Author: J.K. Rowling
Genre: Young Adult
ISBN: 0-590-35342-X
Intended Audience: Obviously this is a read intended for the younger audience, but clearly that has not stopped anyone from enjoying the first of the Harry Potter series. Anyone from 3 to 93 will enjoy this book and find something they like about it.
Summary: The introduction of the famed character Harry Potter begins with a detailed description of the woeful life he leads whilst under the roof of his aunt and uncle. Harry is “different” and doesn’t understand why his guardians treat him so poorly or freak out about the strangest things, until one day he receives a package informing him of his unique qualities. Harry learns he is a wizard, and is whisked off to Hogwarts, the school of witchcraft and wizardry, where he meets 2 very special friends, finds a family he never had, and finds himself in some very peculiar situations.
Review: I didn’t want to read the Harry Potter series when everybody else was because I’m stubborn like that, and so yes, I’m just now reading them for the first time. I have to say, I was not entirely blown away by the book like I was planning on being. Obviously, I had high hopes, seeing as how this is the largest selling book series of all time, but I just didn’t think the book was AWESOME. I do understand why it’s a major phenomenon of the 21st century; the imagination is incredible, it’s written for such a vast audience, and there’s so much going on with the plot that everyone can find something that appeases them. There was no other book out there like it until the Twilight series came along. I just don’t think the writing is anything special, and I think there are many other amazing writers who deserve the acclaim Rowling has earned. Now, I don’t want to come across has a Harry Hater, because I honestly did thoroughly enjoy the book, it just didn’t live up to my expectations. I think everyone should read it just to ignite the childhood imagination that somehow diminishes through the ever-growing use of TV and video games. It goes without saying this is a great story that can and should be enjoyed by all.
Rating: 3.5 out of 5
