"Harry Potter" remains a controversial point of discussion among Christians of all backgrounds. If you are looking to dig deeper into the themes of J.K. Rowling's popular series, you can take a closer look at the novels by reading some of these books that discuss the pros and cons of reading "Harry Potter."
Pro-Harry Potter Books:
Looking for God in Harry Potter by John Granger
The Christian father of four creates both a Christian and literary analysis of the "Harry Potter" series. He also includes an in-depth discussion of J.K. Rowling's use of language and insights into the names the author uses throughout the series. It is a useful tool for parents wanting to discuss the themes in the book with their Christian teens.
What's a Christian to Do with Harry Potter by Connie Neal
In "What's a Christian to Do with Harry Potter," Connie Neal describes both an understanding of why some parents have issues allowing their Christian teens to read the "Harry Potter" series, but she also discusses how the books can be a useful tool in opening up discussion.
The Gospel According to Harry Potter: Spirituality in the Stories of the World's Most Famous Seeker by Connie Neal
As a follow up to "What's a Christian to Do with Harry Potter," Connie Neal pulls moral lessons from the "Harry Potter" series and creating parallels to stories in the Bible.
God, the Devil, and Harry Potter: A Christian Minister's Defense of the Beloved Novels by John Killinger
As a Presbyterian minister, John Killinger argues that the "Harry Potter" draws on Christian themes and discusses parallels in Christian storytelling. Some of his details about the books are incorrect, but his discussion of themes can help parents and Christian teens determine the value of reading the series.
A Parent's Guide to Harry Potter by Gina Burkart
Gina Burkart wrote this book after having read the "Harry Potter" books with her own children and noticing the parallel themes between the books and her Christian faith. She guides the reader through the parallels and discusses how to use the fantasy story to guide people in building a moral framework.
Anti-Harry Potter Books
Harry Potter and the Bible: The Menace Behind the Magick by Richard Abanes
Richard Abanes exposes the forms of occultism and appropriate scriptural responses as well as delving into the spiritual dangers found in the pages of the first four "Harry Potter" books. He also discusses why the occult is condemned in the Bible and the appropriate place for fantasy in Christian literature.
Harry Potter, Narnia, and the Lord of the Rings: What You Need to Know About Fantasy Books and Movies by Richard Abanes
Discussing the impact that fantasy literature can have on our children, Richard Abanes discusses the themes found in each of these books and movies and discusses whether or not the stories are "preaching or teaching." Through this novel he calls Christian parents to be discerning and watch what their children are watching and reading.
Hour of the Witch: Harry Potter, Wicca Witchcraft, and the Bible by Steve Wohlberg
Steve Wohlberg discusses how the popularity of wicca and witchcraft is rising, and he points to books like "Harry Potter" that are fueling the popularity. He scrutinizes the stories using scripture and spirituality to question whether or not the stories are truly "harmless."
