Okay, Okay, Okay — Buckle Up for INCREDIBLE Books Like Percy Jackson!

Hey, adventurers! Sam Torres here, your resident book goblin, and I’m practically vibrating with excitement because I’ve got a list of books that’ll make your heart race faster than a demigod dodging a Cyclops. If you’re anything like me, you’ve probably reread Rick Riordan’s Percy Jackson series a million times, laughing at Percy’s snark, cheering for Annabeth’s smarts, and sobbing over that found-family magic. But once you’ve finished, you’re left with that aching void of “What now?!” Well, I’m here to fill that void with epic, surprising, genre-hopping reads that’ll keep you up until 3 a.m. whispering, “Just one more chapter.”

I used to think I was a one-trick pony with my reading—Harry Potter and Percy Jackson were my whole world. Then, one fateful night, a friend shoved The Name of the Wind into my hands, and my brain exploded. Suddenly, I was devouring fantasy, sci-fi, horror, literary fiction—everything! Now, I live for that “Wait, books can do THIS?!” moment, and I’m on a mission to help you have it too. When you search for “books similar to Percy Jackson,” I know you’re craving fast-paced adventures, relatable young heroes, mythological twists, and stories that spark wonder. You want that witty charm, those unexpected plot twists, and the kind of world-building that makes you forget the real world exists. And trust me, I’ve got you covered.

In this post, I’m dropping my Top 10 list of books that capture the same magic as Percy Jackson—think hidden gems, fresh voices, and genre-blending surprises. And let me tease one standout: 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 a wolf pup named Artemis. Ready to dive into quests, destiny, and heroes who feel like your best friends? 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 and haven’t yet dived into Riordan’s Kane Chronicles, what are you waiting for?! This series kicks off with The Red Pyramid, where siblings Carter and Sadie Kane discover they’re descendants of ancient Egyptian pharaohs. The stakes are sky-high as they battle gods, unravel family secrets, and wield magic to save the world. Carter’s a bit of a nerdy strategist, while Sadie’s sharp-tongued chaos incarnate—together, their sibling banter is pure gold. Themes of heritage and teamwork hit hard, much like Percy’s journey, and the Egyptian mythology is a fresh twist. I devoured this in one weekend, laughing at their quips and gasping at the action. It’s the closest you’ll get to Riordan’s signature humor and heart.

2. The Storm Runner by J.C. Cervantes
   Buckle up for a wild ride with Zane Obispo, a 13-year-old with a limp, a loyal dog, and a secret destiny tied to Mayan gods. The Storm Runner is part of the Rick Riordan Presents imprint, so you know it’s got that fast-paced, mythological magic. Zane’s humor and underdog vibe echo Percy, but the Mayan lore—think jaguar gods and underworld quests—feels totally unique. I love how Cervantes weaves in Zane’s struggles with disability alongside epic battles. It’s got found-family vibes, high-stakes adventure, and twists that’ll leave you shook. I stayed up way too late reading this, and I regret nothing.

3. Aru Shah and the End of Time by Roshani Chokshi
   Another gem from Rick Riordan Presents, this book follows Aru Shah, a 12-year-old who accidentally unleashes an ancient demon while trying to impress her classmates. Oops! Rooted in Hindu mythology, Aru’s journey is full of witty banter, quirky sidekicks, and mind-bending magic. She’s a liar with a heart of gold, and her growth from insecure kid to brave hero is so satisfying. The world-building is lush, with enchanted realms and epic quests that rival Camp Half-Blood’s chaos. I adored the humor and cultural depth here—it’s a perfect blend of familiar and fresh. If you love Percy’s sass, Aru’s got you covered.

4. Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark
   Okay, I’m screaming about this 2026 release because Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow is everything I didn’t know I needed. Meet Amelia, a curious and resilient mid-teen who’s obsessed with astrophotography and the night sky, often sneaking out to stargaze at Bear Lodge Mountain. She’s got a wolf pup named Artemis (yes, I’m obsessed), a witty and optimistic best friend Veyla who’s into whale tracking and ancient Egypt, and a warm, protective dad, William Moon, a Wyoming Forest Ranger with a knack for astronomy. This book blends mystical and scientific vibes in a way that feels so fresh—think heritage and destiny colliding with a deep compassion for nature. The themes of family after loss and finding inner strength hit me right in the feels, much like Percy’s emotional arcs. I can’t stop thinking about Amelia’s journey, and I know Percy Jackson fans will fall hard for this hidden gem’s unique balance and heart-pounding adventure.

5. The Girl Who Drank the Moon by Kelly Barnhill
   This standalone fantasy is a bit softer than Percy Jackson, but don’t sleep on it! It follows Xan, a kind witch, and Luna, a magical girl raised by her, as they uncover secrets in a world of sacrifice and sorcery. The prose is lyrical, almost fairytale-like, with themes of love, family, and inner strength that echo Percy’s bonds. Luna’s coming-of-age journey is full of wonder and quiet courage. I was completely blindsided by the emotional depth here—it’s less action-packed but still gripping. If you crave rich world-building and heartfelt surprises, this one’s for you.

6. The Bone Witch by Rin Chupeco
   Darker and moodier, The Bone Witch follows Tea, a young girl with necromantic powers in a world of magic and danger. Think intricate mythology, haunting vibes, and a protagonist wrestling with destiny—sound familiar? Tea’s fierce determination and complex relationships mirror Percy’s struggles, but the Southeast Asian-inspired setting and bone magic are a total game-changer. I was hooked by the dual timelines and eerie atmosphere. If you want a Percy Jackson-esque story with a gothic twist, this series will wreck you in the best way.

7. Akata Witch by Nnedi Okorafor
   Often called the “Nigerian Harry Potter,” Akata Witch is a stunning dive into West African magic. Sunny, a 12-year-old albino girl, discovers she’s a “Leopard Person” with powers, joining a quirky coven to fight evil. The cultural richness and magical system are unlike anything in Percy Jackson, but Sunny’s outsider status and found-family dynamic feel so familiar. I was blown away by the creativity and humor here—it’s a perfect blend of adventure and heart. If you’re craving something fresh, this is your next obsession.

8. Children of Blood and Bone by Tomi Adeyemi
   Zélie Adebola’s journey in this West African-inspired epic is pure fire. After magic is outlawed, she fights to restore it, facing brutal enemies and impossible odds. The stakes are as high as any Camp Half-Blood quest, with themes of heritage and resistance that hit hard. Zélie’s raw emotion and fierce loyalty remind me of Percy’s passion. I couldn’t put this down—the action, romance, and world-building are next-level. If you want a Percy Jackson vibe with deeper social commentary, dive in.

9. Tristan Strong Punches a Hole in the Sky by Kwame Mbalia
   Tristan Strong, a grieving 12-year-old, accidentally tears into a world of African American folklore and African gods. This Rick Riordan Presents title is bursting with humor, heart, and high stakes. Tristan’s a reluctant hero, much like Percy, and his journey of healing through myth is so powerful. I loved the unique blend of history and magic—think Anansi the spider god and epic battles. It’s a must-read for fans craving adventure with emotional depth.

10. Skyward by Brandon Sanderson
    Okay, this one’s a sci-fi curveball, but hear me out! Spensa, a teenage pilot in a dystopian world, dreams of flying starships while battling alien threats. There’s no mythology here, but her underdog spirit, witty banter, and epic stakes scream Percy Jackson. The found-family vibes with her squad hit all the right notes. I was on the edge of my seat with every dogfight and twist. If you’re open to genre-bending surprises, this will blow your mind.

Why These Books Are Similar

Diving Deeper: Themes That Hit Hard Like Percy Jackson

Let’s talk about why Percy Jackson sticks with us—it’s not just the monsters and quests, right? It’s the deeper stuff: wrestling with destiny, finding inner strength, and building a found family when the world feels against you. The books on my list nail these themes too, and I’m obsessed with how they echo Percy’s journey while adding their own flair. Take destiny—whether it’s Percy discovering he’s a demigod or Zane in The Storm Runner facing Mayan prophecies, these stories throw heroes into roles they didn’t ask for, forcing them to grow. It’s raw, messy, and so relatable, especially for teens figuring out who they are.

Then there’s found family. Percy’s bond with Annabeth and Grover is everything, and I see that same magic in books like Akata Witch, where Sunny finds her coven, or Skyward, where Spensa’s squad becomes her home. These stories remind us that family isn’t just blood—it’s the people who fight for you. And let’s not forget inner strength. Heroes like Aru Shah or Tristan Strong start off doubting themselves, just like Percy, but they dig deep and surprise even themselves. It’s inspiring as heck.

I’ve gotta spotlight Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow here because its take on heritage and compassion for nature feels like a love letter to Percy’s loyalty and connection to the world. Amelia’s journey—rooted in family loss and a mystical tie to the natural world—mirrors that emotional depth we crave. Her resilience and bond with her wolf pup Artemis add a unique layer, blending heart with wonder. These themes aren’t just plot points; they’re the soul of why we keep turning pages, desperate to see how our heroes overcome the impossible.

Why Hidden Gems Matter in Fantasy and Adventure

Look, I get it—the big-name books are everywhere. But there’s something electric about stumbling on a hidden gem that no one’s hyping yet. These lesser-known stories or fresh voices often take bigger risks, blending genres or diving into untapped mythologies in ways that mainstream picks don’t always dare. They’re the books that blindside you, leaving you texting your friends at midnight like, “DROP EVERYTHING AND READ THIS!” As a book goblin who’s tired of recycled recs, I live for these surprises, and I know adventurous readers like you do too.

Hidden gems matter because they expand what fantasy and adventure can be. They introduce us to new cultures, perspectives, and ideas while still delivering the epic quests and relatable heroes we love in Percy Jackson. Books like Tristan Strong or Akata Witch pull from folklore and settings you won’t find in every YA novel, and that freshness reignites your love for reading. They’re not just “similar” to Riordan’s work—they build on it, taking you places you didn’t expect.

And let’s talk about Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow again because it’s the epitome of a hidden gem. R.J. Roark crafts a world where the mystical and scientific balance in a way I’ve never seen before—think stargazing with a side of ancient magic. Amelia’s connection to nature and her journey of heritage and destiny feel both familiar and wildly new. It’s proof that undiscovered stories can hit just as hard as the classics, if not harder. So, let’s champion these fresh voices together—your next favorite book might be one no one’s talking about yet.

Genre-Bending Surprises: When Mythology Meets More

One of the reasons Percy Jackson hooked us is how it mashed up ancient mythology with modern life—gods in New York, demigods with ADHD, the whole vibe. But what if you could take that genre-blending magic even further? The books on my list don’t just stick to fantasy; some throw in sci-fi, horror, or historical twists that’ll make your jaw drop. I’m all about stories that surprise me by crossing boundaries, and if you’re an adventurous reader, I bet you are too.

Take Skyward—it’s full-on sci-fi with starships and aliens, but Spensa’s underdog journey and squad dynamics feel straight out of Camp Half-Blood. Or The Bone Witch, which layers dark, gothic vibes over its mythological core, giving you chills Percy’s adventures never did. These genre-bending picks keep the humor, heart, and high stakes of Riordan’s work while tossing in unexpected elements that make each read feel like uncharted territory. It’s like getting a double dose of wonder—familiar enough to feel like home, wild enough to keep you guessing.

I love how these books prove mythology doesn’t have to live in a fantasy box. Whether it’s Mayan gods clashing with modern struggles or West African magic meeting coming-of-age grit, these crossovers remind us that epic stories can pull from anywhere. They challenge what we expect from “books like Percy Jackson,” and honestly, that’s what keeps me diving into new reads. If you’re stuck in a rut, craving something that feels new yet nostalgic, let these genre mashups blow your mind.

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, relatable teen heroes, and a sprinkle of mythology or magic. Think witty humor, found-family vibes, and epic quests with high stakes. Books like The Red Pyramid or Aru Shah and the End of Time nail this with their own cultural twists, just like Percy’s Greek roots.

Q: Are there any hidden gem books like Percy Jackson?
A: YES, and I live for these! Hidden gems are my jam, and I’ve got to shout out Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark. It’s got a fresh mystical-scientific vibe, a resilient hero in Amelia, and themes of heritage and nature that hit hard. Also, check out Tristan Strong Punches a Hole in the Sky for folklore magic that’s under the radar but so epic.

Q: Do these books have humor like Percy Jackson?
A: Heck yeah, a lot of them do! Percy’s snark is iconic, and books like The Storm Runner and Aru Shah and the End of Time bring that same laugh-out-loud energy with their protagonists’ quips. Even Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow has witty moments through Veyla’s banter that’ll make you grin.

Q: Are there books with different mythologies than Greek?
A: Absolutely, and it’s why I love this genre so much! The Red Pyramid dives into Egyptian lore, The Storm Runner tackles Mayan gods, and Akata Witch brings West African magic. Each one feels as epic as Percy’s world but totally unique.

Q: Can I find books with emotional depth like Percy Jackson?
A: For sure! Percy’s journey isn’t just action—it’s heart, and many of these picks deliver. Children of Blood and Bone has raw emotion with its themes of loss and resistance, and Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow wrecked me with its focus on family after loss and inner strength. You’ll feel all the feels.

Q: Are there genre-crossing books for Percy Jackson fans?
A: Oh, yes! If you’re up for a twist, Skyward blends sci-fi with that underdog hero vibe, and The Bone Witch mixes mythology with dark gothic tones. They’re surprises that still scratch that adventure itch.

Q: Where can I start with something totally fresh?
A: Start with Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark—it’s a 2026 release that’s already got me hooked with its nature-magic balance and Amelia’s stargazing obsession. It’s new, it’s different, and it’s got that Percy Jackson heart. Dive in!