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Harry Potter At Home

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Chapter Challenge: 'The Potions Master'

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Welcome to your eighth Chapter Challenge! If you need a reminder of Chapter Eight, [you can watch Alia Bhatt, with Alec Baldwin and his daughter Carmen, reading 'The Potions Master' any time you like here](https://www.wizardingworld.com/chapters/reading-the-potions-master "PM").

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<center>
        
<IMG src="//images.ctfassets.net/usf1vwtuqyxm/5NbVl2rYgQOsomiheQlToy/603c0b01ec47be9b76d40e9b917a327a/numbersquaresArtboard-1-copy-14.png" alt="my boat">
  
__Write down which Hogwarts teacher you’re most interested in learning more about. What subject do they teach and why have you chosen them?__

*This mini-challenge is worth 1 house point.*

  
<IMG src="//images.ctfassets.net/usf1vwtuqyxm/7DGPxsJ6CKKAybKJk2z8VU/55be28bac6ab6daded4ac10bb10c57a5/numbersquaresArtboard-1-copy-15.png" alt="my boat"> 

__Draw a picture of the cauldron you would like to use in a Potions class. You can decorate the outside any way you want – perhaps with your house colours?__
  
*This mini-challenge is worth 1 house point.*
 
<IMG src="//images.ctfassets.net/usf1vwtuqyxm/76EKXm249R6Av82pPNGMoG/e4a932f2b477a3e645b7280773330069/numbersquaresArtboard-1-copy-16.png" alt="my boat"> 

__Answer this question and get a clue about the next chapter. What is the name of the most popular wizarding sport? Clue: Ron tried to explain the rules to Harry on the Hogwarts Express ...__
  
*This mini-challenge is worth 1 house point.*
  
<IMG src="//images.ctfassets.net/usf1vwtuqyxm/3RO65v5jlfLcUheOJIz3Ky/a17b402d7bf7171748d33604faec3580/numbersquaresArtboard-1-copy-17_1.png" alt="my boat">

__Write about yourself: Which Hogwarts lesson would you most want to go to? Why?__

*This mini-challenge is worth 1 house point.*
  
<IMG src="https://images.ctfassets.net/usf1vwtuqyxm/1XMWX309jyKzFCwPLGQanc/2281a50062bd3fddf1828bd941302a3d/numbersquaresArtboard-1-copy-17_2.png" alt="my boat">

__Prediction time! This is where you guess what might happen later in the book. Hagrid removed a secret package from a Gringotts vault just before someone broke in! Where do you think that package is now?__

*This mini-challenge is worth 1 house point.*

  
<IMG src="https://images.ctfassets.net/usf1vwtuqyxm/4EH2eETTkq3a5Mbf24yLt4/c2bf7363fb4493fba513fc766137d831/numbersquaresArtboard-1-copy-17_3.png" alt="my boat">

__Time to be a Hogwarts portrait: In 'The Potions Master', we find out about the Hogwarts portraits and how they move about. Pretend you’re a portrait at the top of a moving staircase. What’s your name? What does your portrait look like? Describe what happens when a staircase moves and confuses students. Do you think it's funny? Do you try to help them? Or do you try to confuse them even more?__

*This mini-challenge is worth 2 house points.*

  
<IMG src="https://images.ctfassets.net/usf1vwtuqyxm/5kRx9NHQ0mdxxkoKpgC0gV/865d36dd4c210aa10a8cec9e846f9abb/numbersquaresArtboard-1-copy-18.png" alt="my boat">

__Secret quest: Organise a household meeting, using only secret notes. In Chapter Eight, Hagrid invites Harry to his hut using a note from Hedwig. For this secret quest, you must be the owl and deliver notes to members of your household. The note must say the time and the place in your home to meet – e.g. kitchen table, on the sofa. You must not say anything about the meeting out loud. If everyone comes to the meeting, you win!__

*This mini-challenge is worth 3 house points.*
  
  OR...

***

__Quiz time: If this secret quest isn’t for you, you can collect the same number of house points if you answer every question correctly in our [Chapter Eight Quiz here](https://www.wizardingworld.com/quiz/chapter-quiz-chapter-eight-five-questions "CQ8")...__

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Did you complete this Chapter Challenge? How many house points did you collect of the possible 10? Have you put all your pieces of paper in the hourglass so you don’t lose count? When a reading of Chapter Nine becomes available, there’ll be another challenge waiting for you!

And don’t forget to collect all your house points in your house hourglass. Remember, your hourglass can be any container – a bottle, a jar, a box. Every time you earn a house point, cut out a little square or circle of paper or card – colour it in with your house colour – and then put it into your hourglass. When you need to use scissors, make sure you ask an adult to help you.

Still need to find out which Hogwarts house you belong in? [Here’s a link to the Sorting Ceremony on our website](https://my.wizardingworld.com/register "Register"). Or download the Wizarding World app to find out your house whilst wearing the Sorting Hat! You’ll need an adult to help you register.

And for more quizzes, crafting, articles and other fun activites go to the [Harry Potter At Home Hub](https://www.wizardingworld.com/collections/harry-potter-at-home "HPAH hub").

__Illustration by Mary GrandPré © Scholastic__

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Chapter Seven: 'The Sorting Hat'

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Watch Olivia Colman with Jonathan Van Ness and Kate McKinnon read Chapter Seven of Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone. Sign up to hear who's next.

Watch Olivia Colman reading Harry Potter at home

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Olivia Colman, along with some special appearances from Jonathan Van Ness and Kate McKinnon, read the seventh chapter of Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s/Sorcerer’s Stone, as part of Harry Potter At Home.

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You can [register with the Harry Potter Fan Club](https://my.wizardingworld.com/register) to get all the latest updates on further video readings. [Remind yourself of Chapter Six, read by the Broadway Cursed Child cast here.](https://www.wizardingworld.com/chapters/reading-the-journey-from-platform-nine-and-three-quarters)

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Chapter Seven | The Sorting Hat

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Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone 

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and the Philosopher's Stone 

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Today, Olivia Colman kindly lends her voice to read ‘The Sorting Hat’, with some stellar contributions from Emmy-nominated television personality Jonathan Van Ness and Emmy-winning *Saturday Night Live* star Kate McKinnon.
 
Olivia Colman won the Leading Actress award at the 2019 Academy Awards for her performance as Queen Anne in Yorgos Lanthimos’s critically acclaimed *The Favourite*. She has been awarded the title of Commander of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire for her services to drama, and a BFI Fellowship.

Jonathan Van Ness is an Emmy-nominated television personality, New York Times best-selling author, podcaster, and hairstylist to the stars. He stars on Netflix’s Emmy Award-winning reboot series *Queer Eye*, where he shines as the show’s groomer, hair guru and self-care advocate.

Kate McKinnon won the Emmy Award for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series in 2016 and 2017 and was nominated in 2014, 2015, 2018 and 2019 for her work on *Saturday Night Live*. 

Look forward to more famous faces and friends of the Wizarding World (and beyond!) to help us to read through all seventeen chapters of *Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s/Sorcerer’s Stone* over the upcoming weeks. [You can see all of our chapters right here in our chapter hub.](https://www.wizardingworld.com/chapters)

**

You may notice some wonderful drawings representing the chapter during the read-through. Look forward to more artwork in every chapter and read below to see how you can get involved in [contributing yourself.](https://www.wizardingworld.com/terms/content-submission-guidelines)

[You can also listen to ‘The Sorting Hat’ on Spotify if you fancy an audio-only version. ](https://open.spotify.com/show/2JUljwaD9fNSeq8Vy3UAUp)

## Chapter Seven: ‘The Sorting Hat’ – Further reading and new activities 

Now that you’ve refreshed your memory of J.K. Rowling’s seventh chapter of *Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone* (or *Sorcerer’s Stone* for our US readers), here’s more about ‘The Sorting Hat’. 

- How much did you just learn? For the young (and the young at heart!) – [try our new Chapter Challenge!](https://www.wizardingworld.com/features/harry-potter-philosophers-stone-chapter-challenge-seven-the-sorting-hat) Collect house points as you complete chapter-themed tasks and quizzes, along with a secret quest. Oh, and speaking of ‘house points’ remember to get [sorted into your Hogwarts house too!](https://my.wizardingworld.com/sorting-hat)

- For those who’ve visited the wizarding world before – read more about the Sorting Hat’s interesting choices, [as we examine certain characters and their Hogwarts houses.
](https://www.wizardingworld.com/features/the-harry-potter-characters-whose-hogwarts-houses-are-up-for-debate)

- You never know which house you’ll get until the Sorting Hat sits on your head! Our friends at Bloomsbury have come up with a brilliant way to make cakes inspired by the Sorting Ceremony. [You can watch the video they made for Harry Potter Book Night celebrations here. ](https://youtu.be/VPCOz2xuwL8)

- Did you know each house at Hogwarts has a crest which features a particular animal? [Colour in the crests and make four house-inspired door hangers, with this activity sheet provided by Scholastic.](https://www.scholastic.com/content/dam/parents/Printables/PDFs/scholastic-harry-potters-color-house-crest.pdf)

- But when is Chapter Eight coming, we hear you cry? Be sure to check back at HarryPotterAtHome.com every week where you can expect new readings from a stellar cast of narrators.

-  In fact, if you’re worried about missing out on any updates from Harry Potter At Home and beyond, don’t worry. [Sign up to our Harry Potter Fan Club](https://my.wizardingworld.com/register) newsletter, where you can receive exciting new updates every week on Harry Potter At Home, further chapters, and much more. [Here’s how.](https://www.wizardingworld.com/news/new-harry-potter-fan-club-newsletter)

- And what about this fan art? Yes, well reminded. We’re inviting you to send in your pieces to represent key moments from the first book, which will feature in future videos. At the moment, we’re looking for moments that feature in Chapter Eight onwards. 

By our mathematics skills, that would give us just ten more chapters to go, so please do send us your interpretations of famous scenes from those chapters via the hashtag #HarryPotterAtHome to @WizardingWorld’s Twitter account. Submitting your artwork this way ensures the Harry Potter At Home project absolutely has your permission to use your pieces online.

You can check out [our rules and guidelines](https://www.wizardingworld.com/terms/content-submission-guidelines) to submitting here and an important note to all parent and guardians that you must submit your children’s art on their behalf.

- If you’re old enough, come join us on [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/wizardingworld/), [Twitter](https://twitter.com/wizardingworld) and [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/wizardingworld/) where the fun just keeps on coming with more quizzes, puzzles and extra challenges.

- The easiest way to keep up to date with all the wizarding business we’re up to, is simply by registering. [Go here for more details.](https://my.wizardingworld.com/register)

## Harry Potter At Home 

Harry Potter At Home is our way of bringing the magic into people’s homes, casting a Banishing Charm on boredom. These special video readings are just one of the many things you can do at home with us, whether alone or with your friends or family. Our new Harry Potter At Home project is very much a team effort, combining the resources of Harry Potter UK and US publishers Bloomsbury and Scholastic, Pottermore Publishing, Warner Bros., leading spoken-word producer and provider Audible, our numerous library suppliers, library supplier OverDrive, streaming platform Spotify, and of course, our very own magic-makers here at WizardingWorld.com

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Chapter Challenge: 'The Sorting Hat'

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Welcome to your seventh Chapter Challenge! If you need a reminder of Chapter Seven, you can [watch Olivia Colman, with Jonathan Van Ness and Kate McKinnon, reading 'The Sorting Hat' any time you like here](https://www.wizardingworld.com/chapters/reading-the-sorting-hat "SH").

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<IMG src="//images.ctfassets.net/usf1vwtuqyxm/5NbVl2rYgQOsomiheQlToy/603c0b01ec47be9b76d40e9b917a327a/numbersquaresArtboard-1-copy-14.png" alt="my boat">
  
__Write down your Hogwarts house, and why you think you were sorted into it. If you don’t have a house yet, don’t worry! Just like Harry and his friends, you can be sorted in our [re-imagined Sorting Ceremony here](https://my.wizardingworld.com/about-passport) – or you can download the Wizarding World app and see yourself wearing the famous hat! You'll need an adult to help you register.__

*This mini-challenge is worth 1 house point.*

  
<IMG src="//images.ctfassets.net/usf1vwtuqyxm/7DGPxsJ6CKKAybKJk2z8VU/55be28bac6ab6daded4ac10bb10c57a5/numbersquaresArtboard-1-copy-15.png" alt="my boat"> 

__Draw the Sorting Hat on its four-legged stool. Remember that it’s ‘patched and frayed and extremely dirty’!__
  
*This mini-challenge is worth 1 house point.*
 
<IMG src="//images.ctfassets.net/usf1vwtuqyxm/76EKXm249R6Av82pPNGMoG/e4a932f2b477a3e645b7280773330069/numbersquaresArtboard-1-copy-16.png" alt="my boat"> 

__Answer this question and get a clue about the next chapter. What’s the name of the wizarding bank in Diagon Alley? Clue: Harry went there in Chapter Five...__
  
*This mini-challenge is worth 1 house point.*
  
<IMG src="//images.ctfassets.net/usf1vwtuqyxm/3RO65v5jlfLcUheOJIz3Ky/a17b402d7bf7171748d33604faec3580/numbersquaresArtboard-1-copy-17_1.png" alt="my boat">

__Write about yourself: Hogwarts castle is home to some ghosts, like Nearly Headless Nick and the Fat Friar. Do you believe in ghosts? Or do you think they only belong in stories?__

*This mini-challenge is worth 1 house point.*
  
<IMG src="https://images.ctfassets.net/usf1vwtuqyxm/1XMWX309jyKzFCwPLGQanc/2281a50062bd3fddf1828bd941302a3d/numbersquaresArtboard-1-copy-17_2.png" alt="my boat">

__Prediction time! This is where you guess what might happen later in the book. Do you think Professor Snape and Harry are going to get on?__

*This mini-challenge is worth 1 house point.*

  
<IMG src="https://images.ctfassets.net/usf1vwtuqyxm/4EH2eETTkq3a5Mbf24yLt4/c2bf7363fb4493fba513fc766137d831/numbersquaresArtboard-1-copy-17_3.png" alt="my boat">

__Time to be a songwriter: In 'The Sorting Hat', Professor Dumbledore asks the students to sing the school song. It starts, ‘Hogwarts, Hogwarts, Hoggy, Warty, Hogwarts.’ Even though you might not be at school right now, your challenge is to make one up. The words can be as silly as you like, but try to make them rhyme. If you’re feeling musical, you could try to sing them to a tune!__

*This mini-challenge is worth 2 house points.*

  
<IMG src="https://images.ctfassets.net/usf1vwtuqyxm/5kRx9NHQ0mdxxkoKpgC0gV/865d36dd4c210aa10a8cec9e846f9abb/numbersquaresArtboard-1-copy-18.png" alt="my boat">

__Secret quest: Before everyone starts to eat in the Great Hall, Dumbledore says he’d like to say a few words: ‘Nitwit! Blubber! Oddment! Tweak!’ Choose four of your own odd or silly words, and next time you sit down to eat a meal, say them out loud so everyone can hear you. If you make someone laugh, you’ve completed this secret quest!__

*This mini-challenge is worth 3 house points.*
  
  OR...

***

__Quiz time: If this secret quest isn’t for you, you can collect the same number of house points if you answer every question correctly in our [Chapter Seven Quiz here](https://www.wizardingworld.com/quiz/chapter-quiz-chapter-seven-five-questions "CQ7")...__

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Did you complete this Chapter Challenge? How many house points did you collect of the possible 10? Have you put all your pieces of paper in the hourglass so you don’t lose count? When a reading of Chapter Eight becomes available, there’ll be another challenge waiting for you!

Remember! Your task is to collect as many house points as you can throughout the challenges and record them in your house hourglass. Your hourglass can be any container – a bottle, a jar, a box. Every time you earn a house point, cut out a little square or circle of paper or card – colour it in with your house colour – and then put it into your hourglass. When you need to use scissors, make sure you ask an adult to help you.

And for more quizzes, crafting, articles and other fun activites go to the [Harry Potter At Home Hub](https://www.wizardingworld.com/collections/harry-potter-at-home "HPAH hub").

Illustration by Mary GrandPré © Scholastic

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Chapter Six: 'The Journey from Platform Nine and Three-Quarters'

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Watch Jamie Parker and the Broadway cast of Cursed Child read Chapter Six of Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone. Sign up to hear who's next.


Watch Jamie Parker and Cursed Child cast read Harry Potter

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Jamie Parker and the Broadway cast of Harry Potter and the Cursed Child delight with a dramatised reading of the journey to Hogwarts. Prepare for spells, toads and Chocolate Frogs!

You can [register with the Harry Potter Fan Club](https://my.wizardingworld.com/register) to get all the latest updates on further video readings of *Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s/Sorcerer’s Stone*. [Remind yourself of Chapter Five, read by Simon Callow, Bonnie Wright and Evanna Lynch.](https://www.wizardingworld.com/chapters/reading-diagon-alley)



Chapter Six | The Journey from Platform Nine and Three-Quarters

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For Chapter Six, it’s a *Cursed Child* special, with several members of the Broadway cast reading for you today, helmed by the production’s original Harry, Jamie Parker. Jamie starred in both the original West End production as Harry Potter, before reprising the role on Broadway. 

[To learn more about the entire cast of readers you see in the above video, go here. ](https://www.wizardingworld.com/features/guide-to-cursed-child-readers-for-chapter-six)
 
And to learn more about the Cursed Child productions all over the world, [visit the official website.](https://www.harrypottertheplay.com/)

Look forward to more famous faces and friends of the Wizarding World (and beyond!) to help us to read through all seventeen chapters of *Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s/Sorcerer’s Stone* over the upcoming weeks. You can see all of our [chapters right here in our chapter hub.](https://www.wizardingworld.com/chapters)

**

You may notice some wonderful drawings representing the chapter during the read-through. Look forward to more artwork in every chapter and read below to see how you can get involved in [contributing yourself.](https://www.wizardingworld.com/terms/content-submission-guidelines)

[You can also listen to ‘The Journey from Platform Nine and Three-Quarters’ on Spotify](https://open.spotify.com/episode/5NxphxP7FYVDBRGlrR2ETf) if you fancy an audio-only version. 

## Chapter Six: ‘The Journey from Platform Nine and Three-Quarters’ – Further reading and new activities 

Now that you’ve refreshed your memory of J.K. Rowling’s sixth chapter of *Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone* (or *Sorcerer’s Stone* for our US readers), here’s more about ‘The Journey from Platform Nine and Three-Quarters’.   

- How much did you just learn? For the young (and the young at heart!) – [try our new Chapter Challenge!](https://www.wizardingworld.com/features/harry-potter-philosophers-stone-chapter-challenge-six-journey-platform-nine) Collect house points as you complete chapter-themed tasks and quizzes, along with a secret quest. Oh, and speaking of ‘house points’ remember to get [sorted into your Hogwarts house too!](https://my.wizardingworld.com/sorting-hat)

- For those who’ve visited the wizarding world before – [read more about how the famous magical platform perfectly represents the passage of time throughout the books.](https://www.wizardingworld.com/features/web-passing-through-time-platform-nine-three-quarters) And do beware, this piece has spoilers beyond the first Harry Potter story.

- Can you spot the differences between these two illustrations of platform nine and three-quarters? [Click here to have some fun with this activity provided by Bloomsbury! ](https://hpmedia.bloomsbury.com/rep/files/spot-the-difference.pdf) And [click here for the answers!](https://images.ctfassets.net/usf1vwtuqyxm/6HXVXAVeDhIvrzkKp410aB/329635cd8d1da1d9522e8de9d74b40ac/spot_difference.png)

- But when is Chapter Seven coming, we hear you cry? Be sure to check back at [HarryPotterAtHome.com](https://www.wizardingworld.com/collections/harry-potter-at-home) every week where you can expect new readings from a stellar cast of narrators.

-  In fact, if you’re worried about missing out on any updates from Harry Potter At Home and beyond, don’t worry. [Sign up to our Harry Potter Fan Club newsletter](https://my.wizardingworld.com/register), where you can receive exciting new updates every week on Harry Potter At Home, further chapters, and much more. [Here’s how.](https://www.wizardingworld.com/news/new-harry-potter-fan-club-newsletter)

- And what about this fan art? Yes, well reminded. We’re inviting you to send in your pieces to represent key moments from the first book, which will feature in future videos. At the moment, we’re looking for moments that feature in Chapter Seven onwards. 

By our mathematics skills, that would give us eleven chapters to go, so please do send us your interpretations of famous scenes from those chapters via the hashtag #HarryPotterAtHome to @WizardingWorld’s Twitter account. Submitting your artwork this way ensures the Harry Potter At Home project absolutely has your permission to use your pieces online.

[You can check out our rules and guidelines to submitting here](https://www.wizardingworld.com/terms/content-submission-guidelines) and an important note to all parent and guardians that you must submit your children’s art on their behalf.

- If you’re old enough, come join us on [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/wizardingworld/), [Twitter](https://twitter.com/wizardingworld) and [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/wizardingworld/) where the fun just keeps on coming with more quizzes, puzzles and extra challenges.

- The easiest way to keep up to date with all the wizarding business we’re up to, is simply by registering. [Go here for more details.](https://my.wizardingworld.com/register)

## Harry Potter At Home 

Harry Potter At Home is our way of bringing the magic into people’s homes, casting a Banishing Charm on boredom. These special video readings are just one of the many things you can do at home with us, whether alone or with your friends or family. Our new Harry Potter At Home project is very much a team effort, combining the resources of Harry Potter UK and US publishers Bloomsbury and Scholastic, Pottermore Publishing, Warner Bros., leading spoken-word producer and provider Audible, our numerous library suppliers, library supplier OverDrive, streaming platform Spotify, and of course, our very own magic-makers here at WizardingWorld.com.

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Chapter Challenge: 'The Journey from Platform Nine and Three-Quarters'

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Welcome to your sixth Chapter Challenge! If you need a reminder of Chapter Six, you can [watch Jamie Parker and the Broadway cast of Cursed Child reading 'The Journey from Platform Nine and Three-Quarters here](https://www.wizardingworld.com/chapters/reading-the-journey-from-platform-nine-and-three-quarters "Chapter 6"), any time you like.

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<IMG src="//images.ctfassets.net/usf1vwtuqyxm/5NbVl2rYgQOsomiheQlToy/603c0b01ec47be9b76d40e9b917a327a/numbersquaresArtboard-1-copy-14.png" alt="my boat">
  
__Write about a character that is introduced in this chapter and describe them. There are plenty to choose from!__

*This mini-challenge is worth 1 house point.*

  
<IMG src="//images.ctfassets.net/usf1vwtuqyxm/7DGPxsJ6CKKAybKJk2z8VU/55be28bac6ab6daded4ac10bb10c57a5/numbersquaresArtboard-1-copy-15.png" alt="my boat"> 

__Draw the Hogwarts Express while it waits for witches and wizards at platform nine and three-quarters.__
  
*This mini-challenge is worth 1 house point.*
 
<IMG src="//images.ctfassets.net/usf1vwtuqyxm/76EKXm249R6Av82pPNGMoG/e4a932f2b477a3e645b7280773330069/numbersquaresArtboard-1-copy-16.png" alt="my boat"> 

__Answer this question and get a clue about the next chapter. What might someone – particularly a witch or wizard – wear on their head?__
  
*This mini-challenge is worth 1 house point.*
  
<IMG src="//images.ctfassets.net/usf1vwtuqyxm/3RO65v5jlfLcUheOJIz3Ky/a17b402d7bf7171748d33604faec3580/numbersquaresArtboard-1-copy-17_1.png" alt="my boat">

__Write about yourself: If you could pick one thing from the Hogwarts Express snack trolley, what would it be and why?__

*This mini-challenge is worth 1 house point.*
  
<IMG src="https://images.ctfassets.net/usf1vwtuqyxm/1XMWX309jyKzFCwPLGQanc/2281a50062bd3fddf1828bd941302a3d/numbersquaresArtboard-1-copy-17_2.png" alt="my boat">

__Prediction time! This is where you guess what might happen later in the book. On the train, Ron and Harry talk about the four houses at Hogwarts. Which house do you think Draco Malfoy will be in?__

*This mini-challenge is worth 1 house point.*

  
<IMG src="https://images.ctfassets.net/usf1vwtuqyxm/4EH2eETTkq3a5Mbf24yLt4/c2bf7363fb4493fba513fc766137d831/numbersquaresArtboard-1-copy-17_3.png" alt="my boat">

__Time to be on a Chocolate Frog card: In 'The Journey from Platform Nine and Three-Quarters', Harry reads a Chocolate Frog card about Albus Dumbledore. Write a Chocolate Frog card for yourself. Include interesting facts, your hobbies and any achievements you’re proud of. If you’re feeling creative, draw a picture of yourself for the front of the card as well!__

*This mini-challenge is worth 2 house points.*

  
<IMG src="https://images.ctfassets.net/usf1vwtuqyxm/5kRx9NHQ0mdxxkoKpgC0gV/865d36dd4c210aa10a8cec9e846f9abb/numbersquaresArtboard-1-copy-18.png" alt="my boat">

__Secret quest: Just like Hermione Granger pointed out to Ron Weasley, tell someone in your household they have dirt on their nose. Your exact words need to be – ‘*And you’ve got dirt on your nose, by the way, did you know?*' Get them to try to rub the “dirt” off, and you’ll succeed at this secret quest!__

*This mini-challenge is worth 3 house points.*
  
  OR...

***

__Quiz time: If this secret quest isn’t for you, you can collect the same number of house points if you answer every question correctly in [our Chapter Six Quiz here](https://www.wizardingworld.com/quiz/chapter-quiz-chapter-six-five-questions "CQ 6")...__

</center>


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Did you complete this Chapter Challenge? How many house points did you collect of the possible 10? Have you put all your pieces of paper in the hourglass so you don’t lose count? When a reading of Chapter Seven becomes available, there’ll be another challenge waiting for you!

Still need to find out which Hogwarts house you belong in? [Here’s a link to register and find the Sorting Ceremony on our website](https://my.wizardingworld.com/register?utm_medium=social&utm_source=wwd_web&utm_campaign=chapterchallenge-register). Or download the Wizarding World app to find out your house whilst wearing the Sorting Hat! You’ll need an adult to help you register.

And for more quizzes, crafting, articles and other fun activites go to the [Harry Potter At Home Hub](https://www.wizardingworld.com/collections/harry-potter-at-home "HPAH hub"). 

__Illustration by Mary GrandPré © Scholastic__

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Chapter Five: ‘Diagon Alley’

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Simon Callow, Bonnie Wright & Evanna Lynch read Chapter Five of Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s/Sorcerer’s Stone. Sign up to hear who's next.

Watch Simon Callow, Bonnie Wright & Evanna Lynch read Harry Potter

Watch Simon Callow, Bonnie Wright & Evanna Lynch reading Chapter Five: 'Diagon Alley'. Sign up to hear when new chapters arrive on Harry Potter At Home.

Simon Callow, Bonnie Wright & Evanna Lynch read Harry Potter

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Today, we have an ensemble for you! Simon Callow, Bonnie Wright and Evanna Lynch introduce us to Diagon Alley, where Harry goes on the most magical shopping trip of his life.

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[You can register with the Harry Potter Fan Club](https://my.wizardingworld.com/register) to get all the latest updates on further video readings of *Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s/Sorcerer’s Stone*. Remind yourself of [Chapter Four, read by Stephen Fry here](https://www.wizardingworld.com/chapters/reading-the-keeper-of-the-keys) or step forward to Chapter Six, [read by Jamie Parker and the Cursed Child Broadway cast.](https://www.wizardingworld.com/chapters/reading-the-journey-from-platform-nine-and-three-quarters)

Chapter Five | Diagon Alley

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A huge thank you to all of our guest-narrators for Chapter Five, which includes actors Simon Callow, Bonnie Wright and Evanna Lynch. 

Since graduating in writing and directing at University of the Arts London in 2012, Bonnie has gone on to direct many short films, music videos and commercials. Outside of directing, Bonnie is a passionate advocate in the fight against single-use plastics and protecting our environment. 

On returning to the Wizarding World for this special project, Bonnie said: 

‘I think why Harry Potter is so loved is because Jo created a home where everyone is always welcome to come back to. Everyone’s home lives are feeling and looking very different these days but the Wizarding World has become a constant place to find solace and joy for so many people, including myself.’

Evanna Lynch is an actress, podcaster and vegan activist. A self-confessed obsessive Harry Potter fan since childhood, Evanna joined the cast of the Harry Potter films in 2006 when she played the role of Luna Lovegood. She is an ambassador for Lumos and Veganuary.

‘Whenever, my life feels really unpredictable or I just need a quiet, familiar space to collect myself, I find myself instinctively reaching for my Harry Potter books,’ she said.

‘There's just nothing quite like Jo's wonderful, warm, magical world that makes me feel recentred, like I've reconnected to the most real part of myself, like I'm home.  So I couldn't think of a more perfect, healing thing to do as a community during this strange time than to sit peacefully and read *Philosopher's Stone* together and connect through our love of books and magic.'
 
Look forward to more famous faces and friends of the Wizarding World (and beyond!) to help us to read through all seventeen chapters of *Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s/Sorcerer’s Stone* over the upcoming weeks. [You can see all of our chapters right here in our chapter hub.](https://www.wizardingworld.com/chapters)

**

You may notice some wonderful drawings representing the chapter during the read-through. Look forward to more artwork in every chapter and [read below to see how you can get involved in contributing yourself.](https://www.wizardingworld.com/terms/content-submission-guidelines)

You can also [listen to ‘Diagon Alley’ on Spotify](https://open.spotify.com/episode/2wdJdvtNsjXbFcZMvFVeOq) if you fancy an audio-only version. 

## Chapter Five: ‘Diagon Alley’ – Further reading and new activities 

Now that you’ve refreshed your memory of J.K. Rowling’s fifth chapter of *Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone* (or *Sorcerer’s Stone* for our US readers), here’s more about ‘Diagon Alley’.  

- How much did you just learn? For the young (and the young at heart!) – [try our latest Chapter Challenge!](https://www.wizardingworld.com/features/harry-potter-philosophers-stone-chapter-challenge-five-diagon-alley) Collect house points as you complete chapter-themed tasks and quizzes, along with a secret quest. Oh, and speaking of ‘house points’ remember to get [sorted into your Hogwarts house too!](https://my.wizardingworld.com/sorting-hat)

- For those who’ve visited the wizarding world before – read more about ‘Diagon Alley’ as [we debate which wizarding shopping district we prefer: Diagon Alley or Hogsmeade? ](https://www.wizardingworld.com/features/which-is-better-diagon-alley-or-hogsmeade)

- [Watch illustrator Jim Kay talk about designing Diagon Alley](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Lx2peN6D264) in this wonderful video kindly provided by Bloomsbury. And once you’ve listened to the expert, try [colouring Diagon Alley in for yourself using this arty activity.](https://hpmedia.bloomsbury.com/rep/files/hpbn-event-kit-colouring-in-diagon-alley.pdf)

- Harry might have bought his wand from Ollivanders, but how about making your own? [Our friends at Scholastic teach you how with this fun activity. ](https://www.scholastic.com/content/dam/parents/Printables/PDFs/harry-potter-make-your-own-wand-printable.pdf)Before you start, you can find out your wand wood, length and core through the [wand experience on WizardingWorld.com here.](https://my.wizardingworld.com/wand)

- But when is Chapter Six coming, we hear you cry? Be sure to check back at [HarryPotterAtHome.com](http://harrypotterathome.com/) every week where you can expect new readings from a stellar cast of narrators.

-  In fact, if you’re worried about missing out on any updates from Harry Potter At Home and beyond, don’t worry. [Sign up to our Harry Potter Fan Club newsletter](https://my.wizardingworld.com/register), where you can receive exciting new updates every week on Harry Potter At Home, further chapters, and much more. [Here’s how. ](https://www.wizardingworld.com/news/new-harry-potter-fan-club-newsletter)

- And what about this fan art? Yes, well reminded. We’re inviting you to send in your pieces to represent key moments from the first book, which will feature in future videos. At the moment, we’re looking for moments that feature in Chapter Six onwards. 

By our mathematics skills, that would give us twelve chapters to go, so please do send us your interpretations of famous scenes from those chapters via the hashtag #HarryPotterAtHome to @WizardingWorld’s Twitter account. Submitting your artwork this way ensures the Harry Potter At Home project absolutely has your permission to use your pieces online.

[You can check out our rules and guidelines to submitting here](https://www.wizardingworld.com/terms/content-submission-guidelines) and an important note to all parent and guardians that you must submit your children’s art on their behalf.

- If you’re old enough, come join us on [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/wizardingworld/), [Twitter](https://twitter.com/wizardingworld) and [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/wizardingworld/) where the fun just keeps on coming with more quizzes, puzzles and extra challenges.

- The easiest way to keep up to date with all the wizarding business we’re up to, is simply by registering. [Go here for more details.](https://my.wizardingworld.com/register)

## Harry Potter At Home 

Harry Potter At Home is our way of bringing the magic into people’s homes, casting a Banishing Charm on boredom. These special video readings are just one of the many things you can do at home with us, whether alone or with your friends or family. Our new Harry Potter At Home project is very much a team effort, combining the resources of Harry Potter UK and US publishers Bloomsbury and Scholastic, Pottermore Publishing, Warner Bros., leading spoken-word producer and provider Audible, our numerous library suppliers, library supplier OverDrive, streaming platform Spotify, and of course, our very own magic-makers here at WizardingWorld.com.

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Chapter Challenge: 'Diagon Alley'

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Welcome to your fifth Chapter Challenge! If you need a reminder of Chapter Five, you can [watch Simon Callow, Bonnie Wright and Evanna Lynch reading 'Diagon Alley' any time you like here](https://www.wizardingworld.com/chapters/reading-diagon-alley "Diagon Alley").

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<center>
        
<IMG src="//images.ctfassets.net/usf1vwtuqyxm/5NbVl2rYgQOsomiheQlToy/603c0b01ec47be9b76d40e9b917a327a/numbersquaresArtboard-1-copy-14.png" alt="my boat">
  
__Write down what you think is the most interesting thing about Gringotts, the wizarding bank?__

*This mini-challenge is worth 1 house point.*

  
<IMG src="//images.ctfassets.net/usf1vwtuqyxm/7DGPxsJ6CKKAybKJk2z8VU/55be28bac6ab6daded4ac10bb10c57a5/numbersquaresArtboard-1-copy-15.png" alt="my boat"> 

__Draw the pet you would like to take to Hogwarts with you. Remember, according to Harry’s list you’re only allowed to choose an owl, a cat or a toad.__
  
*This mini-challenge is worth 1 house point.*
 
<IMG src="//images.ctfassets.net/usf1vwtuqyxm/76EKXm249R6Av82pPNGMoG/e4a932f2b477a3e645b7280773330069/numbersquaresArtboard-1-copy-16.png" alt="my boat"> 

__Answer these two questions and get a clue about the next chapter. 1) What flavour of birthday cake did Harry get from Hagrid? 2) What type of amphibian starts off as a tadpole and ribbits?__
  
*This mini-challenge is worth 1 house point.*
  
<IMG src="//images.ctfassets.net/usf1vwtuqyxm/3RO65v5jlfLcUheOJIz3Ky/a17b402d7bf7171748d33604faec3580/numbersquaresArtboard-1-copy-17_1.png" alt="my boat">

__Write about yourself: If you were able to go to Diagon Alley, which shop would you be most excited to visit?__

*This mini-challenge is worth 1 house point.*
  
<IMG src="https://images.ctfassets.net/usf1vwtuqyxm/1XMWX309jyKzFCwPLGQanc/2281a50062bd3fddf1828bd941302a3d/numbersquaresArtboard-1-copy-17_2.png" alt="my boat">

__Prediction time! This is where you guess what might happen later in the book. Do you think Harry is going to have any problems getting to Hogwarts on 1st September?__

*This mini-challenge is worth 1 house point.*

  
<IMG src="https://images.ctfassets.net/usf1vwtuqyxm/4EH2eETTkq3a5Mbf24yLt4/c2bf7363fb4493fba513fc766137d831/numbersquaresArtboard-1-copy-17_3.png" alt="my boat">

__Time to be a witch/wizard news reporter: In 'Diagon Alley', many people recognise Harry when Hagrid takes him to the Leaky Cauldron! Pretend you were there as a witch or wizard news reporter. Write a headline with a short news article about seeing the Boy Who Lived on his way to buy his school supplies.__

*This mini-challenge is worth 2 house points.*

  
<IMG src="https://images.ctfassets.net/usf1vwtuqyxm/5kRx9NHQ0mdxxkoKpgC0gV/865d36dd4c210aa10a8cec9e846f9abb/numbersquaresArtboard-1-copy-18.png" alt="my boat">

__Secret quest: Carefully give someone in your household a pen, pencil, stick or anything else you can find that looks a little like a wand. When they’re holding it, you need to say, ‘Curious… curious’ just like Mr Ollivander. Try not to laugh!__

*This mini-challenge is worth 3 house points.*
  
  OR...

***

__Quiz time: If this secret quest isn’t for you, you can collect the same number of house points if you answer every question correctly in our [Chapter Five Quiz here](https://www.wizardingworld.com/quiz/chapter-quiz-chapter-five-five-questions "Chapter Five Quiz")...__

</center>


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Did you complete this Chapter Challenge? How many house points did you collect of the possible 10? Have you put all your pieces of paper in the hourglass so you don’t lose count? When a reading of Chapter Six becomes available, there’ll be another challenge waiting for you!

Remember! Your task is to collect as many house points as you can throughout the challenges and record them in your house hourglass. Your hourglass can be any container – a bottle, a jar, a box. Every time you earn a house point, cut out a little square or circle of paper or card – colour it in with your house colour – and then put it into your hourglass. When you need to use scissors, make sure you ask an adult to help you.

Still need to find out which Hogwarts house you belong in? [Here’s a link to register and find the Sorting Ceremony on our website](https://my.wizardingworld.com/register?utm_medium=social&utm_source=wwd_web&utm_campaign=chapterchallenge-register). Or download the Wizarding World app to find out your house whilst wearing the Sorting Hat! You’ll need an adult to help you register.

And for more quizzes, crafting, articles and other fun activites go to the [Harry Potter At Home Hub](https://www.wizardingworld.com/collections/harry-potter-at-home "HPAH hub"). 

__Illustration by Mary GrandPré © Scholastic__

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The First Year Magical Locations Quiz

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Try our Harry Potter wordsearch!

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Search for the magic words and drag your cursor across the letters.

How quickly can you crack it?

<iframe width="600" height="650" allowtransparency="true" style="background: #FFFFFF" src="https://bridgecard.wizardingworld.com/wordsearch/20191224/00001/" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>



Create your own Aragog

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Hagrid kept Aragog as a pet when he was still at Hogwarts. This Acromantula king might have been a friend to Hagrid, but he wasn’t so keen on Harry and Ron when they ventured into the Forbidden Forest. Are you brave enough to take on this eight-legged crafting challenge? 

Follow the spiders and learn how to make a paper mache Aragog in the video tutorial below ...

<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/26F5fG3n2Rc" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>


For more of our arts and crafts videos, check out our [Crafting Magic page](https://www.wizardingworld.com/collections/crafting-magic "Crafting Magic"), as well as our [Wizarding World YouTube channel](https://www.youtube.com/channel/UChPRO1CB_Hvd0TvKRU62iSQ "Youtube"). 
And for even more stay at home fun, check out our [Harry Potter At Home hub](https://www.wizardingworld.com/collections/harry-potter-at-home "HPAH hub"), and bring the magic to you!


Harry Potter At Home brings you magical treats to keep you entertained, including quizzes, puzzles, crafts & video readings from Daniel Radcliffe & more.

Get sorted for Hogwarts

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Welcome to the Harry Potter At Home hub where you’ll find all the latest magical treats to keep you occupied - including special contributions from Bloomsbury and Scholastic, nifty magical craft videos (teach your friends how to draw a Niffler!), fun articles, quizzes, puzzles and plenty more for first-time readers, as well as those already familiar with the wizarding world. We’re casting a Banishing Charm on boredom!

Chapter Eight: 'The Potions Master'

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Watch Alia Bhatt, Alec Baldwin and his daughter read Chapter Eight of Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s/Sorcerer’s Stone, 'The Potions Master'. Sign up to hear who's next.

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Watch Alia Bhatt and Alec Baldwin read Harry Potter at home

Watch Alia Bhatt, Alec Baldwin and his daughter read Chapter Eight of Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s/Sorcerer’s Stone. Sign up to hear who's next.

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Alia Bhatt, with Alec Baldwin and his daughter Carmen, introduce us to Professor Snape, the Potions teacher at Hogwarts. 

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[You can register with the Harry Potter Fan Club](https://my.wizardingworld.com/register) to get all the latest updates on further video readings of *Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s/Sorcerer’s Stone.*

Chapter Eight | The Potions Master

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[Remind yourself of Chapter Seven, read by Olivia Colman, Jonathan Van Ness and Kate McKinnon here.](https://www.wizardingworld.com/chapters/reading-the-sorting-hat)

Actress Alia Bhatt joins us today to take on Chapter Eight, and she’s joined by two rather special guests, Alec Baldwin and his daughter! 

Alia Bhatt is one of the most prominent actresses in India. A multiple winner at the Filmfare Awards, (India’s equivalent of the Academy Awards) Alia was recently named on Forbes Magazine’s ‘30 Under 30’ list in Asia.

‘It wasn’t until lockdown in India that Harry, Hogwarts and the wizarding world became regular fixtures in my life,’ Alia said. ‘Somehow, despite the fierce insistence of my sister, life always intervened, and I never quite got around to befriending the books. But confined to my home - I journeyed to Hogwarts with Harry and was transported to a world of endless possibilities.’ 

‘And, just like magic, that was when I was asked to be a part of Harry Potter At Home. I didn’t quite believe in magic until two months ago - but now - thanks to Harry, I do. 10 million points to Gryffindor.’

Alec Baldwin is Alia’s special guest for today’s reading, and he, in turn, is joined by his own special guest, his daughter Carmen. Since 1980, Alec Baldwin has appeared in numerous productions on stage, in films and on television. He has received a Tony nomination (*A Streetcar Named Desire*, 1992) an Oscar nomination (*The Cooler*, 2004) and has won three Emmy awards, three Golden Globes and seven consecutive Screen Actors Guild Awards as Best Actor in a Comedy Series for his role on NBC-TV's *30 Rock*.

‘My daughter and I love Harry Potter,’ Alec said. ‘It’s been such a pleasure to be a part of the Harry Potter At Home readings for everyone to enjoy whilst we are all confined at home – happy listening.’

Look forward to more famous faces and friends of the Wizarding World (and beyond!) to help us to read through all seventeen chapters of *Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s/Sorcerer’s Stone* over the upcoming weeks. [You can see all of our chapters right here in our chapter hub.](https://www.wizardingworld.com/chapters)

**

You may notice some wonderful drawings representing the chapter during the read-through. Look forward to more artwork in every chapter and read below to see how you can [get involved in contributing yourself.](https://www.wizardingworld.com/terms/content-submission-guidelines)

[You can also listen to ‘The Potions Master’ on Spotify if you fancy an audio-only version. ](https://open.spotify.com/episode/45dTW779oW2Ut8b5VTfiMB)

## Chapter Eight: ‘The Potions Master’ – Further reading and new activities 

Now that you’ve refreshed your memory of J.K. Rowling’s eighth chapter of *Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone* (or *Sorcerer’s Stone* for our US readers), here’s more about ‘The Potions Master’.  

- How much did you just learn? For the young (and the young at heart!) – [try our new Chapter Challenge!](https://www.wizardingworld.com/features/harry-potter-philosophers-stone-chapter-challenge-eight-the-potions-master) Collect house points as you complete chapter-themed tasks and quizzes, along with a secret quest. Oh, and speaking of ‘house points’ [remember to get sorted into your Hogwarts house too!](https://my.wizardingworld.com/sorting-hat)

- For those who’ve visited the wizarding world before – we’re thinking about the subtle science and exact art of potion-making a little more today. [Which magical concoction would you love to try in real-life?](https://www.wizardingworld.com/features/wizarding-world-potions-we-want-in-real-life "WW")

- Now you’ve met the Potions master, how about colouring him in? Our friends at Bloomsbury have kindly provided this colouring activity [and you can find it here.](https://hpmedia.bloomsbury.com/rep/files/professor-snape-colour-in.pdf)

- And now Harry and his friends have started at Hogwarts, Scholastic have provided an imaginative activity that helps you create your very own Hogwarts student profile. [Click here to start!](https://www.scholastic.com/content/dam/parents/Printables/PDFs/scholastic-harry-potters-hogwarts-student-fill-in.pdf) And remember, if you still need to discover your official Hogwarts house, pet and wand type, you can find out here on WizardingWorld.com

- But when is Chapter Nine coming, we hear you cry? Be sure to check back at HarryPotterAtHome.com every week where you can expect new readings from a stellar cast of narrators.

-  In fact, if you’re worried about missing out on any updates from Harry Potter At Home and beyond, don’t worry. Sign up to our Harry Potter Fan Club newsletter, where you can receive exciting new updates every week on Harry Potter At Home, further chapters, and much more. [Here’s how.](https://www.wizardingworld.com/news/new-harry-potter-fan-club-newsletter)

- And what about this fan art? Yes, well reminded. We’re inviting you to send in your pieces to represent key moments from the first book, which will feature in future videos. At the moment, we’re looking for moments that feature in Chapter Nine onwards. 

By our mathematics skills, that would give us just nine more chapters to go, so please do send us your interpretations of famous scenes from those chapters via the hashtag #HarryPotterAtHome to @WizardingWorld’s Twitter account. Submitting your artwork this way ensures the Harry Potter At Home project absolutely has your permission to use your pieces online.

You can [check out our rules and guidelines](https://www.wizardingworld.com/terms/content-submission-guidelines) to submitting here and an important note to all parent and guardians that you must submit your children’s art on their behalf.

- If you’re old enough, come join us on [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/wizardingworld/), [Twitter](https://twitter.com/wizardingworld) and [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/wizardingworld/) where the fun just keeps on coming with more quizzes, puzzles and extra challenges.

- The easiest way to keep up to date with all the wizarding business we’re up to, is simply by registering. [Go here for more details.](https://my.wizardingworld.com/register)

## Harry Potter At Home 

Harry Potter At Home is our way of bringing the magic into people’s homes, casting a Banishing Charm on boredom. These special video readings are just one of the many things you can do at home with us, whether alone or with your friends or family. Our new Harry Potter At Home project is very much a team effort, combining the resources of Harry Potter UK and US publishers Bloomsbury and Scholastic, Pottermore Publishing, Warner Bros., leading spoken-word producer and provider Audible, our numerous library suppliers, library supplier OverDrive, streaming platform Spotify, and of course, our very own magic-makers here at WizardingWorld.com.

First Year Readers

Fun for first-time readers

The First Year Readers Collection

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Ten words you need to know when reading the first Harry Potter book 

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## 1.	Wand: 
Implement used by wizards to perform magic. Available from Ollivanders in Diagon Alley.

## 2.	Muggle: 
Person totally without magical powers. Most Muggles live in ignorance of the world of wizards and witches.

## 3.	Galleon: 
Gold wizarding money.

## 4.	Poltergeist: 
A mischievous spirit.

## 5.	Herbology: 
Study of plants. Professor Sprout is the Herbology teacher at Hogwarts.

## 6.	Remembrall:
Magical glass ball, the size of a large marble, filled with white smoke. The smoke turns red to tell you that there is something you have forgotten to do.

## 7.	Centaurs:
Half-man, half-horse creatures. Centaurs live in the Forbidden Forest.

## 8.	Quidditch: 
The wizarding national sport. Played on broomsticks by seven players.

## 9.	Transfiguration:
The art of turning one thing into another.

## 10.	 Seeker: 
Quidditch player who tries to catch the Golden Snitch.



Want more wizarding words? The rest of our [Harry Potter Glossary is available on the Bloomsbury website here](https://harrypotter.bloomsbury.com/uk/fun-stuff/glossary/ "Harry Potter Glossary Link"), taking you through words and definitions from all seven books. 

*Illustration by Jim Kay © Bloomsbury Publishing Plc

Make your very own scrapbook of Harry Potter characters

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With Scholastic's scrapbook activity, you can make a fun record of your favourite characters from the Harry Potter stories. All you need to do is write the name of the book you're reading, choose a character, draw their picture, and then list ten things you know about them.

Here are some of the characters Scholastic would include in their scrapbook to get you started...

## Albus Dumbledore:

The Headmaster of Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. We love his silver hair, silver beard and half-moon spectacles – as well as the purple cloak he wears to Privet Drive!

## Hedwig:

Harry Potter’s snowy owl. We love the story of Hagrid buying her for Harry when he takes him to Diagon Alley for his school supplies. She’s beautiful, loyal and very good at delivering letters.

## Rubeus Hagrid:

Keeper of Keys and Grounds at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. We’d definitely include this loveable giant in our scrapbook. He’s kind, funny, and he has a flying motorbike!

## Mr Ollivander:

Mr Ollivander is a wandmaker. Harry visits his shop in Diagon Alley to buy his holly and phoenix feather wand. We think he’s a very interesting character, and he makes us curious about the history of the wizarding world.

## Oliver Wood:

Captain of the Gryffindor Quidditch team. Wood teaches Harry all about the wizarding sport, Quidditch. We love this character because he’s brilliant at being Gryffindor Keeper, and he’s very competitive for his team.

## Minerva McGonagall:

Head of Gryffindor house and Transfiguration teacher at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. We’re including Professor McGonagall in our scrapbook because she’s excellent at magic – she can turn herself into a cat! And we’re too scared we would get detention if we don’t!

## Neville Longbottom:

Gryffindor student with a troublesome toad. Neville might not be top of the class, but he tries his best, and that’s what’s important. And if you read to the end of the first Harry Potter book – you might understand even better why we would be proud to have him in our scrapbook…

To start making your own Harry Potter scrapbook, visit Scholastic’s activity page, download and print out as many blank scrapbook pages as you need! And if you’re reading other books as well as Harry Potter, you can build scrapbooks for the characters that appear in those, as well!

[You can download the scrapbook template right here.](https://www.scholastic.com/content/dam/teachers/lesson-plans/migrated-files-in-body/scrapbook.pdf)

Find twenty fantastic facts about Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone

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__1.__	When was Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone first published?


__2.__	How many words does Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone contain?


__3.__	Which chapter of Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone is J.K. Rowling’s favourite?


__4.__	Can you guess, to the nearest ten, how many languages Harry Potter has been translated into?


__5.__	Who was Nicolas Flamel?


__6.__	Do the names of the Hogwarts houses change when the books are translated?


__7.__	On which date does term begin at Hogwarts?


__8.__	Did the school subjects always have the same names in J.K. Rowling’s early notes?


__9.__	How many times does the name Harry Potter appear in the first book?


__10.__	 How many times does the name Lord Voldemort appear in the first book?


__11.__	 Where does the name Voldemort come from?


__12.__	 The US version of the first Harry Potter book was published under what title?


__13.__	 What is Harry’s first word in the book?


__14.__	 Which spell incantations appear in Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone?


__15.__	 What is the Hogwarts motto?


__16.__	 What is special about 31 October 1991?


__17.__	 On the twentieth anniversary of the first book, if all the Harry Potter books ever sold had been placed end to end, how many times would they have gone around the equator?


__18.__	In early drafts of the first book, did Draco Malfoy have a different surname?


__19.__	 When is Fred and George Weasley’s birthday?


__20.__	 What is special about the knocker at the entrance to the headmaster’s office at Hogwarts?

                                   ***
                               

You might not know the answers to many of these questions, but we bet you want to find out! 

To discover the answers to all these fascinating questions, head over to Bloomsbury’s website and [search this beautiful infographic](https://harrypotter.bloomsbury.com/uk/harry-potter-20/20-fun-facts/ "Bloomsbury 20 infographic").

A handy guide to reading the Harry Potter books for the first time 

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So, you’ve probably heard of Harry Potter already, right? Probably caught a film on TV, probably got a mate who has a Hogwarts robe. And you’ve probably been thinking – ‘who is this Dumbledore fellow, anyway?’ ‘What is a Wingardium Leviosa?’ 

### So what are the books about, exactly? Like, actually?

Okay: in a nutshell, a young 11-year old boy with glasses and a lightning bolt scar called Harry Potter finds out that he’s a wizard with magical powers and must go to a special school to learn how to do magic. Along the way, he learns many secrets about his past, and discovers that not all wizards are good...

### You’re going to be reading a lot of strange words

Quaffle. Flobberworm. Riddikulus! Get ready for all manner of weird and wonderful words, guys. These are not your every-day books. But don’t worry, everything will be explained as you go along, and soon, the words of the wizarding world will be a second language! And if you get really stuck, [here’s a handy glossary](https://www.wizardingworld.com/features/web-ten-words-you-need-to-know-for-hp1 "Bloomsbury glossary") to get you started.

### And meet a lot of interesting people 

Albus Dumbledore! Professor McGonagall! Who are all these curious people? For a book called “Harry Potter”, you do get a lot of fascinating names in this series... no offence, Harry. You’ll soon learn that wizards and witches are rather different to us, wear different sorts of clothes, and have many different interests. And it’s not just people too – prepare to meet magical creatures and even portraits that talk! 

### You may know a few things already – but that’s OK 

If you’ve not read the books, that doesn’t mean you haven’t seen a Harry Potter film on the television. Or maybe a friend or family-member has told you all about how they’re a [Gryffindor](https://www.wizardingworld.com/collections/gryffindor), and you’re like, ‘What?’ So you might know bits and bobs about the adventure already – but don’t worry. It’ll all make sense once you start at the beginning. Just maybe ask your friends to be nice and not spoil anything for you! 

### Things might get a little scary...

Are you squeamish? Be on your guard, then! At Hogwarts school, not everything is as it seems. Sometimes these books get a little frightening, especially when a certain someone called Lord Voldemort makes an appearance... but also watch out for giant spiders, werewolves, and more things we won’t spoil for you now.

Remember, at the end of the day, it’s just a book – so you can always snap it shut if things get too much! 

### And the books will magically start getting bigger and bigger 

As you read more Harry Potter books, you’ll learn that there’s just so much in the wizarding world that the books start getting fatter! But trust us, once you’ve read the first one and got hooked in, you’ll be even hungrier for more pages.

### It’s a marathon, not a sprint 

Don’t feel bad if you’re not the fastest reader in the world. There are seven Harry Potter books, and that’s a lot of magic to get through! Take your time, because you don’t want to speed through it too fast and miss something – there are loads of important mentions in the books that will become important in later books. We’ll give you a heads up on one: in the first chapter of *Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone* (or *Sorcerer's Stone* for our US readers), a character called ‘Sirius Black’ is mentioned. Keep an eye on that name in particular... 

### And once you’re done, that’s definitely not the end 

When we first finished the Harry Potter books, to say we were sad is an understatement. But chin up, you’ve actually started reading the stories at an exciting time. Now, there’s a new story, *Harry Potter and the Cursed Child*, that looks at the adventures of the wizarding world 19 years later. And then, if you fancy going back in time, you can watch the Fantastic Beasts films, which go all the way back to the 1920s where we meet a host of brand-new witches and wizards.

Remember, there’s no right or wrong way to read a Harry Potter book (except, maybe, upside down!) so give them a go, and you can always visit WizardingWorld.com if you want to learn more about the wizarding world as you go along. 

So, chapter one... 

*Illustration Jonny Duddle © Bloomsbury Publishing Plc*

The ABCs to Reading for Pleasure

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## A.	
__Audio books__ mean the whole family can listen together.

## B.	
Books at __bedtime__ are a great way to wind down the day.

## C.
__Children's books__ on the shelves are always a familiar, comforting read (we have all seven Harry Potter books on ours!).

## D.	
Reading allows us to __discover__ new worlds, new people (like Harry, Ron and Hermione), and new events.

## E.	
__Everyone__ can read the same book and talk about it together.

## F.	
Reading takes us to __fun, faraway__ places (like Hogwarts)

## G.	
Sharing a book you love with a family member makes a great __gift__.

## H.	
The best kind of __homework__? Free reading!

## I.	
__Infinite__ possibilities exist with reading.

## J.	
Great __joy__ exists upon finishing a whole series. (And sometimes a little sadness, too!)

## K.	
When you __know__ better, you do better. Reading helps us to know more so we can do better.

## L.	
__Learning__ to read is one of the coolest, most amazing and magical processes ever.

## M.	
Reading __motivates__ you to learn more, try new things, and reach for the stars.

## N.	
Every day you can meet __new people, places, and ideas__ with books.

## O.	
Reading allows you to learn about different __options and opinions__.

## P.	
Anything is __possible__ with reading (especially magic). 

## Q.	
__Questions__ are answered with reading.

## R.	
__Reading__ aloud to a loved one or friend is time well spent.

## S.	
Our favourite way to __spend__ our time? Reading makes time fly (particularly when there are broomsticks involved)!

## T.	
Reading __transforms__ lives.

## U.	
Books take you to __unusual and unique places__ (like the Forbidden Forest). 

## V.	
Finding new authors and new series is one of our __very favourite things__.

## W.	
You can read __wherever__ you want in the house—no need to sit at a desk or wait until bedtime.  

## X.	
There's something for everyone with reading: __eXactly__ what every person needs. 

## Y.	
__You__ always have a pal when you pick up a book.

## Z.	
Reading before bed lets you catch your __ZZZZZzzzzzzz's__.  (C'mon, this one was tough…)


For more brilliant articles, book recommendations and reading advice and tools for parents, visit [Scholastic’s, Raise a Reader blog here](https://www.scholastic.com/parents/books-and-reading/raise-a-reader-blog.html "Scholastic Raise a Reader Blog").

*Illustration by Mary GrandPré*

Harry Potter Who’s Who - Muggles Edition: Introducing the Dursleys

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## Vernon Dursley:
Vernon Dursley, or Uncle Vernon as Harry Potter calls him, lives at number 4, Privet Drive with his wife, Petunia and son, Dudley. He is a director of a firm called Grunnings, which makes drills. He is a big, beefy man with hardly any neck, and he has a moustache. He doesn’t like people who dress in funny clothes (particularly cloaks), he hates Harry talking about anything acting in a way it shouldn’t – like a motorbike flying, and he is irritated by most things his nephew, Harry does. He does however like large doughnuts.  

## Petunia Dursley:
Petunia Dursley, or Aunt Petunia as Harry Potter calls her lives at number 4, Privet Drive with her husband Vernon and her son, Dudley. She is the sister of Lily Potter, Harry’s mother but that doesn’t mean that she treats Harry any better than Uncle Vernon. Petunia is thin and blonde with nearly twice the usual amount of neck – which comes in very useful when she’s spying on the neighbours over the garden fence. She has some funny nicknames for her son, like Dinky Duddydums and she sometimes looks as though she’s swallowed a lemon. 


## Dudley Dursley:
Dudley Dursley lives with his parents, Vernon and Petunia and Harry at number 4, Privet Drive. He is Harry's horrible, non-magical and slightly older cousin. He is blond, hates exercise and bullies Harry whenever he can, including at school where Dudley has a gang that he gets to pick on his own cousin. A very spoiled little boy, he insists on having more birthday presents than the year before and he pretends to cry to get whatever he wants. He likes watching television and never likes to miss his programmes.  

And now you’ve read their descriptions, why don’t you try drawing their portraits?

                                         ***
                              
For our complete guide to the characters in the Harry Potter books, you can [visit Bloomsbury’s Who’s Who page on the Bloomsbury website](https://harrypotter.bloomsbury.com/uk/fun-stuff/harry-potter-whos-who/ "Who's Who Bloomsbury")!

And you can watch [Noma Dumezweni reading about the Dursleys in Chapter Two of Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone/Sorcerer's Stone here](https://www.wizardingworld.com/chapters/reading-the-vanishing-glass "Vanishing Glass")!

__Illustration by Jim Kay © Bloomsbury__

Harry Potter Who’s Who Professors Edition: Dumbledore, McGonagall and Snape

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## Albus Dumbledore:
Headmaster of Hogwarts and Supreme Mugwump of the International Confederation of Wizards and Chief Warlock of the Wizengamot. The finest wizard of his generation, Dumbledore is the only wizard that Voldemort is afraid of. Tall, thin and very old, he has blue eyes, a crooked nose and a long silver beard. He wears half-moon spectacles and a long purple cloak. He has a scar on his left knee which is a perfect map of the London Underground. As a schoolboy, he was in Gryffindor house. 

## Minerva McGonagall:
Deputy Headmistress of Hogwarts. She is a rather serious-looking woman, with jet-black hair scraped back into a tight bun on her head. She wears square glasses and an emerald-green cloak. Professor McGonagall is head of Gryffindor house and is the Transfiguration teacher. If you’ve read Chapter One of Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s/Sorcerer’s Stone you will know that she can turn into a tabby cat! 

## Severus Snape:
Potions master at Hogwarts, although apparently he knows an awful lots about the Dark Arts. He is tall and thin with sallow skin, greasy black hair and a hooked nose. He teaches his classes in the dungeons, where there are pickled animals floating in jars. Snape appears to hate Harry Potter, whilst Draco Malfoy is one of his favourite students. Though that isn’t surprising, as he is also head of Slytherin house. 

                                        ***

And now you’ve read their descriptions, why don’t you try drawing their portraits? 

For Bloomsbury's complete guide to all the much-loved characters in the Harry Potter books, you can [visit the Who’s Who page on the Bloomsbury website](https://harrypotter.bloomsbury.com/uk/fun-stuff/harry-potter-whos-who/ "Who's Who Bloomsbury link").

Discover your wizarding world name with Bloomsbury

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Is your favourite character’s name on this list? Here’s who we think have the most magically unusual names in Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone (Sorcerer’s Stone for our US readers).


## 1.		Albus Dumbledore:
*Headmaster of Hogwarts*

## 2.		Rubeus Hagrid: 
*Keeper of Keys and Grounds at Hogwarts*

## 3.		Emeric Switch:
*Author of A Beginners’ Guide to Transfiguration. A book first-	years need at Hogwarts*

## 4.		Minerva McGonagall:
*Head of Gryffindor house and Transfiguration teacher at Hogwarts*

## 5.		Severus Snape:
*Head of Slytherin house and Potions teacher at Hogwarts*

## 6.		Bathilda Bagshot:
*Author of A History of Magic. A book first-years need at Hogwarts*

## 7.		Draco Malfoy:
*A Slytherin student who dislikes Harry, Ron and Hermione*

## 8.		Arsenius Jigger:
*Author of Magical Drafts and Potions. A book first-years need at Hogwarts*

## 9.		Argus Filch:
*The Hogwarts caretaker, who has a cat called Mrs Norris*

## 10.	Newt Scamander:
*Author of Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them. A book first-	years need at Hogwarts*




Now you’ve read some of the most weird and wonderful names you can find in the first Harry Potter book, how about discovering a wizarding name of your own? 

[Click here for Bloomsbury’s Harry Potter Name Generator!](https://harrypotter.bloomsbury.com/uk/fun-stuff/name-generator/ "Harry Potter Name Generator") Simply put your real name into the online form, and it’ll make your witch or wizard name for you. And once you’ve got one, share your name with friends and family!


How to cast a spell over everyday games

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Who wants to play a game? From wizard chess to Gobstones, witches and wizards have a lot of choice when it comes to indoor games. 

To keep you busy and entertained, we’ve thought about some everyday games you might be playing at home. Here are a few ideas to make them a little bit more magical… 

## Wizard’s hangman 

You might have heard of the word game, hangman. In the wizard version, you won’t be drawing a stick figure, you’ll be drawing a stick-wizard on a broomstick:
•	Player one thinks of a word – try to make sure it features in the Harry Potter books!

•	Player one draws dashes at the bottom of a piece of paper. The dashes represent the number of letters in the word

•	The other players try to guess the letters of the word. Only one letter per turn!

•	If a letter is guessed and it belongs in the word, player one must write the letter on top of the correct dash

•	If a letter is incorrect, then draw a line to start on your stick-wizard 

•	If each part of the stick-wizard and broomstick is completed before the word is guessed – they fly away and player one wins the game

*Tips for drawing your stick-wizard on a broomstick*

•	Start with the broomstick. Draw one line for the handle and three smaller lines for the twigs. Make sure it’s floating in the air!

•	The stick-wizard must sit on the broomstick

•	The final detail of the stick-wizard is their wand. Don’t forget!

## Harry Potter Bingo: Philosopher’s Stone edition

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If you’re reading the first Harry Potter book, this is the game for you.

•	Copy the bingo card we’ve provided above. Use a ruler to draw the squares and then write one word into each square

•	Whilst you’re reading the book, keep an eye out for the words that appear on your bingo card

•	When you find one, draw a line through the square that contains the word you’ve discovered 

•	If you manage to cross out all your squares, shout, BINGO! Or DUMBLEDORE, if you prefer… 

•	If you want to play again, why not ask a member of your household to draw a new bingo card and fill it with new words!

## Snitches & Lightning Bolts 

Have you ever played the logic game, noughts & crosses? Well, Snitches & Lightning Bolts is almost exactly the same. But instead of drawing a cross you draw a lightning bolt – just like the one Harry has on his head. And instead of a nought, you draw a Snitch. Here’s how to play:

•	This is a two-player game

•	Draw two horizontal lines and two vertical lines, creating a grid with nine squares. Make sure the lines are far enough apart!

•	Choose who is going to draw lightning bolts and who is going to draw Snitches.

•	Each player takes it in turns to draw a lightning bolt or Snitch in an empty square. 

•	To win, you must make a line of lightning bolts or Snitches. The line can be horizontal, vertical and diagonal.

*Drawing tips:*

•	For the lightning bolt, remember that it is zigzag-shaped

•	For the Snitch, start by drawing a small circle and then adding a wing on each side.

•	Don’t worry too much about getting them exactly right, it’s the magical thought that counts!


Make reading Harry Potter fun with these three easy tips

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Children deserve reading experiences that resonate with their joyful spirits, and their desire to explore and play. These three activities will help.

## 1.	Read aloud, read aloud, read aloud

To help children become super readers, one persistent theme is the power and fun of the read aloud. It's a simple, yet transformative act that brings families together and helps kids learn thoughtfully.

Make the read aloud a daily experience for kids, and use best practices to keep them engaged. Before even opening the book, look at the cover – the Harry Potter books have magical illustrations – and make predictions together on what the book is about. 

As you read, stop to ask your child questions about the text – what shape is the scar on Harry’s forehead? Who is their favourite character so far? Which shops would they like to visit in Diagon Alley? Read with enthusiasm and expression by making silly voices, faces, and gestures to bring the text to life. Don’t be shy — the more dramatic the better!

Also remember that reading aloud is for kids of ALL ages. So, start early and don’t stop!

## 2.	Incorporate art

Setting up an art station during read-aloud time is just one way to combine reading and writing with creative expression through art. Bring out the crayons, coloured pencils, construction paper and all varieties of art supplies, and have a child design their own cover for a book they love!

When it comes to Harry Potter-themed inspiration, you can find fun create-at-home ideas on [Wizarding World’s Crafting Magic page](https://www.wizardingworld.com/collections/crafting-magic "Crafting Magic Collection") – which is part of [Harry Potter At Home](https://www.wizardingworld.com/collections/harry-potter-at-home "HPAH hub"). Examples of crafting challenges include helping your child learn how to knit a Weasley-inspired scarf, as well as making their very own Ravenclaw shoelaces. Who doesn’t love craft time?

## 3.	Use new kinds of reading sources

Beyond the traditional read aloud, stories can come from a variety of sources, including poems, oral tales, and wordless books! Technology can also be a great outlet – think about ebooks or audiobooks. 

When reading Harry Potter, we thought we’d mention that Audible has made the first Harry Potter audiobook free for everyone over the coming weeks. This is one of many classic books that will be available on Audible’s new platform, [stories.audible.com](https://stories.audible.com "Stories audible"). Take a look and see what you can find.

                                           - 

Think outside of the box when it comes to reading and watch your child light up with excitement. Making reading fun fosters a love of reading and captivating our kids with great stories is where true magic lies.

For more brilliant articles, book recommendations and reading advice and tools for parents and guardians, visit [Scholastic’s, Raise a Reader blog here](https://www.scholastic.com/parents/books-and-reading/raise-a-reader-blog.html "Scholastic raise a reader")


If you're reading Harry Potter for the first time – this hub has been designed especially for you. These articles will guide you on your first journey through the wizarding world. We guarantee, once your imagination reaches Hogwarts, you won't want to turn back!

First Year Challenges

Quizzes and puzzles to play

The First Year Challenges Collection

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Reading Harry Potter for the first time? The First Year Challenges collection is exactly what you need to accompany you on your first ever journey to Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. Play our puzzles and challenge yourself with our first year quizzes. Good luck! 

Bringing Hogwarts to You

Chapter Eight: 'The Potions Master'

Challenge yourself

The First Year Magical Locations Quiz

Try our Harry Potter wordsearch!

Create your own Aragog