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Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone: Magic, Hogwarts, and the Boy Who Lived |
Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone introduces the world to the orphaned boy Harry Potter, who has been living a miserable life under the stairs with his neglectful relatives, the Dursleys. On his eleventh birthday, he receives a mysterious letter inviting him to the Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, delivered by the half-giant Rubeus Hagrid. Harry learns that he is famous in the wizarding world for being the only survivor of Lord Voldemort's attack as an infant.
At Hogwarts, Harry makes lifelong friends with Ron Weasley and Hermione Granger, learns the basics of magic, and discovers his talent for Quidditch. However, the first year is not without peril. Harry and his friends soon realize that a powerful, life-extending artifact—the Philosopher's Stone—is hidden within the school. They begin a dangerous quest to protect the Stone from falling into the wrong hands, leading them through enchanted traps and ultimately to a confrontation with the mysterious figure trying to resurrect Voldemort. The novel establishes the series' core themes of friendship, sacrifice, and the enduring power of love.
Main Themes: Discovery of Identity, Friendship and Loyalty, Good vs. Evil, The Importance of Love and Sacrifice, Magic and Wonder, Starting a New Life.