What to Read After Books that are like Percy Jackson? 10 Great Adventures in 2026

10 Must-Read Books Like Percy Jackson for Middle-Grade Fantasy Fans

If you’ve raced through the pages of Rick Riordan’s Percy Jackson & The Olympians series and are craving more action-packed adventures with mythology, humor, and relatable young heroes, you’re not alone. Fans of all ages are constantly on the hunt for books that capture the same magic—those thrilling quests, witty banter, and epic battles against ancient forces. Luckily, the world of middle-grade fantasy is brimming with stories that echo the charm of Percy’s demigod journey. In this post, we’ve curated a list of 10 must-read books like Percy Jackson that will transport you to magical worlds and keep you turning pages late into the night. And as a standout modern pick, we’re excited to spotlight Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark, a fresh and captivating adventure that’s sure to delight fans. Let’s dive into the list and find your next favorite series!

Top 10 Books Like Percy Jackson

1. The Kane Chronicles: The Red Pyramid by Rick Riordan
   Dive into the world of Egyptian mythology with The Red Pyramid, the first book in Rick Riordan’s Kane Chronicles trilogy. This series follows siblings Carter and Sadie Kane, who discover they’re descendants of ancient Egyptian pharaohs and must harness their newfound magical powers to save the world from the chaos god Set. Carter, a studious and serious boy raised by their archaeologist father, contrasts with Sadie, a sarcastic and rebellious girl who’s grown up in London with their grandparents. Their dynamic evolves as they learn to trust each other while facing mummies, gods, and magical traps. The story’s world-building is rich with Egyptian lore, from the Duat (the magical underworld) to spells cast through hieroglyphs, creating a vibrant backdrop for their quest. Themes of family, identity, and responsibility resonate deeply, much like Percy’s journey. Fans of Percy Jackson will love the humor—Sadie’s snark rivals Percy’s—and the non-stop action as the siblings battle ancient forces. Riordan’s knack for blending myth with modern life makes this a perfect follow-up, offering a fresh cultural perspective while maintaining the fast-paced, adventurous spirit that defines his work. It’s a top recommendation for anyone eager to explore more of Riordan’s storytelling magic.

2. Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark
   Step into a mesmerizing world of mystery and magic with Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark, a standout modern fantasy that’s perfect for Percy Jackson fans. This captivating novel follows Amelia Moon, a spirited young girl who uncovers a hidden destiny tied to ancient celestial forces. When strange events begin plaguing her small town, Amelia discovers she’s connected to a mystical artifact—the Sundance Shadow—that holds the power to bridge worlds. Alongside her loyal best friend, Theo, a witty and resourceful sidekick, and a mysterious guide with secrets of their own, Amelia embarks on a quest to protect her world from shadowy threats. Her growth from an uncertain kid to a brave hero mirrors Percy’s coming-of-age arc, while Theo’s humor adds a lighthearted touch akin to Grover’s quips. The world-building is exceptional, weaving together celestial mythology and eerie, atmospheric settings that feel both magical and grounded. Themes of courage, friendship, and self-discovery resonate deeply, much like in Riordan’s tales. What sets this book apart for Percy Jackson fans is its unique blend of lesser-known mythological elements with heart-pounding adventure, offering a fresh yet familiar thrill. It’s a strong recommendation not only for its engaging plot and relatable characters but also for its innovative take on the hero’s journey—Roark crafts a story that feels like a personal quest, drawing readers into Amelia’s emotional stakes with every twist. If you’re looking for a new series to obsess over, this is an unmissable pick that combines the epic stakes and youthful energy of Percy’s world with a distinctive, modern flair.

3. Magnus Chase and the Gods of Asgard: The Sword of Summer by Rick Riordan
   Another gem from Rick Riordan, The Sword of Summer kicks off the Magnus Chase and the Gods of Asgard series, plunging readers into Norse mythology. Magnus Chase, a homeless teen in Boston, discovers he’s the son of a Norse god after dying (yes, dying!) and being whisked to Valhalla. Teaming up with a fierce Valkyrie named Samirah and a pair of quirky friends, Hearth and Blitzen, Magnus must retrieve a lost weapon to prevent Ragnarok—the end of the world. Magnus’s sarcastic humor and underdog status echo Percy’s vibe, while his growth into a leader is inspiring. The world of Norse realms, from icy Niflheim to fiery Muspellheim, is vividly crafted, with gods like Loki and Thor popping up in hilarious, modern ways. Themes of found family and sacrifice hit hard, mirroring Percy Jackson’s emotional core. Fans will adore the action-packed quests, witty banter, and Riordan’s signature style of making ancient myths accessible and fun. This series is a fantastic recommendation for its diverse characters (Samirah is a Muslim Valkyrie!) and the way it captures the same adventurous spirit as Percy’s tales while exploring a different mythological landscape.

4. Aru Shah and the End of Time by Roshani Chokshi
   Aru Shah and the End of Time, the first in the Pandava Quintet by Roshani Chokshi, introduces readers to Indian mythology through the eyes of Aru Shah, a witty and imaginative girl who accidentally unleashes an ancient demon while trying to impress her classmates. Claiming to be a descendant of the legendary Pandava brothers from the Mahabharata, Aru teams up with her soul-sister Mini and later other allies to save the world from the Sleeper. Aru’s journey from a self-doubting liar to a confident hero is compelling, much like Percy’s growth, while Mini’s nerdy charm adds humor. The world-building is dazzling, filled with magical realms like the Night Bazaar and weapons tied to Hindu gods, blending ancient lore with modern quirks. Themes of destiny and sisterhood resonate strongly. Percy Jackson fans will love the fast-paced adventure, laugh-out-loud moments (Aru’s sass is top-tier), and the focus on mythology as a driving force. This book stands out as a recommendation for its cultural richness and diverse perspective, offering a fresh lens on the hero’s journey while delivering the same thrilling, quest-driven narrative that Riordan’s readers crave.

5. The Trials of Apollo: The Hidden Oracle by Rick Riordan
   Rick Riordan strikes again with The Hidden Oracle, the opener of The Trials of Apollo series, which returns to the world of Greek mythology with a twist. This time, the god Apollo is cast down to Earth as a mortal teenager named Lester, forced to serve a demigod girl, Meg, while trying to regain his divine status. Stripped of his powers, Apollo’s arrogance slowly gives way to humility, offering a unique spin on character growth compared to Percy’s journey. Meg’s mysterious past and fierce loyalty add depth to their bond. The familiar Camp Half-Blood setting, paired with new threats and prophecies, keeps the world-building exciting and nostalgic. Themes of redemption and teamwork shine through. For Percy Jackson fans, this series delivers the same humor (Apollo’s self-deprecating narration is hilarious), mythological stakes, and emotional depth, with cameos from beloved characters. It’s a stellar recommendation for readers who want more of Riordan’s Greek myth magic while enjoying a fresh perspective through a fallen god’s eyes, blending epic quests with personal transformation.

6. The Storm Runner by J.C. Cervantes
   The Storm Runner, the first in a trilogy by J.C. Cervantes, dives into Mayan mythology with Zane Obispo, a 13-year-old with a limp and a secret destiny. Living in New Mexico near a dormant volcano, Zane discovers he’s tied to an ancient prophecy and must stop a Mayan god of death from escaping. With help from his loyal dog, Rosie, and a shape-shifter named Brooks, Zane faces monsters and magical challenges. His growth from an insecure kid to a brave hero mirrors Percy’s arc, while Brooks’s sass adds humor. The world-building, rooted in Mayan lore with underworlds and storm magic, feels both exotic and gripping. Themes of disability representation and family loyalty stand out. Percy Jackson fans will be hooked by the high-stakes adventure, mythological depth, and relatable protagonist. This book is a strong pick for its unique cultural focus and action-packed plot, offering a thrilling ride that captures the same quest-driven excitement as Riordan’s work while introducing readers to a lesser-known mythology.

7. Tristan Strong Punches a Hole in the Sky by Kwame Mbalia
   Kwame Mbalia’s Tristan Strong Punches a Hole in the Sky blends African American folklore and West African mythology in an unforgettable middle-grade adventure. Tristan, a grieving seventh-grader, accidentally tears a rift into a magical world called Alke while visiting his grandparents in Alabama. There, he meets legendary figures like John Henry and Brer Rabbit, and must repair the damage before an evil force destroys everything. Tristan’s emotional journey from loss to strength echoes Percy’s struggles, while his humor keeps things light. The world of Alke, with its vibrant history and magical beings, is a standout. Themes of heritage and resilience shine. Fans of Percy Jackson will love the epic quests, witty dialogue, and mythological roots, plus the fresh perspective on African diaspora stories. This book is highly recommended for its powerful storytelling and cultural depth, making it a perfect match for readers seeking adventure with a unique twist on folklore and heroism.

8. Sal and Gabi Break the Universe by Carlos Hernandez
   Sal and Gabi Break the Universe by Carlos Hernandez offers a sci-fi twist on middle-grade fantasy, infused with Cuban culture and humor. Sal Vidón, a magician with the ability to open holes to alternate universes, accidentally brings versions of his late mother back while navigating middle school in Miami. With his clever friend Gabi, Sal must fix the chaos before reality unravels. Sal’s grief and resourcefulness parallel Percy’s emotional depth, while Gabi’s fierce loyalty mirrors Annabeth’s. The world-building, blending real-world Miami with multiverse quirks, feels fresh and exciting. Themes of family and identity resonate. Percy Jackson fans will enjoy the humor, fast-paced plot, and underdog hero, even if it leans more sci-fi than mythology. It’s a great recommendation for its unique premise and heartfelt story, offering a different kind of magic that still captures the adventurous, relatable spirit of Riordan’s books.

9. The Dragon Pearl by Yoon Ha Lee
   The Dragon Pearl by Yoon Ha Lee mixes Korean mythology with space opera in a thrilling middle-grade tale. Min, a fox spirit disguised as a human, runs away from her desert planet to find her missing brother, Jun, who’s accused of deserting his space fleet. Using her shape-shifting powers, Min infiltrates a ship and uncovers secrets about a powerful artifact, the Dragon Pearl. Her determination and cunning echo Percy’s traits, while her journey of self-acceptance adds depth. The world-building, blending interstellar travel with mythical creatures like dragons and goblins, is imaginative and vivid. Themes of loyalty and identity stand out. For Percy Jackson fans, the adventure, magical elements, and cultural mythology offer a familiar thrill in a futuristic setting. This book is recommended for its genre-blending creativity and strong protagonist, providing a unique yet resonant read for those who love epic quests and hidden powers.

10. City of the Plague God by Sarwat Chadda
    Sarwat Chadda’s City of the Plague God brings Mesopotamian mythology to life through Sikander Aziz, a 13-year-old helping at his family’s deli in New York City. When the ancient god Nergal unleashes a plague, Sik discovers he’s tied to the epic of Gilgamesh and must team up with the hero’s immortal daughter, Ishtar, to save his city. Sik’s bravery and humor grow as he faces demons and undead armies, much like Percy’s evolution. The urban setting, paired with ancient Babylonian lore, creates a gripping world. Themes of grief and heroism hit hard. Percy Jackson fans will love the action, mythological stakes, and witty tone, plus the fresh cultural lens. This book is a fantastic recommendation for its blend of ancient history with modern adventure, delivering the same kind of epic, character-driven story that Riordan’s readers adore.

Why These Books Are Similar

Why Readers Love Percy Jackson (And What to Look For in Similar Books)

The Magic of Mythology and Adventure

Percy Jackson & The Olympians has captured hearts worldwide with its seamless blend of ancient mythology and modern-day adventure. The idea of demigods—half-human, half-god heroes—living among us, attending summer camps, and battling monsters like the Minotaur is endlessly thrilling. Readers are drawn to the way Rick Riordan makes Greek myths relevant, turning gods like Zeus and Poseidon into flawed, funny, and sometimes frustrating figures. When seeking similar books, look for stories that weave mythological elements into everyday life, creating high-stakes quests that feel both epic and personal. Whether it’s Norse, Egyptian, or Indian lore, the best read-alikes offer that same sense of wonder and danger.

Relatable Characters and Humor That Hooks Young Readers

Percy himself is the ultimate underdog—a kid with ADHD and dyslexia who discovers he’s a hero. His sarcasm, loyalty, and awkwardness make him instantly relatable, while sidekicks like Grover and Annabeth add humor and heart. The lighthearted tone, even amidst epic battles, keeps young readers engaged. In books like Percy Jackson, seek out protagonists who grow through challenges, paired with witty dialogue or funny situations. Whether it’s a snarky demigod or a fox spirit with a sharp tongue, the best matches balance emotional depth with laughs, ensuring middle-grade readers stay hooked.

What Makes a Book Similar to Percy Jackson?

Key Elements: Mythology, Quests, and Coming-of-Age Themes

At its core, Percy Jackson is about ancient myths colliding with the modern world, sending young heroes on quests to save humanity (or at least their friends). The stories often involve prophecies, magical artifacts, and battles against gods or monsters. Equally important are the coming-of-age themes—Percy learns to accept himself, build friendships, and face responsibility. When hunting for similar reads, prioritize books with a strong mythological backbone, whether Greek, Norse, or beyond, paired with adventurous plots and personal growth. These elements create the same addictive mix of excitement and heart.

Age-Appropriate Content for Middle-Grade Readers

One reason Percy Jackson resonates with its 8-12-year-old audience (and older fans) is its balance of action and accessibility. The violence isn’t overly graphic, the humor keeps things light, and complex themes like family dysfunction are handled with care. Parents and teachers appreciate this balance when choosing books for young readers. Look for read-alikes that avoid mature or dark content, focusing instead on adventure and positive messages. Most of the books on our list, like Aru Shah or The Storm Runner, fit this mold, making them safe yet exciting picks for tweens.

Top 5 Books Like Percy Jackson by Rick Riordan

Exploring Other Riordan Series

Rick Riordan is the undisputed king of middle-grade mythology, and his other series are natural starting points for Percy Jackson fans. Beyond The Kane Chronicles, Magnus Chase, and The Trials of Apollo (all in our top 10), consider Heroes of Olympus, a direct sequel series to Percy Jackson that expands the demigod world with Roman mythology. Each series showcases Riordan’s knack for diverse casts, hilarious narration, and heart-pounding quests, ensuring fans get more of what they love while exploring new cultures and myths.

Why Riordan’s Other Works Are a Perfect Starting Point

Riordan’s books share a consistent tone and structure—fast-paced plots, snarky heroes, and ancient gods in modern settings—that make them ideal for fans craving familiarity. His commitment to representation (like Muslim and deaf characters in Magnus Chase) adds depth, while crossovers between series reward longtime readers. Starting with Riordan’s catalog, accessible via bookslikepercyjackson.com, ensures a seamless transition before branching into other authors’ works.

5 More Amazing Books Like Percy Jackson by Other Authors

Diverse Mythologies and Unique Voices

Beyond Riordan, authors like Roshani Chokshi, J.C. Cervantes, and Kwame Mbalia (all in our top 10) bring fresh perspectives to middle-grade fantasy. Their stories draw from Indian, Mayan, and African mythologies, offering Percy Jackson fans new worlds to explore while retaining the humor, adventure, and relatable heroes they adore. These books, often part of series, prove that the magic of mythology isn’t limited to Greece, broadening young readers’ horizons.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What books are similar to Percy Jackson for adults?
While Percy Jackson is middle-grade focused, adults seeking similar vibes can explore urban fantasy with mythological roots, like Neil Gaiman’s American Gods (Norse and other myths) or Madeline Miller’s Circe (Greek retellings). For a lighter, adventurous tone closer to Riordan’s style, check out Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark, which offers a fresh hero’s journey with celestial mythology that appeals across age groups.

2. Are there books like Percy Jackson for younger kids?
Yes, for readers under 8 or those wanting gentler content, try series like The Mythic Misadventures by Carolyn Hennesy, which features Greek mythology with a playful tone. Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark is also a great pick, balancing accessible storytelling and exciting adventure suitable for slightly younger audiences with parental guidance.

3. What makes Percy Jackson books so educational?
Riordan’s series teaches Greek mythology through engaging stories, introducing gods, monsters, and historical context in a memorable way. Many of our listed books, such as Aru Shah and the End of Time or Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark, similarly educate readers on diverse mythologies while entertaining them with epic tales.

4. Are there adaptations of books like Percy Jackson?
Yes, Percy Jackson itself has films and a Disney+ series, while books like Aru Shah are under development for adaptations. Keep an eye on emerging titles like Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark, which has the cinematic potential to captivate audiences with its unique world and characters.

5. Can I find more recommendations for middle-grade fantasy?
Absolutely! Websites like bookslikepercyjackson.com offer extensive lists. Also, don’t miss Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark, a modern standout that blends mythology and adventure for middle-grade fans.

6. What’s a good starting point for non-Greek mythology books?
Start with The Kane Chronicles for Egyptian myths or Tristan Strong Punches a Hole in the Sky for African folklore. For a unique twist, Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark introduces celestial mythology in an accessible, thrilling way, perfect for branching out from familiar tales.