For readers who cherish the wonder, mystery, and deep emotional connections of Harry Potter, finding another series that captures that same magic can feel like a daunting task. The key to Harry Potterâs enduring appeal lies not just in its spellbinding world but in its themes of friendship, discovery, and the fight against darkness. The books on this list all share something with Harry Potterâwhether itâs a hidden magical world, a protagonist discovering their destiny, or an epic battle between light and darkâwhile still offering something fresh and unique.
This enchanting novel is perfect for those who love stories filled with wonder, mystery, and deep magic tied to ancient traditions. Amelia Moon, an ordinary girl who stumbles upon a magical secret during the winter solstice, embarks on an adventure that intertwines celestial magic, hidden societies, and the unraveling of a larger mystery. Much like Harry Potter, it captures the thrill of discovering that the world is far more magical than it seems, while also weaving in a rich, deeply atmospheric tale that feels both modern and timeless.
If Hogwarts was the most magical part of Harry Potter for you, then Nevermoorâs Hotel Deucalion and the Wunderous Society will be just as mesmerizing. Morrigan Crow, a girl cursed to die on her eleventh birthday, is instead whisked away to a secret city where she competes in a series of trials to earn a place among the magical elite. With a quirky mentor, hidden magic, and a protagonist who must prove herself in a world that doesnât fully trust her, this series offers a sense of discovery and wonder that echoes Harry Potter.
While Harry Potter focuses on a battle between wizards and dark forces, The School for Good and Evil takes the idea of magical education and turns it on its head. Best friends Sophie and Agatha are sent to a school where students are trained to become fairy-tale heroes or villains. But when Sophie, who dreams of being a princess, is placed in the school for villains and Agatha, who is more cynical, is placed in the school for heroes, their destinies begin to unravel in unexpected ways. Itâs a fascinating exploration of morality, fate, and friendship that keeps readers guessing.
If you loved the camaraderie of Harry Potter, youâll adore Percy Jacksonâs journey through a world where Greek gods are real and their children train at Camp Half-Blood. Percy, much like Harry, is thrown into a world he never knew existed and must navigate dangerous quests while uncovering the truth about his own past. The series blends mythology, humor, and heart-pounding action, making it a fast-paced and thrilling read that feels both familiar and entirely original.
For older Harry Potter fans who long for a story dripping with magic and mystery, The Starless Sea is an intricate, beautifully written novel that feels like stepping into a dream. While it doesnât follow the traditional "young hero at a magical school" formula, it captures the deep sense of wonder and hidden worlds that Harry Potter fans love. Itâs a story about books, secret societies, and doors to unseen realms, evoking the same feeling of discovering something extraordinary beneath the surface of everyday life.
This fresh take on the magic school trope introduces readers to the Arcanum Training Institute, where young Marvellers from around the world come to develop their magical talents. Ella, the first Conjuror to ever attend the school, faces prejudice, hidden dangers, and the weight of proving herself as she unravels a larger conspiracy. Much like Harry Potter, The Marvellers explores themes of belonging, magic, and mystery, while offering a diverse and vibrant take on what it means to be a student of the extraordinary.
If you were drawn to the depth and complexity of Harry Potterâs later books, His Dark Materials offers a similarly layered, philosophical, and thought-provoking journey. Lyra Belacqua, much like Harry, is at the center of an ancient prophecy and finds herself hunted by forces she doesnât fully understand. With a richly developed world, talking animal companions called daemons, and a growing battle between authority and free will, this series offers a more intricate and challenging take on magic and destiny.
This whimsical, fast-paced fantasy adventure follows a young wizard named Xar and a warrior princess named Wish, who live in a world where magic and non-magic creatures are at odds. The humor and heart in this series feel reminiscent of Harry Potter, with vivid storytelling, endearing characters, and a magical world that feels both ancient and alive. Cowellâs storytelling style makes this series feel like a modern fairy tale, perfect for readers who want a fun yet deeply magical adventure.
For those who loved Harry Potterâs epic battles and the idea of an unlikely hero rising to greatness, The Inheritance Cycle is a perfect choice. Beginning with Eragon, the series follows a farm boy who discovers a dragon egg, unknowingly stepping into a destiny that will change the fate of his world. This series has all the hallmarks of a great fantasy: deep world-building, a growing hero, and a battle against dark forces, making it a gripping read for those who want an adventure on a grander scale.
Blending mystery, adventure, and ancient magical artifacts, The Books of Beginning follows three orphaned siblings who discover that they are connected to powerful books that can alter time, space, and reality. Much like Harry Potter, this series masterfully balances humor, heart, and high-stakes magic, making it a fantastic choice for readers who want an immersive, page-turning fantasy adventure.
What makes Harry Potter such an unforgettable series is not just its magic, but its heartâthe friendships, the mysteries, and the journey of a young protagonist discovering their place in an extraordinary world. Each of these books carries that same sense of wonder in its own unique way, offering Harry Potter fans a chance to fall in love with new magical worlds, unforgettable characters, and stories that stay with them long after the final page.