Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone
by J. K. Rowling
Move over, Pikachu, Harry Potter is here to stay!
Both are good and battle evil. Both are cute and powerful! But, take Harry Potter's
wonderfully magical character and put him in a 309-page book and you'll find readers
literally spell-bound!
Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone is destined to be a classic book for kids
and adults of most ages. Pokémon's Pikachu, on the other hand, may ride the wave of
popularity similar to the Beanie Babies and Power Rangers rage! Although both characters
are heroes in the eyes of most kids, Harry Potter is destined to literary greatness!
My seven-year-old read this enchanting book non-stop for hours. I couldn't drag
the book away from him! This book would lend well as a read-aloud to a classroom or as
required reading for established readers (whether in elementary, middle school or high
school!).
I read the book on my own (with Tim at least 2-3 chapters ahead of me) and I was
impressed by the fantasy world the author created, with intricate (yet believable)
characters, and a lush environment which lets minds of all ages explore a young boy's
world shrouded in mystery and suspense.
Humor, combined with seamless writing, helps kids identify with the characters of
this book. Whether they are in the midst of rooting for the young orphan Harry when he is
trapped in a world of "Muggles" (ordinary humans), or share Harry's quest as he
discovers his magical powers as a young wizard, most kids secretly wish they could attend
Harry's school (the British Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry)! Harry is a
survivor and an underdog, yet evolves into a famous hero in this gripping adventure.
Although the book is hugely popular with parents, teachers and kids, there are
skeptics who claim the evils of exposing kids to a fantasy world of wizardry. Ignore the
skeptics and embrace this book. It will forever remain a favorite book in the eyes of many
readers, including myself and my son.
The detailed writing is incredible. For a first-time author, J. K. Rowling has
proven her talent of weaving spell-binding, unique stories which rival veteran authors.
Characters are witty, insightful, inspirational and unusual.
Never predictable, readers come along for a fantastical ride as they explore the
Hogwarts School with gangly Harry Potter and encounter three-headed dogs (named Fluffy),
flying motorcycles, living chess pieces, and flying broomsticks with more power than most
vacuum cleaners!
If you want an escape from every-day stresses (from school bullies to work woes),
this book is a perfect way to end a day!
Look for my upcoming reviews on other Harry Potter books! Whether you're looking
for a book to inspire kids to read, or you're looking for a family read-aloud book, look
no further than this 309-page wonder!
What kids (and adults) will experience by reading this book:
- fantasy
- magic
- wizardry
- compassion
- friendship/family loyalty
- mystery
- creativity
- adventure
- vocabulary
- student rivalry
- well-developed (yet slightly eccentric) characters
- cooperation
- team sports
- chess moves
- logic
- suspenseful reading
|