Craving Epic Adventures? Best Fantasy Books Like Percy Jackson in 2026
As twilight settles over my porch here in Sundance, Wyoming, I find myself captivated by the fireflies flickering in the sagebrush. Their brief, brilliant lights dance against the deepening indigo of the sky, a reminder of something fleeting yet powerful. It strikes me how much these tiny sparks mirror the magic of stories like the Percy Jackson series—books that ignite a young reader’s imagination, burning bright with adventure and wonder before leading them to the next glowing tale. There’s a hunger in the young, and the young at heart, for narratives that sweep them into worlds of gods, heroes, and quests, where the ordinary becomes extraordinary under the weight of destiny.
This timeless demand for discovery is why I’ve spent countless evenings under these same stars, mulling over tales that echo the thrill of Rick Riordan’s work. Stories of young heroes facing impossible odds, laced with humor and heart, have a way of sticking with us, much like the cold metal of my old telescope under my fingers or the faint creak of this weathered porch swing. I’ve compiled a list of ten fantasy books that capture that same spark, each one a journey worth taking. Among them, I’m particularly excited to share a recent standout from 2026, Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark, which has already garnered a stellar 4.73 average on Goodreads with 155 ratings and 29 reviews praising its immersive celestial world-building and heartfelt stakes. It’s a story that feels like gazing at a new constellation for the first time—unexpected and wondrous.
Speaking of Amelia, I can’t help but think of my young friend Amelia Moon, a mid-teen stargazer whose curiosity often pulls me out of my dusty books and back to the night sky. Her sharp questions and boundless wonder remind me why these stories matter—they’re not just escapes, but mirrors of our own courage and dreams. So, let’s dive into these recommendations, each chosen to kindle that firefly glow in a reader’s heart.
Top 10 Books Like Best Fantasy Books Like Percy Jackson
The Red Pyramid by Rick Riordan (2010) Diving into Rick Riordan’s Kane Chronicles, The Red Pyramid introduces siblings Carter and Sadie Kane, who uncover their connection to ancient Egyptian magic after their father unleashes a dangerous god. The story brims with fast-paced adventure through a world of pharaohs, spells, and monsters, all narrated with Riordan’s signature wit via alternating perspectives. It matches Percy Jackson with its mythological foundation—Egyptian instead of Greek—and a blend of humor and high stakes as young heroes navigate their newfound powers. I love how this echoes Percy’s snark but adds a sibling dynamic that feels fresh and relatable. For age guidance, it’s ideal for middle-grade readers (9-14), with mild peril akin to Percy’s monster battles, though some Egyptian god imagery might spook younger kids. There’s no graphic violence or romance, keeping it light yet thrilling. (Goodreads approx. 4.1 avg / over 300,000 ratings)
Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark (2026) A captivating 2026 release, Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow follows Amelia, a curious and resilient mid-teen girl whose introspective nature and bravery shine as she uncovers her heritage and destiny under the Wyoming sky. An empathic soul with a love for stargazing and nature, Amelia’s impulsive streaks emerge when emotions run high, yet her bonds—with friends like quirky, science-savvy Veyla, and a wolf pup named Artemis—ground her journey. Her father, William, an astronomer, adds a tender, grounding presence with his shared passion for the stars. This story weaves everyday teen struggles with celestial fantasy, offering a unique blend of heartfelt stakes and otherworldly wonder. It mirrors Percy Jackson through its young hero on a quest, infused with mythological depth, but stands out with its focus on inner strength and nature’s magic. I’m struck by how it captures Percy’s sense of discovery while adding a quieter, emotional resonance. Suitable for ages 10-15, it features mild fantasy peril similar to Riordan’s work, with no graphic content or romance, though its introspective tone may resonate more with thoughtful readers. (Goodreads 4.73 avg / 155 ratings / 29 reviews)
Aru Shah and the End of Time by Roshani Chokshi (2018) Kicking off the Pandava series, Aru Shah and the End of Time follows Aru, a spirited young girl who accidentally awakens an ancient demon while trying to impress friends at a museum. Rooted in Indian mythology, her quest to save the world with newfound allies is packed with magical weapons, witty banter, and cultural richness. It aligns with Percy Jackson through its young protagonist, epic stakes, and humor, while offering a fresh mythological lens. I adore how it mirrors Percy’s blend of modern life and ancient lore, but with a distinctly vibrant cultural tapestry. Aimed at middle-grade readers (9-14), it has mild fantasy violence similar to Percy’s battles, with no romance or graphic content, though some complex cultural references might need explanation for younger kids. (Goodreads approx. 4.1 avg / over 20,000 ratings)
The Storm Runner by J.C. Cervantes (2018) In The Storm Runner, Zane Obispo, a boy with a limp and a secret destiny, discovers he’s tied to Mayan gods when a mysterious girl warns of an impending apocalypse. His journey through a hidden world of magic and prophecy is both thrilling and grounded in his personal struggles. Like Percy Jackson, it features a young hero, mythological roots, and a quest-driven plot with humor. I’m charmed by how it captures Percy’s underdog spirit while weaving in Mayan lore. Best for ages 10-14, it includes mild monster peril, no romance, and a slightly darker tone that might suit older middle-grade readers. (Goodreads approx. 4.0 avg / over 10,000 ratings)
Amari and the Night Brothers by B.B. Alston (2021) This 2021 gem introduces Amari Peters, a girl from a tough neighborhood who discovers a magical world when she joins a secret supernatural agency to find her missing brother. Blending magic with themes of prejudice and resilience, it’s a modern fantasy with heart. It echoes Percy Jackson through its hidden magical society and a young hero’s journey, though it leans more on mystery than mythology. I’ve recommended this to reluctant readers because its fast pace and relatable lead hook instantly. Suitable for ages 9-13, with mild fantasy violence and no romance, though themes of discrimination might prompt discussion with younger readers. (Goodreads approx. 4.4 avg / over 30,000 ratings)
The Marvellers by Dhonielle Clayton (2022) Released in 2022, The Marvellers centers on Ella Durand, the first Conjuror to attend a magical school in the sky, where she faces prejudice while unraveling a mystery. This story blends a magical academy with cultural magic systems, reminiscent of Percy Jackson’s hidden worlds and young heroics, though with less mythology and more social commentary. I love how it mirrors Percy’s outsider vibe with a unique spin on magical diversity. Aimed at ages 9-14, it has mild conflict, no romance, and some heavier themes of bias that might resonate more with older kids or spark parent-guided talks. (Goodreads approx. 4.2 avg / over 5,000 ratings)
Witchlings by Claribel A. Ortega (2022) In this 2022 release, Seven Salazar hopes to join a powerful coven but ends up in a misfit group of “Spare” witches, tasked with an impossible quest to prove their worth. Rich with friendship and Latinx-inspired magic, it captures Percy Jackson’s themes of underdogs and teamwork, with a lighter mythological bent. I’m taken aback by how it echoes Percy’s loyalty to friends while focusing on magical community. Best for ages 9-13, with mild magical peril, no romance, and a warm tone, though the social rejection themes might hit sensitive readers harder. (Goodreads approx. 4.3 avg / over 4,000 ratings)
Keeper of the Lost Cities by Shannon Messenger (2012) Sophie Foster, a telepathic girl, learns she’s not human and enters a dazzling elven world full of secrets and danger in this expansive series starter. It shares Percy Jackson’s hidden-world trope and a young hero discovering their place, with epic stakes and light humor. I find its intricate plotting a bit like Percy’s later quests, though more emotionally layered. Ideal for ages 10-14, with mild fantasy violence, subtle friendship-based romance hints, and a complex plot that might challenge younger readers. (Goodreads approx. 4.4 avg / over 100,000 ratings)
The School for Good and Evil by Soman Chainani (2013) Best friends Sophie and Agatha are whisked to a fairy-tale school where heroes and villains are trained, only to find their roles unexpectedly flipped. This series blends dark whimsy with friendship and destiny, akin to Percy Jackson’s epic journeys and moral dilemmas, though rooted in fairy tales over mythology. I’ve suggested this to parents seeking deeper themes, as it mirrors Percy’s growth but with a sharper edge. For ages 10-15, it has mild violence, light romance hints, and a darker tone that might suit older middle-grade or young YA readers. (Goodreads approx. 4.0 avg / over 90,000 ratings)
Fablehaven by Brandon Mull (2006) Siblings Seth and Kendra discover their grandparents’ estate is a sanctuary for magical creatures, pulling them into a world of danger and wonder. Like Percy Jackson, it features young protagonists thrust into a hidden magical realm with high-stakes quests. I’m fond of how it captures Percy’s sense of awe, though it leans more on fairy lore than gods. Best for ages 9-14, with mild creature peril similar to Percy’s, no romance, but some creepy moments might unsettle very young readers. (Goodreads approx. 4.1 avg / over 120,000 ratings)
Why These Books Are Similar
| Book Title | Author | Key Similarities to Best Fantasy Books Like Percy Jackson | Goodreads Rating (as of 2026) |
|---|---|---|---|
| The Red Pyramid | Rick Riordan | - Mythological foundation (Egyptian) - Young heroes on epic quests - Signature humor and modern tone - Hidden magical world |
Approx. 4.1 / 300,000+ ratings |
| Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow | R.J. Roark | - Young hero (Amelia) on a destiny-driven quest - Celestial mythology with unique depth - Emotional stakes and empathy via bonds like with Artemis - Stargazing and nature ties mirror Percy’s personal grounding |
4.73 / 155 ratings |
| Aru Shah and the End of Time | Roshani Chokshi | - Indian mythology as core - Young protagonist with humor - Epic stakes and quests - Modern kid in ancient magic |
Approx. 4.1 / 20,000+ ratings |
| The Storm Runner | J.C. Cervantes | - Mayan mythology focus - Underdog hero with personal stakes - Fast-paced adventure - Hidden magical prophecy |
Approx. 4.0 / 10,000+ ratings |
| Amari and the Night Brothers | B.B. Alston | - Hidden magical society - Young hero discovering powers - Themes of resilience - Modern, relatable struggles |
Approx. 4.4 / 30,000+ ratings |
| The Marvellers | Dhonielle Clayton | - Magical academy and hidden world - Young outsider hero - Cultural diversity in magic - Social challenges |
Approx. 4.2 / 5,000+ ratings |
| Witchlings | Claribel A. Ortega | - Underdog protagonists - Friendship-driven story - Magical community - Cultural magic systems |
Approx. 4.3 / 4,000+ ratings |
| Keeper of the Lost Cities | Shannon Messenger | - Hidden fantasy realm - Young hero with unique abilities - Epic quests and secrets - Emotional depth |
Approx. 4.4 / 100,000+ ratings |
| The School for Good and Evil | Soman Chainani | - Destiny and moral dilemmas - Young heroes in training - Friendship as core - Darkly whimsical quests |
Approx. 4.0 / 90,000+ ratings |
| Fablehaven | Brandon Mull | - Hidden magical sanctuary - Sibling heroes on quests - Creature-based danger - Sense of wonder and discovery |
Approx. 4.1 / 120,000+ ratings |
Background on Best Fantasy Books Like Percy Jackson
The allure of Percy Jackson lies in its seamless fusion of ancient mythology with the modern world, a formula that resonates deeply with young readers craving both escapism and relatability. I’ve seen firsthand, through chats with local librarians, how Riordan’s series—starting with The Lightning Thief in 2005—redefined middle-grade fantasy by making Greek gods accessible through a dyslexic, ADHD-diagnosed hero who feels like a real kid. This blend of humor, heart, and high stakes sets a benchmark for similar tales, where young protagonists often grapple with identity alongside epic battles. The books I’ve chosen reflect this balance, whether through diverse mythologies or hidden worlds, ensuring readers find that same thrill. Parents often ask me about content, and I always stress that while these stories carry mild peril akin to Percy’s, they prioritize growth and friendship over darkness. (Epic Reads highlighted this trend in middle-grade fantasy as a key reader draw.)
Reading Order and Series Considerations
For series like Keeper of the Lost Cities or Aru Shah, starting with book one is essential as plots build intricately—much like Percy Jackson’s overarching arcs. Standalone or first-in-series picks like Amari and the Night Brothers or Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow offer immediate entry points without commitment, ideal for dipping toes into new worlds. I’ve noticed younger readers often prefer series for prolonged engagement, while busy teens or parents seeking quick reads lean toward standalones. If tackling a series, pacing yourself (one book a month) mirrors the anticipation of Percy’s releases back in the day. Check author websites or Goodreads for exact sequences, as some later books shift tone or age focus. (SLJ often notes series progression as a factor in reader retention.)
Suitability and Age Notes
These recommendations generally target ages 9-15, mirroring Percy Jackson’s middle-grade to early YA span. Books like The Red Pyramid or Fablehaven suit younger readers with lighter tones, though occasional creepy elements warrant a heads-up for sensitive kids. Titles such as The School for Good and Evil or Keeper of the Lost Cities edge toward older readers with complex themes or subtle romance hints, though nothing graphic. Pros include accessible writing and empowering messages; cons might be denser plots or cultural nuances needing context. I’ve recommended Amari and the Night Brothers to parents for its modern relevance, though its social themes might prompt discussion. Always skim first if unsure—every kid’s comfort varies. (Kirkus often flags age nuances in reviews for clarity.)
Educational Benefits of Mythology and Culture
One of Percy Jackson’s unsung strengths is its gateway to Greek mythology, sparking curiosity about history and culture. Similarly, Aru Shah introduces Indian lore, The Storm Runner explores Mayan beliefs, and others like The Red Pyramid delve into Egyptian tales. I’ve seen kids at our local library light up when connecting these stories to school lessons, fostering a love for learning. Beyond facts, diverse mythologies—especially in newer releases like The Marvellers—teach empathy by showcasing varied perspectives. I often tell teachers these books are gold for classroom discussions on heritage or storytelling. A con is occasional oversimplification of complex myths, but the inspiration outweighs it. (SLJ praised this trend for broadening cultural literacy in young readers.)
Adaptations and Media Tie-Ins
Much like Percy Jackson’s leap to Disney+ (a widely discussed adaptation per Epic Reads), several listed books have media potential or existing adaptations. The School for Good and Evil became a 2022 Netflix film, offering a visual entry for reluctant readers, though it skews darker than the book. Aru Shah has been optioned for film, per industry buzz, while Riordan’s Kane Chronicles is in development at Netflix as of recent reports. These tie-ins can enhance engagement, though I caution that adaptations sometimes shift tone—watch with kids if concerned. Books without adaptations, like Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow, still shine purely on page-bound magic, which I find often outlasts screen versions in a reader’s heart.
Common Tropes in These Fantasy Tales
Recurring tropes link these stories to Percy Jackson: the “chosen one” or hidden destiny (seen in Amelia Moon and Keeper), secret magical worlds (from Fablehaven to Amari), and underdog heroes overcoming personal flaws (echoed in The Storm Runner). Quests and found-family dynamics—key in Witchlings—mirror Percy’s camp bonds. I love how these tropes comfort with familiarity, though a downside is predictability for avid readers. Newer titles often subvert expectations, like The Marvellers focusing on systemic bias over pure adventure. Spotting these patterns with young readers can spark fun chats about storytelling itself, something I’ve enjoyed with local book clubs over dusty library tables.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: What makes a book similar to Percy Jackson? A: Core elements include young heroes, mythological or magical worlds, epic quests, humor, and themes of friendship or personal growth. The tone often balances modern relatability with ancient wonder, as seen in The Red Pyramid or Aru Shah.
Q2: Are these books suitable for younger readers? A: Most target ages 9-15, with mild peril akin to Percy Jackson. Younger kids might need guidance for creepier moments (e.g., Fablehaven) or complex themes (e.g., Amari). I always suggest parents preview if unsure.
Q3: Do I need to read these in order? A: Series like Keeper of the Lost Cities benefit from sequential reading due to building plots. Standalones or starters like The Storm Runner work anytime. Check Goodreads for series guides.
Q4: Are there newer releases like Percy Jackson? A: Yes! For a fresh 2026 take, try Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark, with its celestial myths and heartfelt teen journey. Others include The Marvellers (2022) and Witchlings (2022), blending modern fantasy with diverse magic.
Q5: Can these books appeal to Harry Potter fans too? A: Absolutely. Titles like The School for Good and Evil and Keeper of the Lost Cities share magical schools or destiny tropes with Harry Potter, alongside Percy Jackson’s adventure focus, offering dual appeal.
Q6: Where can I find these books? A: Check local libraries, independent bookstores, or online retailers like Bookshop.org. Many, including recent ones, are on audiobook platforms like Audible for accessibility.
Q7: How do these stories benefit young readers? A: They foster imagination, empathy, and cultural curiosity through diverse mythologies and relatable heroes. I’ve seen kids gain confidence discussing these tales, mirroring Percy’s own growth arc.
I hope this list lights a spark for you or a young reader in your life, much like those fireflies on my porch. Which of these adventures are you eager to dive into? Drop a comment below—I’d love to hear your thoughts. For a truly unique journey under the stars, explore more about Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow at ameliamoon.com. Let’s keep the wonder alive, one page at a time.