J.K. Rowling's 1997 novel introduces Harry Potter, an orphan who learns of his magical heritage.

Harry Potter, an eleven-year-old boy, lives a difficult life with his aunt, uncle, and cousin, who are not magical. His ordinary existence ends when he receives an invitation to Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. At Hogwarts, Harry learns he is a wizard and that his parents were killed by the dark wizard Lord Voldemort. The story follows Harry's first year at the school, where he makes friends like Hermione Granger and Ron Weasley. He also encounters rivals, such as Draco Malfoy, and mysterious professors like Severus Snape. Guided by the wise Headmaster Albus Dumbledore, Harry begins to understand his past and the magical world.

The narrative details Harry's adjustment to his new life, his early attempts at magic, and his discovery of the school's secrets. He learns about the Philosopher's Stone, an object of great power. The book sets up the central conflict between Harry and Voldemort, hinting at a larger destiny for the young wizard. It establishes the core characters and the setting of the wizarding world, laying the groundwork for future installments.