Harry Potter & the Sorcerer’s Stone By JK Rowling

This is the first entry in my Harry Potter Read along with my good friend Crystal. I am looking forward to reading what everyone else thought of the books.

I have read the Harry Potter series a few times now. I have in the past skipped the first two books if I reread the series. This first book isn't really a magical read for me. I can understand the appeal that it has for children. It is a simple yet complex story which leads to vivid imagery if you aren't hindered at painting the picture yourself (which most children are not and most adults struggle with). There is a lot of background information in this book so it is important to read for the sake of understanding everything but I don't think I really enjoy it. It is like reliving the awkward years of childhood all over again. It made me want to straighten my bushy hair and hide my big teeth.

Harry starts off as a kid who tries to stay as invisible as possible while on Privet Drive. As soon as Harry hits the wizarding world he suddenly has a voice. He stands up for himself against bullies. He sticks his nose into things that don't concern him. The thing this story lacks for me is a motivation. Why is Harry suddenly so out spoken? Why the sudden change in behavior? I get that Harry loved Hogwarts, but does a sense of home lead to reckless abandon for who you were ten minutes ago?

The quidditch section of this book is boring to me and I try to just move past it as quickly as possible. I understand the appeal, it just isn't my deal to read the description of a sports match. Sure I can dig sitting in Yankee Stadium with a hot dog and a beer surrounded by friends. I am definitely not one of those people who sits at home next to the radio listening to a game. I am more of a Wait Wait Don't Tell Me kind of listener.

The strongest theme in these books is love. Be it love for your friends who you would risk dangerous situations to help. Sometimes it is the love of family, as seen with the Weasley bunch. Over all it is the wish of love that we see with Harry. More than anything in the world Harry wants and need love. I dig a story that teaches children loyalty and love.

All in all this is definitely a book meant for children. I would suggest it to parents struggling to get their own child to read. I would suggest it to those interested in understanding the Harry Potter movies a little better (as I think they leave much to be desired). I would also suggest this as a light read for anyone wanting a little fantasy that isn't has heavy as other fantasy books. For instance, JK Rowling does not create a language in these books. :)