Why are the Harry Potter books so popular?

On a Top 20 list of the “bestselling books of all time” there is no surprise who has the number one spot.

The Bible.

Number two on the list is no surprise, either. The little red book “Quotations from Chairman Mao Tse-tung” was mandatory in China, and to be seen without it was dangerous.

That kind of pressure will create a bestseller.

Next on the list was a surprise for me. A little boy’s journey from an ordinary boy to a heroic wizard has struck a chord with audiences. The Harry Potter universe is now so big that it has seven(!) of the top twenty spots of bestselling books of all time.

Taste that. Seven of the top twenty spots … of all time!

Other titles on the top 20 list are blockbusters like: The Da Vinci Code, The Catcher in the Rye, and The Lord of the Rings series by J.R.R Tolkien.

But let’s go back to Harry. What makes the The Harry Potter books, written by J.K. Rowling, so popular that they take seven out of the top twenty spots?

Studies show that the top ten reasons are:

Captivating Storytelling. J.K. Rowling created a rich and immersive world of magic, adventure, and mystery. Her storytelling skills, character development, and intricate plotlines have captivated readers of all ages.

Relatable Characters. The characters in the series are well-developed and relatable, facing challenges, doubts, and emotions that resonate with readers.

Escapism and Fantasy: The magical world of Hogwarts offers a much-needed escape from reality, allowing readers to immerse themselves in a universe filled with wonder, magic, and mythical creatures.

Friendship and Loyalty. The themes of friendship, loyalty, and bravery are central to the series. These values appeal to readers and emphasize the importance of strong bonds and standing up for what’s right.

Universal Themes. Despite being set in a fantasy world, the books tackle universal themes such as love, loss, prejudice, and the struggle between good and evil. These themes make the stories relatable and resonant with readers from diverse backgrounds.

Cross-generational appeal. The series spans multiple age groups, appealing to young readers and adults alike.

Engaging Writing Style. J.K. Rowling’s writing style is accessible and engaging, making the books enjoyable for readers of varying reading levels.

Film Adaptations: The well-received film adaptations brought the magical world to life on the big screen, introducing the series to an even broader audience.

Marketing. The marketing efforts and buzz surrounding the book releases created anticipation and excitement, contributing to their success.

Book Community and Fan Culture. The Harry Potter series has fostered a passionate fan community, with fans engaging in discussions, fan fiction, fan art, and attending themed events like book launches and conventions.

Overall, the Harry Potter books have become a cultural phenomenon due to their exceptional storytelling, compelling characters, and the timeless themes they explore. They have left a lasting impact on popular culture and continue to enchant new generations of readers.

Now, get in front of that PC, yellow pad, or whatever you prefer to write on.

And start writing.