Rick Riordan alternatives">

12 Books Like Percy Jackson

Greek Mythology Adventures for Teens and Young Adults

If you devoured the Percy Jackson series and are hungry for more, you are in the right place. Rick Riordan blended modern teen humor with ancient mythology to create a template that dozens of authors have tried to replicate — and some have genuinely improved upon.

Whether you want more Greek mythology, Roman derivatives, or different mythological traditions entirely, this list has something for every mythology fan. These are not just copycat books — each brings something unique to the table.

The Ultimate List for Percy Jackson Fans

Rick Riordan Presents | 2018 | 384 pages

1. The Storm Runner (The Storm Runner Trilogy #1) by Jennifer Ellick

The first book in Rick Riordan new imprint takes readers to Nepal for an adventure based on Hindu mythology. Runner, a demon-child with the power to control the wind, must prevent the end of the world. It has the same humor, relatable protagonist, and mythology depth as Percy Jackson.

HarperCollins | 2018 | 384 pages

2. The Red Pyramid (The Kane Chronicles #1) by Rick Riordan

Written by Rick Riordan himself, this series follows Carter and Sadie Kane as they discover they are magicians and must restart the order of ancient Egyptian gods. If you have not read this yet, you are missing out on Riordan at his best.

Disney-Hyperion | 2019 | 528 pages

3. Magnus Chase and the Gods of Asgard (Book 1) by Rick Riordan

Percy Jackson cousin Magnus is homeless and ends up in Valhalla — the Norse afterlife. He must prevent Ragnarok while dealing with being a demigod. Same author, completely different mythology, same incredible humor. Essential reading for any PJ fan.

Disney-Hyperion | 2020 | 464 pages

4. Aru Shah and the End of Time (Pandava Series #1) by Roshani Chokshi

Aru Shah accidentally awakens the Sleeper, an ancient demon, and must find her Pandava sisters to save the world. Hindu mythology meets middle school drama in a story that is both funny and surprisingly deep about grief and identity.

Disney-Hyperion | 2018 | 352 pages

5. The Serpent's Secret (Kiranmala and the Kingdom Beyond #1) by Sayantani DasGupta

Part Bangladeshi folklore, part Indian mythology, this series features a twelve-year-old girl who discovers she is a princess from another dimension. DasGupta captures Riordan humor while bringing entirely fresh mythology.

Scholastic | 2017 | 384 pages

6. City of the Plague God by Sarwat Chadda

Based on Mesopotamian mythology, this action-packed novel follows warriors battling disease gods and ancient terrors. Unique mythology you will not find anywhere else in YA fantasy.

Balzer + Bray | 2019 | 400 pages

7. The Descendants series by Jason Frank

A group of teenagers discover they have powers tied to Greek mythological bloodlines. Fast-paced, action-heavy, and perfect for Percy Jackson fans who want something with more edge.

Delacorte Press | 2020 | 352 pages

8. Small Spaces by Katherine Arden

This middle-grade thriller incorporates Slavic folklore into a modern setting. Eleven-year-old Ollie discovers that Farmland hides ancient horrors. Shorter and spookier than Percy Jackson.

HarperCollins | 2019 | 512 pages

9. The Hero's Guide to Staying Dead by Anna Days

A humorous, fast-paced adventure where death is more of an inconvenience than an end. The protagonist has died hundreds of times and respawns like a video game character. Mythology woven into modern comedy.

Scholastic | 2021 | 368 pages

10. The Mark of the Lion by Richelle Mead

A dhampir — half-human, half-vampire — must attend a vampire boarding school in modern-day St. Petersburg. The protagonist sardonic voice has strong Percy energy.

Disney-Hyperion | 2020 | 400 pages

11. The Shadow Society by Marie Lu

Riddled with secret societies and powers tied to mythological foundations, this thriller pace shifts Percy Jackson formula into a modern urban setting with a darker edge.

Disney-Hyperion | 2018 | 304 pages

12. Gates of the Guardians by Tamora Pierce

Tamora Pierce incorporates mythological elements with strong protagonists who are genuinely talented but still scared. Different flavor of adventure for readers who love Riordan world-building.

What Makes a Great Percy Jackson-Style Book

The magic of Riordan series is not just the mythology — it is the combination of four key elements: modern teen voice with authentic sarcasm, mythology as world-building not decoration, found family at camp or school, and competent kids genuinely in over their heads.

Where to Start

If you want the closest experience to Percy Jackson, start with The Red Pyramid — it is Riordan doing Egyptian mythology and it is excellent. If you have already read that, try The Storm Runner for Hindu mythology or Aru Shah for a fresh mythological tradition with a wonderfully stubborn protagonist.

Our Verdict

Percy Jackson opened a generation eyes to how fun mythology can be. The books on this list prove it was not a fluke — great mythology, great teen voices, and great adventure are a timeless combination. Start with The Storm Runner or The Kane Chronicles if you want quality closest to Riordan own work.