Here’s a complete list of all the Harry Potter books in order, from J.K. Rowling’s first novel to her newest Harry Potter releases.
The Harry Potter series is one of the most beloved and popular series of all time.
With over 450 million copies sold, its popularity has inspired a movie franchise, theme parks, and even an entire generation of readers.
If you’re new to the series or looking for a refresher on what order to read the books in, look no further!
This comprehensive guide will tell you everything you need to know about reading the Harry Potter books in order.
50 Harry Potter Quotes With Page Numbers
What is the Harry Potter series?
Readers of the Harry Potter series have been enchanted with the magical world created by Joanne Rowling (pen name J.K. Rowling). This beloved series follows the adventures of the young boy wizard Harry Potter as he faces off against his arch-nemesis Lord Voldemort.
The series spans seven books and takes us through Harry’s journey at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, where he meets his best friends, Ron Weasley and Hermione Granger.
Along with mastering magic spells and potions, Harry must also deal with the everyday trials of being a student – from homework assignments to sports tryouts. Thrilling and exciting, the Harry Potter series has captivated readers worldwide.
List of The Harry Potter Books In Order
Here’s a list of the Harry Potter Books in chronological order.
- Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone (1997)
- Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets (1998)
- Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban (1999)
- Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire (2000)
- Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix (2003)
- Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince (2005)
- Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows (2007)
- Harry Potter and the Cursed Child (2016)
The best order to read the Harry Potter books
1. Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone
Harry Potter’s eleventh birthday has brought him on a magical journey of discovery, as he learns he is a wizard. Excitement builds as he embarks on the incredible adventure of attending the Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, bravely facing obstacles and evading sinister villains who wish to prevent him from reaching his goal. Ultimately, he arrives at Hogwarts and must use his newfound abilities to save the wizarding world from the dark forces of Lord Voldemort. With courage and determination and the help of young wizards and pet owls, Harry is sure to prevail!
2. Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets
Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets is an exciting adventure that follows the events of Harry’s second year at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. Upon his return, Harry has introduced to the mysterious Gilderoy Lockhart and his autobiography Magical Me.
As unusual occurrences occur around the castle, Harry, Ron Weasley, and Hermione Granger set out to investigate. Through their exploration, they discover that Hagrid’s giant pet spider, Aragog, is behind the petrification of animals and the creation of the Monster of Slytherin, which resides in a hidden chamber beneath the castle. With courage and determination, they set out to save Hogwarts and uncover the secrets of the Chamber.
3. Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban
Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban is an awe-inspiring fantasy novel by J.K. Rowling, first published in 1999. As Harry continues to discover the wonders of the wizarding world while attending Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, he must also be alert to the looming threat of his nemesis, Lord Voldemort.
In this book, Harry delves deeper into his parents’ past and discovers a unique ability to see the world through the eyes of another. He also becomes acquainted with the enigmatic Sirius Black, who may know about Harry’s parents’ untimely deaths.
When Black is accused of murdering 12 muggles, he makes a daring escape from Azkaban prison with the help of Peter Pettigrew, leaving Harry with more questions than answers about what happened when his parents died in a mysterious flying car accident 17 years ago.
4. Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire
Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire, the fourth installment of the series, is a fantastic journey that follows Harry Potter’s adventures during his fourth year at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. With the return of Lord Voldemort, a plan is set in motion to obtain the Triwizard Tournament Cup, an artifact of great power. Albus Dumbledore sends Professor Severus Snape undercover to keep an eye on Lord Voldemort’s activities.
As Harry struggles to understand the complexities of growing up, he also has to face the Tournament’s unexpected events and the sinister forces within Hogwarts’ walls. Along the way, he finds a new love interest in Cho Chang, making for a thrilling experience that will stay with him for years.
5. Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix
The fifth installment of the Harry Potter series, Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix, follows Harry Potter as he navigates his fifth year at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. As Lord Voldemort’s power strengthens, Dumbledore’s faith in Harry wavers. Simultaneously, a new Defense Against the Dark Arts teacher, Dolores Umbridge, arrives with a mission to control the school’s curriculum.
This year also marks Harry’s blossoming romance with Cho Chang and his struggles with his best friends, Ron Weasley and Hermione Granger. Ultimately, Lord Voldemort makes a dramatic entrance at the Quidditch World Cup Final between Ireland and Bulgaria, which leads to an epic confrontation between good and evil at Hogwarts, with the entire world hanging in the balance.
6. Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince
Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince follows Harry’s sixth year at Hogwarts, which is marked by the re-emergence of Lord Voldemort and all the secrets and suspicion that come with it.
As Dumbledore’s hand remains blackened and shriveled, Harry must use all the knowledge and courage he can muster to uncover the truth and prepare for the ultimate showdown against the Dark Lord and his Death Eaters. Along the way, he will learn what it truly means to be brave and loyal and discover the power of friendship and love.
7. Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows
Harry, Ron, and Hermione have courageously set out on a quest to rid the world of Lord Voldemort by seeking to destroy the remaining Horcruxes.
After a heated altercation with Aunt Marge, Harry is forced to flee Little Whinging, knowing he will be expelled from Hogwarts if he is caught using underage magic. Upon his return to the castle, he discovers that it has been greatly altered by the aftermath of the Battle of the Department of Mysteries.
Snape has taken on the role of headmaster, Professor Umbridge has assumed the Defense Against the Dark Arts teacher position, Draco Malfoy has become the leader of Slytherin house, and Pansy Parkinson is his right-hand woman.
Furthermore, students are no longer allowed to use magic without permission from a teacher, and Quidditch matches have been canceled due to the presence of Dementors guarding the castle walls. As Harry learns more about the people aiding Lord Voldemort in his mission, he is determined to stay strong and continue fighting for what is right.
8. Harry Potter and the Cursed Child
Admiring the continued success of J.K. Rowling’s Harry Potter series, John Tiffany and Jack Thorne have crafted a playscript that picks up nineteen years after the events of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows. Readers are delighted to witness Harry’s transformation into an overworked Ministry of Magic employee, husband, and father of three while being introduced to new plotlines that offer fresh insight into beloved characters from Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. Playscripts provide an exciting new way to experience stories, and Harry Potter and the Cursed Child is a must-read for any fan of the series!
The “Hogwarts library” texts Books
The Hogwarts Library collection consists of a vast array of texts on magical topics, such as Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them by Newt Scamander, Quidditch Through the Ages by Kennilworthy Whisp, and The Tales of Beedle the Bard by Hermione Granger and the goblins.
There is also an exclusive three-book set including all three titles, as well as additional texts like Short Stories from Hogwarts of Heroism Hardship Dangerous Hobbies, Short Stories from Hogwarts of Power Politics Pesky Poltergeists, Hogwarts An Incomplete Unreliable Guide, Special Editions Harry Potter and Cursed Child Behind Scenes, Harry Potter and Sorcery S Stone MinaLima Edition, Harry Potter Illustrated Collection Books 1 3, Harry Potter Pop Up Guide to Hogsmeade, and the Complete Book Series Special Edition Boxed Set. These texts are a testament to the wonders of the magical world and provide a valuable source of knowledge for the reader.
Harry Potter Book Summaries
1. Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone Short Summary
Harry Potter’s journey into the world of wizardry and witchcraft begins with the enchanting first book in JK Rowling’s series, Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone. When Harry turns eleven, he discovers his true identity as a wizard and embarks on an exciting, perilous adventure. Along the way, he befriends Ron Weasley and Hermione Granger while facing opposition from Draco Malfoy and Professor Snape. Ultimately, his bravery is tested in a thrilling battle between good and evil as Harry faces off against Lord Voldemort for the second time.
2. Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets Short Summary
J.K. Rowling’s beloved fantasy novel Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets has delighted readers since its publication in 1998. In this second installment of the popular series, Harry must bravely face many daunting obstacles, including an egotistical professor, a sentient journal with cryptic flashbacks, and a giant spider called Aragog. His journey culminates in an adventure to the dangerous and mysterious chamber beneath Hogwarts, where yet another peril awaits him.
3. Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban Short Summary
Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban is an exciting and thrilling adventure that follows Harry as he discovers more about his parents, faces a dangerous escaped convict, and contends with a mysterious illness. With Hermione’s help, he also unravels the truth behind legends surrounding her favorite textbook, “The Monster Book of Monsters.”
This third installment in J.K. Rowling’s beloved series is full of unexpected twists and turns, making it a must-read for anyone who loves magic and mystery.
4. Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire Short Summary
Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire is the fourth novel in J.K. Rowling’s beloved Harry Potter series, published in 2000. Set during the summer holidays, it follows the adventures of 14-year-old Harry as he learns he’s been chosen as a competitor in the Triwizard Tournament, a thrilling competition between three wizarding schools: Hogwarts, Beauxbatons, and Durmstrang.
This 600-page-long book is filled with action-packed wizardry and the development of romantic relationships between some of its characters.
5. Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix Short Summary
Harry is embarking on his fifth year at Hogwarts, yet it is a tense and dangerous time. His cousin Dudley was attacked by the malevolent Dementors, demonstrating Voldemort’s determination to find Harry. Despite the doubt of many, Harry has found allies in a secret order that has come together at Grimmauld Place to battle against the darkness. Professor Snape is teaching Harry how to protect himself from Voldemort’s vicious mental assaults, equipping him to face whatever may come.
6. Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince Short Summary
J.K. Rowling has masterfully crafted a gripping and suspenseful sixth installment in the Harry Potter series with Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince. After a chilling night at Privet Drive, Dumbledore enlists Harry’s help to uncover what Draco Malfoy is up to, as he is suspected of working with Voldemort again.
Meanwhile, Ron Weasley is faced with the challenge of managing his long-distance relationship with Hermione Granger and newfound fame from his televised victory over a dragon in an enchanted chess game. This culminates in a shocking plot twist that leaves readers eagerly anticipating the final book in the Harry Potter series and The Deathly Hallows.
7. Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Short Summary
The remarkable conclusion to the Harry Potter saga finds our heroes, Harry, Ron, and Hermione, facing their final year at Hogwarts together. Their relationships with their teachers, especially Harry’s with headmaster Dumbledore, take center stage as they make difficult choices, both practical and moral.
J.K. Rowling’s masterful storytelling is on full display as she keeps multiple storylines in motion and provides a satisfying resolution to every loose end. With a magical ride on Hagrid’s motorbike, Harry sets out to face Lord Voldemort and his Death Eaters, determined to find and destroy the remaining Horcruxes and protect Hogwarts from falling into enemy hands.
8. Harry Potter and the Cursed Child Short Summary
The beloved story of Harry Potter and the Cursed Child has captivated readers’ and theater-goers’ hearts. In this magical tale, Harry Potter is an overworked adult at the Ministry of Magic, a husband, and a father of three school-age children. His youngest son, Albus, must grapple with his family legacy as he grows up in this powerful world.
When Albus and his unlikely friend Scorpius team up to prevent a tragedy from occurring, they must face the consequences of their actions. Delphi, an enigmatic figure, might manipulate the two boys for her gain. As different timelines collide, readers are taken on an unforgettable journey of love, loss, and redemption.
Wizarding World extras
Hogwarts: An Incomplete and Unreliable Guide
The book Hogwarts: An Incomplete and Unreliable Guide has some shortcomings that should be considered. Although it provides some interesting descriptions of the rooms and corridors within Hogwarts, the information might be inaccurate or incomplete since it has been gathered from short reads on the website Pottermore.com.
Furthermore, the book does not give any insight into the lessons taught at Hogwarts, nor does it provide any information about the clubs and societies within the school. Despite these flaws, the book is still written in an admiring and positive tone.
Short Stories from Hogwarts of Power, Politics and Pesky Poltergeists
The Wizarding World of Harry Potter has been further revealed in the recently-released Short Stories from Hogwarts of Power, Politics and Pesky Poltergeists. These wizarding fairy tales explore the darker side of the magical world, from Professor Umbridge’s nefarious roots to the history of Azkaban prison.
Readers can also learn about Horace Slughorn’s time as Potions master at Hogwarts – including his past connection to the infamous Tom Marvolo Riddle. These stories bring the wizarding world to life in an exciting and captivating manner.
Short Stories from Hogwarts of Heroism, Hardship and Dangerous Hobbies
Readers are in awe of the amazing tales of heroism, hardship, and dangerous hobbies found in the Wizarding World extras of Harry Potter. These include “The Wizard and the Hopping Pot,” “Barty Crouch Jr.: The True Story,” “The Life and Lies of Albus Dumbledore,” and “Short Stories from Hogwarts of Power, Politics and Pesky Poltergeists.” Plus, fans of their favorite professors can get even more insight into their lives by reading Short Stories from Hogwarts of Heroism, Hardship, and Dangerous Hobbies.
The Fantastic Beasts Screenplays
The Fantastic Beasts screenplays bring to life the characters, story arcs, and plot points of the two films in the franchise. Through dialogue exchanges, descriptive scenes, settings, and action sequences, the scripts offer an even greater level of insight than the spin-off films.
Writers J.K Rowling and Steve Kloves provide extra notes to emphasize certain plot points or characterizations in certain parts of the script, allowing for a richer viewing experience.
What to consider when reading the Harry Potter Booklist
1. Read the books in order
It is essential to read the Harry Potter books in the correct order to appreciate the story and characters fully. Following young Harry Potter’s life from age 11 to 18, each book is an entire school year and contributes to the plot. By reading in order, readers can understand the characters’ motivations and the plotline, which would be much more difficult if they skipped between books. Hence, reading the Harry Potter books in chronological order is essential to grasp the story and characters’ arcs.
2. Understand the storyline
The Harry Potter books have captivated readers across the globe with their enchanting and compelling stories. Written by J.K. Rowling, the books follow the magical adventures of Harry Potter as he grows up and learns new skills to protect the world from darkness. Rowling planned out all seven books before she began writing them, making sure each book built upon the previous one, developing characters and storylines cohesively and fittingly.
These books have delighted readers of all ages, presenting a captivating and immersive world many have enjoyed exploring.
3. Look up any words you don’t know
The reader has been keeping an eye out for words they don’t recognize while reading and noting them in their journal or notebook. After looking up the word’s definition and any related information, they recorded it all to refer back to it later. They have also been paying attention to how the same word is used multiple times throughout the book, so they can understand how each use relates to one another in context.
4. Follow the main characters
When reading the Harry Potter books, it is important to follow the main characters. This will help you understand the story and appreciate the characters’ development over time. The main characters, Harry Potter, Ron Weasley, and Hermione Granger, go on a remarkable journey of personal growth and development throughout the books.
5. Get to know the setting
The Harry Potter series is set in the 1990s and present day and references modern technology, culture, and politics. From the majestic Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry to the bustling Diagon Alley and King’s Cross Station, readers can explore the enchanting world of magic.
Other iconic locations include Hogsmeade Village, St Mungo’s Hospital for Magical Maladies and Injuries, 12 Grimmauld Place, Godric’s Hollow, the Burrow, the Ministry of Magic HQ, Azkaban Prison Complex, Little Whinging with Privet Drive, and course, Platform 9 3/4 for the Hogwarts Express.
Each place is described with admiration and positivity, immersing readers in the magical world of Harry Potter.
6. Understand the themes
The Harry Potter books are admired for their themes of death, love, good vs. evil, and making one’s way through adolescence. They have been praised for their plea for tolerance, their message to question authority, and for never assuming that the press tells the truth.
These books also explore themes of normality, oppression, survival, and overcoming overwhelming odds. These ideas make the Harry Potter series an inspiring and uplifting work.
7. Pay attention to the plot twists
J.K. Rowling has crafted an amazing storyline full of unexpected twists and turns, making it a delightful experience for readers when they pay attention to the plot. Each book’s complex plot becomes more intricately woven together, culminating in an epic conclusion in the seventh book.
By taking the time to consider the plot twists, readers can appreciate how all of the seemingly unrelated events come together to form an incredibly satisfying story. It’s no wonder why Harry Potter has become an enduring classic!
8. Pay attention to foreshadowing
Reading the Harry Potter books can be incredibly beneficial in learning to pay attention to foreshadowing. These books are full of clues and hints about what’s in store, allowing readers to anticipate upcoming events better and understand the story. By familiarizing yourself with J.K. Rowling’s techniques, you will be able to recognize when something is foreshadowing the future.
9. Read the books again if needed
Readers who need to should reread the Harry Potter books. Doing so will provide them with an enchanting experience and allow them to gain a deeper understanding of the themes contained within the series.
Rereading these beloved books can also help refresh one’s memory and allow one to learn new things that may have been missed the first time.
Moreover, rereading the books will enable readers to appreciate the detailed worldbuilding and vibrant characters that J.K Rowling created in her magical series – allowing for an even more enjoyable experience.
10. Enjoy the story
Admiring and positive, readers should take note of J.K. Rowling’s masterful use of language as they become immersed in her magical world. They should focus on the intricate and detailed world-building, the captivating characters and plotlines, and the intricate themes explored throughout the Harry Potter series.
Harry Potter Series FAQ
In what order should Harry Potter books be read?
The Harry Potter series should be enjoyed in the exact order they were written: starting with “Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone,” and ending with “Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows.”
Reading the books in this order allows readers to fully appreciate the story’s journey as the characters progress and develop with each installment. From the third-person point of view, the present perfect tense helps to bring the magical world to life.
What are the main themes of the Harry Potter series?
The Harry Potter series is a tale of good triumphing over evil, overcoming loss and death, navigating the complexities of adolescence, standing up against oppression and bigotry, surviving against all odds, and of love and sacrifice.
Harry’s relationship with his friends and his mother’s ultimate sacrifice to protect him from Voldemort are some of the story’s heartwarming and inspiring elements. It encourages us to question authority, thinks for ourselves, and never take what we are told at face value. It is a truly uplifting series.
Who are the main characters in the Harry Potter books?
Harry Potter, Ron Weasley, and Hermione Granger are the beloved protagonists of the Harry Potter series. They attend Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, honing their magical abilities and learning to protect themselves from the dark arts. Together, they embark on an epic journey full of thrilling adventures, facing off against the malevolent Lord Voldemort and his followers.
Harry Potter is the central character, discovering his wizardry at 11 and bravely leading the way. His best friends, Ron and Hermione, never leave his side, helping him fight against evil and ultimately triumph.
What is the Harry Potter Wizarding World?
Visitors to the Harry Potter Wizarding World at Universal Orlando Resort, Universal Studios Florida, Universal Studios Hollywood, and Universal Studios Japan are in for a magical experience! They can explore Hogsmeade’s re-creation and ride on the thrilling Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey.
For a deeper look into the world of Harry Potter, fans can take the behind-the-scenes walking tour, The Making of Harry Potter, at Warner Bros Studio Leavesden in England to view authentic sets, costumes, and props from all eight films. With so much to explore, the Harry Potter Wizarding World is sure to be an unforgettable journey!
What magical creatures appear in the Harry Potter books?
Magizoology is an intriguing field of study that focuses on the biology of magical creatures. It has been widely admired for exploring creatures such as giants, dragons, merpeople, Acromantula, Hippogriffs, and Bowtruckles.
Wizards often use these creatures for various purposes, including companionship, transportation, and even battle. Through the study of magizoology, we gain a greater understanding of the fascinating creatures in the Harry Potter books.
How has the Harry Potter series become so popular?
The Harry Potter series has become a phenomenon, beloved by children and adults alike, due to its thrilling combination of wonder, adventure, and magic. The series offers endless entertainment for all ages, with seven novels, eight movies, and a wide array of add-ons and tie-ins.
Author JK Rowling’s exceptional ability to capture the mystery and romanticism of more mature authors while maintaining the magical appeal for young adult readers has ensured its success.
Furthermore, its unique blend of fantasy elements—flying broomsticks, talking portraits—with more contemporary themes—family relationships, teenage angst—makes it relatable even to non-fantasy fans. No wonder the Harry Potter series has become one of the greatest stories of good vs. evil.
What are the differences between the books and the movies?
Both the books and movies feature magical moments and powerful friendships that have been treasured for years. However, the two adaptations differ because the movie version of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows was split into two parts due to its length. Some plot lines were altered or removed to suit the cinematic format better.
Admiringly and positively, the Harry Potter series has captured the hearts of readers and viewers alike, regardless of age or gender.
Are there any spin-off books or movies in the Harry Potter series?
J.K. Rowling’s Harry Potter series has been an enormous success, with seven books in the main series and numerous complementary books. The latest addition, Harry Potter and the Cursed Child, was released on July 31st, 2016, and has also seen success. Unfortunately, no other spin-off books or movies exist in the Harry Potter series.
What are some of the most memorable moments in the Harry Potter books?
At eleven years old, Harry Potter discovered the truth about his identity as a wizard. He is sorted into the house of Gryffindor with his newfound friends, Ron and Hermione but makes some enemies along the way, like Draco Malfoy and Professor Snape.
Throughout his adventures, Harry has faced thrilling circumstances, such as the Halloween troll encounter and his first Quidditch match. He has also had to face his nemesis, Lord Voldemort, in a climactic confrontation. Harry is a brave and loyal individual who makes a formidable trio along with Ron and Hermione. Their courage, intelligence, and wit have seen them through some of the toughest battles.
What’s the recommended Harry Potter reading order (versus the chronological order)?
The Harry Potter series is best enjoyed when readers follow the books in publication order, which is the same as chronological order. This order allows them to experience Harry’s journey at Hogwarts from the very beginning and watch him grow as a wizard and a person. While reading in chronological order may provide some minor spoilers, reading in publication order is the surest way to get the most out of the magical world of Harry Potter.
Why Read the Harry Potter Books in order?
Reading the Harry Potter books in order allows readers to experience how each book builds on the events of the previous ones. Additionally, it can help understand some of the more complex plot points and character relationships.
Louise Penny Books In Order To Read
Harry Potter Books Order Rank Based On Popularity
According to Goodreads.com, the harry potter books ranked by best rating are the following:
- Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows
- 4.62 · 3,371,071 Ratings ·
- Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban
- 4.58 · 3,656,602 Ratings ·
- Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince
- 4.58 · 2,958,499 Ratings ·
- Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire
- 4.57 · 3,245,124 Ratings ·
- Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix
- 4.50 · 3,055,073 Ratings ·
- Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone
- 4.47 · 8,956,216 Ratings · 141,415 Reviews
- Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets
- 4.43 · 3,463,027 Ratings · 68,278 Reviews
The Daily Northwestern offers more insight into the best Harry Potter Books Ranking.
Conclusion
No matter how you choose to experience the Harry Potter series, we hope this guide has been helpful. Whether you read the books first or watch the movies, you’ll agree that the story is magical. Thank you for joining us on this journey! And be sure to check out our post on the best Harry Potter quotes with page numbers.
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