For millions of readers, Harry Potter was more than just a story—it was a universe where friendships were forged, courage was tested, and magic was real. But after finishing the final chapter, many fans find themselves searching for another world that can recreate that same sense of wonder.
Good news: you don’t have to stop at Hogwarts! There are other fantasy series out there that deliver breathtaking adventures, magical creatures, and unforgettable characters. If you’re ready to embark on your next reading journey, here are five famous fantasy books and series every Potterhead should read next.
1. Percy Jackson & The Olympians by Rick Riordan
Rick Riordan’s beloved series is the perfect next step for Potter fans. Percy Jackson is a 12-year-old boy who discovers he’s the son of Poseidon, the Greek god of the sea. His life takes a sharp turn when he enters Camp Half-Blood, a safe haven for demigods. From battling mythical monsters to preventing wars between the gods, Percy’s journey is filled with action, humor, and heart.
What makes this series irresistible is how it blends ancient Greek mythology with the modern world. You’ll meet Medusa in a garden shop, ride taxis driven by witches, and laugh at Percy’s witty narration. Beyond the adventures, it’s also a story about loyalty, friendship, and finding one’s place in the world.
2. The Lord of the Rings by J.R.R. Tolkien
No list of fantasy novels is complete without Tolkien’s masterpiece. The Lord of the Rings is a sprawling epic that transports readers to Middle-earth, a land of elves, dwarves, hobbits, and dark lords. The story follows Frodo Baggins, a humble hobbit who inherits the One Ring—an artifact so powerful it could enslave the world if it falls into the wrong hands.
What sets this series apart is Tolkien’s incredible world-building. Every culture, language, and landscape in Middle-earth feels alive. While the themes of good versus evil are universal, the characters—Frodo, Sam, Aragorn, Gandalf—make the story deeply human. It’s not just a tale about destroying a ring; it’s about friendship, sacrifice, and carrying impossible burdens.
3. The Chronicles of Narnia by C.S. Lewis
Imagine opening a wardrobe and stepping into another world—that’s the magic of Narnia. In this classic series, four siblings stumble upon a land ruled by talking animals, brave kings, and a wicked White Witch. Guided by the majestic lion Aslan, they learn about bravery, hope, and the power of belief.
The series is written in a simple yet enchanting style that appeals to both children and adults. Each book introduces new heroes and magical adventures, making Narnia a place you’ll want to return to again and again. Beyond the fantasy, Lewis weaves in profound lessons about kindness, faith, and redemption—without ever losing the sense of wonder.
4. His Dark Materials by Philip Pullman
Philip Pullman’s trilogy offers a more mature, thought-provoking kind of fantasy. It follows Lyra Belacqua, a brave and curious girl whose world is both familiar and strange. In her universe, every person has a daemon—a physical animal companion that represents their soul. Lyra’s search for truth takes her across parallel worlds, where she uncovers cosmic secrets about power, freedom, and destiny.
What makes this series so unforgettable is its ability to balance adventure with deep philosophy. Talking armored polar bears, mysterious golden compasses, and sinister organizations create an atmosphere that is magical yet haunting. At the same time, Pullman raises big questions about authority, morality, and the meaning of life.
5. A Song of Ice and Fire by George R.R. Martin
For readers ready to dive into a more intense and complex world, George R.R. Martin’s epic is the ultimate choice. Popularly known through its TV adaptation Game of Thrones, the series begins with A Game of Thrones, introducing us to the Seven Kingdoms of Westeros. Here, noble houses fight for power, alliances shift constantly, and winter always looms on the horizon.
The series is famous for its unpredictable twists and morally gray characters. Unlike many fantasy tales, no hero is safe—beloved characters can fall, and villains may surprise you. Dragons, ancient prophecies, and the looming threat of the White Walkers add layers of myth and magic to this brutal tale of politics and survival. It’s darker and more mature than Harry Potter, but just as gripping in its ability to keep readers on the edge of their seats.
Final Thoughts
Finishing the Harry Potter series may feel like the end of an era, but these five fantasy worlds prove the adventure doesn’t have to stop. Whether it’s Percy’s hilarious battles with Greek gods, Frodo’s epic quest in Middle-earth, Narnia’s timeless magic, Lyra’s journey across dimensions, or Martin’s gritty thrones and dragons—you’re bound to find a new world that captures your heart.
So grab a cozy spot, open one of these books, and let yourself believe in magic again. Because once a Potterhead, always a seeker of wonder.
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