books like harry potter

[kempermentor]

> > bathbaby18:
> > I know that there could be no comparison but I was wondering if
> > there are any good books that were close to being like Harry
> > Potter or any good books along those lines. Thanks in Advance
> 
> bboyminn:
> 
> If you are looking for 'boy wizard' books specifically, then 
> consider "The Bartimaeus trilogy" by Jonathan Stroud. 

Kemper now:
I agree enthusiastically with this suggestion.
It's a wonderful story, and, at least for me, pulled my heart strings
more without any sentimentality. 


> bboyminn:
> Not about a boy wizard in the normal sense at all but I was
> fascinated by the Eragon - Inheritance Series, and can't wait
> for the next book to come out. 

Kemper now:
I disagree vehemently with this suggestion.
But make up your own mind and share with us.

 
> bboyminn:
> In more of a science fiction genre, the absolute classic and
> dearly love stories of "Ender's Game" and "Ender's Shadow" 
> by Orson Scott Card are first rate. 

Kemper now:
I agree fervently with this suggestion.
I'm so looking forward to the movie and hope it is not made into a
kids film.

Adding this series by Rick Riordan to the fantasy mix:
Percy Jackson and the Olympians 

Each book in the series is better than the last.  The read is quick,
and the end of each chapter (especially in the last two books)
compelled me to read the beginning of the next... a bit like HP.

Adding this series by Timothy Zahn to the sci/fi list:
Dragonback

It's a bit on the formulaic side.  But it's a quick read.  Ender's
Game and Ender's Shadow are far more superior.

I know you asked for books, but allow me to suggest a cartoon:
Avatar: The Last Airbender

Much of the series is out on DVD except for the last 6-ish episodes
which haven't aired yet (they're due to air later this month or early
next.)  You can also hunt around and find them online.  For an easy
reference to episodes, you can search "Avatar episodes" on wikipedia.
A movie is being discussed with M. Night Shamalan(?) directing.