Read this when
Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone (series)
A kid who lived in a cupboard finds out he belongs somewhere. Some of us needed that letter too. ✉️
Who it's for
Harry begins as an unwanted child in a cupboard under the stairs and discovers a world where he matters, a fantasy of belonging that resonates strongly with children and adults who felt unwanted at home.
Feelings it meets
What it is
This is the first of J. K. Rowling's seven Harry Potter novels, published by Bloomsbury in 1997 (in the US as Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone). Harry is an orphan raised by his neglectful aunt and uncle, the Dursleys, who keep him in a cupboard under the stairs. On his eleventh birthday, Hagrid tells him he is a wizard and brings his letter to Hogwarts School.
Where to find it
In print (Bloomsbury / Scholastic, US title 'Sorcerer's Stone'); widely available from libraries (Libby/Hoopla) and as audiobooks. Not public domain. Eight-film adaptation; a TV series is in productio.
Before you start
Heads up: Child neglect; deaths and torture later on.
Age: Ages 9+
Suffering has been stronger than all other teaching,Charles Dickens, Great Expectations, Chapter LIX
