If you’re trying to buy gifts for a Harry Potter fan, but have never read the books or seen the movies, you may find yourself a bit overwhelmed. Fortunately, you found this guide. Read to get up to speed on what you need to know to understand and select Harry Potter gifts.

Important: this article contains some minor spoilers.

Summary: Harry Potter is a series of 7 fantasy books (later turned into 8 movies) that tells the story of Harry Potter and his friends as he studies at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry and works against the evil wizard Lord Voldemort. It is set in modern day Britain (wizards and witches live in secret so muggles, or non-magical folk, aren’t aware of their existence).

Step 1: Know your main characters

Harry Potter
A young man who discovers he is a wizard at age 11. The books follow his training as a wizard and his efforts to defeat Voldemort.

Ron Weasley
One of Harry’s best friends and “sidekick” throughout the series. Ron’s family members are all also prominent characters.

Hermione Granger
One of Harry’s best friends and a brilliant young witch. Harry and Ron often relied on Hermione’s knowledge, skill and memory.

Albus Dumbledore
Headmaster of Hogwarts and the most powerful wizard of modern times. A father-like figure to Harry.

Lord Voldemort
An evil dark wizard who is vying for power and domination. The primary antagonist for the majority of the series.

Rubeus Hagrid
Groundskeeper at Hogwarts, and a close friend and ally of Harry, Ron, and Hermione.

Severus Snape
Professor at Hogwarts. Snape had a rather unlikeable personality, but was loyal. Many fans view him as a favorite hero for his actions in later books.

Draco Malfoy
Hogwarts student and bully, frequent nemesis of Harry and his friends.

Step 2: Know your locations and artifacts

Hogwarts
Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry was located in an ancient castle, Hogwarts Castle.

Wands
Wands were required to work magic. Every witch and wizard and their own wand, which was unique and identifiable.

Hogwarts Express
The Hogwarts Express was a train that Hogwarts students rode to and from school.

Houses
Hogwarts students were divided into 4 houses (each house had colors and uniforms like a sports team): Gryffindor, Hufflepuff, Ravenclaw and Slytherin. Harry and most of his friends were Gryffindor, though he also had friends in Hufflepuff and Ravenclaw. Most of his enemies were Slytherin.

Step 3: Miscellaneous tips

1. If you can find out someone’s favorite character and house, you’ll have a much easier time choosing the right gift for them