Let’s face it: Percy Jackson isn’t just a book character. If you ask us, we say he’s the ultimate YA protagonist — or, at least one of our top three. Could you blame us? Percy practically raised a generation of sarcastic and Greek mythology-obsessed readers. He’s given us plenty of unforgettable one-liners that we still can’t shake from our brains, unlucky run-ins with monsters that still feel weirdly relatable, and soft-boy loyalty that made us wish he was a key member of our friend groups (or something more, if you know what we mean).
If you’re on the hunt for books featuring characters that exude total chaotic hero energy, then look no further. These seven reads will bring you the same heart, humour, and mythological-messiness that made you first fall in love with Percy Jackson.
Content Warning: Content may contain spoilers for Percy Jackson & the Olympians. Readers be advised.
Loki: A Bad God’s Guide to Being Good by Louie Stowell
Picture this: Percy is reincarnated as a Norse god, winds up trapped in a twelve-year-old mortal boy’s body, and uses a journal to write about all of his laugh-out-loud earthly mishaps. Does this sound like your perfect pick? Then, you must add Loki: A Bad God’s Guide to Being Good to your TBR list. Loki is hilariously snarky, impulsive, occasionally well-meaning, and constantly finds himself getting into trouble — and hey, doesn’t that sound familiar?
With Diary of a Wimpy Kid-inspired illustrations, humorous diary entries, and mischievous adventures galore, this book is widely reminiscent of Percy’s sarcastic inner voice and his reluctant journey toward doing the right thing. Just like Percy, Loki never asked to be a hero — but he just might have to be one.
The Serpent’s Secret (Kiranmala and the Kingdom Beyond #1) by Sayantani DasGupta
Kiranmala might be the only character who can rival Percy’s reaction to discovering she’s a mythological chosen one. When she discovers she’s actually an otherworldly, Indian princess and not just your average sixth grader, it’s pure disbelief blended with sarcastic panic — amped up to 11. Kiranmala’s quick wit, fierce loyalty to her loved ones, and ability to hurl insults at demons while battling them will have you thinking she’s Percy’s long-lost sister. Not only would Percy totally have her back in every battle, but he’d also have the ultimate comebacks to her jokes.
Bonus: The Serpent’s Secret — and the rest of the Kiranmala and the Kingdom Beyond series — will open you up to a vibrant and captivating world of Indian mythology, magical sidekicks, and interdimensional royal drama that’ll keep those pages turning.
The Storm Runner (Book 1) by J.C. Cervantes
Zane Obispo doesn’t fit in — at all. He can only walk with a cane, prefers his dog over his fellow peers, and did we mention that there’s a god hiding in the volcano in his backyard? Similar to Percy, Zane navigates coming-of-age in a complicated world with plenty of jokes, loyal pals, and choosing to make friends — not foes — with his everyday chaos.
The Storm Runner follows Zane through a reluctant hero’s journey, which fans of Percy are sure to enjoy. Plus, it’s jam-packed with nonstop action scenes, ancient Mayan mythology, and heartwarming moments that will have you reaching for Book 2.
Dragon Pearl by Yoon Ha Lee
Meet Min: a quick, clever fox spirit with a rebellious streak. She twists the truth, she’s sly, and her moral compass is slightly misaligned. She even shapeshifts and uses magic — even when she’s absolutely not supposed to. However, she only acts like this in order to protect her family.
If you ask us, we say Min feels like Percy if he had been raised in an alternate, sci-fi universe ruled by Korean mythology. If Percy’s well-meaning messiness, determined nature, and fierce commitment to protecting the people he loves are what made you love him, then Dark Pearl will sit perfectly on your bookshelf.
Charlie Hernández & the League of Shadows (Volume 1) by Ryan Calejo
Charlie Hernández is sharp, curious, and constantly caught between “what just happened” and “guess it’s my turn to save the world.” Filled with enriching Latin American folklore and mythology, mysterious yet mystifying powers, and all the awkwardness middle school brings, Charlie’s inner monologue will feel all too familiar to any Percy fan.
Follow Charlie as he uncovers ancient South American societies, battles evil spirits that are hellbent (pun intended) on taking over mankind, and navigates his feelings for his lifelong crush, Violet Rey. Charlie may not be the toughest guy in the room, but his unwavering loyalty, kindness, and refusal to back down may just make him hero material. We can assure you: it’s an adventure that would be 100% Percy-approved.
The Kane Chronicles: The Red Pyramid (Book 1) by Rick Riordan
Sure, this one might be obvious. However, let’s talk about character crossovers, shall we? Carter and Sadie Kane are essentially two sides of the same coin — and let’s say that coin in question is Percy’s personality. Carter represents the reluctant hero vibes we know and love. Meanwhile, Sadie’s personality brings the perfect blend of chaos and sarcastic comebacks (which we also know and love).
Together, the Kane siblings embody Percy’s goodhearted yet chaotic nature and trademark humor while taking on Egyptian gods and mystical mayhem. Plus, somewhere down the line, Percy actually meets Carter and Sadie! If you’re craving more of Percy’s world with brand new faces, then let this be your next read.
Athena the Brain by Joan Holub and Suzanne Williams
Athena isn’t your average middle-schooler. She’s actually the goddess of wisdom, and she’s just trying to make her mark — and some friends — at Mount Olympus Academy. Sounds like someone we know, right? Just like Percy, Athena’s caught between godly expectations and destiny, but she refuses to let anyone underestimate her or her capabilities.
If you’re an Annabeth fan (and let’s be honest, if you adore Percy, you are), this charming, Greek mythology-meets-middle-school, middle-grade novel will give you a peek at the kind of girl Percy would definitely try to impress.
If Percy Jackson is your favourite character because of his sarcastic humor, bravery, relatable and authentic disability representation, and his unwavering love for his friends and family, then you’re sure to find kindred spirits in each of these books. While mythology may be a common thread throughout each one, these books are really about growing up with the weight of a mystical world on your shoulders and having enough heart to pull through it — monsters and all.
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