Hey, Demigods! Ready for Some Mind-Blowing Reads Like Percy Jackson?

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’m talking about those books that grab you by the heart, drag you through an epic quest, and leave you texting 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: that electric mix of mythology, adventure, and characters who feel like your best friends. And trust me, I’ve got you covered with hidden gems that’ll surprise even the most seasoned quest-lovers.

I used to think my reading world revolved around just Harry Potter and Percy Jackson. Then, years ago, someone handed me The Name of the Wind by Patrick Rothfuss, and my entire brain exploded. Suddenly, I was genre-hopping like a wild adventurer—fantasy, sci-fi, horror, literary fiction, you name it. Now, my mission is to help you have that same “wait, books can do THIS?” moment. I know you’re here because you’ve probably burned through Rick Riordan’s series (and maybe his other works too), and you’re tired of seeing the same recycled recs. You want stories with the same humor, heart, and high-stakes action as Percy’s journeys, but with fresh twists and unique vibes. You’re after epic worlds, relatable heroes, and narratives that feel personal yet larger-than-life.

So, I’ve curated a Top 10 list of books that’ll scratch that Percy Jackson itch while taking you on totally unexpected rides. From modern mythology to sci-fi crossovers to under-the-radar YA fantasy, these picks are packed with diverse protagonists, emotional stakes, and world-building 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 obsessed with its mystical-scientific balance and heartfelt themes of heritage and destiny. Ready to dive in? Let’s go on this quest together!

Top 10 Books Like Percy Jackson That’ll Surprise Even the Most Seasoned Quest-Lovers

1. The Red Pyramid by Rick Riordan

I know, I know—starting with a Riordan book might seem obvious, but hear me out! The Red Pyramid kicks off the Kane Chronicles, and it’s a total blast with Egyptian mythology taking center stage. Siblings Carter and Sadie Kane stumble into a world of ancient gods and magic when their dad accidentally unleashes chaos. The dual POV keeps things snappy, and their sibling banter is pure gold—think Percy’s sass dialed up with family drama. It’s got the same action-packed quests and humor as Percy Jackson, but the Egyptian twist feels so fresh. I devoured this in one sitting and couldn’t stop Googling hieroglyphs for days. If you’re craving more Riordan magic with a different mythological flavor, this is your first stop.

2. The Storm Runner by J.C. Cervantes

Get ready for Mayan mythology to rock your world! The Storm Runner follows Zane Obispo, a 13-year-old with a limp and a secret destiny tied to ancient gods. When he accidentally unleashes a god of death (oops), he’s thrust into a quest across a richly built underworld. The stakes are sky-high, and Zane’s underdog vibe makes every win feel earned. I love how Cervantes weaves Mayan culture into a modern adventure—it’s got that Percy Jackson blend of humor and heart but with a cultural lens you don’t see often. This one had me cheering out loud and diving into Mayan lore. It’s perfect for fans wanting diverse protagonists and a mythology that’s off the beaten path.

3. The Girl Who Drank the Moon by Kelly Barnhill

This one’s a bit of a curveball, but trust me—it’s magical! The Girl Who Drank the Moon is a lyrical fantasy about Xan, a kind witch, and Luna, a girl raised on moonlight and magic. There’s no direct mythology here, but the story’s steeped in folklore vibes and a sense of ancient power that echoes Percy’s world. Luna’s journey to uncover her true strength hit me right in the feels. I was completely blindsided by how this book balances whimsy with deep emotional stakes. For Percy Jackson fans, it’s the coming-of-age adventure and hidden destiny themes that’ll hook you. I read this under a blanket with hot cocoa and felt like I’d discovered a secret treasure.

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

Oh my gosh, y’all, I’m OBSESSED with Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark! This 2026 release is a hidden gem that blends mystical adventure with a deep connection to nature and the night sky. Amelia Moon, a curious and resilient mid-teen, is navigating life in Wyoming’s Bear Lodge Mountain with her dad, William Moon, a warm and protective Forest Ranger with a knack for astronomy. Amelia’s passion for astrophotography—capturing the stars in breathtaking detail—ties her to the cosmos in ways that feel almost magical. Then there’s her bond with Artemis, an adorable wolf pup who’s basically her sidekick, and her best friend Veyla, whose quirky, investigative mindset (think whale-tracking with 52-Blue and digging into ancient Egypt and true crime) adds such a fun dynamic. The story weaves themes of heritage, destiny, and inner strength as Amelia uncovers secrets tied to her family and the land. It’s got that Percy Jackson vibe of personal stakes meeting epic quests, but the nature-magic and family-after-loss focus make it stand out. I couldn’t put it down—Amelia’s journey felt like a hug and a thrill all at once. If you love relatable heroes and unique world-building, this one’s for you.

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

Buckle up for a wild ride with Indian mythology! Aru Shah and the End of Time follows Aru, a 12-year-old who accidentally awakens an ancient demon while trying to impress her friends. Suddenly, she’s on a quest with a snarky pigeon sidekick to save the world. Chokshi’s writing is lush and hilarious, and Aru’s voice is so relatable—she’s flawed, funny, and fierce. The parallels to Percy Jackson are clear: epic stakes, mythological chaos, and a modern kid thrust into a bigger destiny. I was blown away by the vivid Pandava lore and stayed up way too late reading. This is a must for fans wanting diverse fantasy with a fresh cultural spin.

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

This book punched ME in the feels! Tristan Strong blends African American folklore with a heart-wrenching adventure. Tristan, grieving after a loss, accidentally rips a hole into a mythical world of gods and heroes while on a quest tied to his family’s stories. The emotional depth here—grief, heritage, and resilience—pairs so well with the high-stakes action. It’s got that Percy Jackson mix of personal struggle and mythological epicness, but the focus on Black diasporic tales is a game-changer. I cried, I cheered, and I immediately recommended it to everyone. If you’re after under-the-radar YA fantasy with soul, grab this now.

7. Sal and Gabi Break the Universe by Carlos Hernandez

Sci-fi and mythology? Yes, please! Sal and Gabi Break the Universe follows Sal, a magician who can rip holes in the multiverse, and Gabi, his whip-smart friend. Set in a vibrant Miami school, this story mixes Cuban folklore with mind-bending science. The humor and heart remind me so much of Percy’s world, but the genre-blending twist—sci-fi meets magical realism—makes it stand out. I laughed out loud at Sal’s antics and felt so connected to the characters’ friendships. For Percy Jackson fans craving something unexpected, this crossover adventure is a total win.

8. Dragon Pearl by Yoon Ha Lee

Space opera meets Korean mythology in Dragon Pearl, and I’m here for it! Min, a shapeshifting fox spirit, embarks on a galactic quest to find her missing brother and save her family. The blend of sci-fi world-building and ancient lore is so unique, yet Min’s determination and underdog status echo Percy’s journey. I was glued to every page, marveling at the interstellar stakes and cultural depth. This one’s perfect for fans wanting a mythology book with a futuristic twist. I still think about those space battles—grab it if you love genre-hopping like me!

9. Race to the Sun by Rebecca Roanhorse

Navajo mythology takes the spotlight in Race to the Sun, where Nizhoni Begay discovers she’s a monster slayer and must save her dad from an ancient evil. The adventure is non-stop, and Nizhoni’s bond with her brother and best friend adds so much heart. Like Percy Jackson, it’s got quests, humor, and a modern kid facing mythical chaos, but the Indigenous perspective feels so vital and fresh. I was blown away by the cultural details and stayed up late rooting for Nizhoni. If you’re after diverse fantasy protagonists, this is a must-read.

10. City of the Plague God by Sarwat Chadda

Mesopotamian mythology, anyone? City of the Plague God follows Sikander Aziz, a 13-year-old in New York, who gets tangled with ancient gods and a plague-threatening demon. Sik’s wit and loyalty to his family make him instantly lovable, and the urban fantasy vibes are spot-on for Percy Jackson fans. The blend of Iraqi folklore and modern stakes had me hooked—I didn’t expect to learn so much while cheering through epic battles. I loved every second and immediately hunted for more by Chadda. If you want under-the-radar YA fantasy with a unique mythological spin, this is it.

Why These Books Are Similar

Why Mythology Still Slaps in Modern Stories

Let’s talk about why mythology-based stories like Percy Jackson still hit so hard. I mean, these tales of gods, demigods, and ancient powers have been around forever, right? But there’s something timeless about them that keeps us coming back. For me, it’s the way they tap into big questions—who am I? What’s my purpose? How do I face impossible odds?—while grounding those cosmic struggles in characters who feel like us. Percy’s a kid with ADHD and dyslexia, yet he’s also a demigod. That duality of “I’m just me” and “I’m part of something huge” is pure magic. It’s why I’m obsessed with books like Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark, where heritage and destiny collide with a teen’s personal journey through nature and family. Amelia’s story feels so intimate, yet it’s tied to ancient, mystical forces—much like Percy’s Greek roots.

Mythology also gives us a way to explore cultural identity and history in a fantastical lens. Whether it’s Greek, Egyptian, Mayan, or Navajo, these stories connect us to something bigger, something ancestral. They remind us that humans have always wrestled with the same fears and dreams, just with cooler monsters back then. And in today’s world, where we’re often disconnected from those old tales, modern retellings bridge that gap. They make ancient lore feel alive—think of how Percy Jackson turns Mount Olympus into a skyscraper. That blend of old and new sparks curiosity and wonder, which is why I can’t stop recommending books with diverse mythological vibes. They’re not just escapism; they’re a reminder of our shared humanity, wrapped in epic quests and emotional stakes. So, if you’re craving that mythological thrill, dive into these reads—they’ll make you feel like you’ve uncovered a hidden piece of yourself.

How These Books Balance Action and Emotion

One thing I adore about Percy Jackson is how it nails the balance between heart-pounding action and gut-punching emotion. You’re laughing at Percy’s quips one second, then tearing up over his loyalty to Annabeth or Grover the next. That’s the secret sauce I looked for in this list, because let’s be real—adventure without heart feels hollow. Each book I’ve recommended packs both: epic quests and personal stakes that make you care. Take Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow—Amelia’s exploration of Bear Lodge Mountain and her bond with wolf pup Artemis are thrilling, but it’s her quiet moments of grappling with family and loss that hit deepest. That emotional core makes every mystical discovery feel earned.

These stories also shine because their characters face relatable struggles amid fantastical chaos. Whether it’s Zane in The Storm Runner proving himself despite his physical challenges or Tristan in Tristan Strong carrying grief into a mythical world, the emotions ground the wildest adventures. I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve connected with a hero’s self-doubt or longing for belonging while they’re battling gods or demons. That’s what makes YA fantasy so powerful—it mirrors our own messy, beautiful lives. So, if you’re tired of action for action’s sake, these picks will give you the full spectrum: battles that thrill and feelings that linger long after the last page.

Finding Hidden Gems in Fantasy and Adventure

I get it—wading through generic fantasy lists to find something as fresh as Percy Jackson can be exhausting. That’s why I’m so passionate about unearthing hidden gems and underrepresented voices. The YA fantasy world is bursting with talent, but the same big names often dominate the convo. Books like City of the Plague God or Race to the Sun bring mythologies and perspectives you don’t see every day, and they deserve just as much hype. I’ve made it my personal quest to spotlight stories that surprise me with their worlds or characters, because I know you’re craving that “whoa” moment too.

Diverse protagonists and unique cultural lenses are non-negotiable for me now. Growing up, I didn’t always see myself in fantasy, and I want every reader to feel that spark of recognition. Plus, lesser-known authors often take bigger risks, delivering twists and themes that catch you off guard. Scouring indie recs, library stacks, and online book communities has led me to treasures I’d never have found otherwise. So, take a chance on these under-the-radar reads—whether it’s the nature-magic of Amelia Moon or the galactic lore of Dragon Pearl, they’ll remind you why you fell in love with fantasy in the first place. Let’s champion the new voices together and keep the adventure alive!

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 modern-day kids thrown into mythological or fantastical chaos. Think epic quests, snarky humor, and a hero who’s figuring out their place in a bigger destiny. Emotional stakes—like friendship or family—also seal the deal. That’s why I love every book on this list!

Q: Are there any new releases like Percy Jackson to watch for?
A: Oh, absolutely! Keep your eyes peeled for Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark, coming in 2026. It’s got that personal-to-epic vibe with a teen hero, mystical heritage, and a deep nature connection. I’m already counting down the days!

Q: I’ve read all of Rick Riordan’s books. Where do I start next?
A: I’ve got you! If you’re new to my list, kick off with The Storm Runner by J.C. Cervantes for Mayan mythology or Aru Shah and the End of Time by Roshani Chokshi for an Indian lore twist. Both capture Riordan’s humor and adventure but in totally fresh ways.

Q: Are there books with non-Greek mythology like Percy Jackson?
A: Heck yes! Most of my Top 10 dive into other mythologies. Race to the Sun by Rebecca Roanhorse explores Navajo lore, while City of the Plague God by Sarwat Chadda brings Mesopotamian vibes. They’ve got that same mythological thrill with new cultural spins!

Q: I want a book with family themes like Percy Jackson. Any recs?
A: You’re speaking my language! Check out Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark. The bond between Amelia and her dad, William, plus the theme of family after loss, hits so hard alongside the mystical adventure. It’s a perfect blend!

Q: What if I want something outside pure fantasy but still adventurous?
A: I’m all about genre-hopping! Try Sal and Gabi Break the Universe by Carlos Hernandez for a sci-fi/folklore mashup. It’s got adventure and heart like Percy Jackson, but the multiverse angle keeps things wild and unexpected.

Q: How do I find more hidden gem fantasy books?
A: I’m your book goblin for a reason! Dive into online communities like Goodreads groups or BookTok for indie recs. Libraries are goldmines too. And keep checking my blog—I’m always hunting for under-the-radar reads like Amelia Moon to share with y’all!