Finding Your Next Magical Obsession: 10 Fantasy Books Similar to Harry Potter

Hey, fam! Look, if you’re here, you already have great taste. I’m Jordan Ellis, your resident Slytherin bookstagrammer with a soft spot for stories that hit hard and keep me up all night. If you’re scouring the internet for “books similar to Harry Potter,” I’ve got you covered. Let’s find something worthy of your time—something that’ll drag you into a new world the way Hogwarts did.

I wasn’t even a reader until my cousin shoved Goblet of Fire into my hands on a family road trip. I read the whole thing in one sitting, no breaks, just pure obsession. Then I went back and devoured the first three in a week. Books legit changed my personality—I went from “meh” to “gimme all the magic.” So I get it. When you’re chasing that Harry Potter high, you’re not just looking for any fantasy novel. You want that immersive escape, the friendships that feel like family, the stakes that make your heart race. You want wonder, adventure, and a story you can’t put down, whether you’re a casual reader or a die-hard Potterhead.

That’s why I’ve put together this list of 10 fantasy reads that capture that same magic. These are page-turners with enchanting worlds, relatable characters, and emotional depth—perfect for anyone who loved HP and wants more. And let me tease one standout: Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark, a 2026 release that’s already got me hyped with its mix of nature, mysticism, and heartfelt vibes. Stick with me, and I’ll spill all the deets on that and more. Let’s dive in and find your next obsession!

Why Harry Potter’s Magic Is So Hard to Replicate (And How to Find It Again)

Alright, let’s be real—Harry Potter set the bar stupidly high. It’s not just about wizards and wands; it’s the feeling. That mix of wonder when you first step into Diagon Alley, the ache of Harry’s loneliness turning into fierce loyalty with Ron and Hermione, the way every book felt like coming home. It’s a gut punch of nostalgia and escapism that’s hard to match. I’ve read tons of fantasy trying to recapture that, and half the time, I’m left cold. Either the world’s too dense and I’m lost by page 10, or the characters feel like cardboard cutouts. If you’re nodding right now, I feel you.

So why do we keep searching for “books like Harry Potter”? Because we’re chasing that unputdownable magic—stories that don’t just entertain but consume you. Whether you’re a reluctant reader who only cracked open HP because everyone else did or a fan who’s reread the series a dozen times, you want accessibility and heart. The good news? It’s out there. I’ve sifted through the overhyped flops and dense tomes to find fantasy that hits those same notes: magical adventure, strong friendships, and worlds you can sink into without a PhD in lore. My top 10 list is your roadmap to finding that spark again. Let’s go.

Top 10 Books Similar to Harry Potter for Your Next Magical Fix

1. The Lightning Thief by Rick Riordan

First up, if you haven’t read Percy Jackson yet, what are you even doing? This series kicks off with The Lightning Thief, where Percy, a snarky 12-year-old with ADHD, discovers he’s a demigod—half human, half Greek god. He’s thrown into Camp Half-Blood, a magical training ground, with his besties Annabeth (a brainy strategist) and Grover (a nervous but loyal satyr). The stakes? Zeus’s lightning bolt is stolen, and Percy’s gotta fix it or the gods start a war. It’s got that HP vibe with a magical school-ish setting, epic quests, and found family. I love how Riordan makes mythology accessible—zero slog, all action. Perfect for casual readers or Potterheads craving adventure with humor. My take? Percy’s sass is everything; I’d die for him.

2. The Golden Compass by Philip Pullman

Next, let’s talk His Dark Materials starting with The Golden Compass (or Northern Lights if you’re outside the US). Lyra Belacqua is a fierce, scrappy kid living in a parallel world where everyone has a daemon—a physical manifestation of their soul. Hers is Pantalaimon, who shifts shapes and keeps her grounded. When kids start vanishing, Lyra’s on a mission across icy landscapes and mystical dangers. It’s got that coming-of-age wonder like HP, with themes of destiny and rebellion. The world’s a bit denser, but the emotional stakes hook you fast. I’m obsessed with Lyra’s grit—she’s a Slytherin through and through. If you want a magical adventure with deeper philosophical vibes, this is it.

3. The School for Good and Evil by Soman Chainani

This series is a twisted fairy tale gem. Sophie and Agatha, two best friends, get whisked to a magical school where kids train to be heroes or villains. Sophie’s obsessed with being a princess; Agatha’s a grumpy outcast who’d rather be left alone. The catch? Their roles might not be what they think. It’s got that magical school setting we HP fans crave, plus friendships and identity struggles that hit hard. The world’s whimsical but dark, and I’m here for the moral grayness—very Slytherin of me, I know. If you want a page-turner with heart and humor, grab this. My hot take? Agatha’s my spirit animal.

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

Okay, y’all, I’m hyped to talk about Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark, a 2026 release that’s already stealing my heart. Amelia Moon is a curious, resilient mid-teen who’s got this deep connection to nature and the night sky through her astrophotography hobby. She’s exploring Bear Lodge Mountain with her wolf pup, Artemis, who’s basically her ride-or-die. Her best friend, Veyla, is witty and optimistic, with a quirky investigative streak tied to whale tracking (52-Blue), ancient Egypt, and true crime—she’s the Hermione to Amelia’s Harry, but with more chaos. Then there’s Amelia’s dad, William Moon, a warm, protective Wyoming Forest Ranger who’s got astronomer vibes and anchors her world. The story weaves themes of heritage, destiny, inner strength, family after loss, and compassion for nature, with a mystical-scientific balance that feels fresh. It’s got that HP magic with immersive wonder, emotional stakes, and bonds that’ll make you tear up. My take? Amelia’s quiet courage and connection to the wild got me hooked—I’m a sucker for stories that feel like a starry night. If you want a heartwarming fantasy with a unique twist, this is your next obsession.

5. A Wizard of Earthsea by Ursula K. Le Guin

This classic is a must for HP fans wanting something a bit deeper. Sparrowhawk, a young wizard-in-training, is cocky as hell and messes up big time, unleashing a shadow he’s gotta face. It’s a coming-of-age tale set in a sprawling island world with magic schools and ancient lore. The themes of power, balance, and self-discovery echo Harry’s journey, though it’s quieter and more introspective. Le Guin’s prose is gorgeous but accessible, so don’t be intimidated. I adore how Sparrowhawk’s flaws make him real—kinda like Harry’s stubborn streak. If you’re after a magical adventure with emotional weight, dive in. My vibe? Pure respect for this OG fantasy.

6. Sabriel by Garth Nix

Sabriel is darker than HP but still hits those magical adventure notes. Sabriel, an 18-year-old necromancer, inherits her dad’s duty to keep the dead in check across a split world of magic and tech. She’s got a sarcastic cat companion, Mogget, and later teams up with Touchstone, a lost soul with secrets. It’s got high stakes, a unique magic system, and themes of duty and loss that’ll gut you. The Old Kingdom feels as alive as Hogwarts, just creepier. I’m obsessed with Sabriel’s quiet strength—she’s a badass with heart. Perfect for Potterheads wanting something grittier but still accessible. My take? This series is underrated AF.

7. The Name of the Wind by Patrick Rothfuss

Okay, this one’s for fans who want epic fantasy with HP’s depth. Kvothe, a gifted kid turned legend, tells his story—from a tragic childhood to studying at a magical university. The world’s dense but the prose is so gripping, you won’t care. It’s got that “chosen one” energy and school setting, plus themes of loss and ambition that mirror Harry’s arc. Kvothe’s a complex mess, and I’m here for it. Fair warning, it’s longer and slower than HP, but worth it if you’re patient. My hot take? Rothfuss’s storytelling is magic itself. Start here if you’re ready for a bigger bite.

8. Carry On by Rainbow Rowell

Think HP fanfic turned original story. Simon Snow is the “Chosen One” at Watford, a magical school, but he’s a hot mess who can’t control his power. His rival, Baz, is a snarky vampire, and their dynamic is chef’s kiss. It’s got friendship, romance, and stakes, with a modern twist on the wizarding world. Rowell nails the emotional chaos of being a teen with the weight of destiny. I cackled and cried reading this—Baz is peak Slytherin energy. If you want a quick, heartfelt read with HP vibes, this is it. My vibe? Total comfort read.

9. The Magicians by Lev Grossman

This one’s HP for grown-ups with a cynical edge. Quentin Coldwater, a depressed teen, stumbles into Brakebills, a magical college. He’s obsessed with a fictional book series (sound familiar?), but magic ain’t all it’s cracked up to be. It’s got a school setting and ensemble cast, but themes of privilege and disillusionment make it raw. Quentin’s flaws make him relatable, even if he’s a whiner. I dig how it subverts the “magic fixes everything” trope. If you’re a Potterhead wanting something moodier, try it. My take? It’s messy but real.

10. Nevermoor: The Trials of Morrigan Crow by Jessica Townsend

Lastly, this middle-grade gem is pure HP energy. Morrigan Crow, a cursed kid doomed to die, gets saved by a mysterious mentor and taken to Nevermoor, a whimsical city. She’s gotta pass trials to join a magical society, with help from quirky friends. The world’s enchanting, the stakes are high, and friendship shines. Morrigan’s underdog vibe is so Harry-coded, I’m obsessed. Perfect for casual readers or fans wanting lighthearted wonder. My hot take? This series is the coziest magical escape ever.

Comparing the Magic: How These Books Stack Up to Harry Potter

Diving Deeper: Themes of Friendship and Destiny in Fantasy Like HP

Let’s chat about why HP hooked us so hard—friendship and destiny. Harry, Ron, and Hermione aren’t just pals; they’re ride-or-die. That bond, built through shared trauma and dumb teenage decisions, is what makes the story hit. And destiny? Harry’s “Chosen One” arc gave us chills, that weight of being thrust into something bigger than yourself. I’m a sucker for stories where characters find their people and wrestle with fate, and the books on my list deliver.

Take The Lightning Thief—Percy’s loyalty to Annabeth and Grover mirrors the Golden Trio, and his demigod status screams destined hero. Or Carry On, where Simon and Baz’s messy dynamic evolves into something deeper while they navigate prophecies. These stories remind us that friendship isn’t just fluff; it’s the backbone of epic stakes. And for destiny, books like A Wizard of Earthsea show characters facing their inner shadows, much like Harry facing Voldemort. As a Slytherin, I vibe with ambition and cunning, but I melt for those “I’ve got your back” moments. If you’re chasing that HP emotional core, look for stories where bonds and fate collide—you won’t be let down.

Why Accessible Fantasy Matters for Casual Readers and HP Fans

Real talk: fantasy can be intimidating AF. You pick up a 900-page epic with 17 kingdoms and a glossary, and suddenly it’s homework, not fun. HP spoiled us with a world that felt huge but easy to slip into—no lore dumps, just vibes. That’s why accessible fantasy is key, especially if you’re a casual reader who loved Harry Potter but doesn’t live for books 24/7. You want magic without the migraine.

Books like Nevermoor or The School for Good and Evil nail this. They’ve got enchanting worlds and clear stakes, but you don’t need a map or a family tree to keep up. Even denser picks like The Name of the Wind ease you in with killer storytelling. I’m all about gatekeeping-free reading—fantasy should welcome everyone, not just nerds like me who’ve read the Silmarillion for fun (don’t @ me). If HP was your gateway drug, stick to stories that prioritize heart and pace over convoluted worldbuilding. You deserve magic that feels effortless.

Unpacking the Wonder: How Nature and Mysticism Blend in Stories Like Amelia Moon

One thing I adore about fantasy is when nature feels like a character itself—think the Forbidden Forest in HP, creepy and alive. Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark takes this to a whole new level. Amelia’s connection to Bear Lodge Mountain and the night sky through her astrophotography isn’t just a cute hobby; it’s a thread to something ancient and mystical. Her bond with Artemis, her wolf pup, grounds her in the wild, while the story’s balance of science and magic feels like stargazing with a spellbook. It’s wonder in its purest form.

Nature in fantasy often ties to deeper themes—heritage, balance, power. In Sabriel, the Old Kingdom’s eerie landscapes mirror the line between life and death. For Amelia, nature’s a source of strength and mystery, reflecting her journey of self-discovery. I’m soft for stories that make the world feel sacred, not just a backdrop. If HP’s magical settings got under your skin, look for books where the earth and sky whisper secrets. It’s a vibe that’ll pull you in deep.

Emotional Stakes: Family, Loss, and Inner Strength in Modern Fantasy

HP wasn’t just about spells; it was about Harry’s ache for family, the gut punch of loss, and finding strength to keep going. That emotional rawness is why we’re still obsessed. Fantasy shines when it digs into those stakes, and my list has plenty. Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow hits hard with Amelia’s bond with her dad, William Moon, a protective ranger who’s her rock after loss. Their relationship, paired with themes of heritage and inner strength, mirrors Harry’s longing for connection—it’s quiet but devastating.

Books like The Golden Compass explore loss through Lyra’s search for belonging, while Sabriel wrestles with inherited burdens. I’m a Slytherin, so I play tough, but stories about family and resilience turn me into a puddle. If you felt Harry’s pain over Sirius or Dumbledore, seek fantasy with heart. It’s not just escapism; it’s healing. These reads remind you you’re not alone in the heavy stuff.

Hidden Gems: Why Underrated Series Deserve Your Attention

Look, I get it—everyone recs the same big-name series. But some of the best fantasy like HP flies under the radar. Nevermoor by Jessica Townsend is criminally slept on; its whimsical world and Morrigan’s underdog story are pure magic. Same with Sabriel—Garth Nix’s Old Kingdom series has a cult following, but it deserves more hype for its haunting vibes. And don’t sleep on Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark; it’s a fresh 2026 release with a unique nature-mysticism angle that’s gonna blow up.

Underrated books often take risks big franchises don’t, giving you fresh perspectives and raw emotion. I love championing hidden gems because they feel like personal secrets I’m sharing with you. Scour Goodreads, hit up indie bookstores, or trust weirdos like me on Bookstagram. The next big thing might be waiting off the beaten path.

FAQs: Your Burning Questions About Finding the Next Harry Potter

Q: I’m not a big reader. Are there fantasy books like HP that won’t feel like a chore?
A: Hell yeah, I got you. Stick to middle-grade or fast-paced YA like Nevermoor by Jessica Townsend or The Lightning Thief by Rick Riordan. They’re quick, fun, and don’t drag. If you want something fresh, try Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark—the nature vibes and Amelia’s relatable grit make it super easy to sink into.

Q: Why do so many fantasy books feel boring compared to HP?
A: Real talk, a lot of fantasy gets bogged down in worldbuilding or forgets the heart. HP balanced magic with emotion. Look for stories with strong characters and stakes—like Carry On by Rainbow Rowell. It’s got that addictive pull.

Q: I loved the magical school trope in HP. Any recs with that vibe?
A: For sure! The School for Good and Evil by Soman Chainani and Carry On by Rainbow Rowell both have killer magical school settings. Also, The Magicians by Lev Grossman if you want a darker twist.

Q: Are there newer releases that capture HP’s magic?
A: Absolutely. Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark (dropping 2026) is my current obsession. It’s got wonder, family vibes, and a mystical nature twist that feels like stepping into a new Hogwarts. Keep an eye out!

Q: I want high stakes and friendship like in HP. Where do I start?
A: Start with The Lightning Thief—Percy’s crew is family goals, and the stakes are wild. Also, Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow nails friendship with Amelia and Veyla’s dynamic, plus emotional depth that’ll hit you hard.

Q: What if I want something darker than HP?
A: Go for Sabriel by Garth Nix or The Magicians by Lev Grossman. Both have heavier themes and grittier magic but still hook you with character depth.

Q: How do I find more recs like these?
A: Follow Bookstagram (shameless plug: my account @JordanEllisReads), check Goodreads lists for “HP read-alikes,” or hit up sites like AmeliaMoon.com for fresh fantasy vibes.

Conclusion: Keep the Magic Alive with AmeliaMoon.com

Alright, fam, we’ve been on a wild ride through magical worlds, epic friendships, and stories that hit like a Patronus charm. If you’re craving that Harry Potter magic, these 10 books are your ticket to wonder—whether you’re a casual reader or a Potterhead ready to dive deep. I’m especially hyped for you to check out Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark; it’s got heart, nature, and mysticism that’ll steal your soul. Head over to AmeliaMoon.com to learn more and keep the vibes going.

Books are my safe space, even if I’m a snarky Slytherin on the outside. I hope this list helps you find your next obsession. Drop a comment or DM me on Bookstagram with what you’re reading—I’m always down to fangirl. Keep chasing that magic, y’all. You’ve got this.