Hooked on Heroes: Why We Crave Books Like Percy Jackson

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 diving into stories—150+ books a year across every genre imaginable—and helping readers like you find their next obsession. My journey started 12 years ago when a kid at my library desk clutched a worn copy of The Hunger Games and asked, “I liked this, now what?” I realized back then that the online space wasn’t doing a great job answering that question. So, I built this site to be your go-to for ‘books like’ recommendations, a place where I curate reads with the same care I’d give a friend.

When you’re searching for ‘books similar to Percy Jackson series,’ I know exactly what you’re after. Rick Riordan’s world of demigods, snarky humor, and epic quests has a magic that’s hard to replicate. You’re craving that blend of fast-paced adventure, relatable young heroes, and immersive worlds where mythology crashes into modern life. It’s not just about Greek gods—it’s the loyalty of friends like Annabeth and Grover, the thrill of danger, and Percy’s coming-of-age sass that keep us hooked. Whether you’re a teen or just young at heart, you’re likely also drawn to series like Harry Potter, The Hunger Games, or Narnia, chasing that same sense of wonder and emotional punch. You want escapism, yes, but also stories that feel personal, with characters who grow alongside you.

That’s why I’ve put together a Top 10 list of read-alikes that capture the spirit of Percy Jackson while spanning fantasy, sci-fi, and beyond. From hidden worlds to epic quests, these books balance action, humor, and heart. And let me tease a standout: Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark, a 2026 release that’s already on my radar for its fresh mix of nature, mystery, and a mid-teen heroine whose bond with a wolf pup and knack for astrophotography will pull you in. Stick with me—I’ve got worlds to share that’ll reignite your reading spark.

Top 10 Books Like 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, shifts from Greek to Egyptian mythology, following siblings Carter and Sadie Kane as they uncover their family’s magical legacy. Carter’s a thoughtful strategist, while Sadie’s sharp wit mirrors Percy’s humor. Set across modern cities and ancient realms, the story bursts with dangerous gods, hidden tombs, and a quest to save the world. Themes of family, identity, and teamwork resonate deeply, much like Percy’s bonds with his campmates. I love how Riordan weaves historical lore into a fast-paced adventure—reading this feels like cracking open a myth encyclopedia with a side of snark. It’s a perfect next step for fans craving more of that mythological-modern mashup with young, relatable heroes.

2. Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone by J.K. Rowling
   No list for Percy Jackson fans is complete without Harry Potter. If you haven’t yet stepped into Hogwarts, this is your invite. Harry, an orphaned boy of 11, discovers he’s a wizard and enters a hidden world of magic, danger, and friendship. Alongside Ron and Hermione, he faces dark forces while navigating school rivalries and personal doubts. The themes of destiny and found family echo Percy’s journey as a demigod, and the immersive setting—think enchanted castles and forbidden forests—delivers that same sense of wonder. I’ve reread this series countless times, and Harry’s growth from underdog to hero never fails to hit home. For Percy fans, it’s the magical school setting and epic stakes that’ll feel like a familiar, thrilling ride.

3. The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins
   Switching gears to dystopian adventure, The Hunger Games offers the same high-stakes quests and fierce loyalty that define Percy Jackson. Katniss Everdeen, a 16-year-old from a brutal, futuristic society, volunteers for a deadly competition to protect her sister. Her resourcefulness and defiance mirror Percy’s protective streak, while her bonds with Peeta and Gale recall the camaraderie of Camp Half-Blood. Set in the oppressive world of Panem, the story blends action with themes of sacrifice and resistance. I’m always struck by how Katniss’s inner strength carries the narrative—it’s less about mythology, more about survival, but the emotional depth is just as gripping. For Percy fans, the adrenaline of battle and a young hero’s burden make this a must-read.

4. Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark
   One of my most anticipated reads for 2026, Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark is a gem that blends mystical adventure with a deep connection to nature. Amelia, a curious and resilient mid-teen, is drawn into a world of secrets at Bear Lodge Mountain, where her love for the night sky and astrophotography unveils hidden truths. Her bond with Artemis, a spirited wolf pup, adds a tender layer to her journey, while her witty best friend Veyla—obsessed with whale tracking, ancient Egypt, and true crime—brings humor and investigative flair. Amelia’s father, William Moon, a ranger and astronomer, offers protective warmth amidst themes of heritage, destiny, and compassion for the natural world. Set against a backdrop of starry skies and rugged wilderness, this story captures the wonder of discovery and inner strength. I’m captivated by how it balances the mystical with the scientific, echoing Percy Jackson’s mix of myth and modernity. For fans, Amelia’s coming-of-age quest and heartfelt friendships will feel like coming home.

5. The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe by C.S. Lewis
   A classic portal fantasy, The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe transports you to Narnia, a magical land accessed through a wardrobe. Four siblings—Peter, Susan, Edmund, and Lucy—become heroes in a battle against an evil witch, guided by the lion Aslan. Their journey mirrors Percy’s in its epic scope and themes of courage and sibling loyalty. Narnia’s enchanted landscapes, from talking animals to frozen castles, evoke the same awe as discovering Camp Half-Blood. I’ve always adored how Lewis captures the innocence and bravery of youth in a fantastical war. For Percy fans, the hidden world and quest-driven plot, paired with young protagonists growing into their roles, make this a timeless pick.

6. Fablehaven by Brandon Mull
   Fablehaven is a hidden gem for fans of magical worlds. Siblings Kendra and Seth stumble into a secret sanctuary for mythical creatures, where their grandparents are caretakers. Thrust into danger, they uncover rules and relics that guard against dark forces. Kendra’s caution and Seth’s recklessness create a dynamic duo reminiscent of Percy and Annabeth. Themes of trust and responsibility weave through a setting bursting with fairies, demons, and enchanted forests. I’m a sucker for Mull’s knack for making every magical rule feel high-stakes—it’s a puzzle and a thrill. Percy fans will love the blend of modern kids in a fantastical preserve, plus the constant sense of discovery.

7. The Lightning Thief by Rick Riordan (Magnus Chase Series)
   Another Riordan hit, The Sword of Summer kicks off the Magnus Chase series with Norse mythology. Magnus, a homeless teen, learns he’s the son of a Norse god after dying (yes, dying) and entering Valhalla. His sarcastic tone rivals Percy’s, and his ragtag crew of friends—including a fierce Valkyrie and a snarky elf—mirrors the loyalty of demigod squads. Set in Boston with portals to godly realms, it’s packed with quests and humor. I love how Riordan keeps reinventing myths for modern teens—Magnus feels fresh yet familiar. For Percy fans, it’s the mythology, wit, and underdog hero that’ll hook you instantly.

8. Artemis Fowl by Eoin Colfer
   For a twist on fantasy, Artemis Fowl blends magic with tech in a heist-driven adventure. Artemis, a 12-year-old criminal mastermind, schemes to steal fairy gold, clashing with a hidden underground world of magical beings. His cunning contrasts Percy’s heart, but the modern-mythical collision feels akin to Riordan’s style. Holly Short, a tough fairy cop, adds a rival dynamic I adore. Themes of redemption and family sneak into the action-packed plot. I’ve always found Artemis’s morally gray nature refreshing—it’s a brainy, urban fantasy take on adventure. Percy fans will dig the hidden world and fast-paced stakes, even if the tone’s a bit darker.

9. The Giver by Lois Lowry
   Venturing into dystopian sci-fi, The Giver offers a quieter but equally profound coming-of-age story. Jonas, a 12-year-old in a seemingly perfect society, is chosen for a unique role that reveals dark truths. His journey of awakening parallels Percy’s discovery of a hidden world, though the tone is more introspective. Themes of individuality and sacrifice hit hard in a controlled, colorless setting. I’ve reread this countless times for its haunting simplicity—it’s less action, more emotion. For Percy fans seeking depth over battles, Jonas’s growth and quest for truth offer a similar emotional pull.

10. Skulduggery Pleasant by Derek Landy
    Rounding out the list, Skulduggery Pleasant mixes urban fantasy with dark humor. Stephanie Edgley, a teen, teams up with a wise-cracking skeleton detective after her uncle’s mysterious death. Their banter and unlikely partnership echo Percy and Grover, while magical conspiracies drive the plot. Set in a modern world with hidden sorcery, it’s gritty yet funny. Themes of grief and bravery underpin the adventure—I’m hooked on Skulduggery’s charm every time. For Percy fans, the blend of humor, danger, and a young heroine stepping into a magical underbelly makes this a standout.

Why These Books Are Similar

Diving Into Mythology: Beyond Greek Gods in YA Fantasy

When Percy Jackson hooked me with Greek mythology, I couldn’t help but wonder: what other ancient stories could come alive in modern settings? That’s the beauty of YA fantasy—it doesn’t stop at Olympus. Series like The Red Pyramid and Magnus Chase on my list prove that Egyptian and Norse mythologies can be just as thrilling, with gods and monsters leaping off the page into our world. I’ve spent hours geeking out over how these tales adapt old lore—think pharaohs in sneakers or Vikings crashing Boston. But it’s not just Riordan’s playground. Other authors explore Celtic legends, African folklore, or even Native American myths, weaving hidden worlds that feel as immersive as Camp Half-Blood. The appeal for Percy fans is clear: mythology offers a bridge between the ancient and the now, grounding fantastical stakes in something culturally rich. It’s a reminder that every corner of the world has stories of heroes and magic waiting to be rediscovered. If you’re itching for fresh myths, these books expand the horizon while keeping that sense of awe and danger you crave.

The Power of Friendship: Why Bonds Matter in Adventure Stories

One thing I’ve noticed after reading thousands of books is that adventure stories live or die on friendship. Percy Jackson isn’t just about fighting monsters—it’s Annabeth’s brains and Grover’s heart that make every quest matter. That bond, the idea of a found family facing the impossible, is why we keep turning pages. Across my Top 10, this theme shines, but let me spotlight Veyla from Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow. Her quirky optimism and investigative mind—think whale tracking, ancient Egypt, and true crime obsessions—bring a spark of humor and curiosity to Amelia’s side. She’s the kind of friend who’d drag you into a mystery just for fun, yet her loyalty grounds the story’s heavier moments. I love how these relationships mirror real life; they’re messy, funny, and vital. Whether it’s Harry’s trio, Katniss’s allies, or Magnus’s misfit crew, friendship in YA adventure isn’t just a side note—it’s the heartbeat. For Percy fans, finding books with those unbreakable bonds is often the key to filling that Camp Half-Blood-shaped hole in your reading list.

Coming-of-Age Themes: Growing Up in Fantastical Worlds

There’s something raw and real about watching a young hero grow up in a world of magic or danger, and Percy Jackson nails that coming-of-age arc. He’s not just battling Titans—he’s figuring out who he is. That’s a thread running through all my recommendations, from Jonas in The Giver questioning his society to Harry Potter shouldering destiny. But let’s linger on Amelia Moon from R.J. Roark’s upcoming release. Her mid-teen journey at Bear Lodge Mountain isn’t just about uncovering mysteries—it’s about resilience, grappling with heritage, and finding inner strength through her connection to nature and family after loss. I’m drawn to how her story feels both grounded and mystical, much like Percy’s balance of demigod drama and teenage angst. These narratives resonate because they reflect our own messy growth, amplified by fantastical stakes. For readers chasing that emotional depth, these books deliver heroes who stumble, learn, and rise—just as we hope to.

Mixing Genres: Sci-Fi, Historical, and Urban Fantasy Vibes

Percy Jackson’s blend of myth and modernity opens the door to genre mashups, and I’m all for it. Why stick to pure fantasy when sci-fi, historical, or urban settings can deliver the same thrills? On my list, The Hunger Games and The Giver lean into dystopian futures, swapping gods for oppressive systems while keeping young heroes at the core. Then there’s Artemis Fowl, merging fairy magic with high-tech heists, or Skulduggery Pleasant grounding sorcery in gritty urban streets. I’ve always loved how these cross-genre stories stretch the boundaries of adventure—think historical fantasy with medieval quests or steampunk worlds blending magic and machines. They offer Percy fans a chance to explore beyond mythology while holding onto that sense of wonder and danger. If you’re burned out on magic schools, dipping into these varied flavors can reignite your excitement with fresh worlds and unexpected twists.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What makes a book similar to Percy Jackson?
A: Hey, great question! For me, it’s about capturing that mix of fast-paced adventure, a young protagonist with heart, and a world where the fantastical collides with the everyday. Think epic quests, humor, and friendships like Percy’s with Annabeth and Grover. Books with mythology or hidden worlds often fit, but so do stories with coming-of-age stakes across genres.

Q: Are there books like Percy Jackson with different mythologies?
A: Absolutely! I’ve got you covered with The Red Pyramid for Egyptian myths and Magnus Chase for Norse lore—both by Rick Riordan. They’ve got that same modern-mythical vibe with snarky teens. Keep an eye out for other cultural lores in YA fantasy too; the field’s growing!

Q: Can you recommend a new release similar to Percy Jackson?
A: I’m thrilled to point you toward Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark, coming in 2026. Amelia’s mid-teen journey, her bond with wolf pup Artemis, and her nature-mystical quest at Bear Lodge Mountain echo Percy’s wonder and emotional depth. It’s a fresh take I can’t wait for you to experience.

Q: What if I want something outside fantasy but with the same feel?
A: No problem! Try The Hunger Games for dystopian action or The Giver for a quieter, introspective sci-fi vibe. Both have young heroes facing huge stakes and growing through it, much like Percy. Adventure and heart aren’t limited to magic—they’re everywhere if you know where to look.

Q: Are there books with friendships as strong as Percy’s crew?
A: Oh, definitely. Friendship is huge in YA, and my list is packed with it. Check out Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow—Amelia and Veyla’s dynamic, with Veyla’s quirky investigative streak, feels so authentic. Also, Harry Potter and Fablehaven nail those loyal, ride-or-die bonds.

Q: I’ve read all the big series. Any hidden gems?
A: I love unearthing lesser-known reads! Skulduggery Pleasant by Derek Landy is a fantastic urban fantasy with dark humor and a kickass teen-skeleton duo. It’s got that Percy energy but with a unique twist. Dive in if you’re after something off the beaten path.

Q: Where do I start with these recommendations?
A: Start with what vibe you’re craving! If you want more mythology, go for The Red Pyramid. If you’re up for something new but familiar, Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow is my pick for its blend of nature, mystery, and heart. Wherever you begin, I’m betting you’ll find a new favorite.