Simon Thorn and the Viper's Pit

Like Simon Thorn, Percy Jackson discovers he belongs to a hidden world of extraordinary beings and must navigate a dangerous, magical society while uncovering his true heritage. Both books feature fast-paced adventures, a 'chosen one' narrative, and a protagonist struggling to find his place among peers with unique abilities.

This classic fantasy shares the sense of wonder and danger found in the Simon Thorn series, as young Lyra Belacqua is thrust into a vast conspiracy involving secret organizations and parallel worlds. Readers who enjoy the intricate world-building and high-stakes mysteries of the Animalgam world will appreciate the depth of Pullman's universe.

Gregor is a relatable protagonist who, much like Simon, is pulled into an underground realm that forces him to confront his destiny and protect his family. Both series excel at blending intense, high-stakes action with the emotional weight of a young person trying to navigate a complex, unfamiliar society.

Fans of Simon Thorn's discovery of the Animalgam will love the premise of Fablehaven, where siblings stumble upon a secret preserve for magical creatures. It mirrors the 'hidden magic in the modern world' trope perfectly, balancing wonder with the constant threat of dangerous, ancient forces.

This series captures the feeling of being an outsider thrust into a specialized, high-pressure environment where identity and allegiance are everything. Like Simon, the protagonists must navigate complex social hierarchies and uncover deep-seated conspiracies that threaten their entire world.

This series offers a similar thrill of discovery as the characters peel back the layers of reality to reveal a hidden, often dangerous, magical society living right alongside our own. It shares the 'ordinary kid in extraordinary circumstances' vibe that makes the Simon Thorn books so compelling.

For readers who enjoy the 'special bond' aspect of Simon Thorn's shapeshifting, Eragon offers a deep connection between a boy and a mythical creature. The narrative follows a classic hero's journey where the protagonist must master new powers while being hunted by powerful enemies.

While slightly older in tone, this book mirrors Simon Thorn's journey into a secret, supernatural society hidden in plain sight. It features a protagonist who discovers a hidden lineage and must learn to navigate a world of warring factions and ancient secrets.

This series features a protagonist who feels like an outsider and is suddenly brought into a magical school where he must uncover the truth about his past and his abilities. The focus on hidden identities and the pressure of living up to a legacy makes it a perfect parallel to Simon's journey.

This series shares the 'animal-centric' fantasy element, where characters navigate a world defined by their species and heritage. Like Simon, the protagonists are young individuals caught in a prophecy, forced to navigate complex political landscapes and survive against overwhelming odds.