Even the most dedicated Harry Potter fans occasionally invest their time in new, yet similar, books. With holiday breaks fast approaching, new reading material is great to keep you entertained and your mind alert so you are prepared to fall back into the misery of studying for finals.

While J.K. Rowling enthusiasts normally enjoy the “Percy Jackson” series and “The Hunger Games” trilogy, there are many less popular European books and series that posses the same magical elements as “Harry Potter.”

“Artemis Fowl,” written by Eoin Colfer over a period of 10 years (2002-2012) is a set of eight books that contains elements of science fiction and fantasy. The books capture the adventures of teenage criminal Artemis and his dealings with Fairies. The most are more humorous than the Harry Potter series. The books are upbeat and are on average shorter than the “Harry Potter” books. According to the “Artemis Fowl” website, the series is going to be adapted into at least one movie.

If you have already read all eight “Artemis Fowl” books, or if they do not seem appealing, another option is the five “Fablehaven” books written by Brandon Mull. Fablehaven is a secret enclosure that protects mythological creatures from the normal world.The books recount the adventures of Kendra and Seth, the Sorenson siblings, in the mystical garden. These books focus more on mythical creatures than “Harry Potter,” but still include detailed character development.

“Bentwhistle the Dragon in A Threat from the Past” by Paul Cude tells the fictional story of three dragons disguised as and living among humans. The dragons find fun in the human world as they learn about different sports,and they even compete in the Global Cup. When they are at the height of their fun they find an evil character among them and are forced to fight another dragon in disguise. The book is the perfect combination of humor and adventure.

Avid “Harry Potter” fans may especially find interest in “The Sorcerer’s Companion.” Allan Zola Kronzek and Elizabeth Kronzek wrote “The Sorcerer’s Companion” to reveal the sources of myths included in the “Harry Potter” series. It describes the origins and mystery surrounding folklore in a straightforward style. The book can also be an interesting read for those who are fascinated by folklore and fantasy but lack the endurance to read all seven books of the “Harry Potter” books.