Who is Snape? What’s a horcrux? When did Sirius Black escape from Azkaban? Why was Hermione sorted into Gryffindor?

It’s easy for new fans to get overwhelmed by the sprawling mythology and complexity of the Harry Potter movies and books. Unlike encyclopedias and guides that offer diehard fans trivia, details, and deep dives into every on-screen moment, this first-of-its-kind explainer is an easy, fun, and accessible introduction to the hundreds of characters, plots, and interconnected stories that make up one of the greatest pop culture franchises of all time.

Maybe you’re a First Year and need an entry level class on the magical Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry? Are you trying to figure out why Slytherins are so slippery? Trying to parcel out parseltongue? Having trouble sorting out when Dumbledore battled Grindelwald? Or maybe you’re a confident Ravenclaw who wants to understand why it’s leviOsa, not levioSA!

If you’re a Muggle, witch, or wizard looking for an easy entry into what literally everyone is talking about then this is the book for you. As the perfect and unauthorized resource to keep on hand when watching something for the first—or tenth—time, Smart Pop Explains Harry Potter Movies and Books to you like no one could!