After Harry Potter

Focus for this list: It's a simple idea -- what would be a good read after you've finished rereading the Harry Potter series for the 12,473rd time? There are lots of answers out there. This list, however, is organized by the House that you identify with the most. Mind you, there's no rule about reading only one House's recommended books.  Pretend you're wandering the halls of Hogwarts and have all the secrets needed to browse through the books stashed in the common rooms for each House. And with that, let us begin.

Ravenclaw: Known for intellect, wit, creativity, and wisdom, those who lean toward Ravenclaw may well enjoy these books:

 1.  Sophie's World by Jostein Gaarder
This engaging and cleverly written book all begins with a mysterious letter and an interesting question. By the time you're done, though, you'll have reviewed more than 3.000 years worth of philosophy, and enjoyed yourself thoroughly. 

2.  The Eyre Affair: A Thursday Next Novel by Jasper Fforde
The first in a series, this blend of mystery, fantasy, and high literature takes place in an alternate England where high literature is wildly important, and evil villains are able to kidnapp characters out of books. If you've ever wanted to literally step into a book, this is the book for you!

3.  Ender's Game by Orson Scott Card
What happens if you're wildly intelligent, and the government wants to harness your wit and leadership to fight an alien invasion?  Oh yes, while entertaining you, this award-winning novel will  lead you to think more deeply about topics that concern us all. 

Hufflepuff: Well known for their honesty, fair play, loyalty and tolerance, I think those who enjoy the gentle Hufflepuff lifestyle will enjoy the following tales:

1.  A Spell for Chameleon by Piers Anthony

In a land where everyone has a personal magic, Bink doesn't seem to have any at all. Worse yet, if he doesn't discover his magical talent soon, he'll be banished. This is the beginning of a wildly punny series. I think the first 10-12 books in the series are the best, but to a certain extent, they're like candy, you just know you'll enjoy them!

2.  Another Fine Myth by Robert Asprin

Fast-paced and delightfully silly, this series is a great way to relax after a stressful day of school or work. Another series of his, Phule's Company, pokes fun at the genre of military sci-fi. 

3.  The Unlikely Ones by Mary Brown

This book is a bit darker than the others, but it's a book my sister found stashed in the corner of the Hufflepuff common room. She says it's about a group working together, with emphasis on cooperation and tenacity. I remember reading it years ago and have just bought another copy! 

Gryffindor: The daring Gryffindors value bravery and chivalry. These are just a few of the adventure-laden books that they've been passing around when they were to have been studying! 

1.  The Lightning Thief by Rick Riordan

With a hero with whom I think Harry would really identify, as well as some pretty terrible monsters, this is the beginning of an epic saga.

2. Uglies by Scott Westerfeld

This may seem like an odd choice, given the title, but really, this is a fabulous exploration of bravery and self-determination. 

3. The Sea of Trolls by Nancy Farmer

An epic quest with a young protagonist, this is a grand adventure.  What happened after the end of Beowulf?  This will tell you, and leave you wanting more!

Slytherin: Quite ambitious, cunning, and resourceful, I think those who are fascinated with Slytherin would also enjoy these books. 

1.  Marked: A House of Night Novel by P.C. Cast & Kristin Cast 

Three words: vampire finishing school. 

2.  The Amulet of Samarkand (The Bartimaeus Triology, Book One) by Jonathan Stroud

I have to confess, I love the voice of the main narrator of this series.  Who is it?  Why the demon who is summoned by an 11 year old magician to get his revenge on an older magician who was mean to him, of course!  No really, the demon has a great sense of humor.  If nothing else, read the first few pages, footnotes included, and see for yourself.  (Thank you, Amazon Preview!)

3.  Artemis Fowl by Eoin Colfer

This is the perfect book for an aspiring Slytherin.  In fact, I've heard that they require their First Years to read it.  After all, what's not to like about an Irish millionaire genius, who is also a criminal mastermind, and is only 12 years old?  Just watch out for the LEPrecon forces.  They're nothing to mess with.  That is, unless you're Artemis.   

There, now that you've had a chance to wander the grounds, devouring books, in which House do you hope the Sorting Hat will place you?