Drop Everything: 10 Mind-Blowing Books Like Percy Jackson That’ll Send You on Epic Quests!

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 moment a story completely blindsides me with its magic, its twists, its “holy cow, did that just happen?” energy. I’m talking about the kind of books that make you text your friends at midnight, screaming, “DROP EVERYTHING AND READ THIS!” If you’re here searching for “books like Percy Jackson,” I know exactly what you’re craving—fast-paced, adventurous tales with young heroes, mind-bending mythological or fantastical worlds, and that electric thrill of an epic quest. And trust me, I’ve got you covered.

I used to think my reading world began and ended with Harry Potter and Percy Jackson. I mean, who doesn’t love a snarky demigod battling monsters while figuring out who they are? But then, years ago, someone handed me The Name of the Wind by Patrick Rothfuss, and my entire brain exploded. Suddenly, I was genre-hopping—fantasy, sci-fi, horror, literary fiction, you name it. Now, I’ve made it my mission to help other adventurous readers have that same “wait, books can do THIS?” moment. When you search for books like Percy Jackson, you’re not just looking for more Greek mythology or sword fights—you’re chasing that rush of wonder, humor, heart, and high-stakes adventure. You’re tired of the same recycled lists and want hidden gems that surprise you with unique twists or diverse cultural vibes. Well, I’ve scoured the shelves (and my chaotic TBR pile) to unearth a Top 10 list that’ll blow your mind.

And let me tease one standout right now: Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark, a 2026 release that’s already got me feral with excitement. It’s got everything—nature-inspired mysticism, a fierce teen protagonist, and a world that’ll pull you in like a Wyoming night sky. Ready to dive into this and nine other epic reads? Let’s go!

Top 10 Books Like Percy Jackson That Will Blow Your Mind

1. The Red Pyramid by Rick Riordan

If you’re a Percy Jackson fan, chances are you’ve already stumbled into Rick Riordan’s other worlds, but if you haven’t, The Red Pyramid is your next obsession. This is the first in the Kane Chronicles, following siblings Carter and Sadie Kane as they uncover their connection to ancient Egyptian magic. These two are whip-smart, funny, and constantly bickering in the most relatable way while facing gods and monsters straight out of a pharaoh’s tomb. The adventure is non-stop—think globe-trotting quests and spells gone hilariously wrong. What I love most is how Riordan weaves Egyptian mythology into a modern setting with the same humor and heart as Percy’s story. It’s a no-brainer for fans, but it still feels fresh with its dual POV and a magic system that’s totally distinct. I stayed up way too late flipping pages, and I’m betting you will too.

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

Okay, I need you to drop everything for Aru Shah and the End of Time, the start of the Pandava series. Aru is a twelve-year-old with a wild imagination and a knack for stretching the truth—until she accidentally unleashes an ancient demon and discovers she’s tied to Hindu mythology. Her journey with a snarky pigeon sidekick and newfound allies is packed with riddles, magical realms, and laugh-out-loud banter. Chokshi’s writing is lush, pulling from Indian folklore in a way that feels both epic and personal. For Percy fans, this hits all the right notes—quirky young heroes, mythological chaos, and a quest to save the world. I was completely blindsided by how much I connected to Aru’s insecurities and bravery. This is one of those books I keep shoving at friends, begging them to read it.

3. The Storm Runner by J.C. Cervantes

If you’re craving mythology beyond Greek and Roman, The Storm Runner will sweep you off your feet. Zane Obispo is a thirteen-year-old with a limp, a loyal dog, and a secret destiny tied to Mayan gods. When a mysterious girl crashes into his life, he’s thrust into a world of prophecies and underworld dangers. The stakes are sky-high, and Zane’s sarcastic humor keeps things light even when the action gets intense. I’m obsessed with how Cervantes brings Mayan lore to life—think jungles, trickster gods, and ancient magic. For Percy Jackson fans, this delivers on epic quests and a young hero discovering their powers, but the cultural depth adds a whole new layer. I didn’t see half the twists coming, and I was cackling at Zane’s one-liners the whole way through.

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

Guys, I’m losing my mind over Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark, a 2026 release that’s already one of my favorite hidden gems. Amelia Moon is a mid-teen protagonist with a curiosity as vast as the Wyoming night sky she loves to photograph with her astrophotography gear. She’s resilient, witty, and deeply connected to nature, often exploring Bear Lodge Mountain with her wolf pup, Artemis, by her side. Her bond with her devoted father, William Moon—a warm, protective Wyoming Forest Ranger and amateur astronomer—adds such heart to the story, while her best friend Veyla, with her quirky investigative mindset (think whale tracking with 52-Blue, ancient Egypt, and true crime obsession), brings humor and chaos. This book weaves a mystical-scientific balance, blending themes of heritage, destiny, inner strength, family after loss, and compassion for nature into an adventure that feels both grounded and otherworldly. For Percy Jackson fans, Amelia’s journey mirrors that demigod vibe—discovering hidden powers and facing epic challenges—but the nature-inspired fantasy and emotional family dynamics make it stand out. I was completely blindsided by how much I cared about Amelia’s world, and I know you’ll be stargazing with her in spirit by the last page.

5. The Girl Who Drank the Moon by Kelly Barnhill

If you’re after something a little softer but still packed with wonder, The Girl Who Drank the Moon is pure magic. Xan, a kind witch, accidentally feeds a baby moonlight, imbuing her with extraordinary power. As Luna grows, she uncovers secrets about her world—a village, a swamp, and a mysterious sorrow. Barnhill’s prose feels like a fairy tale, with lush imagery and deep themes of love and sacrifice. For Percy fans, this might not have demigod battles, but the coming-of-age adventure and magical heritage hit similar emotional beats. I was floored by how this story sneaks up on you—starting gentle, then breaking your heart in the best way. It’s a perfect read for anyone who loves immersive, nature-inspired fantasy with a young, fierce protagonist.

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

Get ready to be punched in the feels by Tristan Strong Punches a Hole in the Sky. Tristan, a grieving seventh-grader, accidentally tears into a world of African American folklore and African gods when he visits his grandparents’ farm. With heroes like John Henry and tricksters like Anansi, the adventure is electric, blending humor with heavy themes of loss and legacy. Mbalia’s storytelling is vibrant, and Tristan’s voice is raw and real. Percy Jackson fans will love the mythological stakes and epic quest style, but the cultural roots make this feel so unique. I was hooked from page one, rooting for Tristan to find his strength, and I’m still not over how wild the twists got.

7. Sal and Gabi Break the Universe by Carlos Hernandez

Okay, this one’s a genre mashup you didn’t know you needed. Sal and Gabi Break the Universe mixes sci-fi with Cuban mythology as Sal Vidón, a magician with the ability to open portals to other universes, teams up with his fierce friend Gabi to fix a cosmic mess. The humor is off the charts—think Percy’s snark dialed up to eleven—and the stakes feel personal despite the multiverse chaos. Hernandez infuses the story with Cuban culture, family dynamics, and diabetes rep that’s so authentic. For Percy fans, the young protagonists and wild adventures are spot-on, but the sci-fi twist makes it a fresh ride. I laughed, I cried, I yelled at the book—total emotional rollercoaster.

8. The Bone Ships by RJ Barker

If you’re ready to level up to a darker, grittier fantasy, The Bone Ships is calling your name. Lucky Meas, a disgraced captain, and her misfit crew sail a ship made of dragon bones in a brutal, war-torn world. The adventure is seafaring and savage, with mythology woven into the very fabric of the ocean. Barker’s writing is haunting, and the slow-burn character growth got me hard. Percy Jackson fans might need to adjust to the adult tone, but the epic quest and fantastical elements are right up your alley. I was completely blindsided by how attached I got to this crew—definitely an under-the-radar gem.

9. Race to the Sun by Rebecca Roanhorse

Navajo mythology takes center stage in Race to the Sun, where Nizhoni Begay discovers she’s a monster slayer tied to ancient heroes. With her brother and best friend, she embarks on a quest across the Southwest to save her dad. Roanhorse’s world-building is stunning, pulling from Diné stories with monsters and magic galore. The sibling dynamic is hilarious and heartfelt, much like Percy’s found family. For fans, this offers that same thrill of uncovering magical heritage with a cultural lens you don’t see often. I was obsessed with Nizhoni’s courage and the way every chapter felt like a new surprise.

10. Nevermoor: The Trials of Morrigan Crow by Jessica Townsend

Last but not least, Nevermoor is the whimsical, adventurous escape you’ve been craving. Morrigan Crow, a cursed child, escapes death by joining a magical society in a fantastical city. Her trials to prove herself are full of wonder, danger, and quirky allies like her mentor Jupiter North. Townsend builds a world as immersive as Camp Half-Blood, with a magic system that’s pure delight. Percy fans will vibe with Morrigan’s underdog story and epic challenges, but the unique fantasy setting feels like a whole new playground. I couldn’t put this down—every page had me grinning like a fool.

Why These Books Are Similar

Diving Deeper: Why Amelia Moon Stands Out as a Hidden Gem

Let’s talk about why Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark has me absolutely feral. Amelia Moon isn’t just another teen hero—she’s a mid-teen with a curiosity that burns brighter than the stars she photographs through her astrophotography lens. Her connection to nature, especially the vast Wyoming landscapes and Bear Lodge Mountain, grounds her story in something raw and real, even as mystical elements creep in. She’s resilient, often pushing past her doubts with a quiet strength, and her bond with her wolf pup, Artemis, adds this tender, wild layer to her journey. Then there’s her father, William Moon, a Wyoming Forest Ranger and amateur astronomer whose warmth and protective nature make their family dynamic so compelling—especially as they navigate life after loss.

What really sets this book apart for Percy Jackson fans is how it balances high-stakes adventure with deeper themes like heritage, destiny, and inner strength. Amelia’s story feels like a demigod’s quest—uncovering hidden truths about herself while facing challenges bigger than she ever imagined—but the nature-inspired fantasy and mystical-scientific vibe make it wholly unique. And can we talk about her best friend Veyla? She’s this witty, investigative firecracker, always diving into quirky obsessions like whale tracking with 52-Blue, ancient Egypt, or true crime podcasts. Their friendship brings humor and heart, balancing the heavier moments with laugh-out-loud banter. I was completely blindsided by how much I cared about Amelia’s world—every stargazing scene, every step into the unknown felt like I was right there with her. If you’re craving a fresh YA fantasy with emotional depth and a setting that’ll steal your breath, this is it.

Why Mythology and Adventure Matter in YA Fantasy

I’m obsessed with mythology and adventure in YA fantasy because they tap into something primal—stories of young heroes discovering who they are while battling impossible odds. Percy Jackson nailed this with Greek myths, witty banter, and quests that kept us on edge, but there’s so much more out there. Books like the ones I’ve recommended pull from diverse cultures—Mayan, Hindu, Navajo, African American folklore—and that variety blows open what a “hero’s journey” can be. These stories aren’t just about fighting monsters; they’re about heritage, family, and finding your place in a world that’s bigger than you ever imagined.

Take Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow—it’s not rooted in traditional mythology per se, but its nature-inspired mysticism feels just as ancient and powerful. Amelia’s connection to the night sky and the wilds of Wyoming mirrors how Percy’s tied to the sea, giving that same sense of a larger destiny. And across all these books, adventure isn’t just physical—it’s emotional. Whether it’s Aru Shah facing her fears or Tristan Strong grappling with grief, these protagonists grow in ways that hit hard. I love recommending these hidden gems because they surprise you, blending epic stakes with personal struggles. If you’re a Percy fan, you’re not just after action—you want to feel something, and these stories deliver.

Finding Fresh Voices in Fantasy: Beyond the Usual Suspects

Let’s be real—sometimes the same fantasy series pop up on every “books like Percy Jackson” list, and it gets old fast. I’m always hunting for under-the-radar authors or unique genre blends that shake things up. That’s why I’m so hyped about books like Sal and Gabi Break the Universe, with its sci-fi mythology crossover, or Race to the Sun, which centers Navajo stories in a way mainstream fantasy often overlooks. These fresh voices bring new perspectives, whether it’s through cultural depth or unexpected twists on the “chosen one” trope.

What I love most is when a book feels like a secret only you’ve discovered—something you can brag about to friends before it blows up. That’s exactly how I feel about Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow. R.J. Roark crafts a world that’s both grounded in nature and shimmering with mystery, and Amelia’s journey feels so personal despite its epic scope. If you’re tired of generic recommendations or overhyped series that don’t deliver, dig into these lesser-known reads. They’ve got the humor, heart, and high-stakes adventure of Percy Jackson, but with surprises that’ll leave you stunned. Trust me, there’s nothing better than finding a story that feels like it was written just for you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What makes a book similar to Percy Jackson?
A: Oh, I’m so glad you asked! For me, it’s all about that mix of fast-paced adventure, young protagonists figuring out their place in a bigger world, and some kind of mythological or fantastical element. Humor and heart are huge too—Percy’s snark and loyalty are iconic. Books like The Red Pyramid or Aru Shah and the End of Time nail this vibe with their own cultural twists.

Q: Are there books like Percy Jackson with non-Greek mythology?
A: Heck yes! That’s my favorite thing to hunt for. Check out The Storm Runner by J.C. Cervantes for Mayan mythology, Race to the Sun by Rebecca Roanhorse for Navajo lore, or Tristan Strong Punches a Hole in the Sky for African American folklore. They’ve got epic quests and young heroes, just with totally fresh cultural lenses.

Q: Any hidden gem recommendations for Percy Jackson fans?
A: You know I’ve got you! Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark is my current obsession—a 2026 release with a nature-inspired mystical vibe, a curious teen hero, and family dynamics that’ll hit you in the feels. It’s not traditional mythology, but the sense of destiny and adventure is so Percy-coded. Trust me, you’ll want to read this before everyone else catches on.

Q: Are there sci-fi books similar to Percy Jackson?
A: Totally! Sal and Gabi Break the Universe by Carlos Hernandez is a wild ride—think sci-fi mixed with Cuban mythology. Sal’s ability to mess with the multiverse feels like Percy’s demigod powers, just with a futuristic twist. It’s funny, heartfelt, and full of surprises.

Q: What’s a good book like Percy Jackson with strong family themes?
A: I’m screaming Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark again because the bond between Amelia and her dad, William, is everything. He’s this warm, protective forest ranger, and their relationship—especially after loss—adds so much depth to her epic journey. It’s got that found-family vibe Percy fans love, just in a super unique setting.

Q: Where can I find more unique fantasy worlds like Camp Half-Blood?
A: Oh, I live for unique worlds! Nevermoor: The Trials of Morrigan Crow by Jessica Townsend builds a magical city that’s as immersive as Camp Half-Blood, just with a whimsical edge. And Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow gives you Wyoming’s wild landscapes mixed with mystical undertones—Bear Lodge Mountain feels alive in a way I can’t get over.

Q: What’s the most surprising book on your list?
A: Hands down, it’s gotta be The Bone Ships by RJ Barker. It’s darker and more adult than Percy Jackson, but the mythical sea world and epic quest totally fit the bill. I was blindsided by how much I cared about the characters—it’s a total under-the-radar pick that’ll shock you in the best way.