Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone
J.K. Rowling
An orphan raised by relatives learns on his eleventh birthday that he is a wizard and heads to a school of magic.
Book 1 of 7, published 1997.
All reading orders
Harry Potter reading order
Harry Potter is a seven-book series, and the books were written to be read in the order they came out. This is that order, with a note on where the extra books fit.
Where to start
Begin with the first book, Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone, published in the U.S. as Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone. Each book builds on the ones before it, so reading out of order gives away earlier plot.
The books grow longer and darker as they go. The early ones suit younger readers, and the later ones deal with more serious themes.
Publication order
The books were published in story order, so there is a single order to follow. Spin-off material, such as the stage play Harry Potter and the Cursed Child, is not listed here.
Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets
J.K. Rowling
A second year at Hogwarts, where a hidden chamber in the castle is said to have been opened.
Book 2 of 7, published 1998.
Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban
J.K. Rowling
The third year begins with news that a dangerous prisoner has escaped from Azkaban and may be coming for Harry.
Book 3 of 7, published 1999.
Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire
J.K. Rowling
The fourth book brings a famous tournament to Hogwarts, and Harry is entered in it even though he is too young.
Book 4 of 7, published 2000.
Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix
J.K. Rowling
The longest book in the series, in which Harry's fifth year is shadowed by distrust from the wizarding authorities.
Book 5 of 7, published 2003.
Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince
J.K. Rowling
The sixth book digs into the past of the villain Harry is up against, while school life carries on around him.
Book 6 of 7, published 2005.
Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows
J.K. Rowling
The seventh and last book, where the conflict that runs through the series comes to its end.
Book 7 of 7, published 2007.
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