This time I’m going to be recommending a book that needs no introduction!
Let’s be honest, if I said name a fantasy series published in the last 20 years, the Harry 
Potter series would be high on that list. Its mix of magic, adventure and one of the most recognisable villains in literature, makes it the record breaking hit that it is.
Now, I’ll admit that Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone is not my favourite book in the series but it does set up the series as well as introduce the reader to the its unique world. The plot revolves around a boy called Harry Potter, who discovers on his eleventh birthday that he is a wizard. And not just any wizard, but one famous for defeating a dark wizard as a baby. After this discovery, Harry is sent to Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, where he spends the year learning magic and playing the magical sport, Quidditch.
Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone reminds me of books like the Chronicles of Narnia series, where children go off to a magical world, having adventures and defeating monsters and villains. Let’s face, what child wouldn’t want to go to a school where they are taught magic?
Love it or loath it, there’s no denying that the Harry Potter series has had an impact on the fantasy genre and that’s why I recommend it.
Cover image was found on goodreads.com
A Reluctant Hero 