Summary and Reviews of Harry Potter and The Sorcerer's Stone by J.K. (Joanne) Rowling

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Harry Potter and The Sorcerer's Stone by J.K. (Joanne) Rowling

Harry Potter and The Sorcerer's Stone

1st Published in UK as Harry Potter & The Philosopher's Stone

by J.K. (Joanne) Rowling
  • Critics' Consensus (7):
  • Readers' Rating (220):
  • First Published:
  • Sep 1, 1998, 309 pages
  • Paperback:
  • Sep 1999, 312 pages
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About This Book

Book Summary

Harry hasn't had a birthday party in eleven years - but all that is about to change when a mysterious letter arrives with an invitation to an incredible place.

Harry Potter has never been the star of a Quidditch team, scoring points while riding a broom far above the ground. He knows no spells, has never helped to hatch a dragon, and has never worn a cloak of invisibility.

All he knows is a miserable life with the Dursleys, his horrible aunt and uncle, and their abominable son, Dudley - a great big swollen spoiled bully. Harry's room is a closet at the foot of the stairs, and he hasn't had a birthday party in eleven years.

But all that is about to change when a mysterious letter arrives by owl messenger: a letter with an invitation to an incredible place that Harry ­ and anyone who reads about him - will find unforgettable.

For it's there that he finds not only friends, aerial sports, and magic in everything from classes to meals, but a great destiny that's been waiting for him... if Harry can survive the encounter.

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Reviews

Media Reviews

The New York Times Book Review - Michael Winerip
A wonderful first novel....Harry is destined for greatness. Much like Roald Dahl, J.K. Rowling has a gift for keeping the emotions, fears and triumphs of her characters on a human scale, even while the supernatural is popping out all over.

The New York Times Book Review - Michael Winerip
A wonderful first novel....Harry is destined for greatness. Much like Roald Dahl, J.K. Rowling has a gift for keeping the emotions, fears and triumphs of her characters on a human scale, even while the supernatural is popping out all over.

Newsweek
The true hero of this summer's reading season is likely to be Harry Potter.

Newsweek
The true hero of this summer's reading season is likely to be Harry Potter.

USA Today
You don't have to be a wizard or a kid to appreciate the spell cast by Harry Potter.

USA Today
You don't have to be a wizard or a kid to appreciate the spell cast by Harry Potter.

Publisher's Weekly
Readers are in for a delightful romp with this award-winning debut from a British author who dances in the footsteps of P.L. Travers and Roald Dahl.

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Read-Alikes

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If you liked Harry Potter and The Sorcerer's Stone, try these:

We have 8 read-alikes for Harry Potter and The Sorcerer's Stone, but non-members are limited to two results. To see the complete list of this book's read-alikes, you need to be a member.
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