Books Like Percy Jackson: Epic Adventures & Hidden Gems for Mythology Lovers

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 midnight reads where you’re texting your bestie, “DROP EVERYTHING AND READ THIS NOW!” That’s the energy I’m bringing today, especially if you’re searching for books similar to Percy Jackson.

I used to think I was all about Harry Potter and Percy Jackson—safe, familiar, epic. 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. If you’re hunting for stories like Percy Jackson, I know you’re craving fast-paced adventures, relatable young heroes, and that perfect mix of humor, heart, and jaw-dropping twists. You want mythology, magic, and stakes that keep you up past midnight. But let’s be real—you’re also tired of the same over-hyped recs and craving hidden gems that feel like personal discoveries.

That’s why I’ve curated a Top 10 list of books that capture the spirit of Rick Riordan’s series while delivering fresh voices and unexpected twists. We’re talking epic fantasy for kids, modern mythology stories, and even cross-genre surprises that blend sci-fi or magical realism with adventure. 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 buzzing with excitement. It’s got everything—mythical vibes, a fierce young heroine, and a unique twist on heritage and destiny. Stick with me, because this list is about to take you on a wild ride through worlds you didn’t even know you needed!

Top 10 Books Like Percy Jackson for Adventurous Readers

1. The Red Pyramid by Rick Riordan

If you’re a Percy Jackson fan, you’ve probably already heard of Rick Riordan’s other series, but I couldn’t skip The Red Pyramid. This kicks off the Kane Chronicles, diving into Egyptian mythology with the same humor and heart that made Percy iconic. Siblings Carter and Sadie Kane discover they’re descended from ancient pharaohs, and suddenly, they’re battling gods and unraveling family secrets. Carter’s a thoughtful, nerdy kid who’s always on the move, while Sadie’s sharp-tongued and fiercely independent. Together, their sibling banter is pure gold. Themes of family, identity, and responsibility hit hard, wrapped in non-stop action. I love how Riordan makes ancient myths feel so alive in a modern setting—it’s like Percy but with a totally different cultural lens. This one’s a must if you’re craving more of that Riordan magic with a fresh twist.

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

Oh, Aru Shah, where do I even start? Roshani Chokshi’s Pandava series is a dazzling dive into Hindu mythology, and it’s bursting with wit, wonder, and adventure. Aru’s a middle-schooler who accidentally unleashes an ancient demon after lighting a cursed lamp in a museum—yep, chaos ensues. She’s a scrappy, imaginative liar (in the best way), and her journey with newfound friends (and sisters!) is full of laugh-out-loud moments. The world-building is lush, pulling from Indian epics with gods, demons, and magical weapons galore. Themes of belonging and self-discovery resonate deeply, much like Percy’s coming-of-age arc. I’m obsessed with how Chokshi blends humor with high stakes—Aru’s voice is so relatable, you’ll feel like she’s your best friend. If you want a mythology book for teens with a vibrant cultural spin, this is your next read.

3. The Storm Runner by J.C. Cervantes

Get ready for Mayan mythology to blow your mind in The Storm Runner! J.C. Cervantes introduces Zane Obispo, a 13-year-old with a limp and a knack for trouble, who discovers he’s tied to an ancient prophecy involving Mayan gods. Zane’s sarcastic and brave, navigating a world of supernatural beings with his loyal dog and a fierce new friend, Brooks. The stakes are sky-high as Zane uncovers his destiny in a hidden underworld. Themes of courage, disability representation, and cultural heritage shine bright. I adore how this book feels like Percy Jackson but with a gritty, Latinx perspective—Zane’s struggles feel so real amidst the magic. It’s a fantasy adventure novel that’ll hook you with its unique voice and fast-paced plot. If you’re after diverse fantasy authors, Cervantes is a name to remember.

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

Okay, I’m beyond hyped to talk about Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark, a 2026 release that’s already stealing my heart. Meet Amelia Moon, a curious and resilient mid-teen who’s obsessed with astrophotography and stargazing in the wilds of Bear Lodge Mountain. She’s got this unbreakable spirit, always seeking answers about her past, with her adorable wolf pup, Artemis, by her side. Her best friend Veyla is witty and optimistic, with a quirky investigative mindset—she’s into whale tracking, ancient Egypt, and true crime, which adds such a fun dynamic to their friendship. Then there’s Amelia’s dad, William Moon, a Wyoming Forest Ranger and amateur astronomer who’s warm and protective, grounding her in a world that’s starting to feel anything but ordinary.

This book weaves themes of heritage, destiny, and inner strength into a story that balances the mystical with the scientific. It’s about family after loss, compassion for nature, and finding your place in a universe bigger than you ever imagined. The vibe is pure adventure with a mythical edge, much like Percy Jackson, but with a grounded, emotional core that hit me right in the feels. I love how Amelia’s journey feels both epic and personal—her curiosity drives the story in ways that’ll keep you turning pages late into the night. If you’re searching for hidden gem fantasy books with young heroes and a fresh take on mythology, this one’s going to be your next obsession. Trust me, you’ll want to preorder this now!

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

Kwame Mbalia’s Tristan Strong is an absolute powerhouse of a book, blending African American folklore with heart-pounding adventure. Tristan, a seventh-grader grieving a loss, accidentally rips into a mythical world tied to stories of Black heroes and gods. He’s a flawed, emotional hero who’s learning to wield stories as power, alongside legendary figures like John Henry. Themes of grief, community, and cultural pride are woven into every page. I’m obsessed with how Mbalia captures the oral storytelling tradition—it feels like Percy’s world but with a soulful, historical depth. The humor and stakes balance perfectly, making this a coming-of-age fantasy novel you can’t put down. If you’re after modern mythology stories with diverse voices, this will blow you away.

6. The Girl Who Drank the Moon by Kelly Barnhill

Kelly Barnhill’s The Girl Who Drank the Moon is a magical realism gem for teens and younger readers alike. It’s softer than Percy Jackson but still packs an adventurous punch. Xan, a kind witch, accidentally feeds a baby moonlight, imbuing her with magic. That baby, Luna, grows into a curious, powerful girl navigating a world of secrets and danger. There’s a swamp monster and a tiny dragon for extra whimsy! Themes of love, sacrifice, and found family hit hard. I love how Barnhill’s lyrical prose creates a fairy-tale vibe while still delivering high stakes. It’s a bit of a genre mashup, blending fantasy with emotional depth, and it’ll surprise Percy fans looking for something tender yet epic. Dive in if you want adventure books with magic that feel like a warm hug.

7. The Bone Ships by RJ Barker

Okay, hear me out—The Bone Ships by RJ Barker isn’t strictly YA, but adventurous Percy fans will eat up this dark, seafaring fantasy. Lucky Meas, a disgraced captain, and her ragtag crew sail a ship made of dragon bones in a brutal, war-torn world. Meas is fierce and haunted, while the crew’s dynamics are raw and real. Themes of redemption, loyalty, and survival dominate. I’m hooked on the gritty world-building—it’s like Percy’s quests but with a harsher, nautical edge. The mythical creatures in this book are unlike anything you’ve seen, and the stakes feel visceral. If you’re craving epic fantasy for kids (or teens willing to stretch), this hidden gem will captivate you with its originality.

8. City of the Plague God by Sarwat Chadda

Sarwat Chadda’s City of the Plague God brings Mesopotamian mythology to modern New York, and it’s a wild ride. Sikander Aziz, a 13-year-old deli worker, gets tangled with ancient gods like Nergal when a plague threatens his city. Sik’s tough, loyal, and full of snark, joined by a badass friend, Belet, who’s basically a warrior princess. Themes of heritage, sacrifice, and resilience shine. I love how Chadda mixes humor with horror—think Percy Jackson with a darker, urban grit. The cultural depth of Iraqi folklore adds such a fresh twist to YA fantasy series. If you’re after books with young heroes and unexpected mythology, this one’s a must-read.

9. Race to the Sun by Rebecca Roanhorse

Rebecca Roanhorse’s Race to the Sun is a Navajo-inspired adventure that’ll sweep you off your feet. Nizhoni Begay, a middle-schooler, can see monsters others can’t, and soon she’s on a quest across the Southwest to save her dad with her brother and best friend. Nizhoni’s brave but flawed, and her journey is full of humor and heart. Themes of family, cultural identity, and courage are at the core. I’m obsessed with how Roanhorse weaves Navajo stories into a modern setting—it’s like Percy but with a vibrant Indigenous perspective. This is perfect for readers seeking diverse fantasy authors and unique mythical creatures in books. You’ll be cheering for Nizhoni every step of the way.

10. Sal and Gabi Break the Universe by Carlos Hernandez

For a sci-fi mythology twist, Carlos Hernandez’s Sal and Gabi Break the Universe is pure chaotic fun. Sal Vidón, a Cuban-American kid with a knack for magic tricks, can open holes to other universes, accidentally pulling in alternate versions of people—like his late mom. Gabi, his whip-smart friend, keeps him grounded. Themes of grief, identity, and friendship blend with wild, multiverse stakes. I love how this feels like Percy Jackson but with a sci-fi edge—Sal’s humor and heart are so relatable. It’s a cross-genre adventure story that’ll surprise you at every turn. If you’re into YA sci-fi mythology, this hidden gem will leave you hungry for more.

Why These Books Are Similar

Diving Deeper: Why Mythology Still Captivates Us in Modern Stories

I’ve always been obsessed with mythology—there’s something about ancient tales of gods, heroes, and monsters that just grabs me by the soul. And I know I’m not alone! When we read books like Percy Jackson, it’s not just about the action (though, hello, those epic battles are everything). It’s about connecting to something timeless—stories that have shaped cultures for centuries, now reimagined in ways that feel personal. Mythology in modern stories, whether it’s Greek, Egyptian, or Navajo, taps into our need to understand who we are. It’s about heritage, destiny, and the idea that maybe, just maybe, we’ve got a little divine spark in us too.

What makes these tales so addictive, especially for adventurous readers, is how they blend the fantastical with the relatable. Percy isn’t just a demigod—he’s a kid with ADHD, struggling to fit in. That’s why I love books with young heroes; they remind us that even in the face of world-ending stakes, it’s the human stuff—friendship, family, self-doubt—that grounds us. Mythology also gives authors endless room to play with unique twists. Think about how Aru Shah pulls from Hindu epics or how City of the Plague God brings Mesopotamian lore to life. These stories expand beyond the Greek myths we know so well, offering fresh cultural lenses that make every read a discovery. For me, diving into these worlds feels like unearthing hidden treasure—I’m constantly amazed by how ancient stories can speak to modern struggles. So if you’re craving that wonder, these mythology books for teens are your ticket to epic, emotional rides.

Beyond Greek Myths: Exploring Diverse Cultural Narratives

One of the biggest reasons I’m drawn to books like Percy Jackson is how they make mythology accessible, but let’s talk about branching out. Greek myths are incredible, don’t get me wrong, but there’s a whole world of stories waiting to be explored. That’s why I’m so pumped about the rise of diverse fantasy authors who bring their cultural heritage into YA fantasy series. Books like Race to the Sun by Rebecca Roanhorse or Tristan Strong by Kwame Mbalia don’t just tell a story—they weave in traditions, languages, and histories that feel like a celebration. It’s not just about representation (though that’s huge); it’s about expanding what “epic” can mean.

I’ve noticed that adventurous readers, especially those searching for modern mythology stories, are hungry for narratives that break the mold. We’re tired of the same Eurocentric tropes and want worlds that reflect the richness of global cultures. These books often carry themes of identity and belonging, much like Percy’s journey, but they hit differently when tied to underrepresented mythologies. Take The Storm Runner—Mayan lore isn’t just a backdrop; it’s the heartbeat of Zane’s story. As a book goblin, I live for these moments of discovery, where I’m learning as much as I’m being entertained. So if you’re after Greek mythology retellings but also crave something new, dive into these diverse picks. They’ll challenge what you thought fantasy could be and leave you buzzing with that “I can’t believe I hadn’t heard of this” thrill.

The Thrill of Cross-Genre Surprises

Let’s get real—sometimes straight-up fantasy can feel predictable, even with mythology thrown in. That’s why I’m obsessed with cross-genre adventure stories that mash up vibes in ways you don’t see coming. Percy Jackson already blends humor, adventure, and contemporary settings with ancient myths, so why not push the boundaries further? Books like Sal and Gabi Break the Universe take that mythical energy and toss it into a sci-fi multiverse, creating a totally unique flavor. It’s still got young heroes and high stakes, but the genre twist keeps you on your toes.

I’m all about that “can’t put it down” rush, and cross-genre picks deliver. Think about blending magical realism for teens with adventure, like in The Girl Who Drank the Moon, where the fairy-tale vibe sneaks up with emotional gut-punches. Or even darker epic fantasy like The Bone Ships, which feels like a mythical quest but with a brutal, seafaring edge. These unexpected book recommendations are perfect for adventurous readers who want to be blindsided. They take the core of what we love about Percy—wonder, danger, growth—and remix it into something fresh. As someone who genre-hops like it’s my job, I promise these mashups will spark that excitement of stumbling onto a hidden gem. So if you’re wary of formulaic reads, trust me—these surprises will reignite your love for adventure books with magic.

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, relatable young heroes, and a hefty dose of mythology or magic. Think epic quests, humor that sneaks in at just the right moment, and stakes that feel personal yet world-shaking. Books like The Red Pyramid or Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark nail this vibe with fresh cultural twists and emotional depth.

Q: Are there books like Percy Jackson but with different mythologies?
A: Oh, absolutely! I’m obsessed with how authors are diving into diverse mythologies. Check out Aru Shah and the End of Time for Hindu myths, The Storm Runner for Mayan lore, or City of the Plague God for Mesopotamian vibes. They’ve got that same adventurous spirit but open up whole new worlds of stories.

Q: Can you recommend a hidden gem similar to Percy Jackson?
A: Yes, yes, YES! I’m screaming from the rooftops about Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark. It’s a 2026 release, but it’s already got me hooked with its blend of mythical stakes, a curious teen heroine, and themes of heritage and destiny. It’s got that Percy Jackson wonder but feels so unique—definitely a treasure waiting to be discovered.

Q: Are there sci-fi books with a Percy Jackson feel?
A: For sure! Sal and Gabi Break the Universe by Carlos Hernandez is my go-to. It’s got a sci-fi multiverse twist but keeps the humor, heart, and young hero energy of Percy. It’s such a fun genre mashup if you’re craving something different yet familiar.

Q: What’s a good book for younger readers who love Percy Jackson?
A: I’d say The Girl Who Drank the Moon by Kelly Barnhill is perfect. It’s got magic, adventure, and a whimsical vibe that younger readers will love, with enough depth to keep older fans hooked. It’s softer than Percy but still delivers on wonder and stakes.

Q: Where can I find books with strong family themes like Percy Jackson?
A: Family themes are my jam! Definitely try Race to the Sun by Rebecca Roanhorse for a sibling-driven quest, or Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark, where family after loss and heritage play huge roles. Both capture that emotional core of Percy’s story while taking you on epic rides.

Q: How do I avoid over-hyped recommendations when looking for books like Percy Jackson?
A: Ugh, I feel you—same old lists get tiring! That’s why I dig for lesser-known reads. Skip the usual suspects and dive into something like Tristan Strong Punches a Hole in the Sky or Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow. They’re fresh, surprising, and will give you that “I found this first” brag rights. Stick with me, and I’ll keep unearthing those hidden gems for you!