Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone, the first novel in the wildly popular series by J.K. Rowling, spins the highly imaginative tale of an incredibly remarkable young boy. Born into a family of some of the most famous wizards of the day, Harry Potter is gifted with innate powers that are only aggrandized as he ages. These powers make themselves seen in extraordinary ways. As an infant, the most feared dark wizard in the magical world attacks and kills Harry’s parents, intending to end the helpless child’s life as well. Incredibly, Harry somehow manages to survive the attack with only a lightning-shaped scar on his forehead, while the dark wizard’s powers are completely destroyed. For the early years of his boyhood, Harry is forced to reside with his only living relatives, the Dursley’s. These muggles, as normal humans are called, possess an extreme abhorrence for anything having to do with magic. Because of this, they make every effort to destroy Harry’s freedom, eliminate his happiness, and suppress his magical powers. But this family cannot tamper with fate, and Harry’s destiny is greater than anyone could have possibly known. He is soon whisked away to Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, where he is immersed in magic, spells, and mysteries. With the help of his newfound friends, Ron Weasley and Hermione Granger, Harry must face evil time and time again. This evil seeps into his life in the form of school bullies, the ghosts haunting the grounds, and the mysterious secret Hogwarts is hiding. When he discovers the peril that the school and its students are facing, Harry summons up his strength and courage to face the greatest challenge of his life thus far.
So, I finally did it. For years, I have been scolded by my friends for not having read the Harry Potter series. For all of the excitement they create, I knew there must be something extraordinary to them. And, what do you know? I read the first book and now I am hooked. This tale of friendship, enemies, and magic is extremely entrancing, as it pulled me into its colorful world from the moment I opened the cover. The imagery is so vivid that I felt as though I could see the flickering, candles hovering above the tables; could feel the cool, London breeze tugging at my cloak; and could taste the sweet pumpkin juice at the welcome feast. At a time in my life when my reading list is filled with classics and largely serious literature, this series is a refreshing reminder of childhood imagination and the adventure books I have always loved. I urge anyone with a love for impossibilities, creativity, and adventure to sink their teeth into this juicy series and experience the magic for themselves. I look forward to finishing these books and sharing my reaction with other avid readers. Enjoy!
Reviewed by: DancingPenguin96
Reviewed by: DancingPenguin96
