Interview with J.K. Rowling: From Cafes to Castles
An exclusive look into the magical world of Harry Potter and the books that actually inspired the woman who inspired the world.
We sat down (virtually, of course) with J.K. Rowling to discuss the origins of the Boy Who Lived. While everyone knows about the napkins in the Edinburgh cafes, fewer people talk about the books that sat on her own childhood shelf—the ones that laid the groundwork for Hogwarts.
Rowling and Author Insights
J.K. Rowling shares these specific influences from her own childhood reading. If you want to understand the DNA of Harry Potter, these are the titles to start with:
The Little White Horse by Elizabeth Goudge: Rowling has often cited this as her favorite childhood book. This magical village tale for ages 8-12 features Moonacre Manor, a place so atmospheric you can almost smell the sea air and old wood. It’s easy to see the seeds of an immersive, magical home like Hogwarts here.
I Capture the Castle by Dodie Smith: Not just for teens, this diary of a girl living in a crumbling castle is a masterclass in voice. It captures the quirkiness of family life and the magic of a unique setting—something every Potter fan will appreciate.
The Chronicles of Narnia by C.S. Lewis: The ultimate portal fantasy. Rowling grew up with these tales of lions, witches, and wardrobes. They taught an entire generation that magic is just one wardrobe-back-panel away.
The Boy Who Continued
Rowling reminded us that perseverance wasn't just a theme for Harry; it was her own reality. From a dozen rejections to a global phenomenon, the magic was in not giving up. 'If you want to write,' she says, 'you must read. And then you must keep going, even when the ink seems to run dry.'
✨ Featured Reading & Games
Harry Potter And The Philosophers Stone Hb
J. K. Rowling
Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone invites readers into a spellbound world where a boy discovers he is a wizard and begins a life‑changing journey at Hogwarts. This timeless fantasy for children and families blends wonder, friendship, and courage, making it perfect for new readers and long‑time fans alike. With a warm, adventurous tone, it invites curious minds to believe in magic and the power of friendship. In this edition, Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone comes to life through Jim Kay’s full‑color illustrations that shimmer beside J.K. Rowling’s beloved text. The story unfolds in accessible chapters with a steady, cinematic pace that invites you to wander the halls of Hogwarts, meet unforgettable characters, and unravel a mysterious secret—all without spoilers. The experience is immersive, playful, and heartfelt, pairing enchanting artwork with a storytelling rhythm that both new readers and returning fans will savor. Key content elements: Harry Potter's first year at Hogwarts, magical lessons, friendships, and a mysterious quest Interactive or standout features: Jim Kay’s vivid full-color illustrations that enhance every page Learning outcomes or experiences: sparks imagination, curiosity about magic, courage, and the value of friendship Writing or illustration style: classic storytelling with lush, cinematic artwork and warm humor After finishing Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone, readers are left with a renewed sense of wonder, a belief in brave friendships, and a desire to explore more of the magical world. It’s a comforting, thrilling doorway to reading that invites ongoing curiosity and joyful rereading.
Why it's great
A great pick for learning and fun!
The Little White Horse
Elizabeth Goudge
When orphan Maria arrives at Moonacre Manor, she feels as if she's come home. Her new guardian is kind and funny, and everyone there is like an old friend. But beneath the beauty and comfort lies a tragedy. Maria is determined to find out about it, change it, and give her own life story a happy ending. This new-fashioned story is just as satisfying and memorable as your favorite fairy tale. "The theme is as old as the fairy tales, and it is written with a haunting beauty of wording and atmosphere . . . A book to cherish, to read again and again and again." (
Why it's great
A great pick for learning and fun!
I Capture the Castle
Dodie Smith
'I write this sitting in the kitchen sink...'This is the diary of Cassandra Mortmain, which tells of her extraordinary family and their crumbling castle home.
Why it's great
A great pick for learning and fun!
The Chronicles Of Narnia The Voyage Of The Dawn Treader
C.S. Lewis
Enter the magical world of Narnia with The Voyage of the Dawn Treader , the fifth book in C.S. Lewis’s Chronicles of Narnia. This beloved fantasy adventure follows Edmund and Lucy as they join Prince Caspian on a grand voyage aboard the Dawn Treader. Together they sail the seas, encounter mythical creatures, and explore islands that test courage and friendship. The tone is adventurous and uplifting, inviting readers of all ages to imagine, dream, and believe in the power of truth and bravery. Written as a timeless tale with episodic chapters, The Voyage of the Dawn Treader unfolds like a journey of discovery across sparkling seas. Each island stop brings a new encounter and a quiet lesson, carried along by clear, inviting prose. This paperback edition presents a contemporary look and a refreshed cover that draws in new readers while honoring the enduring magic loved by generations. Whether you’re revisiting Narnia or encountering it for the first time, the storytelling feels warm and engaging—perfect for shared reading or a personal escape. The book blends brisk pacing with thoughtful themes of bravery, friendship, and the pursuit of truth, making the voyage feel accessible and richly rewarding. The Voyage of the Dawn Treader follows Edmund and Lucy aboard the Dawn Treader with Prince Caspian on a sea-spanning quest in The Chronicles Of Narnia Newly designed paperback edition with contemporary cover art Island-hopping adventures with mythical creatures and lessons in courage,
Why it's great
A great pick for learning and fun!