Is Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone appropriate for a 6 year old?

[asmurfstolemyheart]

My daughter is keen to read the first book but I am concerned that the plot may be too complex for her to follow and that elements of it may be frightening. She is a capable reader but I thought it could be something we could read together.

Any advice would be gratefully received. Many Thanks.

The end may be a little frightening depending on her sensitivity to such things. But it is generally OK. Has she seen the film?

Thanks for your response Hulababy. No she hasn't seen the film, the whole Harry Potter phenomenon has really passed us by so we are ill equipped to judge!

I think the first book is fine for a six year old - I certainly read it to DD2 at that age (her big sister had read it and she was desperate to read it too). The next two are probably also fine, but after that they get a bit much for an under-eight IMO.

My 6 year old loves Harry potter. He probably knows more about the plot than I do. I insisted that we finish the book before we watch the film and he pointed out all the ways it was different from the book.

Yes fine. My 6YO really loves them. He has heard (read by us and Stephen Fry) books 1-3 but I agree that they get quite intense and scary from then on.

Thanks everyone, your responses have reassured me. We shall start with Harry Potter tomorrow night then. DD will be thrilled!