6 Fantasy Books Better Than Harry Potter

The article recommends six fantasy books for readers who enjoyed growing up alongside Harry Potter, arguing that they offer similarly absorbing worlds, friendships and characters changed by difficult choices. It presents them as appealing in their own right, with stories ranging from a clash between a boy and a technologically advanced fairy force to a journey into a kingdom locked in winter.

The books described include Eoin Colfer’s *Artemis Fowl*, Jessica Townsend’s *Nevermoor*, Rick Riordan’s *The Lightning Thief* and Philip Pullman’s *Northern Lights*. Their young protagonists face different tests: Artemis must confront the cost of serving only himself, Morrigan searches for a home and a sense of worth, Percy races to prevent conflict among the gods, and Lyra tries to save children taken from their dæmons. The article highlights their mix of adventure, humour, friendship and moral uncertainty.