15 Books That Will Take You Back to the Magic After Harry Potter

If you’ve wrapped up your Harry Potter reread for the hundredth time and find yourself wishing for more of that immersive world-building, the deep friendships, or just that feeling of losing yourself in a great story, you’re not alone. But let’s be honest—nothing will ever fully replace Hogwarts. That being said, there are some books out there that give you a similar sense of wonder, magic and a cast of characters you can’t help but root for. These aren’t just your typical fantasy novels, either. While they have their own worlds and stakes, they don’t try to be Harry Potter knock-offs; instead, they stand on their own.

Carry On by Rainbow Rowell

Carry On isn’t your typical “chosen one” story, though it plays with that trope in some really clever ways. Simon Snow’s magical school experience is layered with humor and a bit of romance, but what sets it apart is how self-aware it is. The characters know they’re living in a magical world, but they deal with very real issues like relationships, identity, and self-doubt. There’s a ton of heart in this one, and while you’ll see some parallels with Hogwarts, it’s got its own rhythm and charm. For Harry Potter fans who appreciated the blend of humor, heart, and tension, Carry On is a fun, thoughtful next read.

City of Bones by Cassandra Clare

City of Bones introduces you to the Shadowhunters, a secret society fighting demons, which brings a darker, more urban twist to the magical genre. While Harry had Hogwarts, Clary Fray stumbles into an underground world right in the middle of modern-day New York. The camaraderie and discovery of hidden talents will feel familiar to any Potterhead, but Cassandra Clare’s world-building is uniquely hers. It’s packed with action, friendship, and of course, some serious emotional stakes. Think of it as a grittier, city-bound adventure with its own magical systems to explore.

The Magicians by Lev Grossman

If you ever wondered what a grown-up, darker take on magic might look like, The Magicians delivers that in spades. Quentin Coldwater’s entrance into Brakebills College for magical pedagogy feels like a nod to Hogwarts but with a much bleaker edge. This isn’t the magic of wonder and joy; it’s more about the cost and responsibility of wielding such power. There’s a complexity to the characters and the world that makes it a heavier, more introspective read, which might appeal to Harry Potter fans who’ve grown up and are ready to see a different side of the magical coin.

The Worst Witch by Jill Murphy

If you’re looking for something more lighthearted, The Worst Witch is an absolute classic that has charmed younger readers for decades. Mildred Hubble’s adventures at Miss Cackle’s Academy for Witches will definitely remind you of the early days at Hogwarts, with all the mishaps and growing pains of a young witch learning the ropes. But what makes The Worst Witch special is its warmth and humor—it doesn’t take itself too seriously, making it a delightful read for those who loved the early Harry Potter books where the stakes weren’t quite so high yet.

The Bad Beginning by Lemony Snicket

While not exactly a story of magic, The Bad Beginning and the rest of A Series of Unfortunate Events offer a darkly humorous tone that you’ll recognize if you appreciate Rowling’s ability to balance whimsy with more serious themes. The Baudelaire orphans’ misfortunes are narrated with a sharp wit that echoes the more tongue-in-cheek moments of Harry Potter. There’s a sense of resilience here that’s very much in line with the bravery and tenacity we love in characters like Harry and his friends, though this series leans more into the absurd than the magical.

Percy Jackson and the Olympians by Rick Riordan

Greek mythology meets a magical boarding school in Percy Jackson and the Olympians. Percy discovers he’s a demigod, and suddenly his whole world changes—sound familiar? What makes this series stand out, though, is Rick Riordan’s signature humor and the tight-knit friendships Percy forms along the way. There’s a real sense of adventure in these books, with quests that feel as epic as anything Harry, Ron, and Hermione went through. If you love stories about friendships forged in the heat of battle and growing into your powers, this series is a must-read.

Heartstopper by Alice Oseman

Heartstopper may not be about magic, but it’s about the kind of connections that feel just as important. This graphic novel series captures the beauty of friendship and young love in a way that’s so deeply relatable. For Harry Potter fans who loved the quieter, more personal moments—like the bond between Harry and his friends—Heartstopper offers that same emotional depth. It’s a tender, heartfelt story that focuses on relationships and identity, set in a school environment that feels safe and supportive, much like Hogwarts in its best moments.

Blood Like Magic by Liselle Sambury

This one brings magic and high-stakes family drama together in a way that feels intense from the get-go. Voya Thomas has to make a brutal choice to save her family’s magical legacy, and while the magic here is different from what you’d find at Hogwarts, the themes of legacy, sacrifice, and the weight of responsibility will feel familiar. Blood Like Magic adds layers of cultural richness and diversity to its magical world, making it a fresh and compelling read for anyone craving more than just another wizard school story.

Jonathan Strange & Mr Norrell by Susanna Clarke

If you’re in the mood for something a little more sophisticated and historical, Jonathan Strange & Mr Norrell offers a rich tapestry of magic set in 19th-century England. It’s a slower burn than the Harry Potter books, but the intricate world-building and complex relationships between the two magicians at the heart of the story will pull you in. There’s a lot of depth here, with magic being treated almost like a science, which might appeal to fans who liked the more detailed aspects of Rowling’s magical world, like potion-making or magical history.

Shadow and Bone by Leigh Bardugo

Alina Starkov’s story in Shadow and Bone hits a lot of the same notes as Harry Potter—an orphan with hidden powers, a magical academy of sorts, and an epic battle against dark forces. But what makes Leigh Bardugo’s Grishaverse stand out is the richness of the world and the morally complex characters. Alina’s journey from a nobody to the center of an intense magical war will resonate with anyone who’s ever rooted for an underdog. And the dark, atmospheric setting gives this series a tone that’s more mature and haunting, perfect for older readers.

Divergent by Veronica Roth

Though Divergent doesn’t have magic, it taps into the same themes of identity and belonging that Harry Potter fans will recognize. Tris’ journey through a fractured society where she doesn’t quite fit feels like a parallel to Harry’s own struggles with identity and destiny. There’s also a sense of rebellion and courage in this series that mirrors the fight against Voldemort, though it’s set in a dystopian future rather than a magical world. Still, the emotional stakes and character growth will hook anyone who loved the more intense moments of the Harry Potter series.

Six Crimson Cranes by Elizabeth Lim

In Six Crimson Cranes, Princess Shiori’s journey of self-discovery and forbidden magic is beautifully woven into a story of rebellion, resilience, and love. Fans of Harry Potter will appreciate Shiori’s struggles to embrace her powers in a world that forbids them, echoing Harry’s own battles with self-acceptance and the weight of destiny. Elizabeth Lim’s storytelling is richly detailed, and the way magic is used feels fresh and exciting while also offering those comforting themes of bravery and loyalty that any Potter fan can relate to.

Graceling by Kristin Cashore

Katsa’s world of Graceling is filled with intrigue, magic, and power struggles, but what really sets it apart is its exploration of autonomy and strength. Katsa’s unique magical abilities make her a force to be reckoned with, but she’s also on a journey to figure out who she is beyond her powers. If you loved Harry’s internal struggles—balancing his personal desires with his responsibility to the wizarding world—then Katsa’s story will definitely strike a chord.

Wicked by Gregory Maguire

This isn’t your typical Wizard of Oz story—Wicked dives deep into the life of the Wicked Witch of the West, turning her into a nuanced, sympathetic character. The moral gray areas and the exploration of what makes someone “good” or “evil” will resonate with anyone who appreciates the more complex characters in Harry Potter, like Snape or Dumbledore. It’s a great read for those who love magic but want a bit more depth and philosophical pondering.

The Gilded Ones by Namina Forna

The Gilded Ones is a powerful story about a young girl who discovers she’s different in a world that fears her kind. There’s a strong focus on identity, acceptance, and fighting back against an unjust society, all themes that Harry Potter fans will be familiar with. Deka’s journey is intense and emotional, with a lot of action and a richly built world that feels both dangerous and beautiful. If you loved the way Harry Potter tackled issues of prejudice and bravery, The Gilded Ones will feel right at home on your shelf.