I was a huge Potterhead back in the day (well...I still am, just not as obsessed). I know the books are great and all, I know how addictive her writing style is, that she can create such vivid and engaging characters and places, and the stories keep you hungry for more...but IMO that still does not completely explain the insane hype that generated. I don't think there has ever been this level of mania and craze for a book -- a children's/YA book for that matter. So I am wondering, what are some of the factor that led to the hype? I've heard things like the rise in Internet (and internet fandom), JKR's rags-to-riches story, etc all contributed. So for those who have been there, what was the mania like at that point, and what factors (aside from the quality of the books themselves) that lead to it?
For me it was the world building. The thought of a secret magical world that exists along side with ours in modern time sounded amazing.
The books also came out when I was around the same age as the characters, going to school, worrying about exams, holidays, crushes, etc. As the books were released it felt like I was growing up along with the characters as well. The books really helped me get through times and the releases gave me something to look forward to.
I'm very introverted and usually avoid people, but during the book and movie releases, I felt quite connected to people however brief that was. I think it's the same for most fandoms.
But the World Building is no better than any books of the era. Indeed, there were plenty of other books that were far better world building around that same time. Like Wheel of Time has a far deeper, richer magic systems. His Dark Material is similar vibes and a far better magical systems. Others include The Magicians.
To each their own on what satisfies their imagination. If you happen to find another series that you like better, good on you. Doesn't make one better than the other.