Set decades before any of the events in the Harry Potter series, Fantastic Beasts focuses on another wizard (Newt Scamander) and his magical adventures in New York City. But the prospect of more magic, wizards, spells and other fantasy elements can alarm or disturb plenty of people. Around the world, the Harry Potter phenomena has terrified parents about the possible negative impact it can have upon their children.

The Big Picture’s Mark Hadley believes that we all need Harry Potter. NEED. And not just Harry, but the whole library of characters and stories which are like his invented universe. Why we should not be scared of the Hogwarts crowd – and, instead, be lining up to be part of their world – boils down to a few key reasons, according to Mark. Reasons that actually relate to our everyday lives.