J. K. Rowling, the author of Harry Potter, once said, “Children from virtually every walk of life would like to go to Hogwarts.” No matter where a person is from, Harry Potter is universal. While the books are almost twenty years old, they have never lost their appeal.

Harry Potter has evolved from a popular young adult series to an international phenomenon. Successful movie adaptations, countless pieces of merchandise, and a theme park are just some of the parts of this very successful whole. However, to truly appreciate the franchise’s success, one must return to where it all began: the books.

The series was originally released in the United Kingdom in 1997 and appeared in the United States the following year. From there, its popularity skyrocketed, making it one of the most successful book series in recent history and rightfully earning its place as one of the most beloved. Its rich detail places the reader alongside Harry as he journeys his way through Hogwarts and the outside magical world, and its wonderfully varied characters appeal to everyone, no matter how different they may feel. Harry as a character represents so much more than a hero; he is a child growing into an adult, constantly trying to find himself and navigate a heavily burdened life.

While the series published its last book, Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows, almost eight years ago, J. K. Rowling has managed to keep readers coming back for more. The movies series finished its internationally successful run in 2011, leaving a tiny hole in the hearts of Potter fans everywhere. J. K. Rowling continues to deliver new trivia on the website Pottermore.com, which is an interactive way to experience each new chapter of the series. Interwoven with these experiences are chances to be sorted into a Hogwarts house, learn new information about characters, items and places, and see Harry’s world through a fresh pair of eyes. This continual addition of information is what keeps the series new and exciting.

Potter fans have also been abuzz about an upcoming spinoff film called Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them, whose title references a Hogwarts textbook in the original series. The films follow the writer of the textbook, Newt Scamander, and his adventures in 1920s New York. Many American fans are going wild at the prospect of an American wizard society.

Though the series is now nearing twenty years in publication, it has never lost its charm. Its rich detail, global appeal and realistic characters have created an international media phenomenon. Rowling’s efforts to create a magical and whimsical journey about a boy with a lightning scar have certainly paid off and will continue to grow as long as people believe in the magic that is Hogwarts.