Harry Potter Books in Order
The universe of Harry Potter, conjured by J.K. Rowling, has been a significant phenomenon in the realm of modern literature. The magical journey, beginning with "Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone" and culminating in "Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows," has captured the imaginations of readers worldwide.
In Rowling's enchanting world, we evolve alongside Harry, Hermione, and Ron, experiencing their empyreal yet grueling journeys and many landmark moments of both adolescent growth and wizarding adventures. For those who haven't yet immersed themselves in this captivating world, or simply wish to revisit, here's a guide to the Harry Potter series in both chronological and publication order.
The main series consists of seven books:
1. Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone (Sorcerer’s Stone in the US) (1997) 2. Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets (1998) 3. Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban (1999) 4. Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire (2000) 5. Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix (2003) 6. Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince (2005) 7. Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows (2007)
The series maintains a resilient linear narrative, thus it is advised to follow the above-mentioned order to witness the thrilling transformation and maturing of the characters, while truly experiencing the essence of their magical world.
Rowling didn’t stop at Deathly Hallows; she continued to spellbind us by expanding the magical universe. An integral addition is "Harry Potter and the Cursed Child." This dramatic script, Rowling's collaborative creation, emphasizes the trials faced by Harry's son, Albus. Published in 2016, it is ideally read after completing the main series.
For true Potterheads looking to delve deeper into the Wizarding World and uncover its magical secrets, Rowling offers a trove of additional reading material. The Hogwarts Library, a treasure for all those intrigued by magical creatures, eccentric sports, or enchanting folklore includes:
1. Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them (2001) 2. Quidditch Through the Ages (2001) 3. The Tales of Beedle the Bard (2008)
Moving ahead, for those wanting to explore every nook and cranny of this magical universe, the "Pottermore Presents" series divulges even more secrets and provides endless fascinating facts about the Wizarding World.
Lastly, the screenplays for the "Fantastic Beasts" movies:
1. Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them: The Original Screenplay (2016) 2. Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald – The Original Screenplay (2018)
These introduce us to Newt Scamander, the infamous Magizoologist, and his adventures taking place several decades before Harry's time, further broadening our perspective of this vast, mystical universe.
It's never too late to start reading the Potter series nor is there any harm in revisiting. Whether you're a soon-to-be Potterhead or one seeking new magical lands beyond Hogwarts, this chronicle will keep you hooked. The nuances, the growth of characters, the potion of emotions, and the undying spirit of friendship reiterate that the Harry Potter series is not simply a saga of witchcraft and wizardry, but a textbook of life and virtues.
No matter which book you choose to pull from the shelf, each page will teleport you into the magical center stage, where every glance could reveal an enchanting secret, and every turn might lead to an unforgettable adventure.
Now let's dive into each story one by one:
1. Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone
The beginning of the magical journey starts with "Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone," published in 1997. We're introduced to Harry, an orphan living under the staircase of his cruel aunt and uncle’s house. On his eleventh birthday, Harry discovers he's a wizard and his life takes a complete turn. Accepted into Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, he befriends Hermione Granger and Ron Weasley. The trio soon uncovers the truth about the Sorcerer's Stone and has their first encounter with the evil Lord Voldemort.
2. Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets
Published in 1998, the sequel voyages into Harry's second year at Hogwarts. The book uncovers mysteries of a hidden chamber within Hogwarts, a secret diary, and Harry's ability to speak parseltongue.
3. Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban
The series' third installment, published in 1999, introduces the infamous prisoner Sirius Black, who escapes from Azkaban. The school year at Hogwarts is filled with Dementor scares and surprising revelations about Harry's past.
4. Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire
Published in 2000, this fourth volume witnesses the Triwizard Tournament, where Harry finds himself unwillingly selected as the fourth contestant. The exciting competition ends with a shocking revelation and a tragic loss.
5. Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix
The fifth book, published in 2003, reveals a secret society aiming to protect the wizarding world. Hogwarts is invaded by Possibly the most hated character - Dolores Umbridge. This book teaches us about loss and the importance of standing for what's right.
6. Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince
The series takes a dark turn in 2005 with the sixth installment. Secrets about Tom Riddle's past are explored, Harry and Dumbledore seek Horcruxes, and a beloved character makes a heartbreaking exit.
7. Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows
Published in 2007, this final installment culminates in an epic battle between good and evil at Hogwarts. Harry, Hermione, and Ron's journey to find and destroy Voldemort's Horcruxes leads to the thrilling finale of the series.
Rowling's captivating series doesn't just stop here. The world of Harry Potter goes beyond it, allowing us to dip our toes into stories about magical creatures, distinctive sports, and intriguing folklore, and revisiting simpler times at Hogwarts, reminding us of the saying, "Hogwarts will always be there to welcome you home." Whether you're new to this magical universe or revisiting it, each trip to this world of witchcraft and wizardry is sure to be a remarkable journey.