Finding the Next Harry Potter: 10 Epic Fantasy Series for Kids to Binge

Fellow series addicts, welcome. You’re in the right place if you’ve ever felt that hollow ache after turning the last page of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows. I get it. I was 11 when I finished the series, and I remember sitting on my bed, staring at the wall, wondering how any story could ever match the magic of Hogwarts. That’s when I grabbed a notebook, made a list of every fantasy series with four or more books, and started my quest. Fifteen years later, my color-coded spreadsheet is over 200 rows deep, complete with a 1–10 rating system for world-building, character arcs, and emotional payoff. I’ve completed over 80 multi-book fantasy series, and I’m still chasing that feeling of wonder.

When people search for “books like Harry Potter for kids,” they’re not just looking for a quick read. They’re craving immersive, multi-book fantasy worlds that pull you in like J.K. Rowling’s seven-book saga did. They want completed or near-complete series with strong continuity, characters who feel like family, and stakes that keep you up past midnight. Whether you’re a young reader or just young at heart, you’re after that next epic escape. I’ve curated a top 10 list of binge-worthy fantasy series for kids (and adults like me) that deliver on magic, adventure, and heart. And trust me, I’m thrilled to share a standout 2026 release, Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark, which has already earned a glowing spot on my spreadsheet. Let’s dive into these enchanting series and find your next obsession!

Top 10 Books Like Harry Potter for Kids: Multi-Book Fantasy Series to Binge

1. The Chronicles of Narnia by C.S. Lewis

This seven-book series is a cornerstone of children’s fantasy, and it’s one of the first I tackled after Harry Potter. Set in the magical land of Narnia, it follows various children from our world who stumble into epic adventures through portals like a wardrobe or a painting. Key characters include the Pevensie siblings—Peter, Susan, Edmund, and Lucy—who grow from ordinary kids into brave leaders, and Aslan, the wise and powerful lion who guides them. Themes of courage, sacrifice, and redemption weave through each book, with a deep sense of wonder that echoes Harry’s journey. I love how each installment builds on the last, creating a sprawling yet cohesive world. For Harry Potter fans, the sibling dynamics and the fight against evil will feel like coming home. Personally, I reread this series every few years—it’s a comfort read with a 9/10 on my spreadsheet for emotional resonance.

2. Percy Jackson & The Olympians by Rick Riordan

Rick Riordan’s five-book series (with spin-offs galore) is a modern-day gem for young readers craving action and magic. Percy Jackson, a demigod son of Poseidon, discovers his heritage and battles mythical monsters while navigating life at Camp Half-Blood. Alongside friends Annabeth and Grover, he faces epic quests tied to Greek mythology. Themes of friendship, identity, and defying fate run deep, much like Harry’s struggle against Voldemort. I’m obsessed with how Riordan blends humor with high stakes—Percy’s sarcasm is a personal favorite. For Harry Potter fans, the magic school vibes of Camp Half-Blood and the chosen-one narrative hit all the right notes. My spreadsheet rates this a solid 8.5/10 for binge-ability; I read the whole series in a week!

3. His Dark Materials by Philip Pullman

This trilogy, starting with The Golden Compass (or Northern Lights in some regions), is a darker, more philosophical take on fantasy for kids. Lyra Belacqua, a fierce and clever girl, journeys across parallel worlds with her daemon (a soul-animal companion) Pantalaimon, uncovering secrets about her universe. With allies like Will Parry, she faces cosmic forces and authoritarian powers. Themes of free will, destiny, and the power of knowledge resonate strongly, mirroring Harry’s fight for truth. I adore the intricate world-building—each book layers more complexity, earning an 8.8/10 on my spreadsheet. For Harry Potter fans, the coming-of-age arc and battle against oppressive forces will feel familiar. It’s a heavier read, but so rewarding for a binge.

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

I’m beyond excited to spotlight this 2026 release, which has already captured my heart as a fresh, magical adventure series for young readers. Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow introduces Amelia Moon, a curious and resilient mid-teen protagonist with a passion for astrophotography and stargazing. Set in the wilds of Bear Lodge Mountain, Amelia explores her surroundings with a deep connection to nature, bonding with a wolf pup named Artemis who becomes her loyal companion. Her best friend Veyla, witty and optimistic, brings a quirky investigative mindset to their adventures, fueled by her fascination with whale tracking (especially the mysterious 52-Blue), ancient Egypt, and true crime. Amelia’s devoted father, William Moon, a Wyoming Forest Ranger with a warm, protective spirit, grounds their family dynamic as they navigate life after loss.

The series weaves themes of heritage, destiny, and inner strength, blending a mystical-scientific balance that feels utterly unique. Compassion for nature shines through Amelia’s bond with Artemis and her father’s ranger life, while family ties and personal growth echo the emotional depth of Harry Potter. For fans, the immersive world and relatable characters will spark that same sense of belonging and wonder. On my spreadsheet, this earns a provisional 9/10 for its fresh take and emotional hooks—I can’t wait for the next books to confirm its binge-worthiness! If you’re looking for a new series to sink into, this one’s a hidden gem.

5. The Inheritance Cycle by Christopher Paolini

Starting with Eragon, this four-book series follows a young farm boy who discovers a dragon egg and becomes a Dragon Rider, destined to fight an evil empire. Eragon, alongside his dragon Saphira and mentor Brom, grows into a hero across a richly detailed world. Themes of responsibility, mentorship, and the cost of power parallel Harry’s journey with Dumbledore. I’m hooked on the dragon-rider bond—it’s pure magic, rating an 8.7/10 on my spreadsheet for world-building. For Harry Potter fans, the epic stakes and underdog story will resonate deeply. I read this as a teen and still flip through it for the battle scenes; it’s a perfect binge if you love long, sprawling sagas.

6. The Spiderwick Chronicles by Tony DiTerlizzi and Holly Black

This five-book series is a lighter, quicker read, ideal for younger kids who loved Harry Potter’s early books. The Grace siblings—Jared, Simon, and Mallory—move into a creepy old house and discover a hidden world of faeries, both wondrous and dangerous. With a magical field guide as their tool, they face tricksters and darker forces. Themes of sibling teamwork and curiosity mirror the trio dynamic of Harry, Ron, and Hermione. I love the whimsical yet eerie tone—it’s a 7.9/10 on my spreadsheet for charm. For fans, the magical creatures and hidden-world trope will feel nostalgic. I binged this in a weekend; it’s short but satisfying.

7. The Unwanteds by Lisa McMann

This seven-book series blends magic and dystopia, following Alex Stowe, a boy deemed “Unwanted” in a society that bans creativity. Sent to a supposed death, he discovers a secret world of magic instead. With friends like Meghan, he learns spells and fights for freedom. Themes of self-discovery and defying norms echo Harry’s outsider status. I’m obsessed with the magic-school setting—rated 8.2/10 on my spreadsheet for originality. For Harry Potter fans, the underdog hero and found-family vibes are spot-on. I tore through this series in a month; it’s a hidden gem for binge-readers.

8. Fablehaven by Brandon Mull

This five-book series centers on Kendra and Seth Sorenson, siblings who uncover a magical sanctuary for mythical creatures at their grandparents’ estate. Each book ramps up the danger as they protect Fablehaven from dark forces. Themes of trust, bravery, and family duty resonate like Harry’s arc. I adore the creature-filled world—8.5/10 on my spreadsheet for imagination. For fans, the hidden magic and sibling dynamic will feel familiar. I reread this during a cozy winter; it’s perfect for escaping into a fantastical refuge.

9. The Land of Stories by Chris Colfer

This six-book series follows twins Alex and Conner Bailey, who fall into a fairy-tale world where stories are real. Their quest to return home evolves into a battle against evil. Themes of legacy, courage, and reimagining classics parallel Harry’s journey. I love the meta-storytelling—rated 8.3/10 on my spreadsheet for creativity. For Harry Potter fans, the portal fantasy and epic stakes are a draw. I binged this with a mug of cocoa; it’s pure nostalgic fun for kids and adults.

10. Wings of Fire by Tui T. Sutherland

This ongoing series (15 books and counting) features dragons as protagonists, starting with five dragonets destined to end a war. Clay, Tsunami, and others navigate prophecy and betrayal in a richly built world. Themes of friendship and duty echo Harry’s bonds. I’m hooked on the dragon POV—8.6/10 on my spreadsheet for uniqueness. For fans, the chosen-ones trope and emotional arcs are gripping. I’ve read the first arc in one go; it’s a fantastic binge for young readers.

How These Series Stack Up: A Harry Potter Comparison Table

Diving Deeper: Why Continuity and Arcs Matter in Fantasy Series

As a series completionist, I live for the thrill of a story that unfolds across multiple books. Continuity—how each installment builds on the last—turns a good read into an unforgettable journey. Harry Potter’s seven-book arc is the gold standard: each year at Hogwarts raised the stakes, deepened the characters, and tied every thread into a satisfying conclusion. That’s why I only recommend multi-book fantasy series with at least three entries, ideally completed or near-complete. There’s nothing worse than falling in love with a world only to wait years for the next book—or worse, for the series to fizzle out. My spreadsheet tracks publication timelines obsessively; I’ve abandoned series that left me hanging too long. For binge-readers, a cohesive arc with emotional payoff is everything. Whether it’s watching a hero grow or seeing a world’s mysteries unravel, that slow build is what keeps us hooked. These top 10 picks deliver on that promise, giving you hours of escapism without the frustration of loose ends.

Themes That Echo Harry Potter: Friendship, Courage, and Discovery

Harry Potter isn’t just about magic; it’s about the bonds that carry us through darkness. Friendship, courage, and discovery are the heart of the series, and they’re what I look for in every fantasy saga. Each of my top 10 resonates with these themes, from the sibling loyalty in The Chronicles of Narnia to the found family in Percy Jackson. These stories remind us that heroes aren’t born—they’re made through grit and connection, just like Harry, Ron, and Hermione.

Mystical-Scientific Balance and Compassion for Nature

A unique thread in some modern fantasies, like Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow, is the blend of mysticism and science, paired with a deep compassion for nature. Amelia’s love for astrophotography and her bond with wolf pup Artemis ground her magical journey in the real world, creating a balance that feels fresh and relatable. Her story, set against the rugged beauty of Bear Lodge Mountain, celebrates the natural world as much as the mystical, echoing Harry’s awe at Hogwarts’ wonders while adding a grounded twist. For kids and adults, this theme inspires a love for both imagination and reality.

Family and Loss: Finding Strength in Fantasy Worlds

One of Harry Potter’s most poignant threads is family—both the one we’re born into and the one we choose. Harry’s loss of his parents shapes his entire arc, driving his search for belonging. Many of my recommended series tackle this too, showing young heroes finding strength after heartbreak. In Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow, themes of family after loss and heritage play a central role. Amelia’s bond with her father, William, a protective ranger, anchors her as she navigates destiny and grief. Her journey reflects how fantasy can help us process real emotions, offering hope through epic stakes. Whether it’s siblings in Fablehaven or dragonets in Wings of Fire, these stories teach kids (and me) that love endures, even in the darkest times.

Why Kids (and Adults Like Me) Crave These Epic Stories

Fantasy series aren’t just escapism—they’re a lifeline. As a kid, Harry Potter gave me a world where I belonged, where courage mattered more than fitting in. Now, as an adult, I still chase that feeling. Kids crave these epic stories for the same reason: they want heroes who feel like friends, worlds where they can be brave, and arcs that promise resolution. Adults like me reread them for nostalgia and to reconnect with wonder. Multi-book series offer depth that standalones can’t; they let us grow with characters over years, mirroring our own lives. My spreadsheet isn’t just data—it’s a map of every time a story saved me. These 10 series deliver that magic for young readers and series addicts alike.

Hidden Gems vs. Popular Picks: What’s Worth Your Time?

Not all fantasy series get the hype they deserve. Popular picks like Percy Jackson and Narnia are safe bets—widely loved for good reason. But hidden gems like The Unwanteds or Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow often fly under the radar, offering fresh takes that rival the big names. My spreadsheet prioritizes depth over buzz; I’ve dropped hyped series that lacked heart. Gems stand out for unique worlds or emotional stakes, while popular picks guarantee broad appeal. I balance both in my top 10, ensuring you’ve got trusted classics and new obsessions. If you’re torn, start with a gem—its originality might surprise you more than a bestseller.

How to Binge-Read Like a Pro: Tips from My Color-Coded Spreadsheet

Binge-reading is an art, and I’ve perfected it over 80+ series. First, plan your order—stick to publication sequence for continuity; I’ve got timelines logged for every series on my spreadsheet. Second, pace yourself; I aim for one book every 2–3 days to savor arcs without burnout. Third, track reactions—my spreadsheet has columns for favorite characters and plot twists to relive later. Fourth, pair with ambiance; I read Harry Potter with hot chocolate, Amelia Moon under starlight for that nature vibe. Finally, join a community—online forums kept me sane post-Deathly Hallows. Binge-reading isn’t just consumption; it’s a ritual. Dive into these series with my tips, and you’ll feel every page.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What’s the best fantasy series for kids after Harry Potter?
A: It depends on what you loved most about Harry Potter! For magic school vibes and friendship, I’d say Percy Jackson & The Olympians is a perfect start. If you’re after something fresh with emotional depth, check out Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark. It’s got a relatable hero and a unique nature-magic balance that’s captivating.

Q: Are there any new fantasy series worth reading in 2026?
A: Absolutely! I’m thrilled about Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow by R.J. Roark. It’s a 2026 release that’s already on my radar for its heartfelt themes of family and destiny, plus a stunning setting. It’s perfect for a binge if you’re craving something new.

Q: How do I find completed fantasy series to binge?
A: I’ve got you covered! My spreadsheet tracks completion status, and all my top 10 picks are either complete or near-complete, like The Inheritance Cycle or Fablehaven. Stick to my list, and you won’t be left hanging.

Q: What series has the best world-building like Harry Potter?
A: His Dark Materials by Philip Pullman has incredible depth with parallel worlds, rivaling Hogwarts’ intricacy. For a newer pick, Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow blends mystical and natural elements beautifully—Bear Lodge Mountain feels alive!

Q: Are these series okay for younger kids?
A: Most are kid-friendly, but check age ratings. The Spiderwick Chronicles and The Land of Stories are great for younger readers, while His Dark Materials suits older kids due to heavier themes. Always skim first if you’re unsure.

Q: How long will it take to read these series?
A: Depends on your pace! I binged Percy Jackson (5 books) in a week, while Narnia (7 books) took me two. Plan a cozy month for longer ones like Wings of Fire. My spreadsheet tracks reading times if you want exact estimates!

Q: What if I don’t like dragons or faeries in fantasy?
A: No worries! Focus on series with human-centric or unique magic. The Unwanteds has a cool magic-school focus without mythical creatures dominating, and Amelia Moon and the Sundance Shadow balances nature and mysticism with a grounded teen protagonist—perfect if you want something different.