The Harry Potter franchise has evolved continuously since the books were originally released, making it hard to know where to start when considering Harry Potter for beginners. The fandom has grown exponentially, and it seems the Wizarding World has really taken over pop culture. That's a daunting prospect for anyone interested in getting into the series for the first time. With so many books, films, video games, and even some live experiences, it's difficult to know where to begin and how it all interconnects. Luckily, there are some great tips out there for those who have no idea about Harry Potter but are willing to learn.

From the books to the movies to everything in between, there are a lot of things that Harry Potter newbies might want to know before they get started with the franchise. J.K. Rowling has sold over 500 million copies of Harry Potter books worldwide, and more than 180 million in the United States alone. The movies have made over $9.5 billion at the box office (via The Numbers). That gives a lot of ground for people to cover, and there are several things the uninitiated need to know before starting Harry Potter for beginners.

12 The Harry Potter Movies Are Different From The Books

It's really important to note before beginning on this journey full of sorcery when it comes to Harry Potter for beginners that there are major differences from the movies. There were changes with certain characters, the portrayal of some moments, and the absence of whole storylines in the movies. Some solid Harry Potter tips for beginners, it's important to understand that going in. Both the movies and novels have something unique to offer. How to start Harry Potter is a big decision, nevertheless, because starting with the books will form a general image of what to expect from the film interpretations and vice versa. Ultimately, whichever the fan starts with, it's vital to temper expectations and take each iteration for what it is.

11 There Are Harry Potter Spin-Off Books

There are seven core books in the Harry Potter saga, but the expanded material is also must-reads once finishing the initial series. There are three major titles to pick up: Fantastic Beasts And Where To Find Them, Quidditch Through The Ages, and The Tales Of Beedle The Bard. Each one is written as if created within the Harry Potter universe itself and recounts the history of the Wizarding World covering magical creatures, the world-famous sport, and folklore. Harry Potter tips here are not to ignore these excellent creations as they really help round out this fictional landscape.

10 You Don't Have To Watch The Fantastic Beasts Movies To Follow Harry Potter

Of course, the Wizarding World features a second major movie franchise, Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them, loosely inspired by the fictional textbook book of the same name. There have been three movies in the series released so far, but should fans watch Harry Potter or Fantastic Beasts first? Some may feel that they should start with the prequels before moving on to the main Harry Potter series of films. Arguably, the best way to experience the Wizarding World is to watch Fantastic Beasts and its sequels after reading and watching the initial Hogwarts films. Fantastic Beasts is not a vital watch, but they are still a fun addition for fans.

9 The Films Feature Several British Acting Legends

The novels themselves are British, and therefore the filmmaking process was very much centered on talent from the British Isles. Viewers might be surprised that there are no American actors in main character roles in the eight Harry Potter films, but it's important to know why. J.K. Rowling made sure that the original director, Chris Columbus, only cast British performers (via IndieWire). Viewers won't find a range of homegrown Hollywood talent, but many of the actors - including Dame Maggie Smith, Alan Rickman, Kenneth Brannagh, Jim Broadbent, and Ralph Fiennes - are Britain's finest thespians.

8 There Are Themed Harry Potter Snacks To Enjoy

Watching Harry Potter for beginners should be an experience and like any other cinema-going event, snacks are a vital part of that. There are countless famous foods from Harry Potter muggles can actually make for themselves. Whether it's British classics like fish and chips or magical candy such as chocolate frogs, a great tip is to make some of the recognizable dishes using online recipes to snack on while you watch. The Warner Bros. shop does sell some of the confectionary seen on screen for those with a sweet tooth who do not wish to test their culinary skills.

7 The Sequel To Harry Potter Is A Play Called The Cursed Child

When it comes to Harry Potter for beginners, when looking across all the different Potter projects, it's probably quite jarring to see so many titles. The Cursed Child is another piece of the puzzle to be aware of. It's a stage show focusing on the future of the franchise that originated in the West End. Although there are stagings across the world, it's definitely important to read the published script of the piece first, as tickets are expensive and showings are difficult to get to; especially since it's in two parts! Ultimately, a top tip for those new to Harry Potter is to read the script after completing the rest of the series - this way fans will avoid major spoilers.

6 Resources For Further Harry Potter Research

There's a lot of lore to get to grips with when it comes to Harry Potter for beginners. As a result, the continuity between the novels and the cinematic universe can become quite confusing. Wizarding World, formerly Pottermore, is a great resource for finding out further details about Harry, his friends, and the vast world that inhabit. There's plenty to discover in Wizarding World, from facts about each book and movie in the series to features written by J.K. Rowling herself. To get the most out of the franchise, new fans should definitely check out the extracurricular resources available across the internet, including Wizarding World.

5 There Are Harry Potter Video Games

There are many Harry Potter video games, covering everything from the stories told in the film to the games of Quidditch. These adaptations sometimes leave a lot to be desired, but the LEGO iterations are a lot of fun for all the family to enjoy and come highly recommended. For those who want an immersive video game experience set within this universe, there is Hogwarts Legacy, an open-world action RPG where players live out a student's life in the hallowed halls of Hogwarts and beyond. The game received high praise and might be the best Harry Potter game yet.

4 The Wizarding World Of Harry Potter Is Worth It

After completing the books and movies, new fans may be wondering what could possibly come next. The Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Studios Orlando is sure to come up as an option, but fans may be wondering if a trip to the theme park is truly a worthwhile experience. Many veteran fans will say that the simple answer is a resounding yes. There are plenty of Harry Potter tips and pieces of advice for those visiting Universal Studios for the first time as it's important to get as much as they can out of the experience. There's so much to do there and often not enough time to do it.

3 The Warner Bros. Tour Is A Must-See

For those heading to the UK, a major tip is to visit the Warner Bros. Studio Tour. The experience takes place in the same area where the movies were filmed. The experience allows fans to wander through major locations and see how the films were made. Privet Drive, The Great Hall, Diagon Alley, and The Ministry Of Magic are all areas guests can explore. Props, costumes, and special effects are on display and there are a number of events held throughout the year, such as the magical Christmas displays during the holiday season. There are experts on hand to talk to guests and an impressive gift shop.

2 Stephen Fry's Audio Book Versions Are Legendary

When it comes to Harry Potter for beginners, there is a way to experience the wonderful Wizarding World other than reading the books or watching the movies. New fans can also listen to the Harry Potter audiobooks and that is an experience unlike any other. That is because, much like the movies, it is a highly respected British figure narrating the books. Stephen Fry is the voice behind the Harry Potter audiobooks and brings his familiar and beloved voice to the franchise. There are some who think this might be the best way to experience Harry Potter for the first time.

1 There's A Harry Potter TV Show Coming

When it comes to Harry Potter for beginners, there is a new entry point for young fans who want to experience the magical world of Hogwarts for the first time. Warner Bros. DIscovery announced that Harry Potter is returning as a streaming series from HBO on the streaming service Max. When wondering how to start Harry Potter, this could be the perfect entry point for newbies. As a streaming series, this will be able to really delve into the books in a way that the movies never could. The new Harry Potter series will cover all seven books in the series over a 10-season run and promises to be faithful to the J.K. Rowling book series.