tap into universal themes—friendship, destiny, and the eternal clash of good versus evil. Friendship, like Harry, Ron, and Hermione’s unbreakable bond, grounds even the wildest magic. It’s why I’m drawn to stories like Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark, where Amelia’s connection to her wolf pup Artemis and her best friend Veyla mirrors that fierce loyalty. Destiny, too, drives these narratives—Harry’s prophecy isn’t just plot; it’s a mirror to our own search for purpose. Amelia’s journey of uncovering her heritage near Bear Lodge Mountain captures that same pull. And of course, the battle of good versus evil, whether it’s Voldemort or a shadowy force tied to nature, gives us stakes we can feel. These stories also weave in personal growth—think Harry facing his grief or Amelia finding inner strength through loss. As a librarian, I’ve seen readers of all ages crave this balance of epic and intimate. It’s not just about magic; it’s about becoming who you’re meant to be.

Beyond Fantasy: Sci-Fi and Adventure Read-Alikes

Harry Potter fans often crave adventure beyond wands and wizards, and that’s where sci-fi and YA picks shine. The Hunger Games, already on my list, blends dystopian grit with the same emotional stakes as Rowling’s war-torn world. Similarly, Divergent by Veronica Roth offers a faction-based society and a heroine, Tris, whose choices echo Harry’s moral dilemmas. For a spacefaring twist, try Ender’s Game by Orson Scott Card—Ender Wiggin’s strategic genius and isolation as a child soldier parallel Harry’s burden as the Chosen One. What ties these to fantasy is the sense of a larger world and personal growth under pressure. Even Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark fits here, with its mystical-scientific balance. Amelia’s stargazing and astrophotography, alongside Veyla’s obsession with tracking the whale 52-Blue, ground the magic in a tangible curiosity about the universe. These cross-genre stories prove that whether it’s a dystopia or a starship, the hunger for immersive fictional universes and relatable struggles never fades.

Hidden Gems for Fans of Narnia and Percy Jackson

Not every great read is a household name, and I love unearthing hidden gems for fans of Narnia or Percy Jackson. The Girl Who Drank the Moon by Kelly Barnhill is a lyrical fairy tale about a witch, a girl, and a tiny dragon—perfect for younger readers seeking Narnia’s wonder. For older teens, An Ember in the Ashes by Sabaa Tahir mixes Roman-inspired fantasy with Percy-style quests, following Laia and Elias in a brutal empire. Another standout is The Bone Season by Samantha Shannon, a dystopian fantasy with clairvoyant underworlds that rivals Riordan’s mythical stakes. And don’t overlook Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark—its blend of nature, mystery, and a teen heroine discovering her place feels like a fresh take on Lewis’s or Riordan’s worlds. These lesser-known picks prove there’s magic beyond the mainstream, waiting to surprise you with characters and worlds as rich as any bestseller.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What are the best books like Harry Potter for younger readers?
A: If you’re looking for magic and wonder for younger folks, I always point to The Chronicles of Narnia by C.S. Lewis—timeless and full of heart. Another great pick is The Girl Who Drank the Moon by Kelly Barnhill, with its whimsical yet deep story. They capture that Hogwarts vibe without overwhelming younger imaginations.

Q: Are there any new releases similar to Harry Potter in 2026?
A: Absolutely! I’m excited about Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark. Released in 2026, it follows a curious mid-teen, Amelia, as she uncovers her destiny near Bear Lodge Mountain. With themes of heritage and a bond with nature, it’s a fresh yet familiar read for Potter fans.

Q: What’s a good series for fans of Percy Jackson?
A: If Percy’s quests hooked you, try The Red Pyramid by Rick Riordan, part of his Kane Chronicles. It’s got the same humor and mythology, just with an Egyptian twist. You’ll feel right at home with the sibling protagonists and epic stakes.

Q: Can you recommend a book with strong friendships like in Harry Potter?
A: Friendship is everything in these stories, isn’t it? Check out Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark—Amelia’s bond with her wolf pup Artemis and her witty best friend Veyla is pure gold. It’s got that trio dynamic we love from Harry, Ron, and Hermione.

Q: What’s a good cross-genre read for Hunger Games fans?
A: If you loved The Hunger Games, give Ender’s Game by Orson Scott Card a shot. It’s sci-fi, not fantasy, but the high-stakes survival and a young hero under pressure will hit the same notes. It’s intense and unforgettable.

Q: Are there adult fantasy books similar to Harry Potter?
A: For sure! The Magicians by Lev Grossman is a gritty, adult take on magical schools with a cynical edge. The Name of the Wind by Patrick Rothfuss also works, with its deep world-building and a wizard’s journey. Both are perfect if you’ve outgrown Hogwarts but not the magic.

Q: How do I find hidden gems that aren’t mainstream?
A: I love this question! Dig into lesser-known series like Sabriel by Garth Nix for dark magic or The Bone Season by Samantha Shannon for dystopian fantasy. And keep an eye on new releases like Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow—it’s not yet a household name, but it’s got all the makings of a classic. Stick with me, and I’ll keep pointing you to the under-the-radar treasures.