
Based on your book
by Messenger, Shannon
Sophie Foster has always felt different, a telepathic anomaly in a world that doesn't understand her. But when a mysterious boy reveals she's actually an elf from a hidden magical world, her life takes a fantastical turn. She's whisked away to the glamorous, dangerous Lost Cities, where she attends a special academy, grapples with newfound powers, and slowly uncovers the secrets behind her own existence. The reading experience here is a delightful mix of wonder and intrigue; you'll feel completely immersed in a vibrant, charming world that’s full of unexpected twists. It moves at a brisk, adventurous pace, balancing the joy of discovery with the weight of looming mysteries and the comfort of a found family. This is for anyone who loves stories about magical schools, powerful friendships, and protagonists who find their true home in the most unexpected places.
Did you find yourself enchanted by Sophie Foster's journey into a hidden magical world, grappling with her identity and uncovering deep secrets? If Keeper of the Lost Cities left you craving more, we've curated a list of books that capture that same special feeling. Many of our recommendations feature protagonists who, like Sophie, are whisked away to secret magical societies, attend extraordinary schools, and must navigate their "fish out of water" status while forging powerful found families. You'll discover other chosen ones finding their destiny and unraveling mysteries in worlds just as rich and engaging.
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by J.K. Rowling
Like Sophie, Harry discovers he's part of a hidden magical world, attends a special school, and uncovers a deep mystery about his past and destiny. Fans will appreciate the rich world-building, magical adventures, and the strong theme of found family.
by Rick Riordan
Percy, like Sophie, is a 'fish out of water' who discovers he's special and belongs to a hidden world of demigods. Readers will enjoy the fast-paced quest, the blend of mythology with modern life, and the humorous yet action-packed adventures with newfound friends.
by Brandon Mull
Siblings Kendra and Seth discover their grandparents are caretakers of a hidden preserve for magical creatures, much like Sophie uncovers the elven world. The book offers a captivating blend of mystery, magical wonder, and the thrill of exploring a secret world filled with both beauty and danger.
Meg Murry, like Sophie, is an intelligent but often misunderstood protagonist who embarks on an extraordinary journey to another dimension. This classic explores themes of identity, courage, and the power of love and individuality, all while facing a cosmic evil.

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by B.B. Alston
Amari, like Sophie, is an outsider who discovers a secret magical world and her own latent powers while searching for her missing brother. This book features a compelling mystery, a magical secret society, and a strong message about overcoming prejudice and finding where you belong.
Best friends Sophie and Agatha are whisked away to a magical school where children are trained to become fairytale heroes or villains, echoing the 'special school' aspect of KOTLC. It features a unique magic system, twists on classic tropes, and a compelling exploration of good versus evil and self-identity.
Morrigan Crow, like Sophie, is a 'cursed' child who is unexpectedly whisked away to a dazzling, hidden magical city to compete for a place in an exclusive society. Readers will love the whimsical world-building, the found family dynamics, and the thrilling trials Morrigan must face.
by Eoin Colfer
While featuring a morally ambiguous protagonist, this book shares KOTLC's intricate world-building of a hidden magical society operating beneath the human world. Fans will enjoy the clever plots, advanced technology meeting ancient magic, and the thrilling cat-and-mouse game between humans and fairies.
This series introduces a world of warring dragon tribes and a prophecy about five young dragons who must fulfill it, similar to Sophie's 'chosen one' destiny. Readers will be drawn into the epic scope, political intrigue, and the journey of young protagonists discovering their identities and purpose.
by Lisa McMann
In a dystopian society where creativity is forbidden, children deemed 'Unwanteds' are sent to a magical, hidden world to train their artistic and magical abilities. This series shares KOTLC's themes of special children, a secret magical society, and a looming conflict between two distinct worlds.

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