From ‘Yer a wizard Harry,’ to ‘With great power… comes great need to take a nap,’ the Harry Potter and Percy Jackson books have become iconic series that many enjoy today. Set in Camp Half-Blood, the Percy Jackson series explores the realm of demigods and great Greek mythology come to life. Harry Potter, on the other hand, finds himself exploring the whimsical world of Hogwarts, with witchcraft and wizardry. Both Harry and Percy set off on quests that shake up the worlds around them. But which series is a better read? Without a doubt, Percy Jackson is the superior series because of its plot balance as well as how well it gives itself to growth.

Concise Content

Filled with explosive action and impactful messages, Percy Jackson successfully keeps readers engaged in the storyline. Unlike Harry Potter, it omits unnecessary and confusing imagery that decreases understanding of the plot. To put this in perspective, Percy Jackson has five books while Harry Potter has seven. Yet Percy Jackson covers just as much of an overarching plot, while Harry Potter makes the overall storyline unnecessarily complex. 

Powerful Personas

The Percy Jackson series is also adept at weaving in humor and deeper messages to the story. Percy’s sarcastic commentary on anything that passes his way stands testament to keeping the story imaginative, light, and interesting to read. Harry Potter tends to be a bit more distant and less personable as his thoughts aren’t as well conveyed in comparison. Not to mention, the Percy Jackson stories are able to delve deeper into many themes, addressing right and wrong. For example, Percy’s abusive stepfather Gabe ends up having a twisted fate, getting what he deserves for harming the people around him. 

In contrast, Harry Potter often promotes less-than-ideal behavior. For instance, James Potter, a known bully, is built up as a hero despite being unapologetic and arrogant. When he puts others down, nobody calls him out and he never truly repents for his actions. This creates more moral ambiguity as bullying victims like Severus Snape must make do with an unflattering portrayal. Snape often does questionable things and gets away with them, and is only considered a decent person in hindsight. The series makes it seem as if hurting others is a tool to look stronger than others. Because of this, Percy Jackson tends to be a more fun series with distinct writing and themes.

Beyond the Series

Next, the Percy Jackson series provides more potential for growth. While Harry Potter revolves around an entirely fantastical world, Percy Jackson describes mythology and Greek history. It serves as a platform for many to access rich and vibrant cultures they may not have heard about otherwise. The format of stories is one that is also transferable to learn about not just Greek mythology. In fact, Riordan has subsequently created other hit series such as the Kane Chronicles, which delves into Egyptian culture and mythology. Meanwhile, the wizarding world stays stagnant despite its many movies. As a result, it falls short of the Percy Jackson books.

Justifying Harry Potter

All this being said, Harry Potter has several redeeming qualities. It was especially well-executed, its movies faring far better than the Percy Jackson movies. Not to mention, it has led to amusement parks and an entire subculture that still thrives today. While this provides a sense of nostalgia for those who grew up with the books, much of what remains from Harry Potter is heavily monetized. This makes the Harry Potter world remain lackluster, with people wanting more. 

Many also argue that the Harry Potter books had more content, as seen by its seven books. In comparison, Percy Jackson seems much simpler and more elementary in writing style. However, this gives way for audience members of all ages to truly appreciate the thought that goes into the books. With this writing, younger kids gain more exposure to the world around them as well.

Final Thoughts

Ultimately, the Percy Jackson series is better at exploring concepts and striking a balance that many can relate to. Harry Potter has many intriguing aspects to it, from its great execution to its detail-oriented writing style. Percy Jackson relies on simplicity and bold thoughts to propel it forwards, making it more eye-opening. But whether you aspired to be a demigod or a wizard growing up, both series are must-reads and keystones in our childhoods.