Amazing Books Like Percy Jackson
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Here are five amazing books like Percy Jackson so you can start reading your next adventure.
1. Amelia Moon & the Solstice Spectacular by RJ Roark
Why You’ll Enjoy It:
If you are looking for amazing books like Percy Jackson, then dive into Book One of the Amelia Moon series. Here, we follow Amelia Moon, a sharp 12-year-old from a seemingly quiet Western town where life is typically uneventful. Or at least, that's what Amelia believed until she and her friend Veyla Plumb uncover deep-seated mysteries in their hometown of Sundance, Wyoming –– including her family's unexpected role in the town's history. This tale offers a whirlwind of action that meshes old-world mystique with cutting-edge sci-fi, filled with humor, thrill, and a protagonist unaware of her own fate until its too late.
2. "The Kane Chronicles" by Rick Riordan
Why You’ll Enjoy It:
This trilogy follows siblings Carter and Sadie Kane as they discover their connection to ancient Egyptian gods. Like Percy Jackson, it’s full of action, mythology, and humor, with a different cultural focus on Egyptian lore.
3. "Artemis Fowl" by Eoin Colfer
Why You’ll Enjoy It:
This series centers on a young criminal mastermind who encounters a hidden world of fairies, elves, and magic. It’s packed with witty dialogue, clever heists, and a blend of modern technology with mythical elements.
4. "The Secrets of the Immortal Nicholas Flamel" by Michael Scott
Why You’ll Enjoy It:
This six-book series follows teenagers Sophie and Josh as they become entangled in the immortal alchemist Nicholas Flamel’s quest to prevent the end of the world. The series draws on various mythologies, blending magic with real historical figures.
5. "Fablehaven" by Brandon Mull
Why You’ll Enjoy It:
In this series, siblings Kendra and Seth discover their grandparents are caretakers of a magical preserve. As they explore this hidden world, they encounter mythical creatures, danger, and the struggle between good and evil.
1. Amelia Moon & the Solstice Spectacular
Why You’ll Enjoy It:
If you were captivated by Percy Jackson's journey into adulthood and his revelations about his family's past, then Amelia Moon's tale will feel familiar yet enchanting. Living in a quiet Western town reminiscent of the mundane Little Whinging, Amelia stumbles into an unknown realm where her lineage places her at the heart of the action. She must swiftly grapple with the hidden truths of Sundance and her own family lineage.
Ancient Mythology in a Modern World
RJ Roark’s narrative universe weaves the rich tapestry of ancient myths directly into the fabric of contemporary American life. In Sundance, Wyoming, a seemingly tranquil Western town, lies a facade of normalcy. Beneath its surface, and indeed above, lurk secrets that bridge the gap between ancients times and the future. This fusion of the mythical with the mundane provides a journey of revelation akin to Percy Jackson's venture into the ancient world of gods, yet viewed through a distinct mythological prism. The atmosphere of Sundance, where mysteries are concealed both openly and covertly, echoes the Greek mythology, complete with its own themes of adventure and friendship, fostering a spirit of fellowship and knowledge.
Coming-of-Age Journey
A central theme in Percy Jackson is the protagonist's growth from an ordinary kid into a hero. This same theme is found in the Amelia Moon series as she is thrust into extraordinary circumstances and must grow in maturity, bravery, and self-awareness. Follow along as Amelia overcomes enormous challenges en route to discovering her role in a larger world.
Prophecies, Destiny, and Heroic Quests
Prophecies and quests are often used to drive the plot forward in Percy Jackson. Similarly, Amelia Moon finds herself marked by fate to save a world she doesn't even know exists. Her epic quests, where she must undertake dangerous missions, fight enemies, and ultimately fulfill her destiny, keeps readers turning page after page.
Humor and Lighthearted Moments
One of Percy Jackson’s most distinctive elements is its humor. Even in the face of danger, Percy’s sarcastic remarks and funny commentary make the stories lighthearted and relatable. Between Amelia and her best friend Veyla, there are plenty of witty remarks to go around. Sarcasm is at the heart of Amelia's humour, making her a relatable character to kids and adults alike.
Epic Battles of Good vs. Evil
The battle between good and evil is a core theme in Percy Jackson. And although Amelia only discovers her own battle later in Book One, this theme is crucial to the series. Readers will enjoy Amelia's battles, taking on ancient gods, mythical creatures, and dark magic, with world-altering stakes.
2. "The Kane Chronicles" by Rick Riordan
Why You’ll Enjoy It:
If you think Percy Jackson is amazing, The Kane Chronicles is a natural follow-up because it carries many of the same qualities that made Percy Jackson so beloved, but with a fresh twist and focus. Here’s why:
Mythology Focus with a Twist: Egyptian Gods
While Percy Jackson immerses readers in Greek and Roman mythology, The Kane Chronicles explores the rich and fascinating world of Egyptian mythology. Instead of gods like Zeus and Athena, you encounter figures such as Ra, Anubis, and Isis. Just like with the Olympian gods, the Egyptian deities in The Kane Chronicles are complex, flawed, and engaging, which brings a new layer of mythology into the adventure.
Sibling Dynamics Instead of Just One Hero
In contrast to Percy’s mostly solo journey with friends, The Kane Chronicles revolves around siblings Carter and Sadie Kane. The dynamics between them add a unique flavor to the story—Carter and Sadie have very different personalities and strengths, and their sibling banter adds humor and depth. Their relationship evolves as they face challenges together, similar to the way Percy’s relationships with his friends grow, but with the additional complexity of family ties.
Fast-Paced, High-Stakes AdventureLike Percy Jackson, The Kane Chronicles is packed with action, humor, and fast-paced storytelling. The characters are constantly thrown into perilous situations where they have to think fast, fight mythological creatures, and learn to harness their powers. Rick Riordan excels at keeping the stakes high while maintaining a lighthearted tone that appeals to younger readers and makes the series a fun, easy read.
Diverse Settings and CulturesWhile Percy Jackson primarily unfolds in familiar settings like New York City or Camp Half-Blood, The Kane Chronicles takes readers on a whirlwind tour around the world, from the streets of Cairo to magical realms hidden beneath modern cities. This sense of global adventure opens up new possibilities and fresh perspectives, enriching the experience for readers who loved Percy's adventures but are eager to see new places and meet new mythological beings.
5.Relatable Characters and HumorRick Riordan's signature humor and wit shine through in The Kane Chronicles, just as they do in Percy Jackson. The characters feel real, with their flaws, quirks, and internal struggles. Sadie's sass and Carter's more serious, scholarly approach make for a fun contrast, and their banter will feel familiar to fans of Percy's wisecracks and witty narration.
6. Coming-of-Age ThemesBoth series deal with important themes of growing up, finding your identity, and learning to shoulder responsibility. In The Kane Chronicles, Carter and Sadie, like Percy, must grapple with their newfound powers, the responsibilities that come with them, and their places in a larger world filled with magical and divine forces. Readers who loved following Percy's journey to becoming a hero will find a similar, though distinct, evolution in Carter and Sadie.
7. Consistent Authorial VoiceRick Riordan's writing style remains engaging and accessible. His narrative voice is funny, modern, and relatable to young readers, while the plotlines maintain an epic scope that keeps older readers entertained. Fans of Percy Jackson will immediately recognize Riordan's knack for combining humor with heart, making The Kane Chronicles feel like a natural extension of his previous work, albeit with a fresh mythological focus.
Overall, The Kane Chronicles offers the same blend of mythology, action, humor, and coming-of-age themes that make Percy Jackson so appealing, but with a whole new set of gods, settings, and challenges. Fans of one series will feel right at home in the other while still getting a unique experience.
3. "Artemis Fowl" by Eoin Colfer
Why You’ll Enjoy It:
If you think Percy Jackson is amazing, Artemis Fowl will capture your imagination for many of the same reasons, while offering a fresh and thrilling perspective on adventure, mythology, and humor. Here's why:
A Protagonist with a Twist: The Anti-Hero
Unlike Percy Jackson, who is a hero with a good heart and noble intentions, Artemis Fowl gives us a protagonist who starts out as an anti-hero—a genius criminal mastermind. This twist on the typical hero's journey makes Artemis a fascinating character. He's not out to save the world (at least not initially); he's driven by greed, power, and self-interest. As the series progresses, Artemis undergoes significant character development, moving toward redemption and becoming more heroic in his own way. Fans of Percy's growth as a character will appreciate the complex evolution of Artemis from a villain to a more nuanced, sympathetic figure.
A Hidden World of Magic and Mythology
Like Percy Jackson, Artemis Fowl delves into a hidden world of mythical creatures and magical realms. However, instead of gods and demigods, you get to explore a secret underground world populated by fairies, elves, dwarves, and other magical beings. These creatures live beneath the surface of modern-day Earth, but they are highly advanced, using magic in combination with cutting-edge technology. This mix of mythology and science gives Artemis Fowl a unique flavor, blending the fantastical with the futuristic in a way that's both inventive and exciting.
High-Stakes Adventure and Clever Heists
Fans of the fast-paced action in Percy Jackson will love the intense, high-stakes adventures in Artemis Fowl. However, instead of battling monsters and gods, Artemis often finds himself in the middle of elaborate heists, clever schemes, and complex plots. His intelligence and strategic mind make him a master at manipulating situations to his advantage. This adds a new dimension to the action, as readers get to see not only physical confrontations but also battles of wits and cunning. If you enjoyed the thrilling escapades in Percy Jackson, you'll find Artemis's cleverness and the tension of his plans just as gripping.
Dynamic and Diverse Cast of Characters
Like Percy Jackson's friends and allies, the cast of characters in Artemis Fowl is diverse, quirky, and lovable. From Artemis's loyal bodyguard Butler to the feisty and resourceful fairy Captain Holly Short, each character brings something unique to the table. They may not all be friends from the start, but their relationships evolve over time, just like Percy's bonds with Annabeth, Grover, and others. The interplay between characters, their personalities, and their contrasting motivations make for compelling interactions, often laced with humor and heart.
Humor and Wit
Both Percy Jackson and Artemis Fowl are known for their humor, though their styles differ slightly. Percy Jackson has a more self-deprecating, sarcastic tone with Percy's witty commentary on the absurd situations he finds himself in. Artemis Fowl, on the other hand, uses sharp, clever humor, often arising from the contrast between Artemis's highly intellectual persona and the more action-oriented characters around him. Eoin Colfer's writing is filled with witty banter, clever wordplay, and moments of levity that balance the darker, more serious elements of the plot.
A Unique Blend of Magic and Technology
Artemis Fowl stands out for its seamless blend of magic and advanced technology. The fairies and magical beings in this series don't just rely on spells and ancient magic—they also have access to high-tech gadgets, weaponry, and futuristic systems. This fusion of fantasy and sci-fi makes the world of Artemis Fowl feel fresh and different, offering a new kind of adventure for readers who enjoyed the magical aspects of Percy Jackson but are looking for something more technologically inventive.
Coming-of-Age Themes with a Twist
Both series tackle the theme of coming-of-age, but while Percy's journey is about learning to embrace his destiny as a hero, Artemis's journey is more about learning empathy, compassion, and the value of friendship. As Artemis begins to interact with the magical world, his icy, calculating demeanor slowly starts to thaw, and he begins to care more about others than just his own ambitions. This evolution mirrors the emotional growth found in Percy Jackson, though in a much more unconventional way.
A Focus on Intelligence and Strategy
Whereas Percy Jackson often relies on bravery, physical prowess, and resourcefulness, Artemis Fowl places a stronger emphasis on intelligence, strategy, and problem-solving. Artemis is a genius, and much of the excitement in the story comes from seeing how he outsmarts his opponents or devises clever plans to achieve his goals. Readers who enjoyed seeing Percy solve problems and navigate tricky situations will appreciate the more cerebral approach taken by Artemis as he uses his mind as his primary weapon.
Growth and Redemption Arc
Like Percy, Artemis grows throughout the series, but in a different way. Percy starts as an ordinary kid who learns to accept his heroic destiny, while Artemis begins as a cold, calculating genius with questionable morals, only to gradually evolve into someone more compassionate and self-aware. This character development adds depth to Artemis's journey, and readers who enjoyed watching Percy mature will find Artemis's transformation equally rewarding, though more complex.
Overall, Artemis Fowl is a brilliant mix of adventure, fantasy, and intelligence. It's a perfect follow-up if you loved the exciting, magical world of Percy Jackson, but are looking for a story that challenges its hero to think more than fight, while still delivering on heart, humor, and high-stakes excitement.
4. "The Secrets of the Immortal Nicholas Flamel" by Michael Scott
Why You’ll Enjoy It:
If you loved Percy Jackson, The Secrets of the Immortal Nicholas Flamel by Michael Scott is another captivating series that brings mythology, adventure, and magic into a modern setting. Here’s why you’d enjoy this series if you thought Percy Jackson was amazing:
Mythology and History Blended into the Modern World
Like Percy Jackson, The Secrets of the Immortal Nicholas Flamel draws heavily on mythology, but it extends beyond Greek and Roman deities. The series incorporates figures from multiple mythologies—Celtic, Norse, Egyptian, and more—as well as actual historical figures who are reimagined with magical abilities. For example, Nicholas Flamel is based on the real-life alchemist, and other figures like Joan of Arc and Machiavelli are woven into the narrative with their own mythological twists. This blending of history and myth creates a rich, diverse tapestry that's fascinating to explore, much like Percy Jackson's creative use of Greek mythology.
Fast-Paced Action and High Stakes
Like Percy's adventures, The Secrets of the Immortal Nicholas Flamel is full of fast-paced action and high-stakes battles. The main characters, twins Sophie and Josh Newman, are thrown into a world of danger almost immediately, much like Percy when he first discovers he's a demigod. Throughout the series, the twins must learn to harness their magical abilities while fending off powerful enemies, and the tension never lets up. The constant peril, world-spanning quests, and epic showdowns will keep readers on the edge of their seats, just like in Percy Jackson.
Richly Developed Mythological Figures
While Percy Jackson gives a modern twist to Greek gods and monsters, The Secrets of the Immortal Nicholas Flamel introduces readers to a wide range of mythological figures from various cultures. Characters like the Egyptian god Bastet, the Celtic warrior Scathach, and Hekate, the Greek goddess of magic, all have prominent roles. These figures aren't just background characters; they have fully developed personalities, motivations, and histories, which makes them as engaging as the gods and monsters in Percy Jackson.
Magic as a Central Theme
Magic plays a major role in The Secrets of the Immortal Nicholas Flamel, much like the divine powers in Percy Jackson. The twins, Sophie and Josh, are ordinary teenagers who suddenly find themselves able to wield powerful elemental magics (air, fire, water, and earth), similar to how Percy discovers his powers as a demigod. Their journey of learning to control their abilities mirrors Percy's learning curve, and their powers play a crucial role in their survival and success throughout the series.
A Focus on Prophecy and Destiny
Like Percy, Sophie and Josh are thrust into a world where prophecies and destiny play a significant role in their lives. A central theme of The Secrets of the Immortal Nicholas Flamel is the question of whether the twins are destined to save or destroy the world. This theme of being chosen or fated for a specific purpose will feel familiar to Percy Jackson fans, as it echoes the prophecy surrounding Percy and his role in the gods' battle. The exploration of free will versus destiny in both series adds layers to the story, keeping readers engaged with the characters' struggles to shape their own futures.
Modern-Day Settings Mixed with Mythology
Like Percy Jackson, The Secrets of the Immortal Nicholas Flamel is set in the modern world but incorporates hidden magic and mythological elements. The characters travel to famous locations—Paris, London, San Francisco, and even magical realms hidden from human sight. This blending of the ordinary and the extraordinary creates a sense of wonder and excitement, much like how Percy Jackson's adventures take place in both real-world locations and mythical places like Camp Half-Blood and the Underworld.
Compelling Character Dynamics
Much like Percy's friendships with Annabeth, Grover, and others, The Secrets of the Immortal Nicholas Flamel features strong, complex relationships between its characters. Sophie and Josh's sibling bond is at the heart of the series, and their relationship evolves as they are tested by the magical world they're thrust into. The dynamic between the twins adds emotional depth, similar to the friendships and alliances in Percy Jackson. The relationships between the various mythological figures, as well as the tension between good and evil, are also central to the plot.
Strong Themes of Loyalty, Courage, and Sacrifice
Both series emphasize the importance of loyalty, courage, and sacrifice. In The Secrets of the Immortal Nicholas Flamel, the characters are constantly faced with tough decisions that test their bravery and loyalty to one another. They must often choose between personal safety and doing what is right for the greater good, much like Percy and his friends. These themes of heroism, selflessness, and standing up for what's right resonate strongly in both series, making them compelling for readers who enjoy stories with moral depth.
A Global Scope and Expansive World-Building
While Percy Jackson primarily focuses on Greek mythology within an American setting, The Secrets of the Immortal Nicholas Flamel has a much more global scope. The characters travel across different countries and encounter mythological beings and magical places from a wide variety of cultures. The series' world-building is expansive, with magical ley lines crisscrossing the globe, hidden realms, and ancient civilizations. This makes the story feel epic and wide-reaching, providing a sense of scale that rivals the journeys of Percy and his friends.
The Blend of Fantasy with Real-World History
One of the unique aspects of The Secrets of the Immortal Nicholas Flamel is its blend of historical figures and magical lore. Real people like Nicholas Flamel, Joan of Arc, and Machiavelli are portrayed as immortals who have shaped history with their magical powers. This element of the story makes the series feel grounded in reality, even as it explores fantastical themes, much like how Percy Jackson ties modern events and places into its mythological framework. This historical twist adds a unique dimension that makes the series feel fresh and intriguing.
If you enjoyed the way Percy Jackson brought mythology into the modern world, combined with thrilling action, humor, and strong characters, The Secrets of the Immortal Nicholas Flamel will captivate you in a similar way. It offers a rich, multi-layered world filled with ancient magic, history, and a diverse cast of characters. The series builds tension through prophecies, mysteries, and global stakes, making it a perfect follow-up for fans of fast-paced, mythology-driven adventures like Percy Jackson.
5. "Fablehaven" by Brandon Mull
Why You’ll Enjoy It:
If you love Percy Jackson, Fablehaven by Brandon Mull will draw you in for its similar elements of adventure, mythology, magic, and the discovery of hidden worlds. Here’s why Fablehaven would appeal to fans of Percy Jackson:
Mythological Creatures in a Modern Setting
One of the core elements of Percy Jackson that captivates readers is the blending of ancient mythology with the modern world. Similarly, Fablehaven presents a world where magical creatures from various mythologies—fairies, demons, trolls, satyrs, and more—exist, but are hidden in secret preserves. Much like Percy's discovery of the demigod world, the protagonists of Fablehaven, Kendra and Seth Sorenson, uncover an entire world of mythological beings living in these preserves, protected from the rest of humanity. This hidden magic makes the ordinary world feel more extraordinary, just like Camp Half-Blood does in Percy Jackson.
Strong Sibling Bond
Just as Percy Jackson focuses on Percy's evolving relationships with his friends, Fablehaven centers on the bond between Kendra and Seth, a brother-sister duo. Their relationship and dynamics are central to the story, with Seth being the more impulsive, adventurous one, and Kendra being the cautious, thoughtful one. Their sibling interactions are humorous, heartfelt, and relatable, echoing the camaraderie and loyalty seen between Percy, Annabeth, and Grover. Fans of Percy's group dynamics will enjoy watching Kendra and Seth's bond strengthen as they face magical challenges together.
Magic-Infused Adventure and High-Stakes Battles
Like Percy Jackson, Fablehaven is filled with exciting, high-stakes adventures. The magical preserves that serve as the primary setting are not just beautiful, mystical places—they are also dangerous. Kendra and Seth face various magical creatures, both benevolent and malevolent, and they must navigate treacherous situations that test their courage and cleverness. The series includes epic battles, powerful enemies, and daring quests, much like Percy's adventures in Percy Jackson. Readers who loved the non-stop action and suspense in Percy Jackson will find similar thrills in Fablehaven.
Coming-of-Age Themes
Both series feature young protagonists who must quickly mature as they confront forces far beyond their understanding. Kendra and Seth are initially naive to the magical world, but as they become more deeply involved in protecting Fablehaven, they grow in confidence, bravery, and wisdom. This coming-of-age journey mirrors Percy's growth as a hero in Percy Jackson, where he learns to take responsibility for his powers and destiny. Readers who enjoyed watching Percy step into his role as a demigod hero will appreciate the evolution of Kendra and Seth as they take on greater challenges.
Complex Moral Choices and Consequences
Like Percy Jackson, Fablehaven explores the complexities of morality and the consequences of one's actions. Kendra and Seth frequently face difficult decisions, where the line between good and evil is not always clear. They must weigh personal desires against what is right for the greater good, and their choices often have lasting repercussions. This theme of navigating moral gray areas adds depth to the story, much like how Percy often grapples with his responsibilities and the ramifications of his choices in Percy Jackson.
Engaging, Lovable Characters
Just as Percy Jackson features a wide range of lovable characters with unique personalities, Fablehaven offers a diverse cast of magical beings and humans, each with their quirks and complexities. From the wise and mysterious Grandpa Sorenson to creatures like the fierce dragon, Raxtus, and the cheeky satyrs, the characters in Fablehaven are vivid and memorable. Fans of Percy's interactions with characters like Chiron, Grover, and Clarisse will appreciate the friendships and alliances that Kendra and Seth form as they navigate their magical world.
A Sense of Humor
Both Percy Jackson and Fablehaven excel at blending action with humor, which makes the stories fun and lighthearted even when the stakes are high. Seth's mischievousness and tendency to get into trouble adds humor to the story, much like Percy's sarcastic wit and humorous take on the absurd situations he finds himself in. The lighthearted moments in Fablehaven balance the more intense, suspenseful scenes, similar to the way Rick Riordan's humor keeps Percy Jackson fun and accessible even in its most perilous moments.
Exploration of Magical Worlds
Fans of Percy Jackson who loved the diverse locations—like Camp Half-Blood, Mount Olympus, and the Underworld—will appreciate the magical preserves in Fablehaven. Each preserve is a sanctuary for magical creatures, filled with beauty, danger, and mystery. These locations are richly imagined, with enchanted forests, hidden treasures, and secret passageways that Kendra and Seth must explore. The sense of wonder and discovery is akin to the way Percy uncovers the many hidden layers of the world of the gods, titans, and mythical beings.
The Battle Between Good and Evil
Much like Percy Jackson, Fablehaven is centered around an epic battle between good and evil forces. As the series progresses, Kendra and Seth become embroiled in a larger conflict involving powerful magical artifacts, secret societies, and the fate of the magical world. The struggle between good and evil is not always black and white, and Kendra and Seth must navigate shifting alliances and hidden agendas, much like Percy's own battles against the forces of Kronos and other ancient threats.
Accessible Yet Meaningful Themes
Both series manage to weave in deeper themes beneath their magical adventures. In Fablehaven, themes of responsibility, bravery, family loyalty, and standing up for what's right are central to the story, just as they are in Percy Jackson. Kendra and Seth's growth as characters, their increasing awareness of their roles in the magical world, and their ability to rise to the occasion all reflect the same themes of courage and identity that are so strong in Percy Jackson. These accessible yet meaningful themes give both series a sense of emotional weight and resonance with readers of all ages.
If Percy Jackson drew you in with its blend of mythological creatures, epic adventures, strong character dynamics, and humor, Fablehaven offers all of that with its own unique twist on magical preserves and creatures. The series provides a rich world of fantasy, danger, and adventure, all while exploring the growth of its young protagonists as they navigate a hidden, magical world. Fans of Percy Jackson will feel right at home in Fablehaven, where every new discovery brings excitement, danger, and wonder.
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