Books to Spark a Harry Potter Fan’s Next Reading Adventure

Harry Potter opened a generation of children to the pleasures of reading and the magic of imagination, and many parents now look for books that can capture that same sense of adventure and wonder.

If your child has made their way through Harry Potter and is looking for something similar there are a number of beloved series to try.

The best alternatives do not try to mimic Hogwarts but instead offer young readers new worlds that feel just as alive, with characters who grow, struggle, and discover their own strengths along the way.

Rick Riordan’s Percy Jackson series is usually the first stop for children who enjoyed Harry’s journey. The blend of modern life with ancient Greek mythology creates a fast-paced adventure that offers the same mix of humour, friendship, and bravery. Riordan writes in a voice that feels close to the reader, which helps reluctant readers stay engaged.

CS Lewis’s Chronicles of Narnia remain a classic for good reason. The stories open a door to a world filled with courage, sacrifice, and moral growth. Many readers find that Narnia has the same sense of wide-eyed discovery they felt first encountering the world of Hogwarts.

For slightly older children Philip Pullman’s His Dark Materials series introduces a more complex story about freedom, loyalty, and the power of knowledge. The world is rich, the characters are layered, and the emotional stakes feel real, which can be a natural progression for readers who want something deeper without losing a sense of magic.

Younger readers who want something lighter might enjoy Jessica Townsend’s Nevermoor series. The books are filled with quirky characters, peculiar challenges, and a heroine who constantly surprises herself, creating a universe that feels welcoming and full of possibility.

Each of these books gives children a fresh world to explore and a chance to keep building the habit of reading into adulthood.