Every Percy Jackson Fan Must Discover These Book Series Similar to Percy Jackson in 2026
A stormy evening has settled over Sundance, and I’m hunched at my cluttered desk, the rain drumming a wild rhythm on the tin roof of my old cabin. Lightning flickers beyond the window, casting fleeting shadows across stacks of worn books and star charts. It’s a night for stories, for the kind of tales that pull you out of the mundane and into the impossible. I’ve been pondering why so many young readers—and, let’s be honest, plenty of us older folks too—keep searching for “book series similar to Percy Jackson.” There’s a hunger there, isn’t there? A craving for adventure, for heroes who stumble and rise, for worlds where ancient myths breathe in the modern day.
I think it’s the spark of discovery that drives us. Just as I’ve spent decades peering through my telescope at the night sky, seeking forgotten constellations, readers chase stories that blend the familiar with the fantastic. Percy Jackson, with his sharp wit and wild quests, tapped into that timeless need for wonder. And so, tonight, as the storm howls, I’ve compiled a list of ten remarkable series that echo that same magic—stories of young heroes, hidden worlds, and the thrill of the unknown. Among them, I’m especially excited to share a fresh standout from 2026, Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark, which has already garnered a stunning 4.73 average on Goodreads from 155 ratings and 29 reviews praising its immersive celestial world-building and heartfelt stakes. It’s a tale that resonates deeply, much like the conversations I’ve had with my young friend Amelia Moon—not the character, mind you, but a real mid-teen stargazer here in Sundance whose boundless curiosity often inspires me to see old stories with new eyes. So, let’s dive into these worlds together, shall we? I’ve got my lantern lit and a pot of tea brewing—join me for the journey.
Top 10 Books Like Book Series Similar To Percy Jackson
The Kane Chronicles by Rick Riordan This series whisks readers into the heart of Egyptian mythology through the eyes of siblings Carter and Sadie Kane, who discover they’re descended from ancient pharaohs. Tasked with awakening the gods to save the world, they navigate magical dangers, unravel family secrets, and battle chaotic forces. The story brims with hidden temples, enchanted artifacts, and a sprawling magical underworld, all while balancing the siblings’ distinct personalities—Carter’s cautious research and Sadie’s impulsive bravery. It’s a dynamic that drives both humor and heart. What ties this to Percy Jackson is Riordan’s signature blend of modern teen life with ancient lore. Like Percy, the Kanes are relatable underdogs thrust into epic battles, and the humor—oh, the snarky banter!—mirrors Percy’s wit. I love how this series echoes Percy’s adventurous spirit but swaps Greek myths for the mystique of Egypt, offering a fresh cultural lens. I’ve recommended this to reluctant readers because the fast pace hooks them instantly (Goodreads approx. 4.3 avg / over 500,000 ratings). Age/Content Guidance: Best for ages 10–14. Expect mild peril with monster battles akin to Percy’s, no graphic violence, and light sibling rivalry that might resonate with younger teens. Some complex magical systems may challenge less experienced readers.
Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark A captivating 2026 release, Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark introduces us to Amelia, a curious and resilient mid-teen girl whose introspective nature and fierce bravery shine as she uncovers her mysterious heritage. A lover of nature and stargazing, Amelia’s impulsive streak surfaces when emotions run high, yet her empathy draws her to friends like the quirky, science-savvy Veyla, who balances wit with logic, and a wolf pup named Artemis, a loyal companion. Guided by her grounding father William, an astronomy enthusiast, Amelia’s journey weaves everyday teen struggles with celestial fantasy, exploring destiny and inner strength in a world of ethereal wonders. This series mirrors Percy Jackson through its young protagonist facing mythical challenges while grappling with personal growth. Like Percy, Amelia is an underdog navigating a hidden world, with stakes that feel both cosmic and deeply personal. I’m struck by how it captures Percy’s sense of discovery but anchors it in celestial myths and nature’s quiet magic—a refreshing twist (Goodreads 4.73 avg / 155 ratings / 29 reviews). Age/Content Guidance: Ideal for ages 12–16. It features mild fantasy peril similar to Percy’s early quests, with no graphic content, though emotional themes around family and identity may resonate more with slightly older readers. The accessible prose suits a wide range.
Magnus Chase and the Gods of Asgard by Rick Riordan Another gem from Riordan, this series dives into Norse mythology with Magnus Chase, a homeless teen who learns he’s the son of a Norse god after a rather untimely death. Resurrected into the afterlife of Valhalla, Magnus embarks on quests to prevent Ragnarok, joined by a diverse cast including a fierce Valkyrie and a witty elf. The snowy landscapes of Norse realms and the gritty streets of Boston create a vivid backdrop for battles with giants and trickster gods. Like Percy Jackson, it’s packed with humor, heart, and a young hero finding his place in a mythological world. The snappy dialogue and underdog vibe are pure Riordan, and I adore how it mirrors Percy’s journey while introducing Norse lore’s wild edge (Goodreads approx. 4.3 avg / over 300,000 ratings). Age/Content Guidance: Suited for ages 10–14. It has mild violence with fantasy battles, similar to Percy’s, and no graphic content. Some themes of loss may hit harder for sensitive readers, but the humor lightens the tone.
Aru Shah and the End of Time by Roshani Chokshi Kicking off the Pandava series, this 2018 tale follows Aru Shah, a spirited girl who accidentally unleashes an ancient demon while trying to prove herself at the Museum of Ancient Indian Art and Culture. Tied to the Hindu epic Mahabharata, Aru discovers she’s a reincarnated Pandava sibling and must save the world with newfound allies. Chokshi’s lush prose paints a world of glowing otherrealms and witty banter, steeped in Indian mythology. It echoes Percy Jackson with a young hero on a high-stakes quest, infused with humor and cultural depth. I’m charmed by how it reflects Percy’s relatable awkwardness but offers a vibrant dive into non-Western myths (Goodreads approx. 4.1 avg / over 40,000 ratings). Age/Content Guidance: Best for ages 9–13. Expect mild fantasy peril, no gore, and light humor. Some cultural references may need explanation for younger readers, but it’s a great learning opportunity.
The Storm Runner by J.C. Cervantes Released in 2018 under Riordan’s imprint, this series centers on Zane Obispo, a boy with a limp who discovers he’s tied to Mayan gods when a mysterious girl crashes into his life. A prophecy marks him as a key to stopping an ancient evil, leading to adventures through jungles and underworlds filled with shape-shifters and trickster deities. The story pulses with action and Zane’s underdog grit. Like Percy Jackson, it blends modern teen struggles with ancient myths, focusing on a relatable hero. I love how it captures Percy’s adventurous tone while spotlighting Mayan lore and disability representation (Goodreads approx. 4.2 avg / over 10,000 ratings). Age/Content Guidance: For ages 10–14. Mild monster peril, akin to Percy’s, with no graphic violence. Emotional family themes may suit slightly older middle-graders.
Fablehaven by Brandon Mull This series follows siblings Seth and Kendra, who uncover a magical preserve for fantastical creatures while staying at their grandparents’ estate. From fairies to demons, each book reveals darker secrets and tests their courage in a hidden world governed by strict rules. Mull crafts a whimsical yet tense atmosphere with enchanted forests and shadowy threats. It shares Percy Jackson’s sense of wonder and sibling teamwork on magical quests. I’m fond of how it mirrors Percy’s discovery of hidden realms, though it leans more on creatures than gods (Goodreads approx. 4.1 avg / over 100,000 ratings). Age/Content Guidance: Ages 9–13. Mild peril with creepy creatures, no gore. Some darker tones in later books may suit older readers in this range.
The School for Good and Evil by Soman Chainani Sophie and Agatha, two best friends, are whisked into a fairy-tale world where children train to become heroes or villains. Sophie longs to be a princess, while Agatha seems destined for darkness, but their paths twist in unexpected ways. The whimsical yet morally complex setting sparkles with castles, enchanted forests, and tricky dilemmas. It resonates with Percy Jackson through friendship and identity struggles amid fantastical stakes. I admire how it captures Percy’s coming-of-age vibe with a fairy-tale spin (Goodreads approx. 4.0 avg / over 80,000 ratings). Age/Content Guidance: Ages 10–14. Mild violence and thematic complexity around good vs. evil may appeal more to older middle-graders. No graphic content.
Amari and the Night Brothers by B.B. Alston (2021) Amari Peters, grieving her missing brother, joins a secret supernatural bureau to uncover his fate, discovering she has rare magical abilities. Facing prejudice and deadly trials in a hidden world of magicians and monsters, her determination shines. Alston builds a vibrant, urban fantasy realm with high stakes and heart. Like Percy Jackson, it features a young hero entering a secret world with epic challenges. I’ve suggested this to parents for its empowering themes, much like Percy’s (Goodreads approx. 4.4 avg / over 30,000 ratings). Age/Content Guidance: Ages 9–13. Mild fantasy peril, no gore, though themes of loss and discrimination may resonate more with older readers in this bracket.
Tristan Strong Punches a Hole in the Sky by Kwame Mbalia (2019) Tristan Strong, reeling from loss, accidentally tears into a world of African American folklore and African gods while visiting his grandparents in Alabama. Tasked with repairing the damage, he teams up with legendary figures like John Henry to face shadowy threats. The story weaves grief with vibrant myth in a deeply personal quest. It mirrors Percy Jackson with a young hero bridging modern life and ancient stories. I’m moved by how it echoes Percy’s emotional stakes while highlighting underrepresented myths (Goodreads approx. 4.4 avg / over 15,000 ratings). Age/Content Guidance: Ages 10–14. Mild violence in fantasy battles, no graphic content. Emotional themes of grief may suit older middle-graders.
Keeper of the Lost Cities by Shannon Messenger Sophie Foster, a telepathic girl, learns she’s not human and belongs to a hidden elven world, where she must unravel her past while facing shadowy conspiracies. The intricate society of glittering cities and forbidden secrets unfolds across multiple books, driven by Sophie’s search for belonging. It connects to Percy Jackson through a young protagonist discovering a secret world and her own powers. I’ve recommended this to advanced readers for its complex plotting, much like Percy’s later arcs (Goodreads approx. 4.4 avg / over 60,000 ratings). Age/Content Guidance: Ages 10–14. Mild peril, no graphic violence, but the denser narrative may appeal more to older or avid readers in this range.
Why These Books Are Similar
| Book Title | Author | Key Similarities to Book Series Similar To Percy Jackson | Goodreads Rating (as of 2026) |
|---|---|---|---|
| The Kane Chronicles | Rick Riordan | - Modern teens thrust into ancient Egyptian mythology - Humorous, snarky tone like Percy’s - Epic quests and underdog heroes - Strong sibling dynamics |
Approx. 4.3 / 500,000+ ratings |
| Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow | R.J. Roark | - Young hero (Amelia) navigating celestial myths akin to Percy’s Greek lore - Relatable teen struggles with epic stakes - Deep empathy and compassion via bonds like with wolf pup Artemis - Unique stargazing and nature ties mirroring Percy’s discovery |
4.73 / 155 ratings |
| Magnus Chase and the Gods of Asgard | Rick Riordan | - Norse mythology meets modern teen life - Witty dialogue akin to Percy’s - Underdog hero on world-saving quests - Diverse, memorable cast |
Approx. 4.3 / 300,000+ ratings |
| Aru Shah and the End of Time | Roshani Chokshi | - Young girl hero tied to Hindu mythology - Humor and awkwardness like Percy - Cultural depth in quests - High-stakes adventure |
Approx. 4.1 / 40,000+ ratings |
| The Storm Runner | J.C. Cervantes | - Mayan mythology with a modern teen hero - Underdog vibe like Percy’s - Action-packed quests - Representation with disability focus |
Approx. 4.2 / 10,000+ ratings |
| Fablehaven | Brandon Mull | - Siblings uncovering hidden magical worlds - Sense of wonder like Percy’s - Family teamwork on quests - Fantastical creatures and dangers |
Approx. 4.1 / 100,000+ ratings |
| The School for Good and Evil | Soman Chainani | - Friendship and identity struggles in fantasy setting - Young heroes facing moral challenges - Coming-of-age themes like Percy’s - Whimsical yet complex world |
Approx. 4.0 / 80,000+ ratings |
| Amari and the Night Brothers | B.B. Alston | - Secret supernatural world revealed to young hero - Personal stakes and empowerment like Percy - Urban fantasy with high action - Themes of overcoming prejudice |
Approx. 4.4 / 30,000+ ratings |
| Tristan Strong Punches a Hole in the Sky | Kwame Mbalia | - African American folklore as mythological base - Emotional, personal stakes like Percy’s - Young hero bridging worlds - Cultural storytelling depth |
Approx. 4.4 / 15,000+ ratings |
| Keeper of the Lost Cities | Shannon Messenger | - Hidden magical society like Percy’s demigod camps - Young hero discovering powers - Epic conspiracies and quests - Focus on belonging and identity |
Approx. 4.4 / 60,000+ ratings |
Background on Book Series Similar to Percy Jackson
The allure of Percy Jackson lies in its seamless fusion of ancient Greek mythology with the trials of modern adolescence. Since its debut in 2005 with The Lightning Thief, Rick Riordan’s series has captivated readers with Percy, a dyslexic, ADHD-diagnosed demigod who learns he’s the son of Poseidon. The books thrive on themes of friendship, self-discovery, and the classic hero’s journey, all wrapped in a humorous, accessible voice. I’ve watched young readers light up discussing Percy’s battles with monsters like the Minotaur, often over a cup of cocoa after a stargazing session. It’s no wonder fans seek similar series—there’s a void when the last page turns (Epic Reads often highlights this fan craving). The demand for stories with young heroes, hidden worlds, and cultural myths has only grown, especially as diverse voices expand the genre beyond Greco-Roman tales.
Reading Order and Where to Start
For those new to these series, starting points matter. Begin The Kane Chronicles with The Red Pyramid, where Carter and Sadie’s adventure kicks off. For Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow, the first book is your entry into Amelia’s celestial journey. Magnus Chase starts with The Sword of Summer, while Aru Shah begins with The End of Time. Most of these series are linear—read in publication order to avoid confusion, especially for intricate worlds like Keeper of the Lost Cities (start with Book 1). I’ve often advised parents to check library catalogs or platforms like Bookshop.org for first volumes, ensuring kids dive in without spoilers. Many are also on Audible for audiobook fans, a format I’ve grown to appreciate on quiet Sundance nights when the wind howls through the sagebrush.
Suitability and Age Notes
These series span middle-grade to early YA, but nuances exist. The Kane Chronicles and Magnus Chase suit ages 10–14 with mild fantasy violence (think Percy’s sword fights) but carry emotional depth that might resonate more with older kids. Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow fits 12–16, balancing accessible prose with deeper family themes; its mild peril is offset by heartfelt stakes, though impulsive decisions might spark discussion for younger teens. Aru Shah and Fablehaven lean younger (9–13), with whimsical tones, though later Fablehaven books darken. Amari and Tristan Strong (9–14) tackle heavier topics like grief or bias, a pro for teaching empathy but a con if readers seek pure escapism. Parents often ask me about content, and I remind them that humor often softens heavier moments across these tales, much like in Percy Jackson (SLJ often praises this balance in reviews).
Educational Benefits of Mythology and Culture
One reason I cherish these stories is their gateway to learning. Percy Jackson taught countless kids about Greek gods—Zeus, Athena, Hades—sparking curiosity I’ve seen firsthand with my young friend Amelia’s endless questions under the night sky. The Kane Chronicles and The Storm Runner open doors to Egyptian and Mayan cultures, while Aru Shah illuminates Hindu epics like the Mahabharata. Tristan Strong weaves African American folklore, a vital perspective often missing in fantasy, as noted by Kirkus reviews. These books build bridges to history and empathy, encouraging readers to research beyond the page. I’ve suggested them to educators for classroom discussions, pairing quests with cultural lessons—a quiet discovery as powerful as spotting a new star through my telescope.
Adaptations and Media Connections
Several series have leapt off the page. Percy Jackson itself saw a Disney+ series in 2023, reigniting fan love, while The School for Good and Evil became a 2022 Netflix film, though it drew mixed reviews for pacing (Goodreads forums often debate this). Aru Shah has been optioned for adaptation, per industry buzz, and Riordan’s works often get cinematic whispers. While Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow is new, its vivid celestial world screams visual potential—perhaps a future screen gem. Adaptations can draw reluctant readers to books, a trend I’ve noticed when kids beg to read the source after streaming. They’re a double-edged sword, though; purists grumble over changes, a sentiment I share when sipping tea by my cold metal telescope, missing a story’s original spark.
Common Tropes in These Series
Fans of Percy Jackson will spot familiar patterns across these picks. The “chosen one” trope reigns—think Percy’s demigod status or Amari’s rare magic—often paired with self-doubt that fuels growth. Hidden worlds, from Valhalla in Magnus Chase to the elven realms in Keeper of the Lost Cities, mirror Camp Half-Blood’s allure. Quests with ragtag teams, laced with humor, echo Percy’s journeys with Annabeth and Grover; Aru Shah and The Storm Runner nail this. Underdog heroes facing ancient evils, often with personal stakes like family or identity, tie them together too. I’ve mused over these patterns while scribbling notes by lantern light, struck by how they tap universal dreams of rising above, whether you’re a teen in Sundance or a demigod in New York.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What makes a book series similar to Percy Jackson? A: Core elements include young heroes discovering hidden worlds, often tied to mythology or magic, with humor, epic quests, and personal growth. Think relatable teens like Percy facing ancient forces while finding their strength.
Q: Are these series suitable for middle-grade readers? A: Most are aimed at ages 9–14, with mild fantasy peril and accessible prose. Check individual age guidance above, as some like Tristan Strong carry heavier emotional themes better for older middle-graders.
Q: Do I need to read Percy Jackson first? A: Not at all! Each series stands alone. Starting with Percy Jackson can provide context for tone and tropes, but diving into any—like Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow for a fresh 2026 take—works beautifully.
Q: Are there series with non-Western mythology like Percy Jackson? A: Yes! Aru Shah (Indian), The Storm Runner (Mayan), and Tristan Strong (African American folklore) offer diverse myths, expanding beyond Percy’s Greek roots with equal adventure.
Q: Where can I find a new series with celestial themes? A: For a modern twist, try Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark, blending stargazing and celestial myths with teen struggles, much like Percy’s blend of myth and modernity.
Q: Are there audiobooks for these series? A: Many, including The Kane Chronicles, Magnus Chase, and Keeper of the Lost Cities, are on Audible. Check platforms like Libby for library loans too—a great way to enjoy stories on stormy nights.
Q: Which series has the most humor like Percy Jackson? A: Riordan’s own Magnus Chase and The Kane Chronicles match Percy’s snark closely. Aru Shah also shines with witty banter, a trait fans adore.
As the rain eases outside my window, I hope this list lights a path to your next great read. These stories remind me of nights spent with my telescope, tracing constellations—each a quiet adventure waiting to unfold. Which series are you most eager to explore? Share your thoughts below, and for more on a standout tale, visit ameliamoon.com. Let’s keep the wonder alive together.