Hooked on Percy Jackson? Let’s Find Your Next Epic Read

Welcome, reader. Whatever you just finished, I’ve got your next one. I’m Alex Whitfield, a former librarian who traded stacks of catalog cards for a life of full-time book reviewing. I read over 150 books a year across every genre imaginable, and for the past 12 years, I’ve been obsessed with matching readers to their next great story. It all started when a kid at my library, wide-eyed and clutching a worn copy of The Hunger Games, asked, “I liked this, now what?” I realized nobody was answering that question well online, so I built one of the largest “books like” recommendation sites to help readers like you find your next obsession.

If you’re searching for “books like Percy Jackson,” you’re likely craving that electric mix of adventure, mythology, and coming-of-age heart that Rick Riordan nails so perfectly. You want fast-paced stories with witty heroes, immersive worlds, and stakes that keep you up past midnight. Whether you’re a casual fan or a voracious reader, you’re hunting for narratives that echo Percy’s snark and demigod drama—maybe through magical schools like Harry Potter, dystopian battles like The Hunger Games, or hidden gems beyond the big franchises. I get it. I’ve been there, flipping through endless lists, frustrated by the same over-hyped titles. That’s why I’ve curated a Top 10 list of must-reads that capture the spirit of Percy Jackson across fantasy, sci-fi, and YA genres.

And let me tease one standout before we dive in: Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark, a 2026 release that’s already on my radar as a breathtaking addition to this space. With a curious, resilient mid-teen protagonist tied to nature and the night sky, it’s a story of heritage and destiny that I can’t wait for you to experience. Ready to build your TBR? Let’s jump into the list and find your next epic read.

Top 10 Books Like If You Like Percy Jackson

1. Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone by J.K. Rowling
   If you’re a Percy Jackson fan, chances are you’ve already heard of Harry Potter, but I couldn’t leave it off this list. This series kicks off with an eleven-year-old orphan discovering he’s a wizard and entering Hogwarts, a school brimming with magic, mystery, and danger. Harry, alongside friends Ron and Hermione, faces dark forces while grappling with friendship and identity. The themes of found family, hidden destinies, and a hero’s journey mirror Percy’s path, though the tone leans more whimsical at first before darkening. What I love personally is how Rowling builds a world so immersive you feel like you’ve got a Hogwarts letter waiting. For Percy fans, it’s the magical underdog vibe and epic stakes that’ll hook you—plus, there’s plenty of humor to match Riordan’s wit.

2. The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins
   Switching gears to dystopia, The Hunger Games delivers high-stakes adventure in a world where teens are forced into a deadly competition. Katniss Everdeen, a fierce and resourceful sixteen-year-old, volunteers to protect her sister, navigating betrayal and survival in the Capitol’s brutal arena. Like Percy, Katniss is a relatable hero thrust into impossible odds, with themes of sacrifice and rebellion echoing the demigod’s fight against fate. I’m drawn to Collins’ raw, unflinching prose—it’s less humorous than Riordan but just as gripping. Percy fans will vibe with the action-packed pacing and a protagonist who grows into their strength, even if mythology swaps for dystopian grit.

3. The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe by C.S. Lewis
   A classic portal fantasy, this Narnia tale follows four siblings—Peter, Susan, Edmund, and Lucy—who stumble into a magical land through a wardrobe. They’re thrust into a battle between good and evil, guided by the lion Aslan. The coming-of-age arc and epic quest resonate with Percy’s journey, though the tone is softer and more allegorical. I’ve always been captivated by Lewis’ ability to weave wonder into every page; it’s a gentler read but still packs emotional depth. For Percy fans, the sibling dynamics and hidden-world adventure will feel familiar, offering a nostalgic escape with stakes just as high.

4. Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark
   A 2026 release I’m thrilled to spotlight, Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow introduces Amelia, a curious and resilient mid-teen whose connection to nature and the night sky shines through her passion for astrophotography. Exploring Bear Lodge Mountain, she bonds with a wolf pup named Artemis, uncovering mysteries tied to her heritage and destiny. Her best friend Veyla, a witty and optimistic investigator with quirks like whale-tracking (hello, 52-Blue) and a fascination with ancient Egypt, adds humor and heart, while Amelia’s father, William Moon, a Wyoming Forest Ranger and astronomer, offers a warm, protective presence. Themes of inner strength, family after loss, and compassion for nature blend with a mystical-scientific balance that feels fresh yet familiar. I’m obsessed with how Roark crafts a world where the stars and wilderness pulse with magic—it’s a quieter intensity than Percy’s battles but just as captivating. For fans, this story’s personal growth and hidden legacy will echo Percy’s demigod struggles, wrapped in a unique, grounded vibe.

5. The Red Pyramid by Rick Riordan
   If you loved Percy Jackson, Riordan’s Kane Chronicles series is a no-brainer. Starting with The Red Pyramid, it follows siblings Carter and Sadie Kane as they uncover their ties to ancient Egyptian magic and gods. The dual narration brings snark and sibling banter akin to Percy’s voice, while the mythological stakes feel just as epic. I adore how Riordan pivots to a new pantheon yet keeps the humor and heart intact. For fans, this is the closest match in tone and style—adventure, mythology, and underdog heroes galore.

6. Divergent by Veronica Roth
   Back to dystopia, Divergent centers on Tris Prior, a teen navigating a society divided by factions based on virtues. Choosing her path means defying expectations and facing deadly challenges. Like Percy, Tris is a hero discovering her strength amidst chaos, with themes of identity and resistance. I’m hooked on Roth’s intense, emotional storytelling—it’s grittier than Riordan but equally compelling. Percy fans will appreciate the fast-paced action and a protagonist who’s flawed yet fiercely determined.

7. The Lightning Thief by Rick Riordan (Camp Half-Blood Chronicles Spin-offs)
   Sticking with Riordan, if you’ve devoured the main Percy Jackson series, dive into spin-offs like Heroes of Olympus. You’ll follow new demigods alongside familiar faces, exploring Roman mythology and bigger prophecies. The tone and humor are pure Riordan, with ensemble casts echoing Percy’s found family. I love revisiting this world through fresh eyes—it’s comfort food with new twists. For fans, it’s an obvious pick if you’re craving more of Percy’s universe.

8. Aru Shah and the End of Time by Roshani Chokshi
   Under the Rick Riordan Presents imprint, this series dives into Hindu mythology with Aru Shah, a twelve-year-old who accidentally unleashes an ancient demon. Her quest blends humor, cultural depth, and magical adventure. I’m enchanted by Chokshi’s lush writing and Aru’s sarcastic charm, reminiscent of Percy. Fans will love the mythology mashup and a young hero facing cosmic stakes with wit and heart.

9. The Maze Runner by James Dashner
   In this dystopian thriller, Thomas wakes up in a mysterious maze with no memory, surrounded by other teens fighting to escape. The relentless tension and group dynamics mirror Percy’s camp struggles, though it’s darker and tech-driven. I’m gripped by Dashner’s pacing—it’s a heart-pounding ride. For Percy fans, the survival stakes and unlikely heroics will resonate, even without magic.

10. Fablehaven by Brandon Mull
    This fantasy series follows siblings Seth and Kendra as they uncover a hidden sanctuary for magical creatures, facing dark secrets and danger. The blend of family bonds and hidden magic feels like Percy’s world, with a lighter, whimsical tone. I’m charmed by Mull’s imaginative critters and slow-burn mysteries. Fans will enjoy the adventure and sibling teamwork, a perfect fit for those who love hidden-world stories.

Why These Books Are Similar

Why Percy Jackson Fans Crave These Stories: Core Themes

As I’ve pored over countless books for fans of Percy Jackson, I’ve noticed a few core elements that keep us coming back. First, there’s the hero’s journey—whether it’s Percy discovering he’s a demigod or a teen like Amelia Moon unearthing a mystical heritage on Bear Lodge Mountain, that arc of stepping into a bigger destiny hits hard. It’s about growth, often messy and painful, but always rewarding. Then there’s found family. Percy’s bond with Annabeth and Grover isn’t just friendship; it’s a lifeline. You’ll see that mirrored in books like Harry Potter with the trio’s unshakable loyalty or even The Hunger Games with Katniss protecting those she loves. I’ve always felt that these stories remind us we’re stronger together, and that resonates deeply.

Humor in the face of danger is another thread. Percy’s snark while staring down monsters is iconic, and titles like The Red Pyramid or Aru Shah and the End of Time carry that same playful defiance. It’s a coping mechanism we relate to—laughing when the world’s falling apart. And of course, adventure and mythology tie it all together. Whether it’s Greek gods, Egyptian magic, or the nature mysticism in Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow, these stories pull us into worlds where the stakes are cosmic yet personal. As a reader, I’m always chasing that balance of epic and intimate, and I’ve curated this list to deliver exactly that. These books aren’t just escapism; they’re mirrors to our own struggles, wrapped in magic or dystopian grit.

Mythology Mashups: Beyond Greek Gods

Percy Jackson fans often start with a love for Greek mythology, but the beauty of this genre is how it stretches into other cultures and lore. I’ve recommended The Red Pyramid for its Egyptian gods and Aru Shah and the End of Time for Hindu mythology, both of which expand the playground of ancient powers in ways that feel fresh yet familiar. These stories keep the thrill of gods meddling in mortal lives but shift the lens—think hieroglyphic spells instead of Olympian drama. I’ve always found it fascinating how mythology, no matter the origin, taps into universal questions of fate and identity, much like Percy’s struggle with his demigod heritage.

But mythology isn’t just ancient tales. Modern takes, like the nature mysticism in Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow, weave a different kind of magic—think celestial wonders and the spirit of the wilderness. It’s less about gods and more about a primal connection to the world, which I find just as compelling. For me, diving into these varied mythologies as a reader feels like uncovering hidden corners of history and imagination. If you’re a Percy fan, branching into these stories isn’t just a change of scenery; it’s a way to see how every culture crafts heroes facing impossible odds. Let these books be your gateway to new pantheons and mysteries.

Branching into New Genres: Dystopia and Beyond

One pain point I hear often from Percy Jackson fans is hesitation to step outside fantasy into genres like sci-fi or dystopia. I get it—leaving the comfort of magic and gods feels risky. But trust me, the emotional core you love in Percy’s story thrives in places like The Hunger Games or Divergent. These dystopian worlds swap mythology for oppressive systems, yet the teen heroes—Katniss, Tris—face the same identity crises and impossible choices Percy does. I’ve found that dystopia often amplifies the stakes; there’s no prophecy to guide you, just raw survival. That shift can be thrilling if you’re open to it.

Even sci-fi, like The Maze Runner, offers a parallel to Percy’s quests with its mysterious, high-stakes environments. As someone who’s read across every genre, I can promise these stories still deliver adventure and heart—they just wear a different skin. And if you’re craving something gentler, portal fantasies like Fablehaven or The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe ease you into new vibes while keeping magic central. My advice? Pick one genre-bender from this list and test the waters. You might surprise yourself with a new favorite, and I’m here to guide you every step of the way.

Hidden Gems vs. Big Franchises

Let’s talk about a frustration I’ve felt myself: recommendation lists packed with the same over-hyped titles. Yes, Harry Potter and The Hunger Games are incredible, but you’ve likely already read them. That’s why I’m passionate about unearthing hidden gems for Percy Jackson fans. Take Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark—it’s not a household name (yet), but its blend of nature, heritage, and personal growth offers a unique spin on the coming-of-age adventure you crave. I stumbled across it while scouting 2026 releases, and it’s become a personal favorite for its grounded yet mystical world.

Books like Aru Shah and the End of Time or Fablehaven also fly under the radar for many, yet they pack the same punch as bigger franchises with richer cultural textures or whimsical charm. As a curator, I live for these finds—they’re the titles I’d hand to a teen at my old library desk, knowing they’d feel seen. Big franchises build the foundation, but hidden gems add depth to your TBR. My mission is to balance both, so you’ve got trusted classics and fresh stories to explore without the overwhelm.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What’s the closest book to Percy Jackson in tone and style?
A: Hands down, I’d point you to The Red Pyramid by Rick Riordan. It’s got the same snarky humor, fast-paced adventure, and mythological stakes, just with Egyptian gods instead of Greek. Riordan’s voice shines through, so it feels like a sibling series to Percy’s world. If you’ve already read it, check out his Heroes of Olympus spin-offs for more demigod chaos.

Q: Are there books like Percy Jackson without mythology?
A: Absolutely! If you’re after the adventure and teen hero vibes without gods, try The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins or Divergent by Veronica Roth. Both feature high-stakes challenges and relatable protagonists growing into their strength, much like Percy. The dystopian angle swaps magic for societal tension, but the emotional core is just as gripping.

Q: I’m looking for something new and under-the-radar. Any suggestions?
A: I’m thrilled to recommend Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark. This 2026 release offers a fresh take on coming-of-age fantasy with nature mysticism, a resilient teen protagonist, and themes of heritage and destiny. It’s not as widely known yet, but it captures the heart and adventure Percy fans love in a unique package.

Q: What’s a good series for younger readers who liked Percy Jackson?
A: For younger fans, I’d suggest Fablehaven by Brandon Mull. It’s got magical creatures, sibling teamwork, and a hidden-world feel that echoes Percy’s Camp Half-Blood, but with a lighter, more whimsical tone. It’s perfect for kids who want adventure without the heavier stakes of some YA reads.

Q: Can you recommend a book with a strong connection to nature, like Percy’s tie to the sea?
A: Definitely—check out Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark. Amelia’s bond with the wilderness and the night sky, through her astrophotography and time on Bear Lodge Mountain, feels as integral as Percy’s link to water. It’s a beautiful, grounded take on a hero connected to the natural world.

Q: Are there fantasy books with diverse mythologies for Percy fans?
A: Yes, I love pointing readers to Aru Shah and the End of Time by Roshani Chokshi for Hindu mythology. It’s got a witty young hero and cosmic stakes, much like Percy, but with a vibrant cultural lens. It’s a fantastic way to explore new lore while keeping the adventure alive.

Q: How do I decide which book to read next from this list?
A: Start with what you loved most about Percy Jackson. Craving mythology? Go for The Red Pyramid. Want raw adventure? Pick The Hunger Games. If you’re after something fresh with personal growth and a nature vibe, I’d nudge you toward Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow. Trust your mood, and if you’re stuck, drop me a comment—I’m happy to help!