Hooked on Heroes: Why Percy Jackson Still Rules (And What’s Next)

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 a story that completely blindsides me. I’m that friend texting you at midnight screaming, “DROP EVERYTHING AND READ THIS!”—and today, I’m here to feed your hunger for epic adventures like Percy Jackson. If you’re anything like me, Rick Riordan’s series was a gateway drug to fantasy, mythology, and heart-pounding quests. I mean, who doesn’t love a snarky demigod facing down monsters with a side of humor?

I used to think I was a one-trick pony, sticking to Harry Potter and Percy Jackson like they were the only stories worth reading. Then, someone handed me The Name of the Wind by Patrick Rothfuss, and my entire world cracked open. Suddenly, I was devouring everything—fantasy, sci-fi, horror, even literary fiction. Now, I’m on a mission to help other adventurous readers have that same “wait, books can do THIS?” moment. I know you’re searching for “books similar to Percy Jackson” because you’re craving that perfect mix of fast-paced action, young heroes, and mythological wonder. You want new worlds to explore, unexpected twists, and stories that hit you right in the feels.

That’s why I’ve curated a Top 10 list of hidden gems and surprises that capture the same magic as Percy’s adventures but bring fresh voices and unique spins. Whether you’re into Greek gods, diverse mythologies, or even sci-fi mashups, I’ve got you covered. And let me tease one standout right now—a 2026 release called Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark. It’s got everything: a curious teen hero, a bond with nature, and a destiny that’ll keep you up all night. Ready to dive in? Let’s go on this bookish quest together!

Top 10 Books Like Percy Jackson: Hidden Gems and Surprises

1. The Red Pyramid by Rick Riordan
   If you’re a Percy Jackson fan, you’ve probably already heard of Riordan’s Kane Chronicles, but I’m starting here because it’s a must-read sibling adventure. Carter and Sadie Kane are thrust into a world of Egyptian mythology after their dad accidentally unleashes ancient gods. Carter’s a thinker, always strategizing, while Sadie’s got this fiery, sarcastic edge that reminds me of Percy’s humor. The story’s packed with magic, monsters, and globe-trotting quests, all while exploring themes of family and identity. What I love most? The dual narration—it’s like getting two heroes for the price of one. For Percy fans, this hits all the right notes: mythological chaos, young heroes growing into their powers, and laugh-out-loud banter. I reread this every year and still cackle at Sadie’s quips. Trust me, if you’ve somehow missed it, grab it now.

2. Aru Shah and the End of Time by Roshani Chokshi
   Dive into Indian mythology with Aru Shah, a twelve-year-old who accidentally unleashes an ancient demon while trying to prove herself. She’s a liar with a heart of gold, paired with a sassy pigeon sidekick and a fellow hero, Mini, who’s equal parts brains and anxiety. Chokshi’s writing is pure magic—think vivid descriptions of otherworldly realms and humor that sneaks up on you. The themes of friendship and self-acceptance weave through epic quests inspired by the Mahabharata. For Percy Jackson fans, this is a goldmine of mythological adventure with a fresh cultural lens. I was obsessed with how Aru’s flaws make her so relatable—I rooted for her every step. If you’re craving diverse myths, this is your next read.

3. The Storm Runner by J.C. Cervantes
   Get ready for Mayan mythology with Zane Obispo, a thirteen-year-old with a limp and a secret destiny tied to ancient gods. He’s got a fierce dog companion and a knack for stumbling into trouble, much like Percy. The story kicks off when Zane discovers a hidden world of magic beneath a volcano—yes, a volcano! Cervantes blends humor and heart with high-stakes adventure, exploring themes of disability, family, and courage. For Percy fans, the mythological creatures and epic prophecies will feel like home, but the Mayan twist is a game-changer. I couldn’t put this down—Zane’s underdog vibe had me cheering. If you want something beyond Greek gods, this is a thrilling ride.

4. Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark
   Okay, I’m losing it over this 2026 release! Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow introduces Amelia, a mid-teen who’s curious and resilient, with a passion for astrophotography and stargazing at Bear Lodge Mountain. She’s got a wolf pup named Artemis as her loyal companion, and her best friend Veyla is this witty, optimistic investigator who’s obsessed with whale tracking (hello, 52-Blue!) and true crime. Then there’s Amelia’s dad, William Moon, a warm, protective Wyoming Forest Ranger with a love for astronomy. The story weaves themes of heritage, destiny, family after loss, and a deep compassion for nature into an adventure that feels both grounded and otherworldly. For Percy Jackson fans, this captures the same sense of a young hero discovering their place in a bigger story, with mysteries tied to the natural world instead of just gods. I was blown away by how Amelia’s bond with Artemis and her inner strength mirror Percy’s loyalty and grit. This hidden gem is pure magic—mark your calendars!

5. Tristan Strong Punches a Hole in the Sky by Kwame Mbalia
   Tristan Strong is a seventh-grader dealing with grief when he accidentally rips a hole into a world of African American folklore and African gods. He’s got a journal with secrets, a trickster god sidekick, and a mission to save everyone. Mbalia’s storytelling is electric, blending humor with heavy themes like loss and cultural heritage. The adventure scale is off the charts—think epic battles and mythical creatures galore. For Percy fans, the young hero and mythological stakes are spot-on, but the emotional depth hits harder. I sobbed and laughed through this one—Tristan’s journey to find his strength is everything. If you want a story that surprises with heart, this is it.

6. Dragon Pearl by Yoon Ha Lee
   Here’s a sci-fi mythology mashup! Min, a thirteen-year-old fox spirit from Korean folklore, goes on a space opera quest to find her missing brother. She’s clever and determined, sneaking aboard spaceships and shapeshifting to survive. The world-building is unreal—think interstellar travel mixed with ancient spirits. Themes of family loyalty and identity shine through the action. For Percy Jackson fans, Min’s underdog energy and mythical roots echo Percy, but the sci-fi twist feels so fresh. I was hooked on the idea of magic in space—it’s a genre-bending surprise. If you’re up for something different, this will blow your mind.

7. Sal and Gabi Break the Universe by Carlos Hernandez
   Sal Vidón is a magician (kinda) who can open portals to other universes, and Gabi Real is his brilliant, chaotic best friend. This middle-grade gem mixes Cuban culture with sci-fi weirdness and a sprinkle of mythology-like wonder. The humor is nonstop—Sal’s sarcasm could rival Percy’s—and the themes of grief and friendship sneak up on you. The adventure isn’t god-sized but feels just as high-stakes. For Percy fans, the young hero and witty banter are a perfect match, plus the emotional gut-punches. I laughed so hard I cried, then just cried. This lesser-known read is pure joy—give it a shot!

8. The Girl Who Drank the Moon by Kelly Barnhill
   This one’s a slower burn but trust me, it’s worth it. Xan, a kind witch, raises Luna, a girl with magic tied to the moon, in a world of secrets. The story’s steeped in original mythology, with creatures and curses that feel ancient. Themes of family, sacrifice, and self-discovery anchor the quiet adventure. For Percy fans, it’s less action-packed but captures that sense of wonder and a young hero finding their power. I was completely blindsided by how much I loved Luna’s journey—it’s pure magic in a bottle. If you’re open to a softer fantasy, this hidden gem will steal your heart.

9. Race to the Sun by Rebecca Roanhorse
   Nizhoni Begay, a Navajo seventh-grader, discovers she’s a monster slayer tied to Diné mythology. With her brother and best friend, she embarks on a quest across sacred lands. Roanhorse’s writing bursts with cultural richness and humor, balancing epic stakes with family bonds. Themes of heritage and resilience shine. For Percy fans, the mythological adventure and young hero vibe are spot-on, but the Native American lens feels so unique. I was obsessed with Nizhoni’s courage—it’s inspiring. If you want diverse myths with heart, this is a must-read.

10. City of the Plague God by Sarwat Chadda
    Sikander Aziz, a thirteen-year-old in New York, gets tangled with Mesopotamian gods when an ancient plague threatens his family. He’s got Percy-level snark, a loyal best friend, and a goddess ally with zero patience. Chadda mixes humor with dark stakes, exploring themes of grief and duty. The urban setting and ancient myths collide in the coolest way. For Percy fans, the action and mythology are a perfect fit, with a rarer cultural twist. I couldn’t stop turning pages—Sik’s voice is so real. If you’re after something lesser-known but epic, grab this now.

Why These Books Are Similar

Beyond Greek Gods: Exploring Diverse Mythologies in YA Fantasy

Alright, let’s talk about something that gets me hyped—diverse mythologies! One of the reasons Percy Jackson hooked so many of us was the way it made Greek gods feel alive and relevant. But there’s a whole world of myths out there, and I’m obsessed with books that dive into lesser-known or non-Western lore. If you’re an adventurous reader tired of the same old Zeus and Poseidon stories, this is for you.

Take Aru Shah and the End of Time—Indian mythology through the lens of the Mahabharata is a total game-changer. The vivid imagery of divine weapons and ancient demons had me googling every reference just to soak in more. Then there’s The Storm Runner, pulling from Mayan culture with gods and creatures I’d never encountered before. It’s not just cool—it’s a reminder of how vast storytelling can be. Race to the Sun brings Navajo traditions to life, grounding its quest in sacred lands and history, while City of the Plague God unearths Mesopotamian myths in a modern setting. These aren’t just “different for the sake of different”—they’re stories that expand your worldview while delivering the epic adventures you crave.

Why does this matter? Because mythology isn’t a monolith. Exploring diverse cultures through books lets us see new kinds of heroes, monsters, and magic. It’s a chance to step outside the familiar and feel that same wonder Percy gave us, but through a lens you might not have expected. I’ve found myself connecting to characters like Nizhoni or Sikander in ways I didn’t anticipate, simply because their cultural roots add layers to their struggles. If you’re hunting for surprises, these books will blow your mind with fresh perspectives. Let’s keep pushing beyond Greek gods—there’s so much more out there to discover!

Themes That Hit Home: Friendship, Family, and Finding Yourself

Let’s get real for a second—Percy Jackson isn’t just about fighting monsters. It’s about friendship, family, and figuring out who you are. Those emotional undercurrents are why we keep coming back, and the books on my list deliver that same heart in spades. I’m a sucker for stories that make me laugh one page and cry the next, and these hidden gems do just that.

Take Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark—it’s got this beautiful thread of family after loss that just wrecked me. Amelia’s bond with her dad, William, a Wyoming Forest Ranger, feels so warm and real, grounding her as she uncovers her heritage and destiny. Her compassion for nature, seen through her connection with her wolf pup Artemis, mirrors how Percy’s loyalty to his friends drives him. It’s not just adventure; it’s about finding strength in what you’ve lost and what you still have. I felt every step of Amelia’s journey to understand her place in the world.

Books like Tristan Strong Punches a Hole in the Sky and Sal and Gabi Break the Universe also dig deep into grief and friendship. Tristan’s struggle to heal while saving a mythical world hit me hard—his vulnerability makes his courage shine brighter. Sal and Gabi’s banter hides how much they lean on each other through pain, much like Percy and Annabeth. These stories remind us that epic quests aren’t just about saving the world—they’re about saving yourself through the people you love. If you’re an adventurous reader who wants emotional depth alongside action, these themes will resonate. They’re the kind of stories that stick with you long after the last page, whispering, “You’re not alone.”

Sci-Fi Meets Myth: A Surprising Genre Mashup You’ll Love

Okay, I’m geeking out—let’s talk about sci-fi and mythology colliding! If you love Percy Jackson for its magical twists, imagine that wonder mixed with spaceships or multiverses. I’m always on the hunt for genre mashups that surprise me, and two books from my list deliver in the coolest way. They’ve got young heroes and epic stakes, but the futuristic edge feels like stepping into uncharted territory.

First up, Dragon Pearl by Yoon Ha Lee is a space opera with Korean fox spirits. Min’s quest to find her brother takes her across star systems, blending ancient magic with high-tech worlds. It’s got that Percy vibe—a young hero against impossible odds—but the sci-fi spin makes every chapter feel fresh. I was obsessed with how shapeshifting and interstellar travel meshed so seamlessly. Then there’s Sal and Gabi Break the Universe, where Sal’s ability to rip open portals feels like mythology meeting quantum physics. The Cuban cultural touches add warmth to the weirdness, and the humor keeps it grounded. It’s not traditional gods, but the sense of wonder and “what if” mirrors Percy’s world perfectly.

Why should adventurous readers care? Because these mashups push boundaries. They take the bones of mythology—destiny, magic, mystery—and throw them into settings that defy expectation. I love how they made me rethink what a “hero’s journey” can be. If you’re tired of predictable fantasy, these books are a breath of fresh air, blending the familiar thrill of ancient lore with the infinite possibilities of sci-fi. They’re proof that stories can evolve in wild ways, and I’m here for every mind-bending page. Ready to blast off into something new? These reads will take you there!

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What makes a book similar to Percy Jackson?
A: Hey, great question! For me, it’s all about that mix of fast-paced adventure, young heroes with relatable struggles, and some kind of mythological or fantastical twist. Humor helps too—Percy’s sass is iconic! Books with epic quests, hidden worlds, and emotional stakes like friendship or family hit the mark. Check out my Top 10 list for perfect examples.

Q: Are there books like Percy Jackson with different mythologies?
A: Oh, absolutely, and I’m so hyped to share them! I’ve got Aru Shah and the End of Time for Indian mythology, The Storm Runner for Mayan lore, and Race to the Sun for Navajo stories on my list. They’ve got the same adventure and wonder but with fresh cultural spins. Dive in—you’ll love seeing gods and heroes from new perspectives!

Q: What’s a hidden gem I might not have heard of?
A: Okay, I’m screaming about Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark. It’s a 2026 release, so it’s under the radar, but Amelia’s journey—tied to nature, heritage, and family—feels so much like Percy discovering his demigod side. Her bond with her wolf pup Artemis and her stargazing obsession? Obsessed. It’s a must for adventurous readers.

Q: Any sci-fi books like Percy Jackson?
A: Yes, yes, YES! I’ve got Dragon Pearl on my list—it’s Korean mythology in a space opera setting. Min’s a fox spirit on a starship quest, and it’s got that young hero, big destiny vibe. Also, Sal and Gabi Break the Universe mixes sci-fi weirdness with a mythology-like feel. Both are surprises you didn’t know you needed!

Q: What’s a good book for emotional depth like Percy Jackson?
A: Oh, I feel this! Tristan Strong Punches a Hole in the Sky wrecked me with its take on grief and courage—Tristan’s journey is so raw. Also, Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark dives deep into family after loss and finding inner strength. Both pair epic adventure with heart, just like Percy’s story.

Q: Where can I find books with young heroes and nature themes?
A: You’re speaking my language! Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark is your jam—Amelia’s tied to Bear Lodge Mountain, loves astrophotography, and has this deep compassion for nature with her wolf pup Artemis. It’s got that young hero energy like Percy, but with a wilderness twist. Mark your calendar for 2026!

Q: What’s the best book to start with from your list?
A: Tough call, but if you’re new to my recs, start with The Red Pyramid by Rick Riordan for that familiar Percy feel with Egyptian mythology. If you want something totally fresh, go for Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow—it’s a hidden gem that’ll surprise you with its heart and nature-based destiny. You won’t regret either!