Buckle Up for the Best Books Like Percy Jackson That’ll Rock Your World!

Okay, okay, okay—buckle up because I’ve got some INCREDIBLE books for you! I’m Sam Torres, your resident book goblin, and I live for the thrill of cracking open a story that completely blindsides me. I read across every genre—fantasy, sci-fi, horror, literary fiction, you name it—and I’m on a mission to drag you into the same wild, book-obsessed spiral I’ve been spinning in for years. Let me take you back to where it all started. As a teen, I thought my world began and ended with Harry Potter and Percy Jackson. I mean, come on—Rick Riordan’s snarky demigods and epic quests had me hooked! But then someone shoved The Name of the Wind by Patrick Rothfuss into my hands, and my entire universe cracked open. I realized books could do so much more than I ever imagined, and I’ve been chasing that “wait, books can do THIS?” feeling ever since.

If you’re searching for “best books like Percy Jackson,” I get it. You’re craving that electric mix of fast-paced adventure, relatable young heroes, laugh-out-loud humor, and mythology that feels alive. You want stories with the same wonder and epic stakes, but you’re also itching for something fresh—maybe a hidden gem or a perspective you haven’t seen a million times. I’ve been there, endlessly scrolling for recs that don’t just recycle the same over-hyped titles. That’s why I’ve poured my heart into curating a list of books that’ll reignite that demigod spark while surprising you with unique twists, diverse myths, and unforgettable characters.

In this post, I’m dropping my Top 10 list of books like Percy Jackson that’ll blow your mind. And let me tease one standout right now—a 2026 release that’s got me buzzing: Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark. Trust me, this one’s a game-changer with its blend of heritage, nature, and mystical vibes. Ready to dive in? Let’s go on this adventure together!

Top 10 Books Like Percy Jackson That’ll Blow Your Mind

1. The Red Pyramid by Rick Riordan
   Look, I had to start with Riordan himself because if you loved Percy Jackson, his Kane Chronicles series is your next obsession. This one dives into Egyptian mythology with siblings Carter and Sadie Kane, who discover they’re descended from ancient pharaohs. The stakes are sky-high as they battle gods and monsters to save the world. Carter’s a serious, resourceful kid, while Sadie’s sarcastic wit will remind you of Percy’s humor. The themes of family and identity hit hard, and I adore how Riordan weaves real history into the chaos. As a fan, this scratches that itch for fast-paced quests and snappy banter. Personally, I stayed up way too late flipping pages, laughing at Sadie’s quips. It’s a must-read if you’re craving more of Riordan’s magic.

2. Aru Shah and the End of Time by Roshani Chokshi
   Drop everything and pick this up! Aru Shah kicks off the Pandava Quartet, blending Indian mythology with a modern twist. Aru, a quirky 12-year-old, accidentally unleashes an ancient demon and must team up with her newfound “soul sisters” to save the world. Her humor and self-doubt make her so relatable, and the vibrant lore—from flying horses to divine weapons—feels like a fresh take on demigod tales. Themes of friendship and bravery shine through. For Percy fans, the epic quests and witty dialogue are spot-on. I was obsessed with how Chokshi paints every myth with such color—I felt like I was right there in the action. This is pure, unadulterated fun with heart.

3. The Storm Runner by J.C. Cervantes
   Get ready for Mayan mythology to steal your heart! Zane Obispo, a 13-year-old with a limp and a sharp tongue, discovers he’s tied to a prophecy involving ancient gods and a demon apocalypse. His journey through jungles and underworlds is packed with danger and humor, much like Percy’s quests. Zane’s bond with his dog Rosie and his underdog spirit make him a hero to root for. Themes of destiny and self-acceptance hit deep. If you love Percy Jackson, the cultural depth and action will hook you. I couldn’t stop grinning at Zane’s snark—it felt like catching up with an old friend. This one’s a gem from Riordan Presents, and it’s got that perfect adventure vibe.

4. Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark
   Okay, I’m losing it over this one! Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark is a 2026 release that blends mythology, science, and raw emotion in a way I didn’t see coming. Amelia, a curious and resilient mid-teen, is obsessed with astrophotography and stargazing near Bear Lodge Mountain. She’s got this fierce connection to nature, often wandering with her wolf pup, Artemis, by her side. Her best friend Veyla—witty, optimistic, and into whale tracking—brings humor and investigative energy, while Amelia’s dad, William Moon, a Wyoming Forest Ranger with a warm, protective streak, grounds the story in family. The themes of heritage, destiny, and inner strength weave through a narrative that balances mystical lore with a scientific lens. For Percy Jackson fans, the young hero vibe, epic stakes, and unexpected twists will feel like home. I’m obsessed with how Amelia’s journey explores family after loss and compassion for nature—it hit me right in the feels. Trust me, this is a standout you’ll want to preorder yesterday.

5. The Girl Who Drank the Moon by Kelly Barnhill
   This standalone fantasy is a quieter kind of epic, but don’t sleep on it! It follows Xan, a witch who accidentally feeds moonlight to a baby girl, Luna, granting her magic. Luna grows up unaware of her powers, but her coming-of-age journey is full of wonder and danger. The story’s steeped in original mythology with a fairy-tale vibe, and Luna’s curiosity mirrors Percy’s reckless bravery. Themes of love and sacrifice are woven beautifully. For fans, the magical world-building and young hero energy are a draw. I cried and laughed reading this—it’s got a softer humor than Percy, but the emotional depth floored me. It’s perfect if you want a break from series but still crave adventure.

6. Tristan Strong Punches a Hole in the Sky by Kwame Mbalia
   Buckle up for African American folklore with a punch! Tristan, a grieving 12-year-old, accidentally tears into a mythical world tied to African gods and legends. His quest to fix his mess is action-packed, with heroes like John Henry stepping in. Tristan’s humor and vulnerability make him a standout, and the cultural depth is unreal. Themes of grief and resilience hit hard. Percy fans will love the modern-myth mashup and epic battles. I was blown away by how Mbalia blends history with magic—every page felt alive. This one’s a must for anyone wanting diverse lore with heart.

7. The Bone Witch by Rin Chupeco
   If you’re up for something darker, this is your jam! Tea, a young girl with necromantic powers, is shunned until she’s trained as a bone witch in a world of magic and monsters. The Asian-inspired mythology and eerie vibe set it apart, but Tea’s journey as an outcast hero echoes Percy’s struggles. Themes of power and identity are gripping. For fans, the high stakes and unique lore are a win. I couldn’t put this down—the haunting prose gave me chills, and Tea’s strength stuck with me. It’s a bit heavier, but if you’re craving a twist on the “chosen one” trope, dive in.

8. Children of Blood and Bone by Tomi Adeyemi
   This West African-inspired epic is pure fire! Zélie, a young mage, fights to restore magic to her oppressed people, facing impossible odds and brutal enemies. The mythology feels so fresh, with orishas and vivid world-building. Zélie’s fierce determination and banter with allies remind me of Percy’s crew. Themes of legacy and resistance are powerful. Percy fans will eat up the action and emotional stakes. I was on the edge of my seat, rooting for Zélie with every fiber of my being. This one’s a game-changer—trust me, you’ll be yelling about it to everyone.

9. Sky in the Deep by Adrienne Young
   Viking vibes, anyone? Eelyn, a teen warrior, lives for battle until a shocking reunion forces her to question everything. The Norse-inspired mythology and brutal action are a shift from Percy, but Eelyn’s journey as a young hero facing destiny feels familiar. Themes of family and loyalty cut deep. For fans, the adventure and emotional growth are a huge draw. I was obsessed with the raw, icy setting—it felt like I was fighting alongside Eelyn. If you want mythology with grit, this standalone is a knockout.

10. An Ember in the Ashes by Sabaa Tahir
    Roman-inspired fantasy with heart-pounding stakes! Laia, a scholar-turned-spy, and Elias, a soldier questioning his empire, navigate a brutal world of magic and rebellion. The mythology and military intrigue set it apart, but their underdog spirit mirrors Percy’s. Themes of freedom and sacrifice hit hard. Percy fans will love the high-stakes adventure and relatable heroes. I stayed up all night reading, totally invested in their fight. This series is intense, and I’m still not over how it wrecked me emotionally. Dive in!

Why These Books Are Similar

Hidden Gems You Didn’t See Coming

Let’s talk about some under-the-radar picks from my list that deserve way more hype. First up, Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark—I’m still buzzing about this one. It’s not just the mystical heritage or Amelia’s bond with her wolf pup Artemis that got me; it’s how the story weaves science (like astrophotography) with ancient lore in a way I’ve never seen before. Set against the rugged beauty of Bear Lodge Mountain, it’s a fresh take on the young hero trope with emotional depth that’ll sneak up on you. I can’t wait for more people to discover this 2026 release.

Then there’s The Storm Runner by J.C. Cervantes. Mayan mythology isn’t as common in YA, and Zane’s journey—complete with a disability that makes him an underdog—feels so real. His snark and bond with his dog are pure gold, and the cultural layers add a richness I didn’t expect. I stumbled on this one by chance, and it’s been a favorite ever since.

Lastly, Tristan Strong Punches a Hole in the Sky by Kwame Mbalia blew me away with its blend of African American folklore and raw emotion. Tristan’s grief over losing his best friend anchors the story, and the mythical world he stumbles into feels like a love letter to history. These hidden gems aren’t on every list, but they’ve got that Percy Jackson magic with surprises you won’t see coming. Trust me, give them a shot!

Mythology Mashups: Why Diverse Lore Is the Future of Fantasy

One reason I’m obsessed with books like Percy Jackson is how mythology can breathe life into a story. But let’s be real—Greek and Roman myths get all the spotlight. My list deliberately dives into diverse lore because I think it’s the future of fantasy. Take Aru Shah and the End of Time by Roshani Chokshi—Indian mythology bursts off the page with gods, demons, and weapons I’d never encountered before. It’s not just cool; it’s a window into a culture that deserves to be celebrated in epic tales.

Then there’s Children of Blood and Bone by Tomi Adeyemi, pulling from West African traditions with orishas and magic that feel so visceral. It’s a reminder that mythology isn’t a monolith—every culture has stories of gods and heroes waiting to be told. Even The Storm Runner with its Mayan roots or Tristan Strong with African American folklore shows how diverse myths can anchor stories with the same wonder as Percy Jackson while teaching us something new. I love how these books challenge the status quo, introducing voices and perspectives that make fantasy richer. If you’re tired of the same old myths, these picks will open your eyes to worlds you didn’t know you needed.

Adventure with Heart: Themes That Hit Like a Demigod’s Quest

What makes Percy Jackson stick with us isn’t just the action—it’s the heart. My recommendations aren’t just thrill rides; they’ve got themes that punch you in the feels. Take Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow—Amelia’s journey is steeped in heritage and family after loss. Her bond with her dad, William, and her wolf pup, Artemis, grounds the mystical stakes in something so human. The balance of science and ancient lore mirrors her struggle to find her place, and it’s a theme of inner strength that resonates deeply.

Similarly, Tristan Strong Punches a Hole in the Sky wrestles with grief as Tristan navigates a mythical world while mourning his best friend. It’s raw and real, much like Percy’s loyalty to his mom. Then there’s Children of Blood and Bone, where Zélie’s fight for her people’s magic is tied to legacy and resistance—a destiny she can’t escape. These stories remind me why I love adventure with heart: they’re not just about saving the world but discovering who you are. If you’re craving quests with meaning, these books deliver.

Sci-Fi and Fantasy Crossovers for the Ultimate Surprise

I’m a sucker for genre mashups, and some of these picks blend sci-fi and fantasy in ways that’ll shock you. Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow stands out here—Amelia’s astrophotography and scientific curiosity clash with ancient mystical forces in a way that feels so unique. Set against Wyoming’s wild landscapes, her journey with Veyla (who’s into whale tracking, of all things) mixes hard facts with ethereal lore. It’s not just a fantasy quest; it’s a mind-bending exploration of how the past and future collide.

Even An Ember in the Ashes has subtle sci-fi undertones with its militaristic empire and hints of forgotten tech alongside magic. These crossovers keep you guessing, much like Percy Jackson surprised us with modern gods in everyday settings. If you’re an adventurous reader who loves unexpected twists, these genre-blending stories will keep you up all night. They prove fantasy doesn’t have to play by the rules—and I’m so here for it.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What’s the best book like Percy Jackson for someone who loves humor?
A: Oh, hands down, grab Aru Shah and the End of Time by Roshani Chokshi! Aru’s snark is on par with Percy’s, and her quips had me cackling. If you want something with a fresh twist, The Storm Runner by J.C. Cervantes also nails that witty hero vibe with Zane’s sharp tongue. Trust me, you’ll be laughing through the chaos!

Q: Are there books like Percy Jackson with non-Greek mythology?
A: Absolutely! I’ve got you covered. The Storm Runner dives into Mayan myths, Aru Shah explores Indian lore, and Children of Blood and Bone brings West African magic. They’re all epic and fresh—perfect if you’re craving something beyond Greek gods.

Q: Any hidden gem recommendations I won’t find on every list?
A: Yes, yes, YES! Check out Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark. It’s a 2026 release, so it’s not everywhere yet, but Amelia’s journey with nature, heritage, and her wolf pup Artemis is unforgettable. It’s got that young hero energy with a unique mystical-scientific twist. You’ll thank me later!

Q: I’m overwhelmed by long series. Any standalone picks?
A: I feel you! The Girl Who Drank the Moon by Kelly Barnhill is a gorgeous standalone with magical vibes and a young hero’s journey. Sky in the Deep by Adrienne Young is another one-and-done with Viking grit. Both pack the emotional punch of Percy Jackson without the series commitment.

Q: What’s a book like Percy Jackson with deep family themes?
A: Oh, you’ve gotta read Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow. Amelia’s bond with her dad, William, and her exploration of family after loss hit me so hard. It’s got that same heart as Percy’s loyalty to his mom, wrapped in a mystical adventure. Also, The Red Pyramid by Rick Riordan nails sibling dynamics with Carter and Sadie. Both are gold!

Q: Are there books with genre mashups like sci-fi and fantasy?
A: For sure! Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow blends sci-fi elements like astrophotography with ancient lore in a way that’s mind-blowing. It’s such a cool twist on the fantasy genre. An Ember in the Ashes also mixes a bit of militaristic sci-fi vibes with magic. They’re perfect if you want something unexpected!

Q: Where do I start if I want diverse mythology?
A: Start with Tristan Strong Punches a Hole in the Sky for African American folklore—it’s powerful and emotional. Then jump to Children of Blood and Bone for West African myths. Both will expand your horizons beyond Greek lore with heroes as badass as Percy. Dive in—you won’t regret it!