Books Like Harry Potter for Kids

The Appeal Books Like Harry Potter

Every child (and probably a few adults!) loves the idea of magic. Harry Potter has all of these wild and magical adventures and even before he hits high school, has an archnemesis ("he who shall not be named") Lord Voldemort. In this hugely popular series, Harry has been able to defeat Lord Voldemort (so far) symbolizing the triumph of good over evil.

A Short List of Books Like Harry Potter for Kids

Books similar to Harry Potter, with the magical spells and evil witches and warlocks, are widely available for children of all ages and pretty easy to find.

• The Princess and the Goblin by George MacDonald – This story is reportedly one of Lord of the Rings author J.R.R. Tolkien's favorite books when he was a child. It is about a Princess Irene's adventures with her best friend Curdie and is replete with dark dungeons, ghoulish goblins and mysterious abound! The recommended reading age level for this book are ages 9-12, but it can be read aloud to children of any age.

• The Complete Grimm's Fairytales by Jacob and Wilhelm Grimm– Tales by the brothers Grimm have been a childhood reading staple. Geared toward the 4-8 year old, your child will love these intricately woven tales of magic and mystery, wizards and warlocks, evil stepmothers and beautiful princesses.

• Eragon by Christopher Paolini – This book is full of the action-packed adventures of Eragon, a farm boy and his dragon, Sephira. If your children have seen the movie, they will love this book and be amazed that Christopher Paolini began penning this series at the age of 15.

• The Chronicles of Narnia by C.S. Lewis – A classic series by C.S. Lewis for adults and children alike. Read this story out loud to your young child, or let your older child explore the entire Chronicles on their own. The book is available as one large offering that includes all seven tales or separately as:
  • The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe
  • Prince Caspian: The Return to Narnia
  • The Voyage of Dawn Treader
  • The Silver Chair
  • The Horse and His Boy
  • The Magician's Nephew
  • The Last Battle

• Circle of Magic by Tamora Pierce – The Circle of Magic books are about four young children who are brought together by the magical powers the possess. This series includes four books:
  • Sandry's Book
  • Tris's Book
  • Daja's Book
  • Briar's Book

• Wizard's Hall by Jane Yolen – Your children will enjoy the stories of fumbling boy-wizard Henry, who is still learning how to perfect his use of magic. Jane Yolen has published many other books about wizardry, dragons and magic swords, here are a few:
  • The Wizard's Map: Tartan Magic Book One
  • The Dragon's Boy: A Tale of Young King Arthur
  • Sword of the Rightful King
  • The Pictish Child: Tartan Magic Book Two
  • The Bagpiper's Ghost: Tartan Magic Book Three
  • A Sending of Dragons
  • The Young Merlin Trilogy

Tips for Choosing a Book

Keep the following tips in mind when choosing a book for your child:

• Pay attention to your child's age – Books that are intended for older children will have language and concepts that may be difficult for a younger child to comprehend if the book is too far out of his or her age range.
• Buy books that are at least one reading level above your children's current level – Choosing a slightly higher reading level will challenge your children and help to further develop their reading skills.
• Browse through the book first – Some books may contain inappropriate ideas and concepts.
• Let them choose – Letting young children make their own choices is empowering to them, so give them a little guidance but let them choose the book that pique's their interests the most.