Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone by J.K. RowlingMy rating: 5 of 5 stars
“One can never have enough socks," said Dumbledore. "Another Christmas has come and gone and I didn't get a single pair. People will insist on giving me books.”
What is there to say that hasn't been said about Harry Potter?
I'm certain at this point in life, everyone knows how magical, wonderful and life-changing these books are. JK Rowling brings the spellbinding world of Harry Potter to life with bold and relatable characters, who are thoroughly charming because of their flaws and shortcomings as well as their good points.
As the first book in the series, painting a new world and characters while keeping pace with a gripping story can be a challenges, however in this book it's clear that Rowling has put her heart and soul into imagining the wizarding world, and manages to introduce this to new readers with ease.
The illustrated version adds a new dimension to the classic tales, with stunning artwork presented alongside the opening novel. Jim Kay has managed the difficult job of illustrating such well-loved characters and stories with dazzle and brilliance.
I was born into the generation that grew up with Harry Potter, the books were age appropriate for me as they were released, but as an adolescent I just didn't get it. My friends were all spellbound (if you'll pardon the pun), but the idea of following the adventures of an 11 year old boy wizard was really dorky to me. I fell into the books accidentally while volunteering in a Thai animal shelter. Nights were long and dark (no internet, no TV, no bars!), and I'd taken very few belongings with me. I borrowed the first book off someone else in the shelter, and was gripped from the first moment. I couldn't believe a book I'd avoided vehemently for most of my life could make such a big impact on me. I didn't just love it, it was true love.
I begged and borrowed the other books while I was at the shelter, and read my way through the entire series in a month.
I wish that I had read these books as a child, no because they're not great as an adult. Because, they undoubtedly transcend age. But because I wish I'd been part of the magic!
Thank you JK Rowling for such a perfect series.
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