10 Books To Read After Finishing The Harry Potter Series

As a reader, finishing a beloved series can often leave us in a state of yearning for more magical worlds.

The Harry Potter series, in particular, has captivated audiences around the globe, leaving an indelible mark on the fantasy genre.

Hunting for books with a similar allure can pose quite a challenge, considering the esteemed standing of this series.

In an attempt to alleviate the sense of loss after completing these books, it becomes vital to find fitting literary substitutes.

This article aims to guide ardent enthusiasts towards a selection of books that may provide a comparable reading experience.

These recommended stories present enchanting worlds, complex characters and engaging narratives that will hopefully satiate the craving left by the Harry Potter series.

Books To Read After Finishing The Harry Potter Series

1. “Percy Jackson and the Olympians” by Rick Riordan

For fans of the Harry Potter series who are keenly seeking similarly enthralling books to devour, “Percy Jackson and the Olympians” by Rick Riordan may just be exactly what you’ve been searching for.

This series centers around Percy Jackson, a young and disoriented boy who discovers he is actually a demigod, the son of Poseidon, the Greek god of the sea.

Like Harry Potter, Percy is thrust into a world that he was completely oblivious to, filled with mythical creatures, gods, and demigods, becoming a part of an epic quest that takes him across the United States.

The series is rife with exhilarating adventures, unexpected twists, and heartfelt moments that are reminiscent of J.K. Rowling’s famous series.

This quite succinctly captures why “Percy Jackson and the Olympians” is a must-read after the Harry Potter series. Each story is teeming with action, fraught with danger, but also brimming with morals and lessons about friendship, bravery, loyalty, and sacrifice, much like Harry’s journey against Lord Voldemort in Rowling’s series.

Beyond its similarities to Harry Potter, Rick Riordan’s series is also deeply educational, allowing readers to expand their knowledge of Greek mythology in a fun and entertaining way.

If you’ve always been fascinated by the gods, demi-gods, and mythical creatures in Harry Potter, you’d delight in how Riordan interweaves ancient Greek mythology into a contemporary, fast-paced fantasy adventure.

The above video further explores the charm of the Percy Jackson series. Watching this video, you may gain more insight into the magic of the series and the compelling storylines that keep readers hooked from the first page to the last.

Riordan’s talent in crafting engaging characters and gripping narratives, as well as his genius in marrying ancient mythology with modern world realities are discussed in the video.

So if you’re looking for a new universe to dive into after the Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, pick up a copy of “Percy Jackson and the Olympians”. The thrill found in these pages may just fill the Harry-Potter-sized void in your current reading list.

2. “The Hobbit” by J.R.R. Tolkien

One potential successor to the Harry Potter series would be “The Hobbit” by the acclaimed author J.R.R. Tolkien

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This novel is widely recognised as being one of the foundation stones of contemporary fantasy, making it an excellent pick for Harry Potter fans.

“The Hobbit” presents a richly detailed world filled with strange creatures, magical events, and fantastical adventures, much in the same vein as the Harry Potter series.

Tolkien’s narrative voice is filled with a sense of wonder and enchantment that will be very familiar to fans of J.K. Rowling.

This is not a coincidence, seeing as Rowling has publicly acknowledged the influence of Tolkien on her own work.

“The Hobbit” will particularly resonate with Harry Potter fans considering its underdog story of Bilbo Baggins, a small creature in a big world discovering his inner strength and braving numerous trials and tribulations.

Moreover, this novel incorporates a similar sense of camaraderie that Harry, Hermione, and Ron share throughout their Hogwarts journey.

Evident in the fellowship forged between Bilbo and the dwarves.

Also, the narrative is laced with spectacular action sequences and thrilling battles, which offers a level of excitement akin to the tension-filled encounters in the Harry Potter series.

The author’s rich use of language will satisfy those who loved the unique phrases and charming wordplay found in the Harry Potter books.

Apart from that, “The Hobbit” features a story that can be easily followed by younger readers while still engaging teens and adults.

It delivers on the important themes about courage, adventure, friendship and self-discovery that were so vital in Harry Potter.

This combination of the fantastic, the adventurous, and the personal should make it a worthy read for any Potterhead looking for their next charming adventure.

Tolkien’s genius lies in his ability to construct an entire mythology around his world, much like the universe that was created around Hogwarts and the wizarding world in the Harry Potter books.

The moral ambiguity within characters as seen in “The Hobbit”, such as Smaug and Gollum, could remind Harry Potter fans of similar characters in their favourite series, such as Severus Snape and Draco Malfoy, both complex figures who are not simply ‘good’ or ‘evil’.

This novel is an all-time classic masterpiece that will appeal to anyone who loves beautifully crafted books filled with compelling narratives, fascinating characters, and a bit of magic.

3. “Miss Peregrine’s Peculiar Children” by Ransom Riggs

If the world of magic and peculiarities is what caught your interest in the Harry Potter series, then “Miss Peregrine’s Peculiar Children” by Ransom Riggs is a series you should seriously consider diving into next.

The story revolves around a 16-year-old boy named Jacob, who, following his grandfather’s mysterious death, discovers clues that lead him to a derelict orphanage on a Welsh island.

This is no ordinary orphanage but home to children with peculiar abilities, much like the witches and wizards of Hogwarts, but in a decidedly more eerie setting.

Miss Peregrine’s Home, as it is named, is a place where the ordinary is highly extraordinary and the childhood tales Jacob had often dismissed as fairy tales become startlingly real.

At the heart of it all is the chilling mystery behind these peculiar children and what exactly it is that makes them so peculiar.

This fascinating mystery is absolutely ripe for exploration, and as Jacob digs deeper, he discovers that his own family ties are intricately linked to this odd world, which only adds layers to the overarching suspense.

Similar to the Harry Potter series, Riggs’ work offers plenty of slice-of-life teenage melodrama amidst all the supernatural elements, which makes it a relatable read for many.

More so, the picturesque and at times, haunting illustrations scattered through the book elicit a visual appeal that truly enhances the reading experience. Readers will get to see exactly what Riggs imagined while writing and will feel more engaged in the storyline.

It is safe to say that this series makes a compelling case for exploring narratives around the extraordinary hidden within the ordinary, just like Harry Potter does.

Watching this video will grant you a comprehensive and spoiler-free review of the book, including the personal insights of a reader. You will get an in-depth outlook on the peculiarities of the book and its characters, helping you to have a clearer perception of what to expect before you start reading.

Overall, “Miss Peregrine’s Peculiar Children” by Ransom Riggs is an enchanting yet eerie series that is sure to delight those who loved the Harry Potter books. It promises a journey full of oddity, adventure, and a mystery that will keep you at the edge of your seat.

Do remember, this is just the third book on the list, and there are plenty more enchanting books to check out, that are perfect to read after finishing the Harry Potter Series.

4. “The Chronicles of Narnia” by C.S. Lewis

After the whimsical wizardry and epic battles of Harry Potter, one may be left eager for more magical adventures. C.S. Lewis’ “The Chronicles of Narnia” just might be the perfect follow-up series.

With its fantastical beasts, rich mythos, and compelling characters, “The Chronicles of Narnia” possesses that irresistible Harry Potter-like charm.

Anthropomorphic beings and talking animals play significant roles, making this series a treasure trove of fantastical imagery.

Like the Pottermore series, Narnia is tremendously immersive and inclusive, ensnaring readers in its realm of paradox and enchantment.

The “Chronicles of Narnia”‘s storyline, similar to J.K. Rowling’s masterful narratives, follows a group of young children navigating their way through a world filled with magic and danger.

From bewitching spells to epic battles, the series is an endless source of thrills and wonderment.

Akin to Harry, Ron, and Hermione’s daring exploits, the adventures of the Pevensie siblings in Narnia will captivate the readers’ imagination.

This comparison compels the audience to delve into the narrative, as they connect with these brave children striving to triumph over evil.

Each book within the series explores varying themes, plots, and characters, ensuring that readers experience a fresh storyline every time.

The mystical and enigmatic Aslan often reminds readers of Albus Dumbledore from Harry Potter, with his wisdom, power, and riddles.

Furthermore, the intriguing duality between the White Witch and Voldemort, both epitomizing the embodiment of evil, adds another layer of comparison.

The sense of escapism provided by “The Chronicles of Narnia” is similar to the feeling of getting lost in the pages of the Harry Potter series.

One particular aspect that may capture Potterhead’s hearts is C.S. Lewis’s style of writing, which, like J.K. Rowling’s, is enchanting and easy to understand.

This seven-book saga introduces readers to the magical lands of Narnia where they embark on epic adventures, making it an ideal read for any Harry Potter enthusiast.

Given these comparisons and the renowned reputation of “The Chronicles of Narnia”, it is undoubtedly a worthwhile series to explore for those seeking to fill the void left by the conclusion of the Harry Potter series.

Thus, “The Chronicles of Narnia” offers an engaging follow-up read, as it brilliantly upholds the wonders of magic and the virtues of friendship that Harry Potter readers have come to adore.

5. “His Dark Materials” by Philip Pullman

Rich in fantasy and complex moral issues, “His Dark Materials” is a must-read for any fan of Harry Potter.

The series comprises three intriguing novels: ‘The Golden Compass’, ‘The Subtle Knife’, and ‘The Amber Spyglass’.

These novels revolve around two children, Lyra Belacqua and Will Parry, who traverse parallel universes as they become embroiled in an epic war.

The series is heavily rooted in some interesting concepts, such as Daemons (spirit animals that are extensions of the human soul), Dust (a mysterious cosmic particle), and multiple universes.

One of the book’s fascinating aspects is how it subtly touches upon thought-provoking themes such as religion, philosophy, and science.

His Dark Materials manages to strike a unique balance, combining a coming-of-age story with a rich and detailed cosmology that is as fascinating as it is original.”

This incredible combination of attributes helps to bridge the gap between youth and adult fantasy literature.

It’s not just the magical world that grabs the reader’s attention, but also the realism and depth given to its characters.

Within this world, the impressions and emotions of the characters are as palpable as the wonders and perils that they face.

By watching the linked video, you will gain a deep understanding of how the series has been adapted over the years.

Not only does it offer a perspective on the uniqueness of Pullman’s world but it also gives insights on the challenges and triumphs of its adaptations.

For anyone who appreciates fantasy that prompts deep thought and poses challenging philosophical and ethical questions, “His Dark Materials” is definitely worthy of your time and consideration.

It’s a series that asks its readers to reflect on the complexities of existence while immersing them in a captivating adventure of epic proportions, something rarely seen in the genre.

Just like Harry Potter, this series has a rich narrative and strong character development pulling you into its world.

A world that, despite its fantastical elements, reveals profound truths about our own.

6. “Artemis Fowl” series by Eoin Colfer

If you’ve enjoyed the witty dialogue and the gripping story from the Harry Potter series, then the “Artemis Fowl” series by Eoin Colfer might be a suitable fit for your next reading adventure.

The series introduces you to Artemis Fowl, a 12-year-old genius and descendant of criminal masterminds, who hatches a plan to restore his family’s wealth and status by exploiting the magical fairy folk.

Colfer manages to expertly blend elements of science fiction, fantasy, and crime thrillers into the twists and turns of the novels.

“Artemis Fowl” series comprises eight books, each one providing a new, thrilling story all while developing the characters and the world they live in.

The series boasts a diverse cast of characters, from Artemis himself to the fairies, elves, trolls, and dwarfs he comes across.

In many ways, the "Artemis Fowl" series parallels the Harry Potter series as each centers on a young protagonist navigating a world filled with magic and intrigue.

The parallels with Harry Potter do not end there. A significant aspect of both series connects the lives and maturation of their young leads.

Artemis and Harry both start out relatively naive to the workings of their respective magical worlds but grow immeasurably over the course of their narratives.

Both young characters question their surroundings and make choices that have far-reaching consequences, exhibiting their adventurous spirit and willingness to stand up to darker forces.

While the settings of Harry Potter and Artemis Fowl are distinctively different, both series are deeply rooted in mythology, folklore, and tradition.

They both deliver exciting narratives filled with mystique, wonder, and enchantments.

Just like readers explored the world of Hogwarts with Harry, they can venture into the underground world of fairies, goblins, and centaurs with Artemis.

There is also a good deal of humour in “Artemis Fowl”, reminiscent of the banter among the students in Hogwarts.

Moreover, just as the Harry Potter series does, “Artemis Fowl” teaches important life lessons about friendship, bravery, sacrifice, and the gray areas of morality.

So, if you’re in search of a reading experience that has elements of magic, adventure, myth, bravery, and morality, dive into the world of Artemis Fowl.

The series will take you on a journey filled with laughter, excitement, and intrigue, making it a worthy successor to your Harry Potter experience.

7. “The Maze Runner” by James Dashner

One incredible series to venture into after the magical journey of Harry Potter is “The Maze Runner” by James Dashner.

The series offers a fantastic blend of intriguing plot, thrilling suspense, and a dystopian world.

Similar to the Harry Potter series, readers get to witness the true depth of friendship through many trials and tribulations.

The protagonist, Thomas, is a character that Harry Potter fans would easily connect with, given his bravery and determination in overcoming obstacles.

Thomas often leads and motivates other characters, showcasing his excellent leadership capabilities and admirable courage, similar to Harry Potter.

His journey through the maze and the many tests he faces will put readers on the edge of their seats, encouraging them to empathize with his character and his battles.

This novel provides a thrilling journey to readers who are seeking a sense of adventure and a mysterious plot.

Moreover, the plot takes exciting twists and turns that keep readers engrossed, much like the captivating Hogwarts adventures.

The Maze Runner also presents a new mysterious world to explore, full of unknown dangers and hidden secrets.

For Potterheads used to journeying into the depths of the magical world, The Maze Runner provides a similar enticing world exploration experience.

By watching the video, readers can gain further insight into The Maze Runner’s plot and characters.

Additional layers of understanding can be peeled back, further revealing the depth of the novel and its unique appeal.

The link between Harry Potter and The Maze Runner is not direct; however, the connection through adventure and friendship is evident.

The Maze Runner also sparks the reader’s interest in fantasy, much like the fascination aroused by Harry Potter.

The intriguing plot, dynamic characters, and exciting world-building elements of The Maze Runner make it a compelling read for Potterheads seeking a new magical journey.

8. “A Wrinkle in Time” by Madeleine L’Engle

The eighth recommendation for Harry Potter fans is Madeleine L’Engle’s classic novel, “A Wrinkle in Time”.

This book, which debuted in 1962, has remained a staple in children’s literature and is often hailed as a masterpiece of science fiction and fantasy.

Its intriguing blend of science, religion, and fantasy creates a unique reading experience that echoes many themes found within the Harry Potter series.

“A Wrinkle in Time” centers around a young girl named Meg Murry, her exceptionally intelligent younger brother Charles Wallace, and their friend Calvin O’Keefe, as they set on a mission to rescue Meg and Charles Wallace’s father, using the concept of “tessering” or traveling in the fifth dimension.

This saving-the-parent plot device resonates strongly with Harry’s ongoing quest throughout the Harry Potter series to understand and avenge his parents’ deaths.

Just like Harry, Meg is also portrayed as a reluctant, yet dutiful heroine who is forced to adventure and battle against evil forces despite her initial fears and insecurities.

Throughout their journey, Meg, Charles Wallace, and Calvin encounter various alien beings and visit different planets, offering readers a wonderful mix of extraterrestrial adventures and fantastical elements.

Parallel to J.K. Rowling’s storytelling style, Madeleine L’Engle too uses her novel as a platform to emphasize on themes like the power of love and courage, the strength of family bonds and friendship, and the struggle against the forces of evil.

These universal values make “A Wrinkle in Time” a particularly endearing read for Harry Potter fans, as the core themes presented across both the series share a strong resemblance.

Furthermore, just as Rowling uses magic as an inherent part of her universe, L’Engle too introduces readers to unique scientific and fantastical concepts.

The idea of “tessering”, time travel, and presence of peculiar creatures create an exciting reading experience akin to the magical world of Harry Potter.

“A Wrinkle in Time” is the first book in L’Engle’s “Time Quintet” series, implying that Harry Potter fans looking for a new series to delve into would find this as a delightful choice.

The subsequent books in the series continue to develop on the adventures of its core characters as they cross paths with alien entities, traverse through time and space, and repeatedly prove their love and bravery in the face of danger and adversity.

Reading “A Wrinkle in Time” is undoubtedly a wonderful traveling-through-universes adventure for fans of the Harry Potter series.

Its similarities in themes, focus on friendship and family, and an engaging plot make it a novel Harry Potter fans would appreciate and enjoy.

9. “The Inheritance Cycle” by Christopher Paolini

“The Inheritance Cycle” by Christopher Paolini, a high fantasy series that comprises four books, is undoubtedly a must-read after finishing the Harry Potter series.

Just as Harry Potter immerses you in a world of magic and esoteric creatures, the Inheritance Cycle introduces you to a universe filled with dragons, elves, and magic.

Central to this series is Eragon, the protagonist who embarks on a journey of self-discovery, growing in strength and wisdom while on a quest to overthrow a tyrant king, similarly riveting to Harry’s confrontation with Lord Voldemort.

This parallelism proves that if you enjoyed the Harry Potter books, you would love the Inheritance Cycle as well.

Every character in the Inheritance Cycle, like in Harry Potter, undergoes a transformative journey that increasingly reveals their unique personalities.

The author’s artistic style further draws in readers, as it triggers a vivid imagination of the world he tries to create.

In the same vein as Harry Potter, the Inheritance Cycle is a coming-of-age story that discusses complex themes like destiny, morality, and the struggle of good versus evil.

This makes the Inheritance Cycle a worthy read for those seeking a captivating tale of adventure and personal growth.

Moreover, like J.K. Rowling, Christopher Paolini also writes in a clear and engaging narrative style, making it easy for readers of all ages to understand and enjoy his books.

His use of intricate plot lines and an evolving mythos backed by a robust magic system places the Inheritance Cycle on the similar graphical plane as Harry Potter.

Watching the video can lead to a deeper comprehension of the reasons behind the Inheritance Cycle’s global success, despite criticism targeting its originality and writing style.

It offers an analysis of how unique elements in the series garnered such a large, dedicated fan base, similar to Harry Potter’s immense popularity.

In conclusion, once you’re done reading Harry Potter, “The Inheritance Cycle” should be on your reading list.

It’s a compelling series imbued with enchanting magical scenes, fascinating characters, rich world-building, and an intricately-formulated plot line, elements fundamentally akin to the Harry Potter collection.

10. “Ender’s Game” by Orson Scott Card

In the expansive world of science fiction, “Ender’s Game” by Orson Scott Card carves a niche for itself with its dynamic narrative and character authenticity.

“Ender’s Game” is centered on the life of a young boy, Andrew “Ender” Wiggin, who is drafted into an elite military training academy at an early age to prepare for an intergalactic war.

Similar to the “Harry Potter” series, this book explores themes of bravery, loneliness, and the struggle to not lose one’s humanity in the face of extraordinary circumstances.

As readers traverse through Ender’s unique, and often testing journey, they get to dwell in a universe filled with interstellar warfare, intelligent alien species, and advanced technologies.

For lovers of Harry Potter, “Ender’s Game” provides a unique brand of immersion that engages not only with its story but also with profound existential themes.

Supporting this quote is the fact that the book immediately pulls in the reader into a world where children are trained to become warriors, are held to absurd levels of expectation, and must navigate power, politics and personal trials – much like Harry Potter does within Hogwarts.

This aspect alone offers an intriguing parallel for lovers of the Harry Potter series and provides a bridge to transition from the wizarding world of Hogwarts to the interstellar battles of “Ender’s Game.”

Ender Wiggin’s narrative arc is compelling in its own right, providing a unique perspective into the psyche of a child exposed to the cruel realities of war and responsibility.

Moreover, Orson Scott Card’s distinct ability to create a rich, imaginative world filled with compelling characters stands parallel to J.K. Rowling’s vivid wizarding world, thereby appealing to Potterheads.

The gripping storytelling combined with crucial themes such as friendship, self-discovery, and the values of humanity makes it a worthy successor to Harry Potter.

“Ender’s Game”, paired with its numerous sequels, allows readers to dive into a detailed, meticulously crafted universe, offering a breathtaking space opera experience.

Additionally, the deep level of world building and the intricate layering of science fiction and adventure elements furnish a captivating read for those who crave plot depth and narrative complexity.

“Ender’s Game” is a power-packed, multi-dimensional story that is not just about space and war but also about exploring human emotions, the depths of the soul, the essence of competition, and the limits of humanity.

Finally, like Harry Potter, “Ender’s Game” also poses compelling moral questions and philosophical dilemmas that provoke profound reflection on the nature of war, power, childhood, and humanity itself.

As a result, the book proves to be much more than an exciting read, offering an impactful experience that resonates with and lingers in readers long after they’ve finished the book.

Thus, “Ender’s Game” offers a deeply satisfying next read for Harry Potter fans, tapping into the similar themes of adventure, self-realization, morality, and the costs of war while presenting a fresh, thrilling, and intellectual plot.

The Bottom Line

After delving into these captivating fantasy series, it’s clear that each one offers a unique adventure steeped in imagination, action, and profound themes.

From Riordan’s modern spin on Greek mythology in “Percy Jackson and the Olympians,”

to Lewis’s timeless exploration of good and evil in “The Chronicles of Narnia,”

they all contribute significantly to the richness of the genre.

Some, like Tolkien’s “The Hobbit,”

are cherished classics while others, like Riggs’s “Miss Peregrine’s Peculiar Children,”

offer a fresh and innovative take on the concept of the supernatural.

Whether it’s Pullman’s philosophically poignant “His Dark Materials”

or Colfer’s witty and thrilling “Artemis Fowl”

series, the fascinating worlds and complex characters created are destined to enthrall readers of all ages.

These titles, and the others on the list, demonstrate the power of fantasy literature not just to entertain, but to illuminate truths about our own world and human nature.