Top 10 Harry Potter Books and Other Gifts for the Ultimate Fan

J.K. Rowling's Harry Potter series continues to reach more and more readers, some attracted by the movie versions, others by the recommendations of their friends. I've found deluxe and audio editions of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows, also known as Harry Pottetr Book 7, several other deluxe editions, an eight-disc DVD set of the first four Harry Potter movies, a book about the myths, magic, and legends referred to in the Harry Potter books, and a video game. Here are my recommendations.

1. Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows (Harry Potter Book 7, Deluxe Edition)

Like previous deluxe editions, Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows is beautifully designed, with a special insert of artwork by the series illustrator, Mary GrandPré. The book is cloth-bound, with an attractive slipcase. The deluxe edition of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows is a "must have" item for the dedicated fan. For more information about the deluxe edition, see my FAQ about it. (Scholastic, 2007. ISBN: 9780545029377)

2. Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince (Harry Potter Book 6, Deluxe Edition)

The deluxe edition of Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince features a 32-page insert and frameable art by series illustrator Mary GrandPré. The cloth-bound book has its own handsome slipcase. (Scholastic, 2005. ISBN: 0439791324)

3. Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows (Audio Book on CD)

Jim Dale, who has won awards for the quality of his narration of the Harry Potter series, narrates Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows, the seventh, and final, book in the Harry Potter series by J.K. Rowling. This audio book would be a particularly fine gift for someone who will be spending hours on a plane, car, or bus. (Listening Library, 2007. ISBN: 9780739360385)

4. The Sorcerer's Companion

The book is subtitled A Guide to the Magical World of Harry Potter. It was written by a professional magician and educator and his daughter, a writer, editor, and historian. The authors examine the background of the history, folklore, and mythology that is found in the Harry Potter series. Particularly appealing are the cover artwork and the many illustrations from 16th-20th century sources. (Broadway, second edition, 2004. ISBN: 9780767919449 )

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5. Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix (Harry Potter Book 5, Deluxe Edition)

This story of 15 year old wizard-in-training Harry Potter is full of memorable characters, excitement, and suspense. It also has a darker atmosphere than the previous books in the series. The deluxe edition is cloth covered and comes with a handsome decorated slipcase. The book jacket by illustrator Mary GrandPré has a different illustration than regular editions, and it's something special. You will probably want to frame it.

6. Harry Potter Movies - Years 1-4 (DVD Collection)

Enjoy the movie versions of the first three books in J.K. Rowling's series in widescreen editions on this eight-disc DVD set that contains Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone, Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets, Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban, Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire as well as extra features.

7. Harry Potter: Quidditch World Cup

This game from Electronic Arts is available in a variety of versions, incluing ones for a Play Station 2 and a PC. The game is rated "Everyone." One or two players can play in the Quidditch World Cup. Players can play all Quidditch positions and play as one of a variety of characters from the Harry Potter series.

8. Harry Potter Schoolbooks

These two books by J.K. Rowling, Quidditch Through the Ages and Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them, are brief and entertaining. They are presented as two of Harry's textbooks from Hogwarts School that were written by specialists in the fields of beasts and Quidditch. They books are amazingly detailed and readers will gain a new appreciation for the Harry Potter series after reading them.

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9. Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire (Special Movie Version)

The Special Edition of Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire has a great many extras. They include addiitonal scenes, conversations with cast members, lots on the Triwizard Tournament, and other special features. Audio tracks are available in English and Spanish, with subtitles available in English, Spanish, and French.

10. Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone (Book One Collector's Edition)

Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone is the book that started the whole Harry Potter phenomenon. This handsome leather bound collector's edition makes an excellent gift for the dedicated fan. The embossed leather cover features gold foil stamping. The collector's edition also includes a sketch of Harry Potter by his creator, author J.K. Rowling.