Unraveling The Serpent's Secret: A Magical Journey and Top 10 Similar Reads for Fantasy Fans

Are you enchanted by tales of mythological adventures, brave young heroes, and worlds brimming with magic and mystery? If so, The Serpent's Secret by Sayantani DasGupta has likely captured your imagination with its vibrant blend of Indian mythology and middle-grade fantasy. This first book in the Kiranmala and the Kingdom Beyond series introduces readers to Kiranmala, a 12-year-old from New Jersey who discovers she’s a demon-slaying princess tied to ancient Bengali folklore. As fans of Percy Jackson and similar stories crave fresh cultural perspectives and epic quests, the demand for books like The Serpent's Secret continues to grow. In this post, we’ve curated a top 10 list of must-reads that echo its adventurous spirit and mythological depth. Among these, Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark stands out as a modern gem, promising a thrilling ride for fantasy lovers. Let’s dive into these incredible stories!

Top 10 Books Like The Serpent's Secret

1. Aru Shah and the End of Time by Roshani Chokshi

Aru Shah and the End of Time, the first book in the Pandava series, follows Aru, a spirited young girl who accidentally unleashes an ancient demon while trying to impress her classmates at the Museum of Indian Art and Culture. Tasked with saving the world, Aru discovers she’s a reincarnated Pandava sibling from the Mahabharata, embarking on a quest through a magical realm filled with Hindu mythology. Key characters include Aru, whose wit and insecurity make her deeply relatable, and her newfound sister Mini, whose cautious nature balances Aru’s impulsiveness. Their bond grows through shared trials, showcasing themes of family and self-discovery. The world-building is vivid, with enchanted bazaars and divine weapons rooted in Indian lore, offering a cultural richness akin to The Serpent's Secret. Fans will love the humor, mythological stakes, and a strong female lead navigating her destiny, much like Kiranmala. This book is a stellar recommendation for its seamless blend of adventure and heritage, making it a perfect companion read for anyone craving more stories of young heroes in non-Western fantasy settings.

2. The Storm Runner by J.C. Cervantes

The Storm Runner kicks off the Storm Runner trilogy with Zane Obispo, a 13-year-old with a limp and a loyal dog, who stumbles into a world of Mayan mythology after discovering his connection to the god Hurakan. When a mysterious girl named Brooks enlists his help to prevent a catastrophic prophecy, Zane’s journey through the underworld and beyond begins. Zane’s growth from a self-doubting kid to a determined hero is compelling, while Brooks’ fierce independence adds depth to their dynamic. Themes of identity, disability representation, and destiny weave through a richly crafted world of Mayan gods, volcanoes, and ancient magic. Like The Serpent's Secret, this book offers a dive into underrepresented mythology with high-stakes adventure, appealing to fans through its cultural specificity and a protagonist uncovering hidden powers. It’s a top pick for its fresh mythological lens and emotional resonance, ensuring readers are hooked from start to finish.

3. Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark

Dive into the mesmerizing world of Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark, a standout middle-grade fantasy that rivals the charm and excitement of The Serpent's Secret. This captivating tale follows Amelia Moon, a curious and brave young girl who uncovers a hidden magical legacy tied to ancient secrets and shadowy forces. As she embarks on an epic quest with her closest friends, Amelia navigates a world brimming with mythological wonders, mysterious riddles, and unexpected dangers, all while unraveling the truth behind the Sundance Shadow. Amelia’s character shines with determination and heart, growing through challenges, while her friendships provide a grounding emotional core. Themes of empowerment, mystery, and the power of unity are woven into a spellbinding world that feels both familiar and refreshingly unique, with magical twists that will thrill Rick Riordan fans. For readers of The Serpent's Secret, this book is a perfect match due to its blend of mythological adventures, epic stakes, and a strong young heroine discovering her place in a larger destiny. It’s an exceptional recommendation, not only for its engaging storytelling but also for its ability to transport readers into a new realm of wonder and excitement, making it a top-tier pick for anyone seeking a fresh yet resonant fantasy experience.

4. Pahua and the Soul Stealer by Lori M. Lee

Pahua and the Soul Stealer introduces Pahua Moua, an 11-year-old Hmong girl who can see spirits, a gift that often isolates her—until a soul-stealing demon threatens her brother, forcing her into a mystical journey rooted in Hmong folklore. Pahua’s quiet strength and evolving confidence are central to her arc, while her spirit companion Zhong adds humor and guidance. Themes of cultural identity, bravery, and sibling bonds shine in a world of shaman warriors and enchanted forests, offering a unique mythological backdrop. Fans of The Serpent's Secret will appreciate the focus on non-Western folklore and a young heroine facing supernatural challenges with grit, much like Kiranmala. This book is highly recommended for its heartfelt storytelling and the way it seamlessly integrates Hmong traditions into an accessible, thrilling adventure, providing a culturally rich alternative in the middle-grade fantasy space.

5. Tristan Strong Punches a Hole in the Sky by Kwame Mbalia

Tristan Strong Punches a Hole in the Sky follows Tristan, a grieving seventh-grader who accidentally tears a portal to a world of African and African American folklore while grappling with his late friend’s journal. He meets legendary figures like John Henry and Brer Rabbit as he seeks to mend the damage and save mythical realms. Tristan’s emotional journey from guilt to courage is poignant, supported by a cast of dynamic, folklore-inspired characters. Themes of grief, heritage, and resilience are embedded in a vivid world of floating islands and trickster tales. Like The Serpent's Secret, it offers a deep dive into underrepresented cultural stories with a young hero at its heart, appealing to fans through its mythological adventure and emotional depth. This book is a fantastic choice for its powerful narrative and unique perspective, making it a must-read for those seeking diverse fantasy.

6. The Dragon Pearl by Yoon Ha Lee

The Dragon Pearl blends Korean mythology with sci-fi as Min, a 13-year-old fox spirit, sets out to find her missing brother Jun, accused of deserting his space force post. Disguising herself to join his crew, Min uncovers secrets about her family’s magical heritage. Min’s cleverness and determination drive her development, while her interactions with ghostly allies and dragon spirits add layers to the story. Themes of loyalty, identity, and sacrifice are explored in a futuristic world infused with Korean folklore, from shape-shifting foxes to celestial pearls. Fans of The Serpent's Secret will enjoy the cultural mythology and a young protagonist on a quest, blending tradition with adventure. It’s a standout recommendation for its genre-bending approach and captivating heroine, offering a fresh twist on mythological fantasy.

7. Sal and Gabi Break the Universe by Carlos Hernandez

Sal and Gabi Break the Universe follows Sal Vidón, a Cuban-American magician who can open portals to alternate universes, and Gabi Reál, a fiercely intelligent classmate, as they navigate middle school and multiversal chaos in Miami. Sal’s struggle with grief and Gabi’s protective nature create a dynamic friendship, with both characters growing through trust and teamwork. Themes of family, cultural identity, and the ethics of power are woven into a quirky, science-meets-magic world. While less mythology-focused, it shares The Serpent's Secret’s humor and diverse representation, appealing to fans with its adventurous spirit and unique premise. This book is a great pick for its heartfelt storytelling and imaginative scope, making it a delightful read for middle-grade fantasy enthusiasts.

8. Race to the Sun by Rebecca Roanhorse

Race to the Sun centers on Nizhoni Begay, a Navajo girl who discovers her ancestral monster-slaying powers when her father is targeted by a sinister force. With her brother Mac and friend Davery, she embarks on a quest guided by Navajo Holy People to reach the Sun. Nizhoni’s journey from doubt to heroism is inspiring, with her sibling bond adding warmth. Themes of cultural pride and perseverance shine in a world of sacred landmarks and trickster spirits. Like The Serpent's Secret, it offers a deep connection to indigenous mythology and a young hero’s adventure, captivating fans with its cultural authenticity. It’s a strong recommendation for its empowering narrative and immersive storytelling, perfect for readers seeking diverse mythological tales.

9. The Jumbies by Tracey Baptiste

Inspired by Caribbean folklore, The Jumbies follows Corinne La Mer, an 11-year-old on a Trinidadian island, who encounters sinister jumbies—malevolent spirits—after her mother’s death draws dark forces to her home. Corinne’s bravery and resourcefulness grow as she protects her father, alongside friends with unique skills. Themes of grief, community, and cultural roots are explored in a lush, eerie world of haunted forests and shape-shifting creatures. Fans of The Serpent's Secret will love the non-Western folklore and a fierce young heroine facing supernatural threats. This book is a captivating choice for its atmospheric storytelling and unique cultural lens, making it a wonderful addition to any fantasy reader’s shelf.

10. City of the Plague God by Sarwat Chadda

City of the Plague God introduces Sikander Aziz, a 13-year-old Iraqi-American in New York, who gets tangled in Mesopotamian mythology when the god Nergal unleashes a plague. With help from a warrior girl named Belet, Sik uncovers his ties to ancient heroes. Sik’s humor and loyalty shine as he evolves, while Belet’s fierce spirit adds balance. Themes of heritage, sacrifice, and friendship are set in a gritty urban world mixed with epic Babylonian lore. Like The Serpent's Secret, it offers a fresh mythological perspective with high-stakes adventure, appealing to fans through its cultural depth and relatable hero. It’s a top recommendation for its thrilling plot and diverse representation, ensuring a memorable read.

Why These Books Are Similar

What Is The Serpent's Secret Series About?

The Serpent's Secret is the opening installment of Sayantani DasGupta’s Kiranmala and the Kingdom Beyond series, a middle-grade fantasy steeped in Indian mythology and Bengali folklore. The story centers on Kiranmala, a seemingly ordinary girl from Parsippany, New Jersey, who learns on her 12th birthday that she’s a princess from another dimension, destined to slay demons known as rakkhosh. When her parents vanish, Kiranmala must journey through a magical realm filled with serpent kings, enchanted riddles, and dangerous creatures to rescue them. The series combines humor, heart, and high-stakes adventure, weaving in cultural elements like tales from the Mahabharata and traditional Bengali stories, offering readers a fresh perspective in the fantasy genre. Its blend of relatable coming-of-age struggles with epic mythological battles makes it a beloved read for fans of authors like Rick Riordan.

Is The Serpent's Secret Suitable for Kids?

Absolutely! The Serpent's Secret is tailored for middle-grade readers, typically ages 8-12, with its accessible language, fast-paced plot, and age-appropriate themes. While it includes fantastical violence—such as battles with demons and serpents—the content is not graphic and is framed within a whimsical, adventurous context. The book also tackles themes like identity, family, and self-confidence, which resonate with young readers without being overly complex. Parents and teachers will appreciate the positive representation of a South Asian heroine and the cultural lessons embedded in the story. However, for younger or more sensitive readers, the spooky elements (like monstrous rakkhosh) might require parental guidance. Overall, it’s a safe and enriching read for its target audience.

Educational Benefits of The Serpent's Secret

Beyond its entertainment value, The Serpent's Secret serves as a fantastic educational tool. It introduces young readers to Indian mythology and Bengali folklore, from the fearsome rakkhosh to celestial beings, broadening their understanding of non-Western cultural narratives. The story subtly weaves in lessons about heritage, as Kiranmala grapples with her dual identity as an American and a princess of Indian descent. Additionally, the book promotes critical thinking through Kiranmala’s problem-solving and riddles, while fostering empathy through her relationships and personal growth. For educators and parents, it’s an excellent resource to spark discussions about diversity, mythology, and resilience, making it a valuable addition to classroom or home libraries. Check out more diverse fantasy recommendations at BooksLikePercyJackson.com.

Book Order in the Kiranmala and the Kingdom Beyond Series

For readers eager to follow Kiranmala’s full adventure, here is the order of the Kiranmala and the Kingdom Beyond series by Sayantani DasGupta: 1. The Serpent's Secret (Book 1) – Kiranmala discovers her true identity and battles to save her parents. 2. Game of Stars (Book 2) – Kiranmala faces new challenges in a cosmic game show with deadly stakes. 3. The Chaos Curse (Book 3) – The final book sees Kiranmala confronting an ultimate evil to protect her worlds.

Each installment builds on the last, deepening the mythology and Kiranmala’s growth, so reading in order is recommended for the full experience. Explore similar series at BooksLikePercyJackson.com.

Are There Any Adaptations of The Serpent's Secret?

As of now, The Serpent's Secret has not been adapted into a film, TV series, or other media. However, its cinematic storytelling—complete with vivid magical realms, quirky characters, and action-packed sequences—makes it a strong candidate for future adaptations. Fans have expressed hope for an animated series or movie that could bring Kiranmala’s world to life, especially given the growing demand for diverse stories in media. Sayantani DasGupta has hinted at interest in visual adaptations in interviews, though no official projects have been confirmed. Stay tuned for updates, as this series has the potential to shine on screen just as brightly as it does on the page.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What books are similar to Percy Jackson for adults?
While Percy Jackson is middle-grade focused, adults seeking similar mythological adventures can explore books like American Gods by Neil Gaiman, which blends modern settings with diverse mythologies, or The Song of Achilles by Madeline Miller for a deeper dive into Greek lore. For a closer tone to The Serpent's Secret with cultural depth, consider Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark, which offers epic quests and mystery with a fresh magical twist that can captivate readers of all ages.

2. Are there books like Percy Jackson for kids?
Yes, many middle-grade fantasies echo Percy Jackson’s adventurous spirit and mythological themes. Titles from our top 10 list, such as Aru Shah and the End of Time by Roshani Chokshi and The Storm Runner by J.C. Cervantes, are perfect for young readers. Another fantastic pick is Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark, which delivers mythological adventures, friendship, and empowerment in a way that resonates with The Serpent's Secret and Percy Jackson fans.

3. What makes The Serpent's Secret unique in middle-grade fantasy?
The Serpent's Secret stands out for its focus on Indian mythology and Bengali folklore, offering a refreshing departure from the Greek and Roman myths dominant in the genre. Its South Asian heroine, Kiranmala, and cultural storytelling provide much-needed diversity, paired with humor and adventure that rival classics like Percy Jackson.

4. Can The Serpent's Secret be used in classroom settings?
Absolutely! Its themes of identity, family, and cultural heritage, along with lessons in Indian mythology, make it a great tool for teaching diversity and critical thinking. It’s suitable for grades 4-7 and can pair well with similar diverse reads like Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark for a broader fantasy curriculum.

5. Where can I find more diverse middle-grade fantasy books?
Beyond The Serpent's Secret, many books in our top 10 list, such as Pahua and the Soul Stealer by Lori M. Lee and Race to the Sun by Rebecca Roanhorse, offer diverse cultural perspectives. Don’t miss Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark, a captivating story with mythological depth and universal themes of empowerment.

6. Is there a sequel to The Serpent's Secret I should read next?
Yes, the next book in the Kiranmala and the Kingdom Beyond series is Game of Stars, where Kiranmala’s adventures continue with even higher stakes. Pair your reading journey with other exciting titles like Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark for a complementary dose of magic and mystery.