For those enchanted by the world of Percy Jackson, where ancient myths breathe life into our modern world, finding books of a similar vein is like searching for hidden treasure. After careful curation and consideration of what makes Rick Riordan's series so captivating – the seamless blend of mythology with contemporary adventure, the relatable young heroes, and the gripping narrative that bridges the past and present – I've compiled a list of ten books that promise to continue the magic for voracious readers eager to embark on new epic quests.
Books Like Percy Jackson
1. "The Red Pyramid" by Rick Riordan
Rick Riordan’s "The Red Pyramid" ushers readers back into a world where myths walk the earth in modern attire, this time through the bustling streets and ancient sands of Egypt. Siblings Carter and Sadie Kane become entwined in an epic narrative that weaves together family secrets and divine conspiracies, drawing them into a world where the gods of Egypt are a living, breathing presence. Much like Percy Jackson, these characters are thrown into a chaotic blend of adventure and self-discovery while navigating the treacherous waters of ancient deities meddling in human affairs. The book is an exhilarating ride, punctuated by Riordan's signature humor and a deep dive into Egyptian mythology that educates as much as it entertains.
2. "The Alchemyst" by Michael Scott
"The Alchemyst" pulls the veil back on a world where immortality is possible and the figures of our past are not as historical as we might think. Michael Scott spins a tale around the legendary figure of Nicholas Flamel, whose existence is shrouded in the mystical aura of alchemy and eternal life. The book takes its readers on a race through time, mixing the rich lore of alchemy with the urgency of a modern thriller. This combination will satisfy fans looking for the same cerebral excitement found in the Percy Jackson series. Here, the past and present collide in a story that suggests the magic we dream of is closer to reality than we dare to believe.
3. "Artemis Fowl" by Eoin Colfer
In "Artemis Fowl," Eoin Colfer invites readers to meet a protagonist, a criminal mastermind with a twist—he's just twelve years old. This series combines the otherworldly and the technically advanced, painting a world where the fairy realm and human technology intersect to create new possibilities and dangers. Artemis’s adventures among these mystical beings bring a sharper edge to the narrative, one that is laced with Colfer’s acerbic wit and a layered storyline that draws comparisons to Percy Jackson's journey of mythological encounters and moral dilemmas.
4. "Fablehaven" by Brandon Mull
Brandon Mull's "Fablehaven" series is a portal to a universe where mythical beings are residents of a hidden refuge within our world. With an enchanting setting that's as beguiling as it is dangerous, the series follows siblings Kendra and Seth Sorenson as they uncover the secrets and responsibilities of preserving the delicate balance between the supernatural and the human. Their experiences in Fablehaven resonate with the same sense of awe and the daunting task of combatting forces much greater than themselves, as seen in Percy Jackson’s escapades. Mull’s narrative is rich with the wonders and horrors of a magical world, making it an ideal recommendation for those who delight in the fusion of the mythical and the mortal.
5. "The Girl Who Drank the Moon" by Kelly Barnhill
In "The Girl Who Drank the Moon," Kelly Barnhill crafts a world shimmering with magical realism, centering on a young girl named Luna who unwittingly consumes moonlight-infused magic as a baby. The narrative unfurls the tapestry of her life as she grows, grapples with, and gradually learns to harness the potent magic that courses through her veins—an echo of the self-discovery and growth that Percy faces in his series. As Luna's story intertwines with the fates of a witch, a swamp monster, and a tiny dragon, readers are treated to a heartfelt exploration of love, power, and the consequences of choices—themes that resonate with the bildungsroman nature of Percy Jackson's journey.
6. "The Sword of Summer" by Rick Riordan
Rick Riordan, a maestro of mythological reimaginings, introduces us to Magnus Chase in "The Sword of Summer," where the streets of Boston serve as the backdrop for an epic Norse adventure. Magnus, much like Percy, finds his ordinary life turned upside down as he is thrust into the world of gods and prophecies. Alongside a diverse cast, Magnus embarks on a perilous quest filled with runes, giants, and Valkyries. Fans of Percy Jackson will find familiar comfort in Riordan's humorous dialogue, fast-paced action, and the seamless blending of ancient myth with the contemporary world, promising another series where every chapter is an exhilarating escapade.
7. "The Amulet of Samarkand" by Jonathan Stroud
Jonathan Stroud's "The Amulet of Samarkand" launches readers into a London filled with magical intrigue and political machinations, seen through the eyes of young magician Nathaniel and the sarcastically witty djinni Bartimaeus. The series is a masterclass in dual narrative, as both characters—master and servant—unravel plots and face perilous situations. Fans of Percy Jackson will revel in the magical rules and world-building, the underdog's battle against oppressive structures, and the blend of humor and darkness that Percy's world is known for.
8. "The Chronicles of Narnia" by C.S. Lewis
"The Chronicles of Narnia," penned by the venerable C.S. Lewis, is a timeless saga that transports readers to a fantastical realm through the seemingly ordinary wardrobe. In Narnia, children find themselves as chosen heroes with destinies to fulfill. With talking beasts, an everlasting winter, and the noble lion Aslan guiding the way, the series presents a journey of growth and bravery against the backdrop of an eternal battle between good and evil. The grandeur of Narnia's narrative, the transformative character arcs, and the allegorical richness offer an experience parallel to the mythological adventures encountered by Percy Jackson and his friends.
9. "Gregor the Overlander" by Suzanne Collins
"Gregor the Overlander" is a compelling portal into Suzanne Collins’s earlier work, showcasing her knack for creating vivid, alternative worlds brimming with adventure and hidden depth. In this narrative, young Gregor stumbles into an uncharted realm beneath New York City, drawing back the veil to reveal a society as complex and fraught with peril as any ancient mythology. With its echoes of the Underworld, the story unfolds Gregor's inadvertent journey into heroism, marked by alliances with giant bats, encounters with hostile creatures, and a prophecy that casts him as the unlikely savior of this subterranean kingdom. Much like Percy Jackson's experiences at Camp Half-Blood, Gregor's adventures challenge his perceptions of family, loyalty, and courage, making "Gregor the Overlander" a resonant tale for those enchanted by stories of ordinary individuals thrust into extraordinary circumstances.
10. "The Iron Trial" by Holly Black and Cassandra Clare
In "The Iron Trial," master storytellers Holly Black and Cassandra Clare merge their talents to spin a tale of magic, mystery, and the daunting challenges of adolescence. Callum Hunt's journey begins with his reluctant entry into the Magisterium; a school shrouded in secrecy and fraught with danger, where he must learn to wield his nascent magical abilities against a looming threat that seeks to destroy both the mystical and non-magical worlds. This series opener is steeped in the traditions of magical education and the hero's journey, presenting a world where friendships are forged in the crucible of training and where the shadows of prophecy loom large. The intricate plot, richly developed characters, and the moral complexities explored through Call's experiences resonate with the themes beloved by fans of Percy Jackson, offering a fresh yet familiar exploration of what it means to confront one's destiny and to choose between the easy path and the right one.
This collection is handpicked for those who long to see the modern collide with the mythological, who seek both escape and understanding through pages steeped in ancient lore and who love to see heroes their age rise to meet the timeless call of adventure. Each book was chosen for its thematic similarities to Percy Jackson and for its ability to stand on its own merits, offering unique worlds, complex characters, and tales that inspire and entertain. Whether through the halls of Hogwarts, the streets of Manhattan, or the landscapes of Asgard, these books provide an escape into realms where the impossible becomes possible and where young heroes are born.