Sorcerer's Stone/Philosopher's Stone

[Draco]

Anyhow, I was wondering, why is it called the Philosopher's stone in other countries, and Sorceror's stone in the US? Is there any sort of logical reason, or was what?

[Madam Rosmerta]

Philosopher's Stone is what JKR wanted to call it. I believe the Philosopher's Stone existed in myth long before JKR incorporated it in the HP books.

For some reason, the US publishers decided to change it. JKR, being a struggling unknown writer, agreed to let them change it (which she now says she regrets). I think the US publishers thought that the title should more clearly reflect the subject matter of the book (witchcraft and wizardry).

[Alz]

I was also lead to believe the US publisher thought it sounded boring - about a Philosopher and that kids wouldnt want to even read it based just on that title - so they opted for Sorceror's as it sounded more 'punchy' :)

[Boing]

You know, I can totally see that - of course, they had no idea of the power of a good story and the old saying, "Don't judge a book by its cover."

It makes me sad when people don't have faith that children will take any interest in things or have any initiative. The book would have sold just as well if it were called PS in the US.

[Tinkerbell]

When PS/SS was first published, I was not really into the HP thing (made up for it since I assure you!) but seem to recall that it was called Sorcerers Stone in the US as they felt it sounded more 'magical' than Philosopher's Stone, and as Blaise has already stated, they didn't think PS would appeal to the kids.

[Nagini]

I always thought they changed it as a Philosopher in the US meant someone who studied at University or something and they thought the kids would be confused?

[Alz]

I think it was more the 'image' and we all know about marketing and image Stateside ;)
It is kind of wierd that although the US called it SS - it spawned other places to take it on as well because the US versions are translated into other languages ...

The book I have from Israel has the US book cover on it :)