Books

Books To Read While Waiting For 'Cursed Child'

by Julia Seales

It’s been a long time since we’ve had to wait for a Harry Potter story, but I can’t say that I mind the wait. After all, the fact that I’m impatiently expecting Cursed Child and Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them means that there will be more stories set in the wizarding world. And I will get to read them. And I will get to go to another midnight release party dressed in the Harry Potter costume of my choice.

The only thing is, waiting for Cursed Child has put me in a magical mood. Suddenly, I want all my books to have enchanted castles and spellbooks and creatures inspired by ancient legends. I want the characters to wear robes in their house colors and talk about the Ministry of Magic. And I want people to travel by broom, Portkey, and apparation.

If you, like me, are beginning to feel distinctly charmed, the only cure is to read books that cater to this mood. And if you, like me, have read Harry Potter a million times (so much so that your books are literally disintegrating), try a few of the following magical novels while you’re waiting for the release of Cursed Child:

1. Stardust by Neil Gaiman

The whimsical tale of Tristan Thorn and his journey over the wall is the perfect book to read while you're waiting for the adventures of Cursed Child. No one does fantasy like Gaiman, and this book is a sparkling and fun read for Harry Potter fans.

Click here to buy.

2. The Princess And The Goblin by George MacDonald

This children's classic is the witty and magical tale of a princess, a boy named Curdie, and goblins. The imagery stayed with me years after I first read it, and it will definitely appeal to fans of the quirky magic in Harry Potter.

Click here to buy.

3. The Name Of The Wind by Patrick Rothfuss

Kvothe is an orphan who goes to a school of magic and becomes a powerful wizard. Sound familiar? This epic tale is a long read, but it's definitely one that fans of Harry Potter will love.

Click here to buy.

4. An Ember In The Ashes by Sabaa Tahir

Read this amazing YA fantasy before the sequel comes out this fall: Laia is a slave, and Elias is a soldier, but neither of them are happy under the strict Martial Empire of their land. Fans of the fast-paced adventure-fueled plot-lines of Harry Potter will fall for this book.

Click here to buy.

5. Slade House by David Mitchell

The entrance to Slade House is in a narrow alley, near a pub, but it's very reminiscent of the Room of Requirement because it's not easy to find. This twisted tale winds together many characters and stories for a horror novel you won't soon forget.

Click here to buy.

6. Six Of Crows by Leigh Bardugo

Kaz Brekker is a criminal mastermind, but for his latest heist, he'll need some help from an unlikely crew. This fantastical heist novel will appeal to fans of the darker side of Harry Potter... and, of course, fans of Fred and George's tricks.

Click here to buy.

7. A Wizard Of Earthsea by Ursula K. Le Guin

Ged, AKA Sparrowhawk, becomes a sorcerer's apprentice, attends a magical school, and battles a mysterious shadow. This classic fantasy is a must read for people who can't get enough of Hogwarts.

Click here to buy.

Image: Jack Taylor/Getty Images