Harry Potter has never
been the star of a Quidditch team, scoring points while riding a broom
far above the ground. He knows no spells, has never helped to hatch a
dragon, and has never worn a cloak of invisibility.
All he knows is a miserable life with the Dursleys, his horrible aunt and uncle, and their abominable son, Dudley—a great big swollen spoiled bully. Harry's room is a tiny closet at the foot of the stairs, and he hasn't had a birthday party in eleven years. But all that is about to change when a mysterious letter arrives by owl messenger: a letter with an invitation to an incredible place that Harry—and anyone who reads about him—will find unforgettable. For it's there that he finds not only friends, aerial sports, and magic in everything from classes to meals, but a great destiny that's been waiting for him... if Harry can survive the encounter. |
“It does not do to dwell on dreams and forget to live.”
I’m sure this thick book became even more legendary than the author ever dreamed it would.
Rowling uses cookie cutter characters to create a fascinating world of magic, wizardry, and the great divide between good and evil which has always captivated all age groups and which always will. The world building is one reason the novels – and then movies – became so famous. Getting that invite to Hogwarts must be such fun - I’m sure many normals in this world fantasize it happening to them at that age.
Harry Potter is likeable, but simple. His friends are the same. The villain promises to be a fascinating one but he’s not really uncovered yet save for whispers of legends and foreshadowing.
The book was especially enjoyable at the beginning, where Harry is unfortunate in his demented average family. There’s humor that works, sometimes, pushing the story along. The real excitement starts when Harry steps foot onto Hogwarts ground, meeting the bizarre blend of professors, other students, potions, classes, and challenges.
I know the movie was rated poorly by some in comparison to the book. To me it’s almost word for word, including dialogue. Some of it, such as emotion, worked better in page form. I do have to prefer some of the movie though, especially when playing Quidditch, because the effects made it more interesting. I think Rowling drug it out too long in book form, and because of this dragging on I grew a little bored at times.
Overall a cute and quirky, simple novel that opens a door to a world that skyrocketed. I’m hoping I enjoy the later novels more, just like I did with the movies.
This was originally published on the site Feb 22, 2015, but is being republished for the Harry Potter Special Week event.
Trailer:
Book Quotes:
“It takes a great deal of bravery to stand up to our enemies, but just as much to stand up to our friends.”
“To the well-organized mind, death is but the next great adventure.”
“Ah, music," he said, wiping his eyes. "A magic beyond all we do here!”
