Table of Contents
Introduction: Why We Still Search for Books like
Harry Potter
Since the release of Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone in 1997, J.K. Rowling’s wizarding world has captivated readers of all ages, selling over 500 million copies worldwide. The series’ perfect blend of magic, friendship, and coming-of-age themes created an irreplaceable reading experience. Yet the search for “books like Harry Potter” has never slowed, as fans look for stories that capture the same sense of wonder, courage, and adventure.
Whether you miss Hogwarts or want to introduce someone to new magical worlds, these books similar to Harry Potter will help you relive the excitement and nostalgia.
Books by J.K. Rowling to Enjoy if You Loved
Harry Potter
The Tales of Beedle the Bard – J.K. Rowling
Synopsis: A collection of wizarding fairy tales from the world of Harry Potter, including “The Tale of the Three Brothers.”
Random fact: Rowling handwrote and illustrated seven copies before publishing it for the public.
Similarity: Deepens the lore of the Potterverse with magical folklore.
Awards: #1 New York Times bestseller.
Goodreads Review: “For anyone craving books like Harry Potter, The Tales of Beedle the Bard is a delightful return to Rowling’s world.”
The Life of J.K. Rowling
J.K. Rowling, born Joanne Rowling in Yate, England, in 1965, conceived Harry Potter while delayed on a train in 1990. Living as a single mother on welfare, she wrote the first book in Edinburgh cafes. Rowling’s rise from poverty to literary superstar inspired millions as much as her stories did.
Fun fact: Rowling has published crime novels under the pseudonym Robert Galbraith.
Sales data: The Harry Potter series has sold more than 500 million copies in 80 languages.
Inspirations Behind
Harry Potter
Rowling has said Harry Potter’s world was inspired by British boarding schools, Greek and Norse mythology, and folklore about witches and wizards. Influences include The Chronicles of Narnia, Roald Dahl’s books, and the Lord of the Rings saga.
9 Books Like Harry Potter for a Magical Escape
1. Percy Jackson and the Olympians – Rick Riordan
Synopsis: Percy discovers he’s a demigod and must survive quests alongside other children of Greek gods.
Random fact: Disney+ is adapting a new series starring Walker Scobell as Percy.
Similarity: A chosen kid discovering a hidden world, magical creatures, and epic adventures.
Awards: #1 New York Times bestseller.
Goodreads Review: “If you liked Harry Potter, read these: Percy Jackson has the same humor, heart, and adventure.”
Visit Rick Riordan’s official site
2. The School for Good and Evil – Soman Chainani
Synopsis: Best friends Sophie and Agatha are taken to a school where heroes and villains train for fairytales, but end up on unexpected sides.
Random fact: Adapted into a Netflix movie in 2022.
Similarity: Magical boarding school, destiny, and tests of friendship.
Awards: Indie bestseller.
Goodreads Review: “Books like Harry Potter? School for Good and Evil is a wickedly fun twist on fairy tales.”
3. His Dark Materials – Philip Pullman
Synopsis: Lyra Belacqua uncovers a cosmic conspiracy across parallel worlds with her daemon companion.
Random fact: The BBC/HBO adaptation began in 2019.
Similarity: Epic world-building, powerful coming-of-age journey, and a fight against dark forces.
Awards: Carnegie Medal.
Goodreads Review: “His Dark Materials is a sophisticated, magical adventure for readers looking for books similar to Harry Potter.”
4. Artemis Fowl – Eoin Colfer
Synopsis: 12-year-old criminal mastermind Artemis Fowl discovers a secret fairy world and kidnaps a LEPrecon officer.
Random fact: Disney released a film adaptation in 2020.
Similarity: Clever young protagonist, magical creatures, and thrilling escapades.
Awards: British Children’s Book Award winner.
Goodreads Review: “For fans of Harry Potter, Artemis Fowl offers mischievous magic and mind-bending plots.”
5. Nevermoor: The Trials of Morrigan Crow – Jessica Townsend
Synopsis: Morrigan escapes a death curse to join a magical society, but must prove herself in dangerous trials.
Random fact: Film rights optioned by 20th Century Fox.
Similarity: Magical trials, found families, and hidden worlds.
Awards: Winner of the Waterstones Children’s Book Prize.
Goodreads Review: “Nevermoor is pure magic—essential for anyone searching for books like Harry Potter.”
6. Inkheart – Cornelia Funke
Synopsis: Meggie’s father can bring characters from books to life, unleashing danger from a fantasy novel.
Random fact: Adapted into a 2008 film starring Brendan Fraser.
Similarity: A love of books, immersive fantasy, and young heroes.
Awards: Book Sense Book of the Year Award.
Goodreads Review: “Books similar to Harry Potter? Inkheart celebrates the power of stories with enchanting adventure.”
7. Septimus Heap – Angie Sage
Synopsis: Septimus, the seventh son of a seventh son, trains as a wizard while uncovering secrets of his true identity.
Random fact: Series sold over 4 million copies.
Similarity: Young wizard protagonist, magical training, and humorous world-building.
Awards: New York Times bestseller.
Goodreads Review: “Septimus Heap is charming and magical—perfect for Harry Potter fans.”
8. The Secrets of the Immortal Nicholas Flamel – Michael Scott
Synopsis: Twins Sophie and Josh discover the legendary alchemist Nicholas Flamel and battle dark immortals.
Random fact: Features the real-life historical figure mentioned in Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone.
Similarity: Hidden magic in the modern world and legendary characters.
Awards: International bestseller.
Goodreads Review: “If you liked Harry Potter, this series is thrilling, magical, and rooted in mythology.”
9. The Chronicles of Narnia – C.S. Lewis
Synopsis: Siblings stumble into the magical world of Narnia, where they battle witches, meet talking animals, and fulfill ancient prophecies.
Random fact: Inspired by Lewis’s childhood imagination and love of mythology.
Similarity: Epic battles of good vs. evil, chosen children, and magical worlds.
Awards: One of the best-selling series of all time with over 100 million copies sold.
Goodreads Review: “Narnia set the stage for books like Harry Potter—timeless, magical, and unforgettable.”
FAQs about Books Like Harry Potter
What age group is Harry Potter for?
The early books suit ages 8+, but later volumes include darker themes more suitable for teens.
Is there a series better than Harry Potter?
No series has matched Harry Potter’s global impact, but series like Percy Jackson or Nevermoor come close for magical adventures.
Why do people still love books like Harry Potter?
They offer escapism, relatable characters, and immersive worlds filled with friendship and courage.
Are there books like Harry Potter for adults?
Yes—His Dark Materials and The Magicians series cater to older readers with darker, more complex themes.
What defines a book similar to Harry Potter?
A chosen hero, magical worlds, epic battles of good vs. evil, and themes of friendship, courage, and destiny.
Is Harry Potter inspired by other books?
Yes, Rowling cited influences like The Chronicles of Narnia, The Worst Witch, and classic mythology.
