Even though the final Harry Potter book was released 13 years ago, its influence on the young adult genre and readers around the globe has been unmatched. Whether you or your child just finished reading Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows, or you’re looking for a book series that can live up to the magic of Hogwarts, these similar series are definitely worth your time.
1. The Secrets of the Immortal Nicholas Flamel
Bestselling author Michael Scott crafted the 6-book series, The Secrets of the Immortal Nicholas Flamel, after being inspired by the minor character, Nicholas Flamel, who first appeared in J.K. Rowling’s Harry Potter series. The main characters of Scott’s series are 15-year-old twins who uncover the secret success of Flamel’s alchemy, which leads to an exciting adventure featuring plenty of magic, fun historical facts, action, and suspense. This would be an excellent series for 11-year-olds and older.
2. The Magicians
Lev Grossman’s trilogy of The Magicians features a reluctant child hero, Quentin Coldwater, who discovers that magic exists and that he’s the king of a magic utopia. Much like Harry Potter, this coming-of-age book series is full of adventure, drama, sorcery, and action that’s sure to entertain anyone ages 12 and up.
3. Divergent
Veronica Roth’s Divergent trilogy is set in a dystopia where young adults must choose to join one of five factions, which will ultimately determine how they will spend the rest of their lives. The protagonist, Tris Prior, makes an unexpected choice and soon realizes that she doesn’t fit into any single faction; she’s a Divergent and must keep her identity a secret. These exciting books are recommended for kids ages 13 and up.
4. The Lost Years of Merlin
T.A. Barron’s Merlin saga contains 5 thrilling books that tell the story of Merlin when he was a teenager. This fantasy series is reminiscent of Harry Potter with its deep enchanted forests, foreboding castles, evil spells, and, of course, plenty of witches and wizards. Readers 10 and up are sure to fall in love with Merlin just as they did with Harry.
5. Ranger’s Apprentice
This outstanding 12-book series created by John Flanagan is an epic tale that follows protagonist Will, a small 15-year-old boy who was chosen to be a Ranger’s apprentice. After he is selected, he learns that Rangers are protectors and spies for the kingdom, and that they’re currently preparing for war. This series is a great choice for readers ages 10 and up.
