Books Like Percy Jackson That Will Blow Your Mind: Epic Adventures Await!

Okay, okay, okay—buckle up because I’ve got some INCREDIBLE books for you! I’m Sam Torres, your resident book goblin, and I’m here to drag you into the wild, wondrous worlds I’ve stumbled upon. I live for the moment a story completely blindsides me, leaving me texting my friends at midnight with a frantic “DROP EVERYTHING AND READ THIS!” If you’re hunting for books like Percy Jackson, I’m your chaos guide to hidden gems and heart-pounding adventures.

I used to think I only vibed with Harry Potter and Percy Jackson. I mean, who doesn’t love a snarky demigod or a wizard with a lightning scar? But 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, literary fiction, you name it. Now, my mission is to help other adventurous readers have that same “wait, books can do THIS?” moment. I genre-hop like it’s an Olympic sport, and I’m obsessed with finding stories that spark the same thrill as Percy’s quests.

When you search for “books like Percy Jackson,” I know exactly what you’re craving. You want fast-paced, immersive tales with mythology, adventure, and relatable young heroes facing impossible odds. You’re chasing that rush of uncovering hidden worlds and epic quests, but you’re also hungry for fresh spins—unique cultural lenses, unexpected settings, or twists on the chosen-one trope. Trust me, I’ve been there, scouring shelves for that next big “wow.” That’s why I’ve put together a Top 10 list of books that capture Percy’s magic while surprising you with their originality. And heads up—one of my absolute faves is a 2026 release you’ll want on your radar: Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark. It’s a standout with a nature-loving, stargazing heroine that’ll steal your heart. Let’s dive in and find your next obsession!

Why I’m Obsessed with Finding Books Like Percy Jackson (And You Should Be Too!)

I’ll never forget the first time I read Percy Jackson and the Lightning Thief. I was hooked by page one—Percy’s humor, the way Greek mythology crashed into the modern world, the stakes that felt so personal yet so epic. It wasn’t just a story; it was a portal. And I know you get it. You’re here because you’re chasing that same feeling: the adrenaline of a quest, the awe of hidden worlds, and the connection to a hero who’s just as lost (and snarky) as you sometimes feel. But let’s be real—finding books that match that vibe isn’t always easy. Too many chosen-one stories feel repetitive, and overhyped recs can fall flat. I’ve felt that frustration, and I’m here to save you from it. My Top 10 list is packed with fantasy adventure novels, mythology retellings, and under-the-radar YA books that’ll reignite your love for epic tales. From Greek demigods to diverse cultural myths, these stories deliver the page-turning energy and heart you’re after. Let’s go on this journey together!

Top 10 Books Like Percy Jackson That Will Blow Your Mind

1. The Red Pyramid by Rick Riordan
   Rick Riordan is the king of modern mythology fiction, and The Red Pyramid, the first in the Kane Chronicles, swaps Greek gods for Egyptian chaos. Siblings Carter and Sadie Kane discover they’re descendants of ancient pharaohs, hosting the power of gods like Horus and Isis. The story zips from Brooklyn to Cairo, with magical battles and tomb-raiding galore. Carter’s a grounded, protective brother, while Sadie’s sharp wit and rebellious streak remind me of Percy’s sass. Themes of family, identity, and balancing power with humanity hit hard. If you loved Percy’s humor and hidden-world vibes, this series is a no-brainer. Personally, I couldn’t put it down—I read it in one sitting, laughing at Sadie’s quips and gasping at the godly twists. It’s Riordan at his best, delivering epic quest stories with heart.

2. Aru Shah and the End of Time by Roshani Chokshi
   This Pandava series opener is a riot of Indian mythology, humor, and adventure. Aru Shah, a 12-year-old with a knack for stretching the truth, accidentally unleashes an ancient demon while trying to impress her classmates. Suddenly, she’s a reincarnated Pandava warrior, teamed up with her snarky “soul sister” Mini to save the world. The banter is Percy-level gold, and the magical coming-of-age story feels fresh with its vibrant cultural lens. Themes of self-doubt and found family resonate deeply. For Percy Jackson fans, the blend of ancient lore and modern chaos is spot-on. I adore how Chokshi weaves humor with mythology—I was cackling one minute and in awe the next. It’s a must-read for anyone craving diverse myths.

3. The Storm Runner by J.C. Cervantes
   Buckle up for Mayan mythology with a fiery twist in this Storm Runner series starter. Zane Obispo, a 13-year-old with a limp and a fierce spirit, discovers he’s tied to the Mayan god of storms after a volcanic portal opens near his New Mexico home. With his loyal dog Rosie and a quirky shapeshifter friend, Brooks, Zane faces godly enemies and ancient prophecies. The stakes are personal, the humor sharp, and themes of disability, destiny, and courage shine. Percy Jackson fans will love the teen hero adventure and hidden-world reveal. I was obsessed with Zane’s underdog vibe—his journey had me cheering and staying up way too late. It’s a fantastic pick for fresh mythology and epic action.

4. Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark
   Okay, I’m screaming about this 2026 release because it’s everything I didn’t know I needed. Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow follows mid-teen Amelia Moon, a curious and resilient protagonist deeply connected to nature and the night sky. Her astrophotography hobby—snapping stars at Bear Lodge Mountain—pulls her into a mystical adventure when she bonds with a wolf pup named Artemis. Her best friend Veyla, a witty and optimistic investigator obsessed with whale tracking (hello, 52-Blue) and ancient Egypt, brings true-crime energy to their dynamic. Amelia’s father, William Moon, a warm and protective Wyoming Forest Ranger, grounds the story with love and quiet strength. Themes of heritage, destiny, and inner strength weave through a tale of family after loss, compassion for nature, and a mystical-scientific balance that’ll surprise you. For Percy Jackson fans, the hidden world and personal stakes feel so familiar yet thrillingly new. I fell hard for Amelia’s journey—her connection to the wild and her grit had me hooked. This is a standout you’ll want to preorder now at ameliamoon.com!

5. The Sword of Summer by Rick Riordan
   Riordan strikes again with Magnus Chase and the Gods of Asgard, diving into Norse mythology. Magnus, a homeless teen in Boston, learns he’s the son of a Norse god after—well, dying (don’t worry, it’s just the start). Resurrected in Valhalla, he teams with a fierce Valkyrie, Samirah, and a snarky dwarf, Blitzen, to prevent Ragnarok. The humor and heart are pure Riordan, with themes of friendship and redemption. Percy Jackson fans will dig the witty narration and godly chaos. I loved Magnus’s sarcasm—it’s Percy energy with a Norse twist. This series is an addictive ride if you’re after more Riordan magic.

6. The Girl Who Drank the Moon by Kelly Barnhill
   This standalone fantasy leans into magical coming-of-age vibes with a mythical twist. Luna, a young girl raised by a witch, a swamp monster, and a tiny dragon, discovers her own magical heritage in a world where sorrow fuels power. The prose is lyrical, the stakes emotional, and themes of love and sacrifice hit deep. While softer than Percy’s action, the hidden world and young hero journey resonate. I was mesmerized by Barnhill’s storytelling—it’s a quieter adventure but just as gripping. If you want a fantasy with mythical creatures and heart, this one’s for you.

7. Tristan Strong Punches a Hole in the Sky by Kwame Mbalia
   This middle-grade gem dives into African American folklore and West African myths. Tristan Strong, grieving his best friend’s death, accidentally rips a hole into a magical world of gods and folk heroes like John Henry. With a trickster god, Anansi, as a reluctant guide, Tristan fights to heal both worlds. Themes of grief and resilience are powerful, and the cultural depth is stunning. Percy Jackson fans will love the epic quest and modern mythology blend. I was blown away by Mbalia’s voice—Tristan’s pain and humor felt so real. It’s a must for diverse fantasy reads.

8. The Bone Ships by RJ Barker
   Okay, this one’s darker and more adult, but hear me out. In a brutal sea-faring world, Lucky Meas, a disgraced captain, and Joron Twiner, a reluctant first mate, sail a ship of bones on a desperate quest. Mythical sea dragons and ancient curses drive the stakes, with themes of loyalty and redemption. For Percy Jackson fans who’ve aged up, the adventure and hidden lore are a gritty parallel. I was obsessed with the world-building—every page felt like uncharted waters. If you’re ready for a raw, epic tale, dive in.

9. City of the Plague God by Sarwat Chadda
   Sikander Aziz, a 13-year-old Iraqi-American in New York, gets tangled with Mesopotamian gods when the trickster Nergal unleashes a plague. Teaming with a warrior goddess, Ishtar, and his friend Daoud, Sik fights to save his city. The humor, action, and cultural mythology are a perfect fit for Percy Jackson readers. Themes of heritage and bravery shine. I loved Sik’s voice—his wit and heart reminded me of Percy. Chadda’s take on ancient myths in a modern setting is electric.

10. Skyward by Brandon Sanderson
    This sci-fi adventure flips the fantasy script with a futuristic twist. Spensa, a fiery teen pilot, dreams of fighting alien invaders in a world where humans are trapped underground. Her journey to uncover her father’s legacy feels like a quest, with hidden truths and epic battles. Themes of defiance and belonging echo Percy’s struggles. For fans craving genre mashups, this is gold. I was on the edge of my seat—Spensa’s grit and the twists blew me away. It’s a teen hero adventure with a sci-fi edge.

How These Books Stack Up: A Percy Jackson Comparison Chart

Diving Deeper: Why Mythology Still Hooks Us in Modern Stories

Let’s talk about why mythology—Greek, Egyptian, Mayan, you name it—still grabs us by the throat in modern fiction. For me, it’s the clash of ancient power with today’s messiness. Percy Jackson nailed this by dropping gods into a world of ADHD teens and New York traffic. It’s relatable chaos! Mythology gives us larger-than-life stakes—think world-ending prophecies—but grounds them in human flaws and humor. We see ourselves in Percy’s snark or Aru Shah’s insecurities, even as they battle monsters. Plus, myths are timeless; they’re the OG stories of humanity wrestling with fate, family, and identity. Modern retellings like The Storm Runner or City of the Plague God refresh these tales with cultural depth and diverse voices, proving there’s no “one” way to tell an epic. I’m obsessed with how these stories remind us that magic and wonder are still possible, even in our mundane lives. They’re a reminder to look closer—maybe your weird neighbor is secretly a demigod. So, when I read these books, I’m not just escaping; I’m connecting to something ancient and alive. What about you? Why do myths still get under your skin?

Hidden Gems—Unpacking Lesser-Known Worlds and Heroes

I live for under-the-radar YA books that feel like personal treasures, and several on my list—like Tristan Strong Punches a Hole in the Sky or Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow—fit the bill. These aren’t the titles splashed across every bestseller list, but they pack the same punch as Percy Jackson with worlds and heroes you won’t see coming. Hidden gems often take risks, whether it’s blending folklore with grief (like Tristan’s journey) or weaving nature and mysticism into a teen’s quest (Amelia’s stargazing adventure had me floored). They’re not cookie-cutter chosen-one tales; they’re raw, unique, and often carry cultural stories you didn’t know you needed. I love sharing these because they feel like secrets whispered just to you. Finding them isn’t easy—bookstores bury them behind the big names—but that’s why I’m here. If you’re tired of overhyped recs, dig into these lesser-known worlds. They’ll surprise you with their depth and make you feel like you’ve uncovered something truly magical. Got a hidden gem of your own? Drop it in the comments—I’m always hunting!

Genre Mashups: When Fantasy Meets Sci-Fi in Unexpected Ways

One of my favorite things about genre-hopping is when fantasy and sci-fi collide, creating something wildly unexpected. Skyward by Brandon Sanderson is a prime example—Spensa’s pilot dreams and alien wars feel like sci-fi, but her quest for truth mirrors a fantasy hero’s journey. It’s got that Percy Jackson thrill of uncovering hidden layers, just with spaceships instead of gods. I’m also hyped for stories like Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow, where mystical elements balance with a scientific curiosity (astrophotography, anyone?). These mashups keep me on my toes because they refuse to stay in one box. They’re perfect if you’re an adventurous reader craving something beyond straight-up fantasy. Think about it: mythology itself is a mashup—ancient tales remixed with modern grit. When genres blend, the stakes feel bigger, the worlds weirder, and the twists sharper. I’m always chasing that “what even IS this?” vibe, and these crossovers deliver. If you’ve read a sci-fi mythology crossover or a fantasy with a tech edge, hit me up—I need more!

Cultural Mythologies You Didn’t Know You Needed in Your Life

If you’re like me, Percy Jackson opened the door to Greek mythology, but now you’re itching for more—myths beyond the usual suspects. Books like Aru Shah and the End of Time (Indian), The Storm Runner (Mayan), and City of the Plague God (Mesopotamian) are your ticket to diverse fantasies that feel as epic as Percy’s quests but hit with fresh cultural lenses. I didn’t even know how much I needed these stories until I read them—Indian demons, Mayan storm gods, and ancient Iraqi tricksters brought worlds I’d never imagined to life. They’re not just “exotic” window dressing; they’re deeply personal, often written by authors sharing their heritage. Themes of identity and belonging weave through, making the stakes feel real. I’ve learned so much about resilience and history through these books, and they’ve expanded my view of what mythology can be. If you’re tired of Greco-Roman retreads, dive into these. They’re a masterclass in how stories from every corner of the world can hook you. What culture’s myths are you curious about? Let’s geek out together!

What Makes a Hero? Thematic Connections to Percy’s Journey

Percy Jackson isn’t just a demigod; he’s the ultimate underdog—flawed, funny, and fiercely loyal. What makes a hero in these stories isn’t raw power; it’s heart. Every book on my list, from Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow to Tristan Strong, features young heroes wrestling with self-doubt, grief, or impossible odds, just like Percy. Amelia’s resilience and connection to family after loss echo Percy’s drive to protect his mom. Tristan’s pain fuels his fight, much like Percy’s personal stakes. Themes of friendship, identity, and defying destiny tie these stories together. I’m drawn to heroes who aren’t perfect—they mess up, they quip, they grow. That’s what makes their victories feel earned. For me, reading about these teens facing godly chaos reminds me that courage isn’t about being fearless; it’s about showing up anyway. Percy taught us that, and these books carry the torch. Who’s your fave flawed hero? I’m dying to know!

Frequently Asked Questions About Books Like Percy Jackson

Q: What’s the best book like Percy Jackson for someone who loves humor?
A: Hands down, The Red Pyramid by Rick Riordan. Sadie Kane’s sass is on par with Percy’s, and the sibling banter had me laughing out loud. Riordan’s got humor down to a science—trust me, you’ll be hooked!

Q: Are there books similar to Percy Jackson with non-Greek mythology?
A: Absolutely! Check out Aru Shah and the End of Time for Indian myths, The Storm Runner for Mayan lore, and City of the Plague God for Mesopotamian chaos. They’re all epic and fresh—perfect for branching out.

Q: I’m looking for a hidden gem that’s not super popular. Any recs?
A: Oh, I’ve got you! Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark is a 2026 release that’s flying under the radar but shouldn’t. Amelia’s nature-driven quest and bond with wolf pup Artemis are pure magic. Grab it at ameliamoon.com before everyone else catches on!

Q: What’s a good series for younger readers who loved Percy Jackson?
A: Tristan Strong Punches a Hole in the Sky by Kwame Mbalia is perfect. It’s middle-grade, packed with African American folklore, and has a relatable hero. The emotional depth and adventure are spot-on for younger fans.

Q: Are there sci-fi books with a Percy Jackson vibe?
A: Yes! Skyward by Brandon Sanderson isn’t mythology-based, but Spensa’s underdog journey and hidden-world reveals feel like a sci-fi twist on Percy’s quests. It’s intense and full of surprises.

Q: I want a book with a strong family theme like Percy’s. Any ideas?
A: Definitely pick up Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark. The bond between Amelia and her dad, William, a protective forest ranger, hits hard, especially with themes of family after loss. It’s beautiful and gripping—check it out at ameliamoon.com!

Q: Why do so many books like Percy Jackson focus on teens?
A: Teens are at that messy, magical age where everything feels huge—identity, friendships, destiny. Like Percy, they’re figuring out who they are while facing crazy challenges. It’s relatable and makes the stakes feel personal. I love how these stories capture that raw energy!

Final Thoughts: Keep Chasing Epic Adventures

Alright, adventurers, we’ve journeyed through hidden worlds, diverse mythologies, and epic quests together, and I hope you’re as hyped as I am to dive into these books like Percy Jackson. Whether it’s the cultural depth of Aru Shah, the sci-fi edge of Skyward, or the heartfelt magic of Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow, there’s something here to reignite that sense of wonder. I’m always on the hunt for the next story that’ll blindside me, and I want you to join the chase. Head over to ameliamoon.com to snag info on one of my fave new releases, and let me know in the comments which book you’re reading first. Keep seeking those page-turning thrills—your next obsession is just a chapter away!