If your middle-grade reader liked Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone, they might also like…

• Percy Jackson and the Lightning Thief

• Nevermoor: The Trials of Morrigan Crow

• Amari and the Night Brothers

• The School for Good and Evil

These stories all feature hidden worlds, magical schools or systems, and brave kids discovering they’re capable of far more than they imagined.

Here’s what they’re about

Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone 

Harry Potter has grown up unwanted and overlooked, living under the stairs with relatives who barely tolerate him. On his eleventh birthday, everything changes when he learns he is a wizard and has been invited to attend Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. There, Harry discovers friendship, magic, and a sense of belonging for the first time — but also uncovers dark secrets tied to his past. With loyal friends Ron and Hermione, Harry must face mysteries hidden within the school and the growing shadow of an evil wizard who isn’t as gone as everyone believes.

Percy Jackson and the Lightning Thief

Percy Jackson has always felt like an outsider — struggling at school and constantly getting into trouble. When he discovers he is a demigod, the son of a Greek god, his world flips upside down. Accused of stealing Zeus’s lightning bolt, Percy embarks on a dangerous quest across the United States with his friends Annabeth and Grover. Blending Greek mythology with modern humour and action, this fast-paced adventure delivers monsters, magic, and heart while showing that being different can be a powerful strength.

Nevermoor: The Trials of Morrigan Crow

Morrigan Crow is cursed and blamed for every bad thing that happens in her town, and she’s told she’s destined to die on her birthday. But instead of meeting her fate, Morrigan is whisked away to the magical city of Nevermoor, where she’s given a chance to compete in a series of dangerous and bizarre trials. As she searches for where she truly belongs, Morrigan must uncover the truth about her mysterious abilities. With rich world-building, humour, and heart, Nevermoor is a magical adventure about friendship, identity, and finding your place.

Amari and the Night Brothers

When Amari’s brother mysteriously disappears, she discovers a hidden supernatural world filled with magicians, monsters, and secret organisations. Invited to join the Bureau of Supernatural Affairs, Amari must train alongside gifted kids — even though she feels like she doesn’t belong. When her powers turn out to be dangerous and forbidden, Amari faces prejudice, fear, and tough choices. Fast-paced and emotionally powerful, this story blends magic, mystery, and social themes, making it a compelling read about courage, self-belief, and standing up for who you are.

The School for Good and Evil

Best friends Sophie and Agatha are taken to the School for Good and Evil, where fairy-tale heroes and villains are trained. Sophie is sure she belongs among the beautiful heroes — but she’s sent to Evil instead, while gloomy Agatha lands in Good. As their friendship is tested, the girls begin to question what “good” and “evil” really mean. With twists on classic fairy tales, dramatic stakes, and sharp humour, this book explores friendship, identity, and the idea that appearances don’t always tell the full story.