Which Harry Potter book did J.K. Rowling publish first under the title Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone?

Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone was the first Harry Potter book published by J.K. Rowling.

The novel introduces Harry, Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, Ron Weasley, Hermione Granger and the central conflict involving Lord Voldemort. It was published in the United Kingdom in 1997 and began the seven-book main series.

The American edition used a different title: Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone. The change was made because the publisher believed some readers in the United States might not understand “philosopher’s stone” as a magical object. The story itself is substantially the same, but the title and some wording differ between editions.

The later books continue Harry’s school years and the growing threat from Voldemort. The first novel should not be confused with the 2001 film adaptation, which carries the same title in the United Kingdom and the alternate title in the United States.