As winter is approaching, we at The Eagle’s Eye, as the avid Harry Potter book lovers we are, decided to rank the Harry Potter books from worst to best. This article is for those who haven’t read the books and want to or those who have lots of love for (and opinions on) the Harry Potter series. We welcome differing perspectives but keep in mind that this is simply our take. Before you proceed, please be aware that this review contains spoilers.
Harry Potter and the Cursed Child
Harry Potter and the Cursed Child lives up to its name: cursed. Writing it as a play was risky, and the writers seemed to misunderstand Harry’s character completely. It is hard to believe that Harry Potter, who spent his summers feeling isolated and yearning for his best friends, would intentionally keep his youngest son, who is clearly struggling, away from his best friend because of a vague prophecy from a centaur. This brings me to the equally unlikely scenario that Ginny Weasley would allow her husband to act in this way. Ginny is not the type to be submissive, and I seriously doubt she would tolerate Harry’s decision to separate two close friends without a valid reason. Moving onto one of the biggest plot holes, if you ever talk to a Harry Potter fan, don’t ever get them started on Delphini—Voldemort and Bellatrix’s random kid who made no sense with the plot, especially because Bellatrix was already married. It feels like a desperate attempt to throw in shock value. Harry Potter and the Cursed Child was a convoluted mess that just doesn’t capture the magic of the original series.
Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix
Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix, the fifth book in the series, is ranked second-to-last because, despite its epic ending, it has a notably shady and sometimes frustrating storyline. The introduction of Dolores Umbridge, undeniably the most disliked character in the fandom, adds a constant source of tension and cruelty that can be difficult to endure. Though we gain intriguing insights into the Ministry of Magic and the prophecy involving Harry, these parts of the book can feel drawn out. Additionally, while Kreacher’s backstory with Sirius and Regulus is compelling, Sirius’s tragic death leaves readers feeling the weight of loss more than triumph.
Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince
The sixth book in the series, Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince is ranked sixth out of the eight books because of its darker tones. Although we finally learn more about Snape, James, and Lily’s complex backstory as well as the importance of the Horcruxes, the buildup to these revelations feels slow. A major character’s death also casts a dull shadow over the story, adding to the book’s dreary atmosphere. On top of that, the abundance of teenage romances—Ron with Lavender and Harry with Ginny—feels like a distraction from the book’s serious matters. However, Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince still has a strong storyline and leads into the next book, keeping readers hooked and excited to see how the ending of the series unfolds.
Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows
Fifth in our ranking is the seventh, and last, book in the series, Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows. Without revealing too much for those who haven’t read it, this book has a significant number of tragic deaths and a bittersweet ending. While moments like Bill and Fleur’s wedding offer glimpses of joy, the tone is generally darker. While we finally gain insight into Dumbledore’s family backstory, the conclusion, though mostly tied up, might feel somewhat heavy and somber for some readers, which is why the book is ranked relatively lower compared to the others.
Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone
Fourth in line is Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone, the book that started it all. While the pace is slower than in later books, its rhythm is justified considering it’s our first glimpse into the Wizarding World, filled with spells, magical classes, and intriguing teachers. The characters are young and their personalities are still developing, but we already see hints of the bravery and loyalty that will define Harry, Ron, and Hermione throughout the series. From the moment Harry arrives at Hogwarts, we’re drawn into the mystery, piecing together clues to uncover the identity of the villain at the school. This book sets the foundation for everything that follows, with the trio’s courage shining brightly, especially considering how new and overwhelming the magical world must feel.
Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire
Third, we have Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire, the fourth book in the Harry Potter series. In this book, we are introduced to the concept of other magical schools. This book also dives into the Golden Trio’s growing romantic lives, with Ron, Hermione, Krum, Harry, Cho, and Ginny all navigating early relationships and love triangles as they get older. The plot heats up with the Quidditch World Cup and the rise of the Death Eaters, adding serious stakes hinting at the dangers.
Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets
Coming in second is the second book in the series, Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets. This book stands out as a creative masterpiece with its dark mystery and the deeper look it gives us into the Wizarding World. This book introduces Dobby, the quirky yet courageous house-elf, whose loyalty to Harry instantly makes him a lovable character. It also unveils fascinating new aspects of Harry’s character, including his ability to speak Parseltongue, a skill linked to Tom Riddle, whose backstory is revealed through the enchanted diary. The terrifying basilisk and the legend of the Chamber of Secrets add an intense layer of suspense, making this book’s plot unforgettable. It also sets the stage for Harry’s evolving relationships, including his budding friendship with Ginny Weasley.
Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban
Finally, we arrive at our number one pick, Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban, the third installment of the Harry Potter series. There are so many reasons this book is a fan favorite. First of all, we are introduced to the concept of Dementors, the guards of Azkaban prison, wraith-like creatures that feed on the joy of human beings, leaving them drained and incapable of resistance. We also go slightly deeper into James and Lily Potter’s past, learning more about the fateful day they died, trying to protect their son. Most importantly, it introduces Sirius Black—a beloved character and Harry’s godfather—who becomes his first true parental figure, giving Harry a sense of belonging and family. This mix of emotional depth, character development, and thrilling new elements makes it the standout book in the series.
On that note, let us know whether or not you agree and what your opinions on the Harry Potter books are! Feel free to leave a comment, we would love to hear your thoughts!
