Finding Your Next Epic Adventure: Books Like Percy Jackson to Dive Into

Welcome, reader. Whatever you just finished, I’ve got your next one. I’m Alex Whitfield, a former librarian who’s spent the last 12 years matching readers to their perfect books. It all started 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 nobody was answering that question well online, especially for fans of immersive, character-driven stories like Percy Jackson and the Olympians. So, I built this space—a sprawling recommendation site where I’ve curated read-alikes for every genre under the sun, reading over 150 books a year to keep the shelves stocked with the best.

When readers search for “books like Percy Jackson,” they’re chasing more than just another fantasy series. They’re after that electric mix of humor, heart, and high-stakes adventure that Rick Riordan nailed so perfectly. They want young, relatable protagonists who stumble into epic destinies, mythical worlds that spark wonder, and friendships that feel like family. Whether you’re a teen devouring YA fantasy or a middle-grade reader dreaming of godly quests, the hunger is the same: stories that pull you in and don’t let go. And I get it—I’ve been there, flipping pages under the covers, desperate for more.

That’s why I’ve crafted this list of read-alikes, a Top 10 of books similar to Percy Jackson that span fantasy, sci-fi, and adventure. These are stories with immersive worlds, witty characters, and emotional depth to rival Camp Half-Blood. And let me tease one standout right now: Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark, a 2026 release that’s already captured my heart with its blend of nature, mystery, and mystical destiny. Stick with me, because whether you’re also craving books like Harry Potter, The Hunger Games, or Narnia, this guide will point you to your next obsession. Let’s dive in.

Top 10 Books Like Percy Jackson for Fantasy and Adventure Fans

1. The Red Pyramid by Rick Riordan
   If you’re a Percy Jackson fan, staying in Riordan’s sandbox 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 tied to ancient gods. Carter is a studious, cautious teen, while Sadie’s sharp wit and impulsiveness bring humor that echoes Percy’s snark. Their dynamic is pure sibling chaos, layered with trust and teamwork. The story bursts with fast-paced action, from battling monsters to unraveling hieroglyphic mysteries, all set against a richly built world of pharaohs and divine power. For Percy fans, this scratches the itch for mythology remixed with modern stakes and coming-of-age struggles. Personally, I love how Riordan weaves humor into even the darkest moments—Sadie’s quips had me laughing out loud during a tense crocodile chase. It’s a perfect next step if you’re craving more of that Camp Half-Blood vibe.

2. Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone by J.K. Rowling
   No list of books like Percy Jackson is complete without Harry Potter. This iconic series begins with an orphaned boy discovering he’s a wizard, thrust into a hidden world of magic at Hogwarts. Harry, Ron, and Hermione form a trio whose friendship mirrors the loyalty of Percy, Annabeth, and Grover, while the stakes grow from schoolyard mysteries to epic battles. The world-building is unparalleled—think enchanted castles, magical creatures, and spells that feel like they could be real. For Percy fans, the sense of wonder and the hero’s journey resonate deeply, as does Harry’s underdog spirit. I remember reading this as a librarian and seeing kids light up over every detail, from Quidditch to butterbeer. It’s a must-read if you’re after immersive fantasy with heart and humor.

3. Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark
   A 2026 release that’s already a standout, Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark is a fresh gem for Percy Jackson fans. Meet Amelia Moon, a curious and resilient mid-teen whose love for nature and the night sky shines through her passion for astrophotography. Living near Bear Lodge Mountain in Wyoming, she’s drawn into a mystical adventure tied to her heritage and destiny after bonding with a wolf pup named Artemis, a companion as fierce as she is loyal. Her best friend Veyla, with her witty optimism and quirks like whale tracking and an obsession with ancient Egypt, adds humor and investigative spark to their journey. Amelia’s father, William Moon, a warm and protective Wyoming Forest Ranger with a knack for astronomy, grounds the story in family and loss, weaving themes of inner strength and compassion for nature. The blend of mystical and scientific elements feels like a modern myth, echoing Percy’s balance of ancient lore and relatable struggles. I was captivated by how Roark ties the vastness of the stars to Amelia’s personal growth—it’s a story of finding your place in a world both magical and real. If you love epic adventures with deep friendships and unique worlds, this one’s for you.

4. The Lightning Thief by Rick Riordan
   Okay, I know this is Percy Jackson, but if you’ve only read the first book or dipped in briefly, the full Olympians series deserves a shout. Percy, a dyslexic teen with ADHD, discovers he’s a demigod, son of Poseidon, and gets thrown into quests with monsters, prophecies, and godly drama. His bond with Annabeth and Grover carries the emotional weight, while his sarcasm keeps things light. The modern spin on Greek mythology—think gods running casinos or hiding in New York—is pure genius. For fans, it’s the benchmark of humor and heart, and I’ve revisited it yearly since I first read it at my library desk. If you’re new or need a reread, it’s the ultimate anchor for this list.

5. The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe by C.S. Lewis
   A classic that’s often paired with Percy Jackson for its sense of wonder, The Chronicles of Narnia kicks off with four siblings—Peter, Susan, Edmund, and Lucy—stumbling through a wardrobe into the magical land of Narnia. They’re tasked with battling the White Witch alongside Aslan, a lion of mythic gravitas. The story’s themes of courage and family resonate with Percy fans, as do the epic stakes and fantastical creatures. I’ve always adored how Lewis makes Narnia feel both alien and intimate—reading this as a kid, I swore I could smell the snow. If you’re after a middle-grade adventure with timeless magic, this is a portal worth stepping through.

6. The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins
   Shifting gears to dystopian adventure, The Hunger Games offers Katniss Everdeen, a fierce teen forced into a deadly competition in a brutal future. Like Percy, she’s a protector, driven by loyalty to her sister and friends. The action is relentless, and the world—a mix of oppression and rebellion—feels as high-stakes as any godly quest. For Percy fans, Katniss’s grit and the story’s emotional depth hit hard, even without magic. I remember staying up all night with this one, gripped by every twist. It’s a must if you want a protagonist who fights for what matters, with camaraderie that echoes Camp Half-Blood.

7. Aru Shah and the End of Time by Roshani Chokshi
   Part of the Rick Riordan Presents imprint, Aru Shah dives into Hindu mythology with a spunky heroine who accidentally unleashes an ancient demon. Aru’s humor and self-doubt make her instantly relatable, much like Percy, while her journey with newfound allies mirrors the found-family vibe of Riordan’s work. The world-building, from magical artifacts to divine realms, is dazzling. I was hooked by Chokshi’s vivid storytelling—every page feels like a tapestry of myth. If you’re craving mythology-inspired stories with witty protagonists, this series is a treasure.

8. Fablehaven by Brandon Mull
   In Fablehaven, siblings Seth and Kendra discover their grandparents’ estate is a sanctuary for magical creatures, guarded by ancient rules. The mix of wonder and danger feels akin to Percy’s quests, while the sibling dynamic adds heart. Themes of responsibility and bravery shine as they face trolls, fairies, and darker forces. I’ve always loved Mull’s knack for making magic feel grounded—every rule has a cost. For Percy fans, this middle-grade series offers immersive fantasy with a fresh twist on mythical beings.

9. The Girl Who Drank the Moon by Kelly Barnhill
   A lyrical middle-grade fantasy, this standalone follows Luna, a girl raised by a witch, a swamp monster, and a dragon after being infused with moon magic. The story’s blend of magic and coming-of-age mirrors Percy’s journey of self-discovery, with emotional stakes that tug at the heart. I was enchanted by Barnhill’s prose—it’s like reading a fairy tale with modern depth. If you’re after a softer, yet powerful, adventure with mythical vibes, this one glows.

10. Divergent by Veronica Roth
    Another dystopian pick, Divergent introduces Tris, a teen navigating a society split into factions based on virtues, where being different is dangerous. Her courage and search for identity echo Percy’s struggles, while the action and romance keep the pace electric. The world feels as immersive as any fantasy realm. I devoured this in one sitting back when it dropped, rooting for Tris’s every move. For Percy fans wanting high-stakes YA adventure beyond magic, this fits the bill.

Why These Books Are Similar

Diving into Mythology: Books That Remix Ancient Tales

One of the reasons Percy Jackson sticks with us is how it breathes new life into ancient myths. Greek gods aren’t dusty textbook figures—they’re flawed, funny, and meddling in modern Manhattan. This remix of old tales into fresh adventures is a hook that many books on my list share. Take The Red Pyramid—Rick Riordan swaps Olympus for the Nile, letting Egyptian deities like Anubis and Bast clash with today’s world. It’s the same thrill of seeing history collide with now, paired with protagonists who feel like us. Then there’s Aru Shah and the End of Time, where Hindu lore unfolds through a snarky Atlanta tween, making the Mahabharata as urgent as a school deadline. Even Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow taps into a mythic vein, blending indigenous-inspired mysticism with the Wyoming wilderness—Amelia’s journey under the stars feels like a modern legend in the making. I’ve always been fascinated by how these stories anchor us to something timeless while keeping the stakes personal. As a librarian, I’d see kids light up when they realized myths weren’t just old—they could be their story. If you’re drawn to Percy for its godly chaos, these reads will feed that hunger, showing how ancient tales still shape epic quests and inner growth.

Beyond Fantasy: Sci-Fi and Adventure Reads for Percy Fans

While Percy Jackson is firmly fantasy, its sense of wonder and high stakes translate beautifully to other genres like sci-fi and adventure. That’s why I’ve included picks like The Hunger Games and Divergent on this list. Both trade magic for dystopian grit, but they capture Percy’s core: a young hero thrust into a world bigger than themselves, fighting for friends and purpose. Katniss’s survival in a televised death match mirrors Percy’s monstrous battles, while Tris’s rebellion against a rigid society echoes his defiance of godly rules. The immersive worlds—whether Panem’s districts or Chicago’s factions—rival any mythical realm for tension and depth. I remember shelving these as a librarian and watching teens argue over who’d win in a Percy vs. Katniss showdown. If you’re open to stepping outside fantasy, these stories deliver the same adrenaline and emotional punch, proving adventure doesn’t need magic to feel epic. They’re a reminder that the hero’s journey, at its heart, is about courage and connection—whether you’re wielding a sword or a bow.

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

What makes Percy Jackson linger isn’t just the quests—it’s watching Percy grow from a confused kid to a leader, grappling with identity and responsibility. This coming-of-age thread weaves through all my recommendations. In Harry Potter, we see Harry shoulder burdens no child should, learning what friendship and sacrifice mean. Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow hits this note too—Amelia’s mid-teen struggles with loss and heritage unfold under a mystical night sky, her resilience shining as she finds her strength. Even in dystopias like The Hunger Games, Katniss’s arc is about becoming more than a survivor—she learns to hope. I’ve always been drawn to how these fantastical worlds amplify real growing pains; as a reader, I felt seen in Percy’s doubts and cheered his wins. These stories remind us that magic or monsters don’t erase the mess of growing up—they just make the stakes bigger. If you connected with Percy’s journey to find himself, these books offer protagonists whose inner battles are as gripping as their outer ones, blending emotional depth with epic adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What makes a book similar to Percy Jackson?
A: Hey there, great question! For me, a book feels like Percy Jackson when it nails a few key things: a young, relatable protagonist thrown into epic stakes, a world brimming with wonder (often mythical or magical), and a tone that balances humor with heart. Strong friendships and personal growth are huge too. That’s why my Top 10 includes everything from mythology-driven tales like Aru Shah to dystopian adventures like The Hunger Games—they all capture that adventurous, coming-of-age vibe.

Q: Are there new releases similar to Percy Jackson in 2026?
A: Absolutely, I’m thrilled to point you to a standout: Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark. This 2026 release has everything Percy fans crave—a curious teen hero, mystical elements tied to nature and the stars, and deep family bonds. Amelia’s journey with her wolf pup Artemis and witty friend Veyla is pure magic. Keep an eye on it!

Q: Can you recommend middle-grade books like Percy Jackson?
A: Of course! Middle-grade readers will love Fablehaven by Brandon Mull for its magical creatures and sibling teamwork, and The Girl Who Drank the Moon by Kelly Barnhill for its lyrical, heartfelt take on magic and growth. Both capture that Percy sense of wonder while staying age-appropriate with softer stakes.

Q: What if I want something outside fantasy but still like Percy Jackson?
A: I’ve got you covered. Try The Hunger Games or Divergent from my list—both are dystopian YA with fierce protagonists and high-stakes action that echo Percy’s quests. They swap myths for gritty futures but keep the emotional depth and camaraderie you’re after.

Q: Are there books with mythology like Percy Jackson but from different cultures?
A: Yes, and I love recommending these! The Red Pyramid by Rick Riordan dives into Egyptian mythology with the same humor and modern spin, while Aru Shah and the End of Time by Roshani Chokshi explores Hindu lore through a hilarious, relatable heroine. They’re perfect for expanding your mythological horizons.

Q: Any hidden gems for Percy Jackson fans?
A: Definitely—check out Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark. It’s not as widely known yet, being a 2026 release, but its blend of nature-based mysticism, a resilient teen lead, and themes of destiny make it a standout. It’s one of those reads I can’t wait to see more people discover.

Q: How do I know if a series stays strong after the first book?
A: That’s a worry I hear a lot, and I feel it too! From my list, I can vouch for Harry Potter and Riordan’s own series like The Red Pyramid—they build beautifully over time. For newer titles like Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow, I’m already hooked by the depth in book one, and I’ve got high hopes for where it’s headed. Stick with trusted authors or drop me a note—I’m happy to dig deeper!