FOR KIDS WHO L♡VE HARRY POTTER
It must be magic.
It’s been more than 20 years since The Boy Who Lived appeared in Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone. And the Harry Potter excitement hasn’t let up.
We spoke with Lana Whited, a professor at Ferrum College (and dedicated Hufflepuff) who has written about Harry Potter, to try to get to the bottom of why these stories continue to connect so deeply with readers.
According to Whited, there are many factors at play. For starters, the series can appeal differently to people of different ages and experiences. While the youngest fans may experience Harry Potter as a classic good-versus-evil fairy tale, older children may appreciate the realism of the students’ relationships with one another.
There’s also, of course, the fun of the magical elements of the book (who doesn’t want to fly around on a broomstick?), the appeal of putting yourself in Harry’s place (which house would you join?), and the great sense of community that can come with being a Harry Potter fan.
Whited thinks that Harry’s Cinderella-like transformation from being told he is of no importance to recognizing that he has a special destiny also speaks to young readers.
“Who doesn’t want to hear that I’ve been right all along—this inner voice that says to me that all those people who run me down are wrong. I’m special. I’m going to do something amazing with my life,” Whited said. “What kid doesn’t need to hear that?”
Of course, these days the Potterverse has moved far beyond its print-and-ink origins. Little (and big) fans often crave a far more immersive Harry Potter experience.
There are the movies, obviously. But that’s table stakes. You haven’t truly begun to immerse yourself in all things Harry until you’ve listened to the podcasts (and there are plenty), attended a Harry Potter Festival (many of which are sporting new names these days), taken the ultimate Severus Snap quiz, and—wait for it—played on a real life Quidditch team.
But wait. There’s more.
If your little one craves more magic, you can visit Platform 9 ¾ at London’s King’s Cross train station, enroll in a Hogwarts-themed camp, attend the two-part Harry Potter play, or read the ever-increasing body of Harry Potter-related academic work (psychology, sociology, politics—take your pick). And you can always throw in a visit to Universal’s Wizarding World of Harry Potter to top it all off.
There are, of course, plenty of Harry Potter items to add some enchantment to playtime. We’ve tracked down some truly magical books, toys, and games that are sure to delight your little Muggle.
Product Options
Books 1-7 Boxed Set
Arthur A. Levine Books
MSRP: $56.99
Mfr. Recommended Age: 9 - 16 Years
Why We Love It
The stories that started it all. This boxed set includes all seven original Harry Potter books.
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Gryffindor Journal
The Noble Collection
MSRP: $24.95
Mfr. Recommended Age:
Why We Love It
A beautiful volume in which kids can create their own stories while building writing skills.
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Hedwig Sleeping Bag
Pottery Barn Kids
MSRP: $118.00
Mfr. Recommended Age:
Why We Love It
Is there anything snugglier? Littles can climb in and cozy up with a book for the sweetest of nights.
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Illustrated Editions
Arthur A. Levine Books
MSRP: 39.99 (typical retail $25)
Mfr. Recommended Age:
Why We Love It
Prepare to be enchanted. These gorgeously illustrated versions of the original Harry Potter stories resonate with younger fans.
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Pancake Molds
Williams-Sonoma
MSRP: $19.95
Mfr. Recommended Age:
Why We Love It
Add a little fun to breakfast with Harry Potter-themed pancakes. Includes sorting hat, golden snitch, lightning bolt, and glasses.
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Hermione Doll Outfit
Ebuddy
MSRP: $19.99
Mfr. Recommended Age: 3 Years+
Why We Love It
A wizarding school outfit for your fave 18" doll. Note: Not an official HP product (robe doesn't say Gryffindor).
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Quote Pencils
Define Design 11
MSRP: $14.00
Mfr. Recommended Age:
Why We Love It
Make homework fun with this set of seven pencils engraved with Harry Potter quotes. As they say, "Accio Brain!"
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Hogwarts Acceptance Letter
Pixie Paper
MSRP: $11.99
Mfr. Recommended Age:
Why We Love It
An exceptional invitation to imagination and adventure. Personalized for your little witch or wizard. Let the magic begin!
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The Unofficial Harry Potter Cookbook
Adams Media Corp.
MSRP: $19.95 (typical retail $12)
Mfr. Recommended Age: 9 - 18 Years
Why We Love It
Bring the fun into the kitchen by creating Harry Potter classics, like Treacle Tart and Molly's Meat Pies.
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Custom Hogwarts Illustration
Henry James Paper Goods
MSRP: $90
Mfr. Recommended Age:
Why We Love It
Get drawn into the story—literally! Send a photo of your little one and this talented artist will create a custom illustration.
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Three Broomsticks Puzzle
New York Puzzle Co.
MSRP: $17.95
Mfr. Recommended Age: 7 Years+
Why We Love It
We want to climb right into this puzzle, pour ourselves a butterbeer, and share in the fun at the Three Broomsticks.
Buying options:
Wand
The Noble Collection
MSRP: $37.50
Mfr. Recommended Age:
Why We Love It
Immersive wizarding pretend play. Prepare for spell casting!
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Bertie Bott's Every Flavour Beans
Jelly Belly
MSRP: $49.99 (typical retail $36)
Mfr. Recommended Age:
Why We Love It
20 flavors ranging from cherry and marshmallow to soap and candyfloss. Case of 24. May not be delicious. Will certainly be an experience.
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Coloring Book
Scholastic
MSRP: $15.99
Mfr. Recommended Age: 8 - 10 Years
Why We Love It
Add your own color to the wizarding world with this detailed coloring book. Images range from the Hogwarts Great Hall to the Dursleys' home.
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