C.S. Lewis’s The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe is a classic fantasy novel that, like Harry Potter, has captivated readers for generations. While the two stories are different in many ways—Harry Potter being set in a magical school and The Chronicles of Narnia in a mythical kingdom—they share key themes that make them timeless, enchanting, and unforgettable. Both books invite readers into a hidden world of magic, follow young protagonists on a hero’s journey, and explore good vs. evil in an epic battle. For readers who love the wonder, adventure, and emotional depth of Harry Potter, The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe is a perfect next read.
One of the greatest appeals of Harry Potter is the idea that magic exists just beyond what we can see, waiting to be discovered. In The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe, the world of Narnia is hidden behind an ordinary wardrobe, much like how Hogwarts is hidden from the Muggle world.
Both stories begin in the real world before introducing the protagonist to a secret, magical realm—Narnia for Lucy, Edmund, Susan, and Peter, and the wizarding world for Harry. This sense of discovery and wonder is what makes both books so engaging. The moment Lucy steps into Narnia for the first time, seeing the snowy landscape and meeting Mr. Tumnus, mirrors Harry’s arrival at Diagon Alley, where he first experiences the magical world he belongs to.
Like Harry Potter, The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe follows young heroes who step into a world of magic and danger, discovering that they have a greater role to play than they ever imagined.
Harry starts as an ordinary boy, unaware of his magical heritage, and must learn about his past and destiny at Hogwarts.
The Pevensie siblings are ordinary children who stumble into Narnia, only to learn that they are part of an ancient prophecy that will decide the kingdom’s fate.
Both stories explore the classic hero’s journey, where young characters face challenges, uncover hidden truths about themselves, and rise to become heroes in a world that desperately needs them.
At the heart of both Harry Potter and The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe is a grand battle between good and evil, where the protagonists must stand against dark forces threatening their world.
In Harry Potter, Harry learns that he is the only one who can stop Voldemort, the Dark Lord who seeks to control the wizarding world.
In The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe, the Pevensie children must help Aslan defeat the White Witch, who has cast Narnia into an eternal winter.
Both stories feature a powerful villain, a prophecy that ties the hero to the fate of the magical world, and a final battle where courage and sacrifice are necessary to defeat the darkness.
Both books feature a wise, powerful mentor who guides the young protagonists, teaching them about their destiny and the dangers ahead.
Dumbledore in Harry Potter is a fatherly figure, offering guidance, wisdom, and protection while slowly preparing Harry for the battle against Voldemort.
Aslan in The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe is a majestic, godlike figure who leads the Pevensies against the White Witch and represents the ultimate force of good in Narnia.
Both Dumbledore and Aslan embody wisdom, power, and sacrifice, providing moral lessons and guidance that shape the heroes' journeys.
One of the most beloved aspects of Harry Potter is the deep friendships that develop throughout the series. Harry, Ron, and Hermione support each other through every challenge, just as the Pevensie siblings stand together to save Narnia.
The themes of loyalty, courage, and the power of unity are central to both books. The Pevensie children, despite their differences, must work together and trust one another, much like how Harry, Ron, and Hermione’s bond helps them survive Voldemort’s threats.
One of the reasons both Harry Potter and The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe are so beloved is because their fantasy worlds feel rich, immersive, and alive.
Hogwarts is a place of endless wonder, with its moving staircases, enchanted portraits, hidden rooms, and magical creatures.
Narnia is a breathtaking kingdom filled with talking animals, mystical landscapes, ancient prophecies, and legendary battles.
Both books transport readers into a world that feels real, making them long to visit Hogwarts or step through the wardrobe into Narnia.
Both books go beyond magic and adventure, exploring deeper themes of sacrifice, bravery, and destiny.
In Harry Potter, Harry learns about sacrifice through the loss of his parents, and he ultimately faces Voldemort with the knowledge that he may have to give up everything to save the wizarding world.
In The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe, Aslan’s self-sacrifice to save Edmund mirrors the idea of choosing love and selflessness over power and fear.
Both books teach young readers that true heroism comes from selflessness, standing up for what is right, and facing fears with courage.
Both Harry Potter and The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe are written for young readers, but their depth, themes, and world-building make them beloved by adults as well.
They both explore deep emotional moments, from loss and sacrifice to the power of love and friendship.
They balance humor, adventure, and high-stakes storytelling, making them enjoyable for all ages.
Because of this, both books have stood the test of time, continuing to captivate new generations of readers.
Like Harry Potter, The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe is a story of magic, friendship, and the battle between light and darkness. Both books invite readers into a hidden world, where young protagonists must embrace their destiny, uncover ancient secrets, and fight for good against powerful evil. With epic storytelling, rich world-building, and unforgettable characters, The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe is a must-read for fans of Harry Potter who are looking for another magical adventure full of wonder, courage, and timeless fantasy.