In the realm of modern mythology, few series have captivated young readers as much as Rick Riordan’s Magnus Chase and the Gods of Asgard. With its perfect blend of humor, adventure, and Norse mythology, it’s no wonder fans are left craving more once they’ve turned the last page. But fear not! The end of Magnus Chase’s saga doesn’t mean your journey through mythological worlds and riveting adventures has to end. If you’re on the hunt for your next great read after finishing the Magnus Chase series, you’ve come to the right place.
In this post, we’ll explore a collection of books, both from Riordan himself and other talented authors, that channel the spirit of Magnus Chase. Whether you fell in love with the characters, the humor, the nail-biting adventures, or the fascinating world of Norse mythology, these books are sure to satiate your literary cravings.
So, let’s dive in and discover your next favorite book!
Why These Books?
You might be wondering how we’ve chosen the books on this list. What ties them together? Here, we’ll briefly outline the main criteria we’ve used to curate this reading list to guide you on your post-Magnus Chase reading journey.
Shared Themes with Magnus Chase
Books in this list primarily revolve around themes that were central to the Magnus Chase series. These include mythology (specifically Norse, but other mythologies as well), young adult fantasy, humor, and the exploration of heroic journeys. They capture the essence of what made Magnus Chase such a beloved character – his wit, bravery, and the thrilling adventures he undertook.
Resonance with the Readership
We’ve also considered the readership of the Magnus Chase series – young adults. This is why our book list is skewed towards the Young Adult (YA) genre. However, these are books that even adults can enjoy thanks to their universal themes and engaging storytelling.
Highly Rated and Recommended
Finally, the books on this list come highly rated and recommended by readers and critics alike. These are titles that have, in one way or another, touched readers the same way the Magnus Chase series has. Some of these might already be on your radar, while others are waiting to be discovered. In any case, each book is sure to provide a rewarding reading experience.
Rick Riordan’s Other Works
If you’re a fan of the Magnus Chase series, it’s likely that you’ll enjoy other books penned by Rick Riordan. Known for his knack for blending mythology with modern settings, Riordan has written several other series that delve into different mythologies while keeping the humor and action intact.
Percy Jackson & The Olympians Series
In the Percy Jackson & The Olympians series, Riordan takes readers on an exciting journey through Greek mythology. The series follows the adventures of Percy Jackson, a demigod and the son of Poseidon. Much like Magnus Chase, Percy navigates a world filled with mythological beings and epic quests. The series’ humor, fast-paced plot, and well-developed characters echo the charm of Magnus Chase, making it a must-read for fans.
The Heroes of Olympus Series
For those who have enjoyed Percy Jackson’s adventures, The Heroes of Olympus series offers a continuation. It introduces new characters and demigods from Roman mythology, alongside familiar faces from Percy Jackson’s world. The expansion of the mythological universe and the inclusion of new and exciting quests provide a reading experience that Magnus Chase fans would appreciate. Riordan’s characteristic humor and engaging storytelling shine through in this series as well, making it an excellent follow-up read.
Norse Mythology Inspired Books
Perhaps one of the most fascinating aspects of the Magnus Chase series is its exploration of Norse mythology. If this aspect particularly piqued your interest, then you’ll be thrilled by these selections. They dive deeper into Norse mythology, offering unique takes on the timeless tales of gods and creatures.
The Gospel of Loki by Joanne M. Harris
Joanne M. Harris’ The Gospel of Loki is a captivating retelling of Norse myths, seen through the eyes of the trickster god Loki. It offers a fresh perspective on well-known stories, all wrapped up in an engaging narrative style. If you enjoyed Loki’s character in the Magnus Chase series, this book provides a deep dive into his persona, complete with wit, charm, and a hefty dose of mischief.
Norse Mythology by Neil Gaiman
In Norse Mythology, Neil Gaiman brings his exceptional storytelling skills to breathe life into the ancient myths. He retells the stories of Odin, Thor, Loki, and the rest of the Asgardian gods, all in a manner that is both respectful to the original tales and accessible to modern readers. This book is an excellent choice for those who loved the mythological aspects of Magnus Chase and want to immerse themselves further in the rich lore of Norse mythology.
Young Adult Fantasy Novels with Humor and Adventure
If what made Magnus Chase so appealing to you was its blend of humor, adventure, and the fantastical, then you’re in for a treat. These selections from the Young Adult genre share these elements, transporting readers to captivating worlds filled with charm, wit, and exhilarating adventures.
Artemis Fowl Series by Eoin Colfer
The Artemis Fowl series by Eoin Colfer is a delightful combination of humor, fantasy, and action. It follows the adventures of Artemis Fowl, a twelve-year-old criminal mastermind, as he interacts with the hidden world of fairies. If you enjoyed the comedic undertones and the tension-filled plotlines of the Magnus Chase series, Artemis Fowl promises to offer the same entertainment value.
The Bartimaeus Trilogy by Jonathan Stroud
Jonathan Stroud’s The Bartimaeus Trilogy is another wonderful series that combines magic, humor, and a captivating narrative. The story follows a young magician and his mischievous djinni, Bartimaeus, resulting in a dynamic similar to the one shared by Magnus and his comrades. It offers a perfect balance of laugh-out-loud moments, intricate world-building, and riveting action, making it a worthy addition to your reading list.
Modern Takes on Mythology Beyond Norse
If you enjoyed the modern take on mythology in the Magnus Chase series but are interested in exploring other mythologies, these selections offer fresh perspectives. They beautifully weave mythological themes into modern narratives, providing a reading experience that’s reminiscent of Magnus Chase but with new worlds to discover.
Circe by Madeline Miller
In Circe, Madeline Miller masterfully retells the story of the Greek witch Circe, known from Homer’s Odyssey. Through lush prose and an immersive narrative, the novel brings to life a complex and fascinating character often overlooked in Greek mythology. Like Magnus Chase, Circe navigates a world filled with gods and mythical creatures, but this time from a uniquely feminine perspective. This tale of power, transformation, and resilience is a must-read for those who enjoyed the mythological aspects of Magnus Chase.
The Star-Touched Queen by Roshani Chokshi
Roshani Chokshi’s The Star-Touched Queen is a beautifully crafted tale inspired by Indian mythology. It follows Maya, a cursed princess, as she navigates the complexities of politics, love, and her own mysterious powers in a realm steeped in magic. The novel’s enchanting world, filled with mythical beings and magic, bears similarities to the fantastical elements present in Magnus Chase. If you loved exploring the Nine Worlds with Magnus, the richly imagined realms of The Star-Touched Queen will captivate you.
Additional Recommendations
For the voracious readers who are still looking for more, here are ten additional recommendations. Each book presents a unique combination of adventure, humor, and mythology that fans of Magnus Chase are sure to enjoy.
The Kane Chronicles by Rick Riordan
Riordan’s The Kane Chronicles venture into Egyptian mythology, as siblings Carter and Sadie Kane discover they are descended from pharaohs and have magical abilities. Riordan’s trademark humor and fast-paced plot make this series an excellent choice for Magnus Chase fans.
The Iron Druid Chronicles by Kevin Hearne
In The Iron Druid Chronicles, Kevin Hearne introduces a 2,000-year-old druid living in modern Arizona. With a pantheon of various deities and mystical creatures, fans of Magnus Chase will appreciate the blending of the mythical with the modern.
The Sea of Trolls Trilogy by Nancy Farmer
Nancy Farmer’s Sea of Trolls trilogy takes readers on a Viking adventure filled with Norse mythology. The series’ young hero, Jack, shares Magnus Chase’s bravery and sense of adventure.
The Chronicles of Narnia by C.S. Lewis
C.S. Lewis’ classic Chronicles of Narnia series combines mythology, fantasy, and adventure in a way that is sure to resonate with Magnus Chase fans. The series’ wit and charm, along with its endearing characters, make it a must-read.
American Gods by Neil Gaiman
For a more mature audience, Neil Gaiman’s American Gods explores what might happen if gods from various mythologies existed in modern America. Fans of Magnus Chase will appreciate the mythological aspects and Gaiman’s clever storytelling.
The Inheritance Trilogy by N.K. Jemisin
N.K. Jemisin’s The Inheritance Trilogy features a complex world where gods and mortals coexist. Fans of Magnus Chase’s intricate world-building and mythological elements will enjoy this series.
The Secrets of the Immortal Nicholas Flamel by Michael Scott
Michael Scott’s series, The Secrets of the Immortal Nicholas Flamel, is filled with mythology, magic, and thrilling adventures. Like Magnus Chase, the main characters must navigate a world filled with gods and mythical creatures.
The Children of Loki by Mike Vasich
Mike Vasich’s The Children of Loki offers a dark and gripping take on Norse mythology, focusing on the monstrous children of Loki. For readers intrigued by the more dangerous aspects of Magnus Chase’s world, this novel is a fitting choice.
Gods of Jade and Shadow by Silvia Moreno-Garcia
In Gods of Jade and Shadow, Silvia Moreno-Garcia transports readers to 1920s Mexico, where a young woman accidentally frees the Mayan god of death. The novel’s exploration of myth and its strong female protagonist will appeal to Magnus Chase fans.
The Song of Achilles by Madeline Miller
Lastly, Madeline Miller’s The Song of Achilles retells the story of Achilles and Patroclus from the Iliad. The novel’s blend of Greek mythology, romance, and adventure makes it a great read for those who enjoyed the mythological and emotional depth of Magnus Chase.
Conclusion
And there you have it! From Rick Riordan’s other mythical adventures to captivating tales inspired by different mythologies, these books offer the perfect escape for fans of Magnus Chase. Each title echoes the unique blend of humor, adventure, and mythology that made Magnus’ story so compelling.
While it’s always a little sad to finish a beloved series, it also opens up new opportunities for exploration and discovery. These books, each remarkable in its own way, promise to transport you to worlds as enchanting as the Nine Worlds of Norse mythology.
Feel free to delve into the book that most intrigues you, or better yet, embark on a new reading journey by starting from the top of the list. Happy reading, and don’t forget to drop a comment to share your thoughts on these books or to add your own recommendations!
